Travel Alerts for Monterey County
Road Conditions
Updated: 5:35 p.m. PST, Wednesday, May 1, 2024
Be advised that closures on Highway 1 are impacting travel to Big Sur. Conditions are rapidly evolving, so check current conditions before traveling. If you have plans in Big Sur, contact your hotel, restaurant or tour provider for more information, as hours of operation and services may be limited at this time. Please be respectful, patient and kind to all involved in your travels to Big Sur, as these hardworking teams are doing their best to make sure you have a great experience in their community.
Access to northern Big Sur:
As of Monday, April 29, visitors are able to access northern Big Sur hotels, restaurants and businesses via twice-daily convoys on Highway 1 operated by Caltrans. Convoys will run at 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. each day. These are the only opportunities to travel into/out of Big Sur each day, so visitors must plan accordingly. If you do not exit Big Sur in the 5 p.m. convoy, you will not be able to leave until 7 a.m. the next day.
The public will have access in both directions during the morning convoy. In the afternoon, the public will be able to use the northbound convoy to leave the area; however, only visitors with existing travel reservations will be allowed to join the southbound convoy. Travelers are advised to arrive at the convoy staging areas as early as possible to be included. Please note, there is no exit from Big Sur to the south.
Please note, all Big Sur State Parks within the closure area are closed for day-use and camping until further notice. This includes Point Sur State Historic Park, Andrew Molera State Park, Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park and Limekiln State Park. Find more information on the California State Parks website.
Access to southern Big Sur:
Access to the southern part of Big Sur, including hotels and businesses, is currently available via Highway 1 coming north through San Luis Obispo County. Due to slides along Highway 1, access from the northern part of Big Sur via Highway 1 is not open at this time.
For real-time updates and official resources, please follow Caltrans District 5 on X(Twitter).
For alternative experiences, visit More to Explore: Alternatives to Big Sur. If you're visiting Monterey County and your plans are impacted by weather, use the See Monterey app to find alternative hotels, restaurants and activities.
Park Closures
Updated: 5:35 p.m. PST, Wednesday, May 1, 2024
Please note, all Big Sur State Parks within the closure area are closed for day-use and camping until further notice. This includes Point Sur State Historic Park, Andrew Molera State Park, Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park and Limekiln State Park. Find more information on the California State Parks website.
Please refer to individual county, state and national park websites for the latest updates and trail closures.
Wildfires predominantly occur in remote, forested areas away from population centers. It is important to follow all laws regarding open fires, camp only in designated areas, dispose of cigarettes properly and put out all fires in designated areas. Travelers should also have an emergency plan and follow any evacuation orders.
RESOURCES
Travel Responsibly
As our destination welcomes visitors to enjoy our county, we ask that travelers visit responsibly and follow safety precautions, as outlined by health care officials. Please practice the following guidelines:
- Stay home: If you show signs of illness, stay home. Follow CDC guidance for safe travel.
- Leave no trace behind: Properly dispose of all trash and plastics. Help us keep Monterey County beautiful for generations to come.
- Camp responsibly: Camp only at designated campsites to avoid damaging vegetation, causing potential wildfires or camping on private property. Illegal camping is prohibited.
- Have a plan: Have a back-up plan in case the area you're looking to visit is overcrowded, fully booked or parking areas are full. Explore lesser-known areas and try to avoid times popular areas are in high use.
- Respect the destination and others: Monterey County is home to an amazing diversity of indigenous plants and animals. Leave natural objects as you find them, keep your distance from wildlife and be respectful of others so that everyone can enjoy our scenic destination.
Local/Regional Resources
For additional questions, please reach out to Info@SeeMonterey.com
