garrapata state park

marksT8927XZ

I spent a few days wandering the coastal trails of Garrapata with my camera gear. Unlike Point Lobos, there is lots of solitude and ability to explore. Make sure you have waterproof shoes. Most of the trails are narrow and your feet will be brushing up against vegetation, and if there has been rain or fog, you will get wet. The views are really beautiful.

messinak

Absolutely stunning! It's a tough hike, so prepare appropriately, but it was fantastic! We did the 7 mile loop starting with the Soberanes Canyon Trail, up through Rocky Ridge and then down.

johny347

They take the footbridge down in the winter so you either ford the stream or take the camp trail that follows the north side of the stream. Just before the mouth of the river, a trail leads up to a lookout that leads to a rewarding view of the beach and river and cliffs. The lower trail takes you to the river.

Pixelpanderer

This a place that is rich in places to get good shots. Allow yourself enough time to find them. It takes going up the hills and walking way out on the shore trails. Be real careful, the trails can get very slippery in heavy fog.

barstoolpoet

The hike up the Sobranes + Rocky Ridge Trail was great... if you just want views, take the Rocky Ridge Trail... if visibility is good, you won't be disappointed

RichV985

There are no big signs on PCH so watch the cypress trees. Nice views of Big Sur. The hike up was harder than it looked on paper. As another review mentioned, do the river/redwoods one first going up and then go down the ridgeline for views of the Pacific.

dkw239

We did it today in the pouring rain.There were a few trees that had blown over during the storm, but the crew's were doing a good job of putting things right.There are lots of good view points along the coastal section.Even in the rain it was worth the $10.

Annabelle1111

This is one of the best views of Big Sur. It is hard to find the exact place (there is one sign that you can see once you stop), but any pull-out will do. There are trails down to the end where you can look down into the water. We saw sea otters in the water all over the place! Really beautiful!

sharrona794

This was not my first trip to this hidden gem. But depending on what time of year you visit it can feel like a new landscape. A bit obscure to know if you are in the right place with parking scattered roadside. But be prepared bring water and your camera. The early trails past but an old barn with feral cats peeping out if early in the day. You past by a stream then on the open canyon of catus such a diverse environs. You can choose to straight up to the bench with breAthtaking views of the Pacific Ocean or stay on the trail to head into the redwood forest. You can only imagine the first hikers or native Indians to discover the beautiful place.

rjrjj

We loved stopping along the highway (Highway 1) and taking a walk down the stairs to the beach. It was a sunny afternoon and we spent almost an hour here, looking for treasures, walking on the flat sand, and just being mesmerized by the pounding surf. It was gorgeous! The water was powerful and we respected it, not getting too close to where the waves were hitting the rocks. We will return! Fabulous.

LaurainMonterey

This is not a super easy hike but it is awesome. Fantastic views reward those willing to pursue. I recommend starting up the canyon/river then finish with a decent down the front side - more time staring at the pacific and uphill in shade part of the way. The shorter hike on the ocean side of the highway is a nice short stroll too.

551mq

Garrapata Beach State Park is very easy to find and reach as long as you don't miss the sign posted along the edge of the Pacific Coast Highway. It's not far south of Carmel, CA...check the map and keep your eyes open.Park along the side of the road and walk down the stairs to the beach for an amazing view of the ocean up close. The surf was rough the day we visited and the water is never very warm but a few people were playing in the waves. We just watched the waves crash into the rocks which never seems to bore us. The beach is wide and clean and could be a very nice place to hang out for the day. We looked watching the water and the waves....then on to the next stop along our drive down the Pacfic Coast Highway. It's free!

GregHarrod67

Not a hike for the unfit person. Not only do you need to have some fitness, agility is also helpful. These trails are not maintained as well as some state parks. There are loose rocks and sand the entire way. It can be steep at times. Now granted my friend and I went up the way most people come down, this is a very difficult climb. Entire loop takes about 2.5 to 3 hours. However, once you get up there the views are amazing.

caraw682

Another wonderful place to visit. Great hikes along the ocean and up the canyon or the hills above. Please Keep the area clean and beautiful for everyone and pick up any trash you come across. The hike to the top of the mountain is difficult but the canyon walk is easy for most people.

cheeseheadbymarriage

This is definitely a strenuous hike but worth the effort for the spectacular views at the top. The hike is steep most of the way on the ascent and again on the descent. It was a beautiful day. Our children, ages 10, 12, and 15 groaned some on the way up but when they achieved the summit they were relieved and in awe of the view which put us above the clouds. Worth it definitely but bring plenty of water and snacks. About 3 hours.