California’s most iconic coastal route, Highway 1 winds through some of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes, yet this remarkable feat of engineering faces nature’s constant reshaping force. From winter storms to coastal erosion, the dynamic relationship between land and sea creates an ever-changing journey for Highway 1 road trippers. While temporary closures may alter travel plans, they also offer unique opportunities to explore less-traveled sections of the coast and discover hidden gems along alternative routes.
Current Road Conditions
Nature’s powerful forces frequently affect Highway 1, particularly in the Big Sur region, where rockslides, erosion, and coastal weather events can temporarily alter access to this iconic route. As of October 2024, a significant closure affects travel at the Regent’s Slide, located 40 miles south of Carmel (Post Mile Marker 27.8). This closure prevents through traffic between Carmel in Monterey County to Big Sur.
Travelers should note the established turnaround points: on the south side at Post Mile Marker 25.3 (two miles north of Lucia) and on the north side at Post Mile Marker 32.1 (just south of the Esalen Institute). These markers create clear boundaries for exploring each accessible section of this magnificent coastline.
Reopening Updates
Travelers venturing south from the Monterey area along this spectacular stretch will encounter a temporary one-way signal-controlled traffic system, necessary for ongoing stabilization work. This system ensures safe passage while crews complete essential reinforcement projects.
Looking ahead to southern access, Paul’s Slide has been open to the public as of summer 2024.
This extensive repair project addresses severe storm damage while implementing measures to enhance the highway’s resilience against future weather events. Full restoration of southern access allowing travel to Big Sur is projected for Spring 2025.
Alternative Routes
While Highway 1’s temporary closure alters the traditional coastal journey, visitors should note that the San Luis Obispo County (SLO CAL) stretch of Highway 1, about 85 miles, remains completely open. Enjoy full access to an incredible Highway 1 Road Trip full of small towns, beaches, restaurants, shops, outdoor recreation and wildlife.
Travelers approaching from the north can navigate to the coast by taking Highway 46-West between Paso Robles and Cambria, connecting to Highway 1. From the south, access is open all along Highway 1 from the SLO County line to about 30 miles north of Ragged Point near Gordo in Monterey County.
Things to Do on Open Sections of Highway 1
What might seem like an interruption in Highway 1’s famous route actually presents an extraordinary opportunity. The current closure has created something rare and precious along this iconic highway: space and solitude. Without the usual flow of through traffic, both sections of the highway offer a more intimate coastal experience that savvy travelers can use to their advantage.
The southern stretch from Ragged Point to Cambria and beyond particularly shines during this unique period. Highway 1 brims with activities and attractions, all enjoyed with unprecedented serenity. Ragged Point’s dramatic cliff-top vistas offer peaceful moments and a glimpse of the iconic Big Sur coastline, marking this spot as the portal to Big Sur. The majestic Hearst Castle tours feel more personal, while the San Simeon Elephant Seal Rookery provides quiet observation opportunities. Cambria’s enchanting moonstone beaches and forest trails invite unhurried exploration.
Traveling farther south on Highway 1, find welcoming beach communities, seaside restaurants and wildlife viewing galore. From surfing in Cayucos and Morro Bay to exploring the Nipomo and Oceano dunes by ATV, there’s much to explore along this 85-mile stretch of Highway 1 in San Luis Obispo County.
This temporary pause in through traffic creates a chance to experience these world-famous destinations as they might have been centuries ago — less crowded, more peaceful and ripe for authentic discovery. Rather than viewing the closure as an obstacle, wise travelers recognize it as an invitation to slow down and deeply absorb the magic of each distinct stop.
Local Businesses Impacted by Closures
The temporary division of Highway 1 has created great opportunities to experience local establishments with unprecedented intimacy.
South of the closure, the coastal communities from Ragged Point to Cambria and Cayucos continue to welcome visitors with open arms. The Ragged Point Inn serves spectacular views with every meal from its dramatic cliff top location. San Simeon’s historic destinations offer immersive experiences of coastal heritage, while Cambria enchants visitors with its eclectic mix of boutiques, wine tasting rooms and restaurants, each operating at a more leisurely pace during this unique period. Cambria, a laid back beach community, resonates with authenticity.
Support and Explore Along Highway 101
The inland journey along Highway 101 reveals California’s rich supply of experiences, beginning with Paso Robles, a mere 40 minutes from the coast. This renowned wine country destination captivates visitors with its historic downtown square, world-class wineries and farm-to-table dining scene. Regular cultural events and festivals create an engaging atmosphere that transforms a simple stopover into a memorable experience.
Along this historic route, the California Mission Trail offers a glimpse of Mission San Miguel Arcángel, where original Native American frescos still adorn the walls. Mission San Antonio de Padua, one of California’s most authentically preserved mission sites, is also open to the public. In Salinas, the National Steinbeck Center celebrates the Nobel laureate’s legacy, while the Monterey Bay Aquarium awaits where Highway 1 meets Highway 68.
A crown jewel of the inland route, Pinnacles National Park beckons just 20 minutes off Highway 101 via Highway 146 East outside Soledad. This dramatic landscape offers 30 miles of diverse hiking trails, remarkable rock formations, and talus caves. Spring brings vibrant wildflower displays, while the park’s dramatic peaks provide vital habitat for California condors and year-round opportunities for rock climbing enthusiasts.
Caltrans and Climate Resilience
Highway 1 continues to evolve through Caltrans’ innovative approaches to preservation and sustainability. The PROTECT Resilience Improvement Plan demonstrates California’s commitment to maintaining this iconic route for future generations. This comprehensive program enhances infrastructure resilience against coastal hazards, implements adaptable solutions for sea level rise, and develops rapid response protocols for extreme weather events.
Looking toward the future, Caltrans’ climate change adaptation efforts employ advanced engineering solutions for slope stability and modern drainage systems to manage intense rainfall. Innovative technologies for early warning and monitoring, combined with sustainable construction practices, ensure that while Highway 1 may face temporary closures, this magnificent coastal route will continue to inspire travelers for generations to come.
See you on Highway 1
While Highway 1’s temporary closures may alter traditional travel plans, they reveal hidden gifts along California’s iconic coast. Exploring the serene stretches of the southern section leads to an extraordinary collection of small coastal towns. Visitors should also note that the entire stretch of Highway 1 in San Luis Obispo County remains open, with a multitude of destinations to explore, including dining, shopping and wildlife viewing. These moments along Highway 1 offer rare opportunities to experience one of the world’s most famous coastal routes. Enjoy the journey!
