No trip along Highway 1 (PCH for SoCal) is complete without stopping at Bixby Bridge and taking those prerequisite photos at least once in your lifetime. This is one of those "Bucket List" items that people can cross off since it's a famous and iconic spot that's been featured on many commercials, TV shows, movies, postcards and video games. Along with the Golden Gate Bridge, it's on top of the list of the most photographed bridges in the world due to its aesthetic beauty and backdrop. When it opened in 1932, spanning at 360 feet, 714 feet in length and 24 feet wide, it was the longest reinforced concrete open-spandrel arch bridge in California. It also cut off the travel time from Carmel and Big Sur significantly as the Old Coastal Road led 11 miles inland. The arch design of the bridge reminds one of old Roman architecture as the beauty is akin to Roman Aqueducts and Roman Bridges, whose arch designs are structurally and aesthetically far more superior. There are several spots that you can park (dirt lot) on the north side to get a good vantage point of the bridge, and you can get up close on the coastal side. In my opinion, the view from the inland side is better, especially on a clear day when the sky is a deep blue. Since this is the California coast, it often gets foggy and that just adds another element of beauty. Drive further down south and there's a small parking lot and vista view where you can view the bridge from a higher elevation, which is just as spectacular from afar. Go ahead, it's not that far. #YelpChallenge2020 review No. 80 read more

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One of them must see spots on Highway one PCH! We were lucky enough to make it just in time for sunset. There's a small dirt parking lot right next to the bridge where you can park your car and walk onto the bridge for view of the ocean and Big Sur. There is definitely a lot of people on both sides taking pictures. The history of the bridge is very interesting, and definitely one of the prettiest bridges I've seen in my life. read more

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I love exploring different bridges and in July 2018 one of my friends and I drove across and stopped at Bixby Bridge as part of a road trip (4 days, 3 nights) starting in the San Francisco Bay Area and going as far south as Los Angeles before returning to the Bay Area. We stopped at the Bixby Bridge after departing Big Sur. We had spent the preceding night at Ponderosa Campground in in Los Padres National Forest and crossed the bridge in the morning on our way back to East Bay. The drive across Bixby Bridge, and on Highway 1 along the coast in general, is very scenic and provides sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean. Along Highway 1 on the north side of the bridge my friend and I stopped at a small pull-off area and parked the car so we could get out of the car and get a view looking back at the bridge. The bridge itself is very pretty and contrasts well with the surrounding rocks. The pull-off was a nice place to view both the bridge and the ocean. Also at this area we found an informational plaque providing a very brief background of Bixby Bridge/Highway 1. Maybe it was the treacherous driving of the fog-shrouded cliffs of Big Sur that day that made the drive across the bridge underwhelming (we later found out a driver had driven off the road/cliffs in Big Sur about the same time and place we drove on our trip). The clouds in Big Sur clung to the ground and had low visibility so driving along cliffs in those conditions had been nerve-racking. When we got to Bixby Bridge it was a bit like blip, that is it. So from a driving perspective it was not the most enthralling experience. A pretty bridge nonetheless. read more

Bixby Bridge - Informational plaque by the pull-off north of the bridge. - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Monterey, California

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Born and raised in CA and have never ever seen Bixby Bridge, I've been all over this state above and below but never to Big Sur. I've got in on the Big Sur marathon once, and due to scheduling didn't take the opportunity to participate in it the year I got in, so no running over this bridge yet for me. We were driving from Monterey to Big Sur for the day and of course had it on our list as a stopping point, it really does come up out of nowhere. You're driving along, no real clue as to where you are and spot a ton of cars, think to yourself this must be another great view then bam! There it is, and everyone is stopping and trying to park. It's one of those places that just feels like it should be on your list to see, especially if you're born and raised in CA and have never taken a PCH drive over it. I quickly turned on my Big Little Lies playlist as we hopped back in the car and continued over it and into Big Sur. Bucket List Bixby Bridge check! Should probably run this marathon one year, good luck getting in if that's on your list - I'm sort of kicking myself for skipping the year I did but you know how marathons go, there are always so many on the same day in so many locations you've gotta be selective. Enjoy the view! It's a nice one. 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

Beautiful breathtaking iconic bridge on Highway 1 Big Sur. It is more beautiful in person as you stop to enjoy the view. Comes here on a sunny warm day so you can walk both side to take pictures. Parking is limited but people are in and out often so don't worry. You can't miss this bridge because it is iconic if you want to go Big Sur on Highway 1. read more

Bixby Bridge - Iconic Big Sur bridge on Highway 1 - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Monterey, California

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Nothing comes close to the Golden Coast... even the bridges are pretty! We stopped by this landmark arch bridge before it got too crowded. It was our first stop at 8:30a in a series of bookmarked places we'd like to check off on our list. At the entrance of the bridge there is a turnoff from its northern end highway and we easily found a place to park. Parking is available on either side. The panoramic views from this bridge does attract a crowd. Crossing this unforgettable bridge leads into the iconic Big Sur. This bridge is a favorite attraction for photographers, both professional and amateur. We were able to take some beautiful photos of the coast with the bridge as a backdrop. We also went across to the other side to take advantage of the multiple viewpoints. The south end offers amazing views at sunset. It was a beautiful (but windy) sunshiny day. Definitely worth the stop! Review #1685 read more

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Amazing views. Must see spot along the way to Big Sur. Make sure you park and take some pictures! read more

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The architecture of this bridge is impressive. We parked in the dirt lot before the bridge. There's a mailbox with a notebook where people can leave a note for memories. Of course, there are great picture opportunities!! read more

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

Breathtaking, stunning and magical are just three words to describe this bridge and all of Big Sur really, There was a lot of people here when we went but I see why! Postcard and Instagram selfie worthy for sure read more

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

Tourist trap or death trap? I was fortunate, on my visit it was offseason when I was driving down the 1.. Still, people were slamming on their brakes trying to find a place to park alongside the road so they could get their selfies on. It's a nice looking bridge and I'm sure it's a marvel of civil engineering but it's not worth dying over. Keep in mind that there are so many other things to see on this scenic road that you don't have to slam on your brakes for every single one of them. #RoadsideSelfiesKill read more

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This is an iconic stop along Highway 1 that anyone around the Carmel area should make sure they stop and see. The drive itself down the coast is beautiful but the feat of modern design and construction. If you can imagine, this bridge was completed in 1932 (87 years ago...!) at a cost back then of 200K. Can you imagine what the cost would be today to construct it? Note the engineering items from the California tourist website on it: " building the bridge wasn't exactly a piece of cake. First, a massive wooden framework had to be built, with materials brought by truck on what was then a narrow, one-way road riddled with hairpin turns. A staggering 45,000 individual sacks of cement had to be hauled up the framework--and this is before advanced heavy machinery could help do the lifting. Each bag was transported via a system of platforms and slings suspended by cables 300 feet above the creek. " It also noted they completed the bridge before they completed the road...! Wow...not to be missed. read more

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This is a very beautiful bridge, you can see it on your MacBook desktop. Crowded on weekend, but is definitely worth visiting read more

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Iconic Big Sur monument to visit if you can bear the few obnoxious overbearing people who are impatient, inconsiderate and insensed with taking pictures of their loved ones. It was overcrowded due to social media posts and I am contributing to this mass histeria. Parking can be challenging at times but it will.pass. The views were spectacular but there was too much traffic and people. Try hiking in the less popular areas. They are equally if not more spectacular than this read more

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This is a mist stop along Hwy 1. Beautiful views, picturesque and absolutely breathtaking. Parking can be challenging, but definitely worth the stop. Park on the opposite side (northbound) of the highway as there is a dirt lot which you can usually find parking, as most people will only stay for 10-15 min. read more

While your life won't come to an abrupt end without stopping at Bixby Bridge, if you've got the time it's a good place to take a break and snap some nice pictures. Given how popular a photo stop here has proven to be over the years, it's curious that the local Powers that Be don't seem to have put an effort into accommodating or directing the traffic that results from a substantial number of cars stopping along the side of the road to take pictures. Tip: If you're dead set on planning a stop here, it's sometimes almost impossible to find a place to stop on days when the weather is good, so the best days to stop are when it's cloudy and cold. read more

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Super cool stop, and a must-see if you're driving along highway1. The views from the overlook are spectacular on a clear day. You can see most of the bridge and the beach below. It can get pretty busy and there's limited parking. Highly recommend! read more

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The main event when you drive Big Sur. There is a small off street parking area for you to stop and take pictures. If you are just wanting to visit the bridge and not do the mountain drive, you can take the back way from Carmel, only a 20 minute drive. I've done the mountain drive but I was not in to it this trip. Very busy stop, you may not find parking and will have to wait on the side of the highway. Neat bridge. I am a sucker for a random site. Worth the drive through. read more

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As you're driving up the scenic highway in Big Sur, you gotta make a stop here as well. The Bixby Bridge is a famous landmark and it's really pretty to see while you're up there on the cliffs as you take in the beautiful beach view too. There's free parking along the shoulder. You might have to wait in your car for your turn to park since this is a popular viewpoint. A tidbit though, there will be some wild squirrels out there that don't mind walking up closer to you, so if you're a little sensitive to that (there were a few girls up there who were screaming and running around apparently), just be aware of that. read more

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We really liked this stop along the pacific Coastal highway because the view was stunning!! There were California ground squirrels hopping and bopping out of their little burrows everywhere! They were super cute. My kids were obsessed with them. The bridge looks so cool with the ocean right next to it. This is definitely a worthwhile scenic spot. read more

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One of the most overrated California tourist destinations is still a pretty one. Perfect the Facebook, Instagram, Tik Tok, Grindr and whatever social media narcissist such as myself. Depending on your level of narcissism, you could spend 2 minutes or an hour here trying take that perfect selfie. read more

One of my favorite places to stop by on my drive down to Big Sur. My friend started a Bixby Bridge Visitor's Journal in this old hidden mailbox but when I got there, it was missing. If you happen to stop by, look for this journal filled with letters from people all over the world. It truly is the most sacred part of traveling. Meeting new friends and making memories and experiencing life in a foreign place. Be sure to sign it if you happen to find it. Bixby Bridge truly is a beautiful place that brings people from all paths of lives together to gather and admire the breathtaking view of the Pacific Coast and the undeniably gorgeous Bixby Bridge. I love bridges! I love how one structure can create a path for new beginnings and new adventures. Definitely a must see if you're driving up or down the Pacific Coast Highway! read more

Bixby Bridge - Bixby Bridge Visitor's Journal Missing - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Monterey, California

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One of the many beautiful, extremely photogenic spots along Highway 1 near Big Sur. And maybe the most popular. But luckily there are a few spots in the turnout, some along the highway, and others on the other side of the road. So when we stopped by recently on a busy Sunday, we were still able to find a spot and take some pics. Yea there was some waiting for the more popular viewpoints as others took pictures, but no biggie. We stayed for maybe 15 or so minutes to enjoy the scenery and fresh air. We were hoping to spend time at one of the beaches nearby but all the lots were full (again, it was a Sunday and beautiful weather so EVERYONE decided to go to the coast...can't blame em!) so this was a nice break after driving around. Definitely a must-do thing when in the area. Because after all, if you didn't gram it (or Yelp it), did you really even go? read more

Amazing check point for photos. We were visiting in November and weather was perfect. I highly recommend heading early there because its gets very busy. It was my first time in that area so I was very excited to stop there and take some photos. Definitely "bucket list" stop. Then we headed back to Folktale winery and had amazing lunch with wine. read more

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Visited here on whim today. Starts to get crowded as you near the location. We got very lucky and got a spot. The trail is short and follows the cliff edges right before the bridge, to a spot that gets crowded because you can take a picture with Bixby Bridge. Across the bridge is an excellent view of the ocean. Only downside is parking and the type of crowds this place attracts. Only 10% of the people I saw here wore face masks, so unfortunately we did not stay long. This is too bad since Bixby is one of the most photographed bridges in US, and we can't even enjoy it! read more

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One of the top, if not the top, destination on Highway One/Big Sur. One can see why as it connects two cliffs while also being next to a beach and the Pacific Ocean. It is definitely a true engineering feat. Usually crowded and cars always parked by the designated parking spot on the side of the road as I heard, but I got super lucky as Hwy 1 opened up 2 months earlier than expected where the mudslide took out a part of the highway so it was not crowded at all. read more

This is an iconic place to stop and take a photo, but, know that parking can be very dicey. Please don't be one of the tourists who slam on their brakes and then don't pull all the way off of the road. Actually if it's that crowded, just come back later. I stop every year on my way home after visiting my college roommate, she coaches me on proper tourist behavior! read more

Bixby Bridge - It's easy to get someone to take your photo. - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Monterey, California

This place is beautiful! I wanted to go on a road trip. Seen this as a spot to go and I went! I was able to capture amazing photos and it's soooo beautiful. I just wanted to stay there forever. The parking is small but there seemed to be parking across the highway. If you travel down the road or up depending on whether you are coming from there's a bunch of open spots to park and scenery. There's a beautiful hikes a small waterfall. I definitely would love to stay up here next time get a cabin and be down at the beach. read more

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This was one of the many stops we checked out during our drive down the Pacific coast. You can tell it's a popular stop because it was very crowded. However, it is worth stopping to check out all of the gorgeous views. We passed a lot of other small bridges on our way but this one definitely stood out. There are very many angles to get some beautiful pics. We also crossed the street and checked out the bridge and views from there which was also crowded. There were mountain views from across the street. I would highly recommend this place as must see spot. Make sure your cameras/ phones are fully charged. Oh and bring some patience to deal with the crowds. :-) read more

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

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One of the most magical bridges in California. It's usually crowded with tourists and photographers so be prepared for a little traffic. But its all worth it! The views are incredible, the sounds of the ocean are soothing and the air is so fresh and clean. read more

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

The pics of this place made it seem like we needed to stop here. But I am terrified of heights so I didn't think I could do the sitting on the ledge picture. To get here from LA, you need to drive north on RT. 1 and it's a windy road so I'm glad I wasn't driving. When you get closer there are pockets of pretty views but you have to look or you'll miss it because there's lots of trees that cover it quickly as you're driving. There's some pull out areas where you can stop and take photos. We drove past this spot and tried to go to the lighthouse but it was closed. We had really bad reception on this route, and mostly we were in no service zones so it took awhile before we figured out the lighthouse was closed. So we turned around. But the roads were blocked in one way traffic, directed by someone. It took awhile to backtrack. When we got back here we were worried about parking because when we first passed it there were no spots. When we arrived the second time there was a spot and it was perfect timing. We got out to take in the view. And you really do have to go down at least a little to get the better views and pictures of the bridge. Just be careful! Wear shoes that make it easy to walk in this type of un level area. I knew it's been around for awhile, since 1932, and I never knew it existed until this road trip with my friends! So it was a must stop spot for us. It's one of the highest bridges of its kind in the world, at 260 feet above the bottom of a steep canyon carved by Bixby Creek. So you can imagine looking down can be scary, if you're afraid of heights like me. So I was very cautious and took my time. There's a bunch of little squirrels around and they look plump so people must feed them. read more

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Great place for a rest stop while on a road trip. You can capture the amazing views of the ocean and the Bixby Creek Bridge. We were heading to Santa Barbara. I wanted to check out the bridge as a rest area and take pictures. It was good we arrived early because there were only a few spots open for parking. Truly a stunning view and a great photo op! P.S. You might run into a cute squirrel asking for food so make sure to carry some snacks. LOL read more

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Obviously the best point to enjoy Big Sur view. The bridge itself looks pretty historical and full of stories. The Big Sur big canyon really lives up to its name. The photos taken there look too beautiful and even unreal, just like a painting or a postcard. read more

Amazing thr architecture and design that created the bridge in the early 1900s. It's amazing that it's stood thr test of time ans is still such a a beautiful landmark. read more

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

The Bixby Creek Bridge is one of the tallest single-span bridges made of concrete in the entire world. Back when it was completed, it apparently was also the longest concrete arch span on the CA State Highway System. After driving over multiple relatively similar large bridges in Big Sur, I can't say I'm too in awe of the Bixby Bridge. However, this is a popular tourist spot to stop by and snap some photos. There's a small shouldered parking lot where you can pull over and carefully trek on the cliff edge to get a good view. On good weather days, it can be extremely difficult to snag a parking spot since EVERYONE is lined up (and blocking traffic) hoping to turn into the lot. On cloudy days, less folks are inclined to stop. From the lot, the bridge definitely looks prettier and taller than one might initially expect. If you happen to be in the area, you might as well stop by since you're here already. But if you miss out due to bad weather/etc, no biggie. Just check out the pictures that others have taken to see it in its full glory :) read more

Bixby Bridge - Bixby Creek Bridge view from the parking lot. - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Monterey, California

Bixby Bridge is probably the top two main attractions along Highway 1. The other is McWay Falls. I didn't realize I was really into bridges until I visited Big Sur again this past weekend. You know how people dig sunsets or sunrises (both for which I don't care too much for)? Well, I really dig bridges and chasing waterfalls, which you'll find both during your drive on Highway 1. Once you see Bixby Bridge coming up, try to park along the highway (left or right is fine). I recommend crossing the street to both sides of the highway for different view points. If you happen to park on the side of the highway where you can see the ocean, I recommend carefully walking further down. There is a perfect photo op. where you can see the bridge, the mountains, and the ocean behind you! I'm sure you will pullover on the side of the highway many times during your drive on Highway 1, but you must pullover for Bixby Bridge! It's quite a sight and photo when you've got a beautiful bridge, mountains, and the ocean as your backdrop. I absolutely love California. read more

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

Gorgeous scenery! It was our first time stopping here, and the view was breathtaking! Come here early to avoid traffic. read more

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

LA to Big Sur trip: as everyone has mentioned, your trip isn't complete without making a trip at this iconic bridge. We went during MLK Jr weekend (on a Saturday & Monday). PARKING: there are two areas you can park. There's a dirt road path that shows one side of the bridge. And one on the pavement that shows that more "popular" side/view of the bridge. On the Saturday visit (around 3pm), we were driving up to Big Sur and it was CLOUDY. So it had that mysterious look at the bridge. I'm assuming since it was a long weekend & a Saturday, it was PACKED. Cars were having difficulty finding parking or navigating in the dirt road. The cloudy look was pretty cool and it was COLD so bring a jacket if the weather shows cloudy ness. On the Monday visit (around 9am), we were driving back to LA and made another pit stop. A lot sunnier weather & less people. The view was amazing! I'd recommend seeing both sides of the bridge when you get a chance. You're already there so you might as well enjoy your time there. We probably spent 30 mins there enjoying the view & taking our pics. read more

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Afraid of heights!? Yes me too! But to just pull off to the side of the road and get a picture as close as I could handle, next to this astonishing bridge. Was well worth it. There are some unique stories behind this bridge. The amount of people traffic that this bridge receives is insane... but I'm glad that I had the chance of being near it. Looking over the sides gets your blood pumping seeing how deep down the water is. read more

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Bixby Bridge is a landmark attraction in Big Sur CA-1 along the rugged pacific coast headlands. Depending on the time of the year, it has different feels with oceanic vibes that one can simply soak in and forget all the worries for a moment. It's a great spot for photography too. It can get crowded on weekends owing to it's popularity and tourist visitors. read more

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