One of California’s Rare Big Sur Coast State Parks Offering Beach Access is a Stunning Paradise

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One of California's Rare Big Sur Coast State Parks Offering Beach Access is a Stunning Paradise

A winding road trip for stunning views of the California coast should be a part of any road warrior’s bucket list. With sweeping ocean views, charming historic towns, and majestic landmarks like Bixby Creek Bridge, there’s a world of experiences to be had along this 650-mile drive. One of the most distinctive parts of Highway 1 is Big Sur. This magnificent stretch of coastline is where the Pacific Ocean, the Ventana Wilderness, and the Santa Lucia Mountains merge, making it a must-see destination for anyone who wants the ultimate West Coast road trip.



And if you venture just 40 miles north of San Simeon (home of Hearst Castle) on Highway 1, you’ll reach Limekiln State Park: one of the only state parks in the area with beach access. But that’s not the only special thing about this place. The uncommon name comes from the area’s unique history when Rockland Lime and Lumber Company arrived in 1887 to extract and purify limestone in four towering kilns before shipping it off to be used for concrete. Although the limestone deposit was nearly gone by 1890 and the limestone industry left the area, those kilns still stand as imposing landmarks in the park today.

Exploring the Two Sides of Limekiln State Park

Two of the lime kilns on Limekiln Trail



What to Know Before You Go

Couple and dogs on Limekiln State Park Beach

The park is open from 8:00 a.m. until sunset, and the day-use entrance fee is $10 (cash only) per vehicle. Keep in mind that only service animals are allowed on the trails. Also, be aware that the surf is rough with strong currents, so use extreme caution around the ocean. The weather can fluctuate quite a bit in this region, so it’s a good idea to dress in layers. The park is currently accessible only from the south via Highway 1, as the stretch of road to the north is still undergoing infrastructure repairs from a recent landslide.



The park has roughly a dozen campsites on the beach and 17 more spread throughout the forest that go for $35 a night. Hot pay showers are available in both areas for registered campers. Reservations are required and can be made through Reserve California. However, the park is currently only open for day use due to ongoing infrastructure repairs, so be sure to call ahead to plan your trip accordingly.

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Dave Pennells

By Dave Pennells

Dave Pennells, MS, has contributed his expertise as a career consultant and training specialist across various fields for over 15 years. At City University of Seattle, he offers personal career counseling and conducts workshops focused on practical job search techniques, resume creation, and interview skills. With a Master of Science in Counseling, Pennells specializes in career consulting, conducting career assessments, guiding career transitions, and providing outplacement services. Her professional experience spans multiple sectors, including banking, retail, airlines, non-profit organizations, and the aerospace industry. Additionally, since 2001, he has been actively involved with the Career Development Association of Australia.