Weekend Getaway from Orange County to Big Sur

If you’re dreaming of a weekend getaway from Orange County that blends coastal charm, serene hikes, and breathtaking views, Big Sur and Cambria are the perfect answer. I planned this exact roadtrip for my husband’s birthday, and it remains one of our favorite memories. This updated guide features must-see spots, delicious eats, cozy places to stay, and even what to pack for the most peaceful, scenic getaway.

🗺️ Must-See Stops on Your Orange County to Big Sur Getaway

📸 Bixby Creek Bridge
One of California’s most iconic photo ops. The bridge is stunning at sunrise, with fewer cars and soft golden light—perfect for capturing that sweeping coastal curve.

🏖️ Pfeiffer Beach
Famous for its purple sand and magical keyhole rock formation. It’s easy to miss—look for the unmarked Sycamore Canyon Rd. and a small yellow sign that says “Narrow Road.” There’s a small entrance fee and limited parking, so go early if you can.

🌊 McWay Falls (Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park)
A must-see: a waterfall that flows directly into the ocean. The trail is a short, flat walk with stunning views. Restrooms are available, making this a convenient stop before or after lunch.

🌼 Garrapata State Park
This often-overlooked spot has one of the best coastal hikes in Big Sur. Come in spring or summer for wildflowers, sweeping cliffs, and fewer crowds than more popular parks.

🪑 Big Sur River Inn
A relaxing stop for lunch or a coffee break. You can literally dip your toes in the river while lounging in an Adirondack chair—yes, in the water. On warm days, a retro school bus nearby sells ice cream, making it a nostalgic treat.

🍽️ Where to Eat & Drink

🍷 Nepenthe Restaurant
An iconic cliffside restaurant perfect for golden hour drinks and appetizers. Try to sit outside for unbeatable views. If it’s too windy or foggy, head to Cafe Kevah, located just below, for brunch or lunch with equally gorgeous scenery.

🥐 Big Sur Bakery
The almond croissant is a must. We also loved the banana walnut bread (it’s huge!) and their pizza is great for something savory. A solid stop for a late breakfast, light lunch, or just a coffee + restroom break.

☕ Big Sur Roadhouse
A laid-back café that’s great for grabbing a coffee and fresh donut before hitting the trail. The vibe is rustic, relaxed, and totally Big Sur.

🦪 Sea Chest Oyster Bar (Cambria)
If you’re staying in Cambria, this is a local gem. It’s cash only and doesn’t take reservations, so come early and bundle up. We played trivia on the patio while waiting—so fun and worth it.

🥧 Linn’s Restaurant & French Corner Bakery (Cambria)
Linn’s is a classic for hearty breakfasts and their famous olallieberry pie. French Corner is a cozy bakery with fresh pastries and a great coffee stop before heading home.

🛏️ Where to Stay

We stayed at El Colibri Hotel & Spa in Cambria and absolutely loved it. It’s a boutique hotel tucked into a quiet, tree-lined corner of town—peaceful, romantic, and just minutes from Moonstone Beach. The in-room fireplace and spa-style bathrooms made it feel extra cozy, and the on-site spa is a nice bonus if you’re in the mood to unwind after a day of exploring. Definitely recommend it for couples or anyone wanting a serene, grown-up getaway.

More cozy stays for your weekend getaway from Orange County:

• White Water Cambria – A design-forward boutique inn with coastal, Scandinavian-inspired decor. Just steps from the beach and highly rated for both style and comfort.
• Oceanpoint Ranch – Rustic-chic charm with fire pits, lawn games, and an old-school ranch vibe—great for laid-back travelers.
• Bluebird Inn – Affordable, quaint, and quiet. It has a cute little courtyard and a great location near Cambria’s village shops and cafes.
• Big Sur River Inn – If you’d prefer to stay right in Big Sur, this spot is classic. Simple, rustic rooms with the added charm of riverside seating and that unforgettable ice cream school bus out front.

What to Pack: My Roadtrip Travel Essentials

Clothing:

• Cotton Lounge Set – Soft, cozy, and ideal for long drives.
• Quick Dry Active Shorts – Perfect for hot summer day hikes.
• Active Tank Top – Great option to go with the athletic shorts for hiking.
• Mini Crew Socks – A good pair of socks is hard to come by – these are comfy, they stay put, & stand the test of time.

Shoes:

• On Cloudnova 2 Sneakers – Comfy enough for hikes and walking all day and super cute with most things. My husband and I have had several of these in different shades and they look brand new after each simple hand wash & air dry (or shoe rack setting in the dryer).
• Havaianas Slim Princesas Flip Flops – These are my favorite go-to travel sandals as they’re quick dry, comfy & match with most of the things I wear – shorts, pants, dresses, etc.

Bags & Accessories:

• Samsonite Freeform Hardside Carry-On Luggage – Lightweight, sleek, and perfect for a weekend road trip.
• Adidas Sackpack – Folds down, super cute, and ideal for hikes and beach days.
• Large Insulated Cooler Bag – Keeps your snacks and drinks chill for the long drive.
• Turkish Towels – Lightweight, dries quickly, and looks beautiful draped over a beach chair or backpack (They wash/dry well – I pack these for overseas trips too – they are perfect for travel!)

Skincare & Sun Protection:

• Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40 – Invisible finish, no white cast, and perfect under makeup.
• Adidas Adjustable Hat – Provides great sun coverage and looks effortlessly on-trend.

Final Thoughts on Your Weekend Getaway From Orange County

This weekend getaway from Orange County is perfect for couples, solo travelers, or anyone needing a peaceful reset in nature. It blends adventure with comfort and showcases some of California’s most jaw-dropping coastal landscapes. With these travel tips, scenic stops, and cozy essentials, you’ll be well-prepared to create unforgettable memories. Be sure to check out my Travel Packing Tips & Organizers for 2025 to make your next adventure stress-free.

Let me know in the comments if you’ve done this trip or if you follow this itinerary!