Best LGBTQ Beaches in Big Sur

Nestled in Monterey, the captivating Point Sur State Historic Park, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, boasts an expansive beach, forming part of the larger Point Sur State Historic Park and Lighthouse. Also recognized as Point Sur Beach, this historic landmark offers insightful guided walking tours of the 1889 Point Sur Lightstation. Located just miles south of Carmel and roughly 130 miles south of San Francisco, the light station provides a unique opportunity to explore a crucial part of California's maritime history. The lighthouse tour, lasting three hours, involves a brief yet steep trail ascent from a paved road to a prominent volcanic rock dome, providing panoramic views of the beach. Please note that these guided tours are mandatory, and a nominal fee applies. Additionally, the park offers moonlight tours, which provide a spectacular experience under the night sky.

Located In The Southern Part Of Monterey County, Willow Creek is a beach that Is a part Of Los Padres National Forest. This beach has a picnic area as well. The Narrow Road leading to the beach adds to the adventure of reaching this serene spot.

Located in the southern part of Monterey County in Big Sur, Mill Inlet - also known as Mill Creek Picnic Area - has a small rocky beach with very little beige sand.  The beach is positioned along California's Cabrillo Highway 1 near the Mill Creek that empties into the ocean towards the northern end of the beach.  It has a beautiful backdrop of the rocky cliffs, the Mill Creek Bridge, coastal vegetation, and Santa Lucia Mountains, creating a picturesque setting along the Pacific Ocean.  Mill Inlet Beach is managed by Los Padres National Forest and is promoted as an ecotourism destination, encouraging sustainable tourism practices that preserve its natural environment.

Located at the mouth of the Little Sur River, Little Sur River Beach is an idyllic beach with light brown sand in the Big Sur Region. The beach is littered with driftwood and has a marvelous backdrop of the steep mountains of the Big Sur landscape. The Little Sur River sometimes forms a lagoon near the beach. There is also a natural rocky archway near the southern end of the beach. The beach is currently inaccessible to the general public as it is surrounded by private land owned by the El Sur Ranch and is fenced off to public access. There are signs on the fences around the beach forbidding trespassing on private property. This secluded spot lies within the scenic expanse of the Los Padres National Forest, known for its redwood trees and diverse wildlife.