Sometimes you just need to hit the road, trade the noise for crashing waves and redwoods, and end the day with a stiff drink by the fire. That’s exactly what we did. Plans that lingered in the group chat for too long finally turned into real hikes through Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, damn good coffee at the campsite, cozy reads, and the kind of easy conversations that only unfold under an open sky.

Montecito Valley Big Sur Itinerary:

Where We Stayed:

We set up camp at Fernwood Campgrounds, tucked beneath towering trees with just enough ruggedness to feel like an adventure—while still having the essentials to brew a proper cup of coffee. We opted for the Adventure Tent, striking the perfect balance between camping and comfort, with zero regrets about skipping the tent setup.

Where We Hiked:

The standout of the trip? McWay Falls. A quick hike with views that had us stopping often, whether we meant to or not. There’s something about watching an 80-foot waterfall spill onto the beach below that makes you forget about emails, deadlines, and pretty much everything else.

Where We Ate:

After long days outside, we headed to Big Sur River Inn for hearty meals and cold drinks—simple food that hits differently after hours on the trail. We also made our way to Nepenthe, where the views stretch for miles, the menu holds its own, and the laid-back vibe feels like it belongs to Big Sur itself.

Where We Browsed:

We found ourselves at the Henry Miller Memorial Library, a small, soulful spot filled with books, stories, and the kind of quiet charm that feels like stepping into another time. The perfect place to pick up a new read for fireside nights, ideally paired with a strong drink.

Why We Go—and Why We Love Coming Back:

At Montecito Valley, we’re lucky to call the Central Coast home, which means places like Big Sur are just a scenic drive away. But as much as we love the open road, nothing beats the return—the Santa Barbara coastline coming back into view, the familiar streets waiting, and the comfort of home settling in.