Big Sur through the Backdoor

Ocean Meets Mountains on California’s Central Coast 

Cycling high above the Big Sur coast along California’s iconic Highway 1 is a rite of passage for cyclists. We’ve designed a route that allows you to experience Central California’s spectacular coastline in the traditional touring style even while Highway 1 is closed to through traffic.

And since Highway 1 is scheduled to reopen at some point in 2025, we’ve designed the trip to be quick and affordable so you can seize the opportunity without complicated logistics and a big investment of your time and money. 

This is a “limited release” trip being offered in Spring 2025 only. See trip departure dates below. 

Highlights: 

  • Carmel’s scenic 17-mile Drive
  • Bixby Bridge
  • 7-mi descent to Big Sur on Nacimiento-Fergusson Rd.
  • San Simeon’s elephant seals
  • Morro Bay’s sea otters
  • High likelihood of tailwinds (not guaranteed)

Overview: 

  • Start in Monterey (transportation to start available as add-on)
  • Finish in Avila Beach (shuttle back to Monterey/Bay Area included)
  • 3- or 4-day itinerary
  • Daily distances range from 70-90 miles (with shorter options also available) 
  • Daily luggage transfer and SAG support
  • Max group size: 6

Accommodations and Food: 

  • Comova provides a list of recommendations and riders make their own reservations at the overnight stops: 
    • Pre-trip start: Monterey (optional)
    • Day 1: King City or Paso Robles
    • Day 2: Cambria
  • Breakfast and all ride nutrition/hydration is included
  • Lunch and dinner are not included (choose from a range of restaurants on the route and at overnight destinations according to your preferences)

Cost: 

  • 3-day trip: 
    • $500 pp for groups of 4-6
    • $550-650 pp for groups of 2-3
    • $750 for individuals
  • 4-day trip: 
    • $650 pp for groups of 4-6
    •  $750-850 pp for groups of 2-3
    • $950 for individuals

How to Book 

The 3-day and 4-day calendars below show the available trip start dates. Click on your preferred start date and hit the “Book Now” button. Need more information before deciding?  

Learn More 

Need more information before deciding? You can scroll down to see the routes or use the buttons below to see the full trip details and itinerary or to download a trip brochure.  

3-Day Itinerary
4-Day Itinerary
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