California State Parks south from San Francisco
 

What are some not to miss state parks from Monteray to Big Sur area? Any with not to be missed waterfalls, views and redwoods?

For redwoods, the most spectacular is probably Big Basin, which is a bit north of your target area - there are some stands of old growth trees there, plenty of hiking and picnicing. There are also a couple good waterfalls. Sempervernes Falls is accessibly from the road - there is also a nice hike to it from the visitors center. Berry Creek Falls is quite nice, but a significant hike.

Limekiln State Park - along the Big Sur coast just south of Lucia has a nice waterfall. The hike is about a mile to mile and a half, easy going along the creek.

Of course there is McWay Falls, which is neat - falls right onto the beach.

For views, you can't beat Point Lobos state park just south of Carmel.

Thanks for the tips. The number of parks in that area seem somewhat overwhelming.

Yes - we are really blessed in this area to have so many great parks. It is a bit overwhelming, but I would definitely visit Point Lobos - not to be missed. And it is a really easy park to see because it is right off Hwy 1 just south of Carmel and you can choose longer or shorter hikes, or even just stop at some turnouts and look around - and no matter what, you will have great views.

I agree, Point Lobos is not to be missed. In general, every State Park between Monterey and Big Sur is worth exploring. Their all beautiful.

I would agree with the choices indicated here:

Big Basin is worth at least one day, excellent hikes but the drive in and out is not fast, so take your time.

Here's one hike in Big Basin with waterfalls in mind:
http://www.bahiker.com/southbayhikes...rfallloop.html

Just south of Carmel is Point Lobos. If you had only one state park to visit in that area, this would be the one. Make sure you visit it when the sun is shining. Great views and wonderful hikes.

Past Point Lobos is Pfeiffer Big Sur, which is easier to reach than Big Basin and also had some wonderful hikes among the redwoods. I haven't check recently, but there used to be rustic cabins at Pfeiffer Big Sur where you could stay overnight. These cabins were closed for awhile, but you might want to check if they are now open - that is, if you plan on staying a night or two.

Past that is Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park with McWay Falls which November Moon mentioned. Very easy hike to these spectacular falls.

Furthest away from Monterey is Limekiln with the "biggest" waterfall in Big Sur. Limekiln is also the most "wild" in that you have to be prepared to walk across flowing small creeks where in the other state parks there might be small bridges.

On the waterfalls, the best times to see them is around April when the snows start melting and the flow is great at the waterfalls.

When are you coming? Some of our state parks, unfortunately, are due to be closed because of the budget crisis.

http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/articl...MNPJ18UJ3C.DTL

I'd suggest tracking the ones that you want to visit and make sure they are still open when you do arrive.

Enjoy your trip! You're in for a treat!