Garrapata State Park

Garrapata State Park is a rugged stretch of Big Sur coastline known for dramatic ocean views, steep bluffs, and scenic hiking trails that climb from the shore into coastal hills. It’s a great place to experience the wild side of Highway 1, with rocky coves, bluff-top overlooks, and seasonal wildflowers adding to the scenery. Visitors come here for short walks, photography, and a quieter, less developed coastal stop than many of the better-known Big Sur viewpoints.

History

Garrapata State Park was established to protect a scenic section of the Big Sur coast and its surrounding natural habitat. The park’s name comes from the nearby Garrapata area, and today it is managed as part of California’s state park system, preserving coastal bluffs, canyons, and shoreline access for public recreation and conservation.

Expert notes

• Check current parking and trail access before you go, since roadside pullouts can be limited.
• Expect wind, fog, and sudden temperature changes even on sunny days.
• Stay on marked trails to protect fragile bluff-top vegetation and avoid unstable edges.