Bixby Bridge is a famous landmark on California’s coast. It stands tall over a deep canyon near Big Sur. Many travelers stop to admire its concrete arches. The bridge offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Visitors can take photos or hike nearby trails.
Bixby Bridge sits on Highway 1 in California. It was built in 1932. The bridge is 260 feet high. It spans 714 feet across a canyon. Cars can drive over it. People often stop to look at the views. The ocean and cliffs are visible from the bridge. Sunsets here are very pretty. There’s a small parking area nearby. Visitors should be careful of traffic when exploring.
Picture a curved bridge soaring over a rugged canyon. Waves crash far below. Mountains meet the sea in a breathtaking view. This is Bixby Bridge, a must-see stop on California’s coast. It’s more than just a way across – it’s a gateway to adventure. Will you pull over for a closer look? The bridge is waiting, with stories to tell and sights to amaze.
Location and Access of Bixby Bridge
Bixby Bridge is on California’s Highway 1. It’s in Monterey County, about 13 miles south of Carmel. The bridge is part of the famous Big Sur coastline.
Getting to Bixby Bridge is easy by car. Drive along Highway 1, also called Pacific Coast Highway. There’s a small parking area on the east side of the road. It’s right before the bridge if you’re going south.
Be careful when stopping. The road can be busy with tourists. Park safely and watch for traffic. The best views are from the coastal side of the highway. But be sure to stay in safe areas away from the cliff edges.
History and Construction of Bixby Bridge
Bixby Extension was started in 1932. It was named after Charles Henry Bixby, a trailblazer nearby. Locals had to use a steep, dangerous road to cross the canyon before the bridge.
The bridge was a big challenge to build. Workers had to deal with fog, winds, and steep cliffs. They used a lot of concrete, which they mixed on site. The bridge cost $199,861 to build, which was a lot of money back then.
The design of Bixby Bridge is special. It’s an open-spandrel arch bridge. This means it has a big arch with smaller arches on top. 330 feet in length is the main arch. The entire bridge is 260 feet high and 714 feet long. It has endured for more than ninety years and was constructed to last.
Scenic Views and Photography
Bixby Bridge offers stunning views of the California coast. To the west, you can see the vast Pacific Ocean. To the east, the Santa Lucia Mountains rise up. The bridge itself is beautiful against this backdrop.
Many people come to take photos of the bridge. The best spot is at the north end of the bridge. Here, you can capture the whole bridge with the ocean behind it. Sunset is a popular time for pictures. The golden light makes the scene even more beautiful.
Be patient when taking photos. The bridge can get crowded with visitors. Sometimes fog rolls in and hides the view. If this happens, wait a bit. The fog often clears up quickly. Remember to bring a wide-angle lens if you have one. It helps to fit the whole bridge in your shot.
Safety Tips for Visitors at Bixby Bridge
- Park only in designated areas
- Watch for traffic when crossing the highway
- Stay on marked paths and viewpoints
- Don’t climb over barriers or fences
- Keep a safe distance from cliff edges
- Wear sturdy shoes with good grip
- Bring water, especially on hot days
- Check weather conditions before visiting
- Don’t stop on the bridge itself
- Be careful when taking photos near the road
- Watch children closely at all times
- Don’t fly drones without proper permits
- Leave no trace – take your trash with you
- Be prepared for sudden weather changes
- Use caution if visiting during foggy conditions
Nearby Attractions and Activities
Big Sur is close to Bixby Bridge. It’s a beautiful area with many state parks. You can camp, hike, or just take in the sights. Point Lobos State Regular Save is north of the scaffold. It has great trails and wildlife watching.
Carmel-by-the-Sea is a charming town nearby. It has nice shops and restaurants. You can also visit its pretty beach. Monterey is a bit farther north. It has a famous aquarium and Cannery Row.
South of the bridge, you’ll find more scenic spots. Pfeiffer Beach is home to purple sand. A waterfall called McWay Falls plunges directly into the beach. The historic Point Sur Lighthouse can also be visited. These puts make extraordinary stops on a waterfront excursion.
Read More:
Your Travel Guide: Closest Airports to Big Sur, California, and How to Reach Them
Frequently Ask Questions
When is the best opportunity to visit Bixby Extension?
The best time is early morning or late evening for good light and less groups.
Can you walk across Bixby Bridge?
No, walking on the bridge is not allowed for safety reasons.
Is there a cost to visit Bixby Bridge?
Viewing the bridge is free, but parking is limited and first-come, first-served.
Conclusion
On the coast of California, you must see the Bixby Bridge. It provides excellent photo opportunities and stunning views. The bridge tells a story of clever building and local history. Visitors should be careful and respect the area. With its dazzling setting, Bixby Extension leaves an enduring memory. It is more than just a bridge; it also serves as a doorway into the splendor of Big Sur. Any coastal journey will undoubtedly be enhanced by a stop here.
