Sunday, November 3rd, 2024
On Sunday, November 3rd, 2024, I decided to head to the northern part of Big Sur, rather than revisiting Sequoia for another hike. The road in the middle of Big Sur was closed, which made exploring the northern part the ideal option, especially since I had already visited the southern part earlier in my trip. It was a day dedicated to driving along one of California’s most scenic stretches, Highway 1. The journey itself was the highlight, winding along dramatic cliffs that drop into the crashing waves of the Pacific Ocean below. The rugged beauty of Big Sur was exactly as I’d imagined it—every turn seemed to reveal a more stunning vista than the last.
I made several stops along the way, parking at overlooks to take in the endless expanse of ocean meeting sky. Big Sur’s charm lies in its untouched, natural beauty—coastal hills covered in chaparral, wildflowers dotting the edges of the road, and the deep blue ocean extending to the horizon. I even stopped at Bixby Creek Bridge, one of the most photographed spots in the region. Standing there, with the iconic arched bridge beneath me and the waves crashing below, I felt a deep sense of connection to California’s wild coast.
By evening, I arrived in Monterey, where I found a lively hostel to stay the night. It was a welcome change from the quiet solitude of the parks—full of people, noise, and energy. Many of the guests were retirees, an unusual sight in a hostel, but they were an entertaining mix. I enjoyed the dynamic conversations and was fascinated by the contrast between the older travelers and the young backpackers. One of the younger guests invited me to watch the sunset at the nearby beach, and I gladly joined. As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting brilliant oranges and reds across the sky, it felt like the perfect ending to a day filled with exploration and scenic beauty.
Monday, November 4th, 2024
The next morning, I spent a little time exploring Monterey before beginning the long drive back to Los Angeles. Monterey was charming—quaint buildings, the ocean breeze, and a palpable connection to the sea. What stood out to me most was the number of divers, donning their gear right there in the middle of town and heading into the waves. It was an unexpected sight, a reminder of the rich marine life that lies just beyond the shoreline.
Eventually, I set out on the five-hour drive south. The journey was smooth, and I managed to reach Los Angeles just before 3 pm, thankfully avoiding the notorious rush hour. As I drove, I thought back over the past week—the mountains, the ancient forests, the hot springs, and the coastal views. Each destination had its own magic, and each moment on this trip left me feeling grateful for California’s stunning natural diversity.
