I love this bridge. From the classic arch to the concrete columns in perfect symmetry that bridges Highway 1, which straddles the cliffside where the Pacific meets Central California. Whether shrouded in fog or on a crystal-clear day, the view still captures people's hearts with awe and amazement. It was completed in 1932 and soars 260 feet above the coastline floor. Now in order to view this magnificent engineering marvel with one of nature's most spectacular backdrops, one has to stop, get out of the vehicle, and take the time to absorb what's around you. If just driving across, you can't see the good angles, and you'll be out of view within seconds. Because this is a narrow highway on a cliffside, there simply is not a lot of room to park and gaze for the amount of people this spot attracts. I passed by on my way to check into my campsite on a Sunday afternoon and it was packed to where standstill traffic occured. People were literally waiting for a parking spot to open up, so I had to hop on the opposing side of traffic for a bit to get past the congestion. I came back Monday morning around 8 am and I was the only person there. So timing is of essence here. There are a few viewing spots. 2 from the front (North and South ends) and one from the back. All are different angles with their own unique perspective. The one from the front on the North end is the most popular and have the most spots to park and view. And that viewing spot from that corner actually has a trail created by people that go down the cliffside about a 1/3 of the way down surprisingly. And the views changes pretty dramatically the further you go down. But you have to be very bold and somewhat athletic to go down that far. There are no barricades or safety measures so one slip could be an irreversible accident. I went down so far that on the way back up there were spots where you have to use all your limbs to scale back up, can't just simply walk back. I wouldn't have attempted this if there were dozens of people I had to navigate around. But on a quiet morning without another soul there, it was extremely peaceful filled with veneration and awe. I'll include a part of a poem by Robinson Jeffers who settled in this area in the middle part of the 20th century, and fell in love with the environment here. I totally get it. "I gazing at the boundaries of granite and spray, the established sea-marks felt behind me. Mountain and plain, the immense breadth of the continent before me and the mass and doubled stretch of water." read more

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An architectural marvel and one of the most photographed bridges in California. Spans a deep, rugged canyon with breathtaking canyon-to-ocean perspectives. this iconic concrete arch bridge is the definitive landmark of Highway 1. Best Viewpoints: Pull off into the designated parking areas on the north side of the bridge just before crossing to get the classic postcard shot framing the bridge against the coastline. read more

This is just one of those iconic bridges you have to just stop, get out the car, and take a few moments to appreciate with it's stunning backdrop. Parking can be tricky and be careful of traffic. Do yourself a favor and don't just take in the view from the top. There is a little pathway which drops you down lower so you don't get as much of the crowds in your pictures. Also, hop over the otherside of the bridge for a different vantage point. read more

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Bixby Bridge is the undeniable superstar of Highway 1. This sweeping concrete giant curves gracefully between rugged cliffs, framing the Pacific like it knows every traveler is here for that photo. Standing before it feels like stepping into a classic California postcard. What makes Bixby even more special is its artistry. The bridge's design mirrors the Art Deco movement from the era it was built, giving it a sleek, elegant silhouette that perfectly complements the wild coastline. It's functional engineering that doubles as sculpture, which explains why it's one of the most photographed bridges in the world. Parking can be tight, but the views are completely worth the patience. Crashing waves, dramatic cliffs, salty air, and a piece of historic architecture that is both sturdy and stunning. Bixby Bridge is a must-stop on any Big Sur adventure. Cameras ready. read more

Bixby Bridge - Bixby Bridge - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Monterey, California

It was hard finding parking on a weekend. Luckily, people don't stay long. Unfortunately, there's only one lane going north and one lane going south. The Bixby Bridge was absolutely beautiful. Great place to take pictures and watch the sunset. read more

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Very cool looking bridge going over a gorgeous canyon. If you're driving down hwy 1 it's definitely worth stopping and taking in the view! Be careful walking along the edge though! read more

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Gorgeous bridge, I am reviewing this spot 6 years later but it's one of my favorite spots, and I think about going there a lot and driving again. We had gone on a sunny day and made a lot of stops along the coast and it was absolutely gorgeous read more

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This is an amazing spot along Hwy 1 for a sunset. We didn't have a hard time finding a parking spot on a weekday, though there were quite a few people and cars there. Plenty of spots to sit or stand and take in the views. There are lots of other spots nearby that are amazing for views. read more

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Stopped by this historic bridge on the way down hwy 1. It's a nice place to take pictures. The parking is very very limited. Parking is along the side of the hill or near the coast. There's traffic to there as 1 is partially closed due to land slides. Saw a lot of tourists taking risks walking along the highway trying to get pictures. read more

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Bixby Bridge is an absolute must-see on the Pacific Coast Highway! It's a great example of the contrast and beauty of engineering against nature. The dramatic cliffs, sweeping ocean views, and iconic architecture make it one of the most breathtaking stops along Highway 1. Whether you're driving across or stopping at one of the scenic pullouts, this is definitely a must for any Big Sur road trip!! read more

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Nature has a way of expressing themselves. This is quite a view. The bridge is situated in Monterey county on highway 1. It will be hard to miss it. There's not a whole lot of parking space, but lots of cars trying to squeeze in just to see and enjoy this fantastic view. read more

Bixby Bridge - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Monterey, California

Bixby bridge is a must stop when you're in the area especially since you see this bridge often in photos when exploring this area of California. The only reason I gave it a 4 vs a 5 is because during our visit there was a lot of road construction going on where the bridge is located so there was less than a handful of spots available to park to an already limited parking area when there is no construction going on. Fortunately we found a spot and were able to enjoy the view of the bridge and coastline. We were also fortunate to have a sunny day since the last time we came it was so foggy we could barely see the bridge. A beautiful historic California site. read more

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Along the way south of highway 1, after Monterey, Carmel-by-the-sea, we can see many beautiful beaches and sceneries, passed Point Lobos, we will cross the famous Bixby Bridge where it's beautiful looking down the rocks and the ocean. It's quite difficult to find a parking spot on the road, but on the left hand side there's a road where people are parking sometimes, not sure if it's permitted. If you find a parking spot, then take as many pictures as you can and leave for someone else to park and enjoy the views. read more

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Well...pictures and hype was not quite what I expected. Drove down and the whoa, we are over and past it. Pretty although, and scenic. read more

Great views and a must stop if your in the area. This bridge is amazing and know for it stunning ocean views and huge historic bridge in the background.. Parking is very limited and the place gets very crowded. read more

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Bucket list item....check!! On 7/27/24, the big blue sky and radiant sunshine set the stage for the iconic BIXBY BRIDGE in Big Sur, CA. Physically standing before the bridge was awe inspiring! Bravo to the hands that built this marvel in 1932!! The dramatic coastline and scenic mountainscape easily make this a dream for all levels of photographers. I only had my iPhone, but wished I came better prepared. Be safe on the cliff and wear shoes with good tread. It can be quite dangerous, especially with the number of people who show up and start lines to get that money shot. I did not have have cell service for at least 20 miles on this route. Monitor road closures on Hwy-1. Enjoy the peacefulness and have a safe road trip!! read more

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10/10 for the vibe & views - it's breathtaking. It was filled with people. Everyone was chilling. Parking was easy. read more

Bixby Bridge - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Monterey, California

As always it's stunning! We parked off to the side of the road and took so many photos at sunset! read more

Bixby Bridge - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Monterey, California

Cool little historic bridge in Big Sur. Worth pulling over to grab a quick picture then drive over the bridge to continue the journey. Cliffs are a bit slippery so definitely be careful getting too close. read more

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Absolutely beautiful location by Big Sur. If you are making your way up to Big Sur from Carmel, do yourself a favor and stop by and snap a picture by the bridge. Limited parking, but otherwise beautiful location read more

Bixby Bridge - Beautiful view of the bridge - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Monterey, California

bixby bridge is a must stop if you are visiting carmel/big sur or just driving through on highway 1 located in monterey county, its one of the most known sights here in CA this stop is def a touristy one, but the VIEWSSSSS you get to see the beautiful coast please be very careful when trying to find a space to park per visit california's webpage: ".. As of September 2024, parking is no longer allowed along Coast Road in order to improve traffic safety, but visitors are allowed to stop in designated areas along Highway 1. " https://www.visitcalifornia.com/experience/bixby-bridge/ we we were trying to find a safe spot, we were actually traveling south along CA - 1, but did not see any spots so it was when were turn back north bound, we were able to pull off safely, to walk across the rd and snap photos! read more

Bixby Bridge - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Monterey, California

The Golden Gate of Big Sur! We had to stop just to take in its glory. It's completely free, you just park on the side of the road and walk to the overlook. Get out, snap a few pics, and you're on your way. read more

Bixby Bridge - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Monterey, California

Welcome to Big Sur's version of the Golden Gate--a must-see road trip spot for many and probably the most Instagrammed feature along the Highway One coastline....the Bixby Bridge. Hundreds of people pull over (only at legal turnouts) to get amazing views, particularly from the bridge's south end at sunset. Completed in 1932 for just over $200,000, the concrete span, one of the highest bridges of its kind in the world, soars 260 feet above the bottom of a steep canyon carved by Bixby Creek. Just one sight that tells you that are in Big Sur. read more

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CA-1 has so many highlights but this one is my favorite. Spanning 714 feet across Bixby Creek Canyon, it's one of the tallest and most striking bridges in the United States. The bridge's architecture is impressive and the views from it are spectacular. The vantage points from the bridge are perfect for photos. Plan to be at this place in the evening for a perfect sunlight which illuminates the coastline. There are designated pullouts on both sides of the bridge where you can safely park and take in the breathtaking scenery. Parking can be limited but the brief walk to the bridge is well worth it. read more

Bixby Bridge - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Monterey, California

Really stunning views here of the Bixby Bridge! An architectural marvel that is amazing and truly worth the drive. Make sure to stop along the way to add some great hikes and more ocean views. Parking is a pain though -- expect lots of traffic, and walk across the road carefully to get to the viewpoint! It can get very crowded. Especially as the dirt parking lot fills up and people begin parking on the side of the road. Dress for all weather here as weather can change quickly and unexpectedly. read more

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17Aug2024: Though it was a long drive and traffic was heavy, the weather was perfect and the bridge and the view was amazing! It was a such a joy ride. Just be cautious and drive safely as there are a lot of pedestrians crossing, taking a lot of photo opportunities as much as anyone can. Parking is a little bit challenging but just be patient! read more

Bixby Bridge - 17Aug2024 - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Monterey, California

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If you are near Monterey, CA. You must make a stop to see the iconic Bixby Bridge located in the Big Sur area. Built in 1932, this bridge soars 260 feet above the bottom of a steep canyon carved by Bixby Creek. It is a photographer's dream spot. read more

Bixby Bridge - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Monterey, California

Completed in 1932, this architectural marvel is the tallest single-span arch bridge in the world; coming in at 260ft tall. It is easily one of the most photographed bridges in California, and a definite must-visit if you're in the area. It was sadly pea-soup foggy when we arrived, which prevented us from getting any good pics. But we're told the fog usually dissipates in the afternoon on most days. Parking is available on pull outs on both the north and west side of Hwy 1. We parked on the other side of the road. So crossing over the freeway on foot as well as pulling back out to merge in with traffic when leaving can be a bit harrowing, as there are no crosswalks or stop signs/lights. There's a bit of a slope with a mini-path heading towards the lower part of the bridge, which affords some great shots of the length of the bridge on clear days. Be careful going down though for kids and those mobility-challenged, as the path is not paved and there are no railings to prevent you from falling off the edge. read more

Worth checking out if you're in the area for a quick photo. Nice views but overly packed with people. Limited parking on side of the highway. read more

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Who doesn't like a landmark that's free? Bixby Bridge is one of those spots when traveling on Highway 1 that's a must stop for anyone especially if we have visitors in town. It's a beautifully made bridge and of course if you see this at sunset, even a more spectacular view. You can view it from the side as well as from the backside towards the ocean. Just depends on where you park. Heading south on 1, there's a small area for parking. It's awfully tiny and as many said, there's maybe a few parallel spots going north. There's another parking area when you go off the side road towards the back if you want to view it from the backside. Now I've never seen the backside as the front was always much prettier for me and also it was typically a quick stop and drive onwards to our next destination point. Just be careful when taking your photos. It does get steep at spots, so just pick an area with plenty of clearing so you don't fall backwards. Other than that. It's a lovely spot to take a photo just wish they had more parking. read more

Bixby Bridge - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Monterey, California

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I never understood the hype of Bixby Bridge until I saw it at the dusk of a busy day. The view is simply breathtaking. After seeing the bridge in the foreground of the coastal cliffside, pictures just don't give it justice! The biggest gripe would be the competition for parking at the sunset hours. The drive to this area of Big Sur is also quite a distance away from most big cities in California. This is definitely only a road trip stop. read more

Bixby Bridge - Beautiful sunset view! - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Monterey, California

How can this get anything other than 5 stars? It's one of only a handful of landmarks along one of the most scenic drives that I know of, and it fits right in with its magnitude between the mountains and ocean. If you're driving this route I'm sure you'll probably stop to take it in and stretch your legs, but be mindful of the fact that there are no services aside from a limited amount of parking along the side of the road. 10/10 would do it again. read more

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Bixby bridge Wow. Such a beautiful site. This bridge is a site to see. Marvelous design and spectacular engineering. Not as big as the Golden Gate bridge but just as beautiful. It gets very crowded here. Expect parking issues and possibly rude people. Completed in 1932 for just over $200,000, the concrete span, one of the highest bridges of its kind in the world. Highly recommended read more

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This was a nice little stop on our drive. A friend from the area told us this is a must-see spot. There's dirt parking on either side of the road as you get to the bridge from the north. Be sure to check one of the boxes on the east side of the bridge at the entrance for a log book. It's for posterity! Haha! read more

Bixby Bridge - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Monterey, California

Bixby Bridge was one of the main stops I wanted to make when I did the Pacific Coast drive. We started in LA and drove north towards San Francisco. As if we didn't already see breathtaking views for hours, this view was one one of my faves of the drive. It is said to be one of the most photographed bridges in California and I can see why. If you are driving north, you can cross the bridge and there is a small are to park and get out of you car. We were lucky enough to snag a parking spot as we pulled up because it seems like everyone has to stop and take pics when they get to this bridge. There was some slight fog coverage but we still got to see the bridge in it's entirety. We crossed the highway and got coast views as well as another view of the bridge. I highly recommend stopping here if you driving the Pacific Coast Highway! read more

If you've been following the news at all, you've probably heard about the wildfires currently burning through Big Sur right by Bixby Bridge. As an East Coaster, it feels like there's so little I can personally do from across the country (besides donating to organizations helping wildlife, emergency responders, and residents, of course) so I decided to finally write this review. I know this inanimate bridge will never be able to read my glowing, 5-star Yelp review (how cool would that be though), and writing it doesn't magically put out the wildfires, but a girl can dream - and she can certainly reminisce of a time when this beautiful place wasn't in flames. Bixby Bridge is probably the most famous spot in Big Sur and once you see it in person, there's no question why that is. There's something about seeing an impressive, manmade structure paired against such an incredible natural landscape that is just... well, awe inspiring. In May of 2021, I did a road trip from San Francisco to Palm Springs and made sure to take Highway 1 to pass through Big Sur. I planned it so I would be driving through on a weekday to hopefully beat the crowds and the traffic. I definitely recommend planning your visit on a weekday because you'll enjoy the experience more and parking for overlooks such as this one won't be such a pain. I used up the whole day to do the entire Big Sur coast stopping along at all the normal sight seeing spots and then heading back up to Monterey to spend a night before I continued on my journey to LA. I've been to a quite a few places but Big Sur stands out as the most magical. It is the most beautiful place I've ever been by far and one of my all time favorite memories will be looking at Bixby Bridge towering over the crystal clear Pacific Ocean. Nevermind this review though, just take one look at the photos. And once these wildfires are contained (at least for the time being), go... before this place is drastically changed or gone. Just go! read more

Bixby Bridge - Bixby Bridge - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Monterey, California

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Amazing location on Highway 1 that is great for pictures. Between two cliffs and overlooking the Pacific, Bixby Bridge is an iconic California viewpoint. Parking might be the largest issue - there are some spots to pull over but it would highly depend on the time of day. My group was able to find a spot heading north. You also need to be careful when crossing the street because cars are going very quickly. Weather would either be overcast or sunny. Fog is a possibility so might be better to go in the afternoon / evening. I'd highly recommend taking a moment to stop and take pictures if you're passing over it. Big Sur is also a great location to camp and hike. However, it's quite the distance from any cities - you'll probably have to make a dedicated trip out to central coast California to see Big Sur / Bixby Bridge. Definitely worth the trek, however. read more

Bixby Bridge - Bixby Bridge, edited photo - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Monterey, California

Absolutely stunning scenery and lots too see! The day I went, was little overcast but soon the sun came out and highlighted the beautiful bridge in the sunlight! Parking is very limited with many of the spots filled up along the road with a small parking lot on the North side. So on the weekends this spot will be incredibly busy. Would definitely recommend coming on weekdays to avoid the crowds and have ample time to park and enjoy your views without feeling rushed or bombarded with people. read more

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It's a spectacular bridge and not easy to visit regardless if you are driving north or south. Parking can be extremely tight. There are maybe 10 spots in the small cutout heading south. If they are full, you simply have to wait for someone to leave. There's no other option for parking while heading south. Heading north is even worse. There is room for maybe three cars along the side of the road. The only park is on the north side of the bridge. The bridge has an interesting history which you can read about on the world wide web. read more

Bixby Bridge - The bridge. Everyone stops here to take pics and you should, too. - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Monterey, California

Bixby Creek Bridge wow what an incredible marvel and observation overlook!!! Without a doubt...when you think of the true essence and epitome of what the California Coast looks like...all you have to do is come here to Bixby Bridge. You will certainly find fulfillment, or at least I did, lol. Bixby Bridge runs right along Cabrillo Highway/Highway 1 in Monterey, CA as you drive through the Big Sur area. I predetermined ahead of time that this stop would probably be the most worthwhile viewpoint along my journey down the coast. And it did not disappoint! I discovered Bixby Bridge through Google Maps. If you have any issues locating it, just plug it into Google and you're good to go. Also, I found that while driving the Coast, there wasn't much cell phone reception so I definitely had Bixby Bridge stored in my Google Maps memory just in case I needed to know where I was going. Upon arriving here, as I'm sure everyone else mentions, it was packed with cars! Just trying to locate a parking spot along the side of the road was a victory in itself. When I visited back over the summertime during the week, I fortunately located a spot pretty fast. Then all I had to do was cross the road and I was there! I had made it! Btw, if you do struggle to find a spot to park...do not give up! Because...this overlook CANNOT BE MISSED! It's pretty special. I was able to grab some good photos as best I could without being interrupted by other strangers taking pics with their families. I always prefer to be alone in my pics, so if you've ever read any of my reviews...lol, I hate being "photobombed". Along this roadside stop, the observation area does stretch long enough to allow for everyone to have their own moment for snapping efficient photos. Since parking is so limited...if you do grab a spot...you're pretty much guaranteed an amazing perspective for which to admire the setting. I also took a picture with the Bixby Bridge Sign...a good opportunity that certified I was officially here on the record books, lol. And what makes this overlook so unique is that it unites every great photogenic element you could ask for. You have this wondrous free standing suspension bridge 279 feet high that connects Highway 1 running down the California Coast. Meanwhile it affords tourists glorious views looking down at the rugged seashore with the beach waves crashing below. It's like a combination of all the best attributes within a picture frame. That's what makes the scenery here so famous! Just some last facts to mention... - It was a relatively overcast day when I stopped on by. Still, the clouds didn't disrupt the views for the most part. But if the sun were shining, my pictures could have appeared much clearer. If you have the time, remember to check the forecast. - I spent about 30 minutes here hanging out. It was enough time for picture taking and making a video as well. - Bixby Bridge is situated 18 miles south of Monterey, CA. - There's no fee for stopping here at the bridge and overlook. - There's no attendant, supervisor or rules for visiting. This Bixby Bridge is a first come, first served attraction. So...if you feel like beating the crowds, you can come here immediately in the morning at sunrise. Lastly, I want to mention how stunning this Bixby Suspension Bridge and vista point was. I mean, I had chills just standing at the cliff's edge and gazing down upon the surroundings. Just being here for 30 minutes helped me put into perspective just how gratifying it felt to have a chance to witness such an epic California landmark. read more