Pfeiffer Beach in Big Sur is a photographer's paradise! See the sunset through an amazing rock formation and glisten on the purple sand.
Reviews
Tripadvisor
4.6/5 · 1,393 reviews
5-star
59%
4-star
11%
3-star
3%
2-star
9%
1-star
18%
Recent reviews
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Sunset
Scenic
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Mar 2, 2025
I visited Pfeiffer Beach while traveling to Big Sur for a unique André 3000 concert, and I was excited to check it out after hearing about its supposedly purple sand. While I didn’t see any purple or…Full review by 1VictoriaTheTraveler
Dec 19, 2024
Keyhole Arch around winter solstice is amazing. The sun sets through the arch. Check the weather and the tide (2 foot is ideal). Not to be missed.Full review by michaelvB9845PS
Nov 2, 2024
To get to this beach you need to drive down a sharp turn (if coming from north) and head through the woods on a one lane road. Remember drivers coming uphill have the right of way. It will lead you t…Full review by jointfilms
Yes! We saw many peppers there! You just need to be careful because on some of the rocks are sea urchins,that can possibly harm your pet's paws and yourself for that matter!
What beach is the key hole located on described as being best at sunset?
A:
Pfieffer beach. I can only imagine how beautiful it is at sunset but due to where we were staying (cambria) didn't want to do the drive after sunset. It's beautiful even if you aren't there …
Pfieffer beach. I can only imagine how beautiful it is at sunset but due to where we were staying (cambria) didn't want to do the drive after sunset. It's beautiful even if you aren't there for sunset. One of my fav of pch1.
Can we make a reservation for parking? I have heard on many occasions people could not visit the beach for lack of parking.
A:
I don't believe there is reserved parking. It seems to be your average "first come first served" here. Worth it, even if you have to wait a bit for a spot!
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