If you love traveling by train you’re going to love this adventure.
It’s a great opportunity to combine the cozy vibe of train travel and the cool experience of glamping in Big Sur.
It’s possible thanks to The Coast Starlight line by Amtrak.
We’ll walk you through how to plan this adventure.
It’s a different way to see one of the most stunning coastal spots in California.
Planning Your Train Journey to Big Sur
Choosing Your Train Route
Even though the The Coast Starlight does not go directly to Big Sur, you can still choose a nearby train station.
The stations closest to Big Sur are in Salinas, Paso Robles and San Luis Obispo. Once you get to one of these stations, you can rent a car to get to Big Sur.
Timing Your Trip
When you’re deciding when to go, keep in mind that Big Sur looks different throughout the year.
If you’re after great weather, late spring to early fall is the sweet spot. But if you prefer fewer people around and don’t mind some misty days, winter and early spring can give you a quieter, more private vibe.
Booking Tickets
Next, you’ll want to book your tickets. It’s a good idea to do this ahead of time through the Amtrak website or their app. That way you can get the best deals and rest assured that your travel dates are all sorted.
2: Getting to Big Sur after you arrive at the train station.
The Drive
The drive to Big Sur is definitely a highlight of the trip. No matter if you’re heading there from the north or south, taking Highway 1 gives you some jaw-dropping views.
Make sure to plan some stops at famous places like McWay Falls and Bixby Bridge. It’s all part of the fun!
The drive itself can be scary when the fog comes down and literary in seconds you almost don’t see anything.
The wether there is unpredictable and changes several times throughout the day. So there’s nothing you can really do about it. Just be careful when driving.
3: Picking out your glamping spot.
Big Sur glamping is famous for its awesome sites that mix a bit of luxury with the great outdoors.
Here are a few choices:
- Ventana Big Sur for a high-end glamping experience, Ventana has these cool safari-style tents set among the redwoods. They come with comfy bedding and even a fire pit.
- Treebones Resort has unique yurts that give you views of either the ocean or the mountains, offering a mix of comfort and rustic vibes.
- Big Sur Campground & Cabins is great for families, this spot has canvas tents that are super cozy on the inside.
Booking Your Stay
When it comes to booking your glamping stay, you’ll want to do this well ahead of time as well. These spots tend to get snapped up fast, especially during the summer.
4: Making the most of your time in Big Sur.
With your train ride and glamping booked, let’s look at some activities you absolutely shouldn’t miss:
Hiking
There are some incredible trails, like the Ewoldsen Trail or the path to Pfeiffer Falls, where you’ll get amazing views and really get to connect with nature.
Beach Time
McWay Falls is known for its incredible waterfall falling directly in the ocean. Pfeiffer Beach is especially cool with its unique purple sand.
Dining
Try out some local eats at places like Nepenthe or Big Sur Bakery. Besides great food you’ll also get to enjoy your meal with a pretty awesome view.
Here are a few more tips to make sure your adventure goes smoothly:
Pack wisely
Remember, even in the summer, Big Sur can get chilly, especially in the evenings. Make sure to bring layers and comfy shoes for hiking.
Stay Connected
The goal might be to unplug, but it’s smart to have offline maps just in case.
Respect Nature
Big Sur is a beautiful and delicate place. Always stick to the trails and leave no trace behind to keep it that way.