Pfeiffer Beach is Big Sur's best-loved sand: a wide, wind-swept cove where streaks of purple run through the sand and a huge offshore rock arch, Keyhole Rock, frames the sunset. It is a Forest Service day-use area rather than part of the nearby state park, reached by a narrow, winding road through the redwoods that makes the arrival part of the adventure. Come for photography, for the surf crashing through the arches and for the solitude of a beach you do not swim at. It is not a sun-and-swim beach, but it is a magnificent one.
The purple on Pfeiffer Beach comes from manganese garnet washing down from the hills above, and it is most visible after rain, when the grains collect in swirls along the waterline and on the sand near the creek. The beach is also known for Keyhole Rock, a sea stack with an opening the Pacific surges through.
In winter, near the solstice, the setting sun lines up with the arch and sends a beam of light through it, a phenomenon that draws crowds of photographers. At other times of year the beach is simply wide, beautiful and windy.
Getting there is an adventure of its own. A narrow, winding road leaves Highway 1 and runs several miles through redwood-filled canyon to the beach. Visitors should look carefully for the unsigned turn, and drive slowly: the road is narrow, steep in places and not suitable for large RVs or long trailers.
A day-use fee is charged at the Forest Service entrance, so check the Forest Service page for current information. The parking area is small and fills on weekends and around sunset, so arrive early or plan for a wait. Wear layers; the wind is often strong, and the sand can sting.
Safety matters here. The surf is powerful and unpredictable, with strong currents and sneaker waves that can sweep people off the rocks and sand, so do not swim, and keep well back from the waterline and from the arches. Stay off the cliffs, and follow posted guidance. The beach has limited facilities, so bring water and snacks.
Conditions on Highway 1 and the access road can change after storms, so check Caltrans and the Forest Service before you go. Fit: photographers, couples, beach walkers and anyone who wants Big Sur's wild side. Pair it with McWay Falls and Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park for a full day on the southern half of the coast, and with Bixby Bridge on the way back.
What to expect
The experience
A wild day-use beach with purple-streaked sand and a rock arch, reached by a narrow forest road, best for walking, photography and sunset rather than swimming.
Best time
Late afternoon for sunset; winter near the solstice for the sun through the arch; after rain for the most vivid purple sand.
How long
One to two hours, longer if you stay for sunset.
Tips
Do not swim; the surf is dangerous. Arrive early, as parking is small. The access road is narrow and unsuitable for large RVs or trailers. Dress for wind and bring water.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Photographers and sunset chasers who want Big Sur's wildest beach.
- Families
- Fine for a walk and a picnic, but keep children well back from the surf.
- Couples
- A dramatic sunset spot, best on clear winter afternoons.
- Pair with
- McWay Falls and Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park on the same Big Sur day.
- Time needed
- One to two hours.
Good questions
Why is the sand purple?+
Manganese garnet washes down from the hills and collects in the sand, most visibly after rain, giving it purple streaks.
Can you swim at Pfeiffer Beach?+
No. The surf, currents and sneaker waves are dangerous. Keep well back from the waterline and rocks, and treat it as a walking and photography beach.
How do I get there?+
A narrow, winding road leaves Highway 1 near the Big Sur village, through a redwood canyon. It is unsigned in places, so watch carefully, and avoid it with large RVs or trailers.
Is there a fee?+
A day-use fee is charged. Check the Forest Service page for current fees and conditions.
When does the sun shine through the arch?+
Around the winter solstice, when the sunset lines up with Keyhole Rock, the beam of light draws photographers, so expect crowds.
