Molera Beach
Discover Molera Beach in Big Sur: a serene coastal escape with dramatic views, adventurous river crossings, and rare purple sand.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Bridge usually open, pleasant weather
Molera Beach
Best Time
Bridge usually open, pleasant weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Molera Beach in Big Sur: a serene coastal escape with dramatic views, adventurous river crossings, and rare purple sand.
"Magical beach! I could sit here for hours on end."
🥾 Wear Water Shoes
Essential for crossing the Big Sur River. Bring a second pair if you plan to hike extensively after.
☀️ Sun Protection
Trails can be exposed. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for your hike.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Molera Beach
Andrew Molera State Park
Expansive, often secluded beach with dramatic coastline views and unique purple sand patches.
Purple Sand
Molera Beach
Discover pockets of enchanting purple sand, a rare and beautiful natural phenomenon.
Big Sur River Crossing
Entrance to Molera Beach Trail
An adventurous wade through the river (seasonal bridge) adds an exciting element to reaching the beach.
Pygmy Redwood Forest
Panorama Trail
Encounter a rare, miniature redwood ecosystem on the trails, a truly unique natural wonder.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
River Crossing Adventure
Campsite Logistics
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Wear Water Shoes
Essential for crossing the Big Sur River. Bring a second pair if you plan to hike extensively after.
☀️ Sun Protection
Trails can be exposed. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for your hike.
💧 Be Ready to Wade
The seasonal bridge may be out. Wading through the river is part of the adventure!
🎒 Pack Light for Camping
Campsites are a hike from parking. Minimize trips by packing efficiently.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Wear Water Shoes
Essential for crossing the Big Sur River. Bring a second pair if you plan to hike extensively after.
☀️ Sun Protection
Trails can be exposed. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for your hike.
💧 Be Ready to Wade
The seasonal bridge may be out. Wading through the river is part of the adventure!
🎒 Pack Light for Camping
Campsites are a hike from parking. Minimize trips by packing efficiently.
🚶♀️ Explore Beyond the Main Beach
Discover hidden gems like Spring Beach or pygmy redwood forests off the main trails. 
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Molera Beach for its serene atmosphere and dramatic coastal scenery, offering a peaceful escape from busier Big Sur spots. The adventurous river crossing and unique purple sand add to its charm, though some note the sand isn't as vibrant as at Pfeiffer Beach. It's a highly recommended destination for hiking and beachcombing.
"Visiting Andrew Molera Beach in Big Sur was a memorable experience, offering a peaceful escape from the more tourist-heavy spots in the area. The beach itself is quite beautiful, with dramatic coastline views and rocky points that make for interesting exploration during low tide. The Beach Trail is well-maintained, with easy access from the parking lot. During my visit, the seasonal footbridge was out of use, so I had to wade through the Big Sur River, which added a bit of adventure to the hike.
The trail is not too difficult, making it accessible for most hikers, but be aware that some parts can be quite exposed to the sun. Once you reach the beach, it's easy to find a quiet spot to relax, and the serene atmosphere is perfect for unwinding. One highlight for me was the unique purple sand that I spotted in a few areas, though not as abundant as at Pfeiffer Beach. If you're looking for a scenic, less crowded part of Big Sur to hike and enjoy the coastline, this park is a great choice.
The park also offers some educational experiences, like the nearby Ventana Wildlife Society's Discovery Center and historical sites like Cooper Cabin. Overall, it's an excellent place for hiking, camping, and beachcombing, and a great alternative to the more popular Big Sur attractions"
Bhargava Ram Podapati
"Well worth the short 1 mile hike. And getting your feet wet crossing the Big Sur River. Next time I'll bring a second set of water shoes? But it was a great afternoon! We'll be back."
Scott Seeley
"Magical beach! I could sit here for hours on end."
Carlos Archuleta
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Molera Beach is located within Andrew Molera State Park in Big Sur. Access typically involves a hike from the parking lot, which may include wading across the Big Sur River if the seasonal footbridge is out.
Yes, there is a parking lot available. However, be aware that campsites and the beach can be a significant hike (up to a mile) from the parking area, often requiring multiple trips for gear.
No, you cannot drive directly to Molera Beach. Access is via a hiking trail from the Andrew Molera State Park parking lot.
If the seasonal footbridge is out, you will need to wade through the Big Sur River. Wearing water shoes is highly recommended for this part of the journey.
Public transport options are very limited in Big Sur. It is generally recommended to have your own vehicle to reach Andrew Molera State Park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is typically a day-use fee for parking at Andrew Molera State Park. Check the official California State Parks website for current fees.
Park hours can vary, but generally, the park is open from sunrise to sunset. It's always best to check the official California State Parks website for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, Andrew Molera State Park offers campsites. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season, as they can be booked well in advance.
The seasonal footbridge across the Big Sur River is typically in place from around June 15th to October 31st each year, but this can vary based on weather conditions.
The entrance fee is for the state park itself, which includes access to Molera Beach. There isn't a separate fee for the beach once you've paid for park entry.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
At Molera Beach, you can enjoy hiking along the coast, relaxing on the sand, exploring rocky points at low tide, and searching for unique purple sand.
Swimming conditions can be unpredictable with strong currents and cold water. It's generally more suited for wading or enjoying the shoreline rather than active swimming.
Yes, Molera Beach is known to have patches of purple sand, though it may not be as abundant as at Pfeiffer Beach.
Restroom facilities are available within Andrew Molera State Park, typically near the parking lot and campground areas.
The Beach Trail is generally considered easy to moderate, but the river crossing can add an element of adventure. Some other trails in the park are longer and more challenging.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for dramatic coastline views, the unique purple sand patches, and the rugged rocky points. The river crossing can also make for interesting shots.
The west-facing coastline makes Molera Beach a great spot for sunset photography, offering stunning ocean views as the sun dips below the horizon.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastline. Consider a polarizing filter to enhance ocean colors and reduce glare.
Generally, photography is allowed, but always be respectful of the natural environment and other visitors. Drone usage may be restricted, so check park regulations.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting. Midday can be harsh, but good for capturing the purple sand details.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The Beach Trail is relatively easy, making it manageable for younger children. Once at the beach, kids can enjoy exploring the shoreline, building sandcastles, and searching for unique shells and rocks. Consider bringing snacks and drinks, as amenities are limited. If camping, be mindful of the hike from the parking lot to the campsites, which might be challenging with very young children and lots of gear.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Don't miss the chance to discover unique ecosystems like the pygmy redwood forest. For those who enjoy a bit of adventure, the river crossing to Molera Beach is a memorable part of the experience.
Pack appropriate footwear and be ready to explore the diverse landscapes, from redwood groves to rugged coastline. The park is also a great spot for birdwatching and observing marine life during low tide. 📸 Photographers
+1 The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset are particularly magical for capturing the landscape. Don't forget to capture the adventure of the Big Sur River crossing, especially if the seasonal bridge is out.
Wide-angle lenses are ideal for the expansive ocean views, and a polarizing filter can enhance the colors of the sea and sky. Be prepared for varying light conditions and the possibility of fog, which can add a moody atmosphere to your shots. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Big Sur River Crossing
Pro Tip: Wearing water shoes or sturdy sandals is highly recommended for this crossing. They provide better grip on the riverbed and protect your feet. Some visitors even bring a second pair of dry shoes to change into once they reach the beach, ensuring a more comfortable experience.
This river crossing adds an element of adventure and makes the arrival at Molera Beach feel like a true discovery. It's a memorable part of the experience that sets it apart from more easily accessible beaches.
Exploring the Trails of Andrew Molera State Park
The Ridge Trail and Panorama Trail offer stunning ocean vistas and can be combined for a more challenging hike, often around 8-9 miles.
Along these routes, you might encounter unique ecosystems like the Pygmy Redwood Forest, a rare grove of miniature trees shaped by the coastal environment. These trails provide a deeper immersion into the natural beauty of Big Sur beyond just the beach.Many visitors recommend exploring beyond the main beach to find even more secluded spots. Trails like the Spring Trail can lead to lesser-known coves, offering a more private experience.
Remember to check trail conditions and be prepared for varying terrain and potential river crossings on some routes. The Allure of Purple Sand
Finding these pockets of purple sand is a delightful surprise for visitors. They often appear in streaks or patches, particularly noticeable after waves recede. It's a subtle yet enchanting detail that makes a visit to Molera Beach even more memorable.
+1While Pfeiffer Beach is renowned for its vibrant purple sand, Molera Beach offers a more tranquil and less crowded experience where you can still appreciate this natural wonder. It's a testament to the diverse and surprising beauty found along the Big Sur coast.
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