I was thinking of doing tour one but was wondering if the day would be better spent driving Big Sur? We are spending one night in Cambria before driving on up the coast. Thanks in advance.

It really depends on how you want to spend your time. An afternoon is definitely enough time to drive through Big Sur and to stop and see the scenery. If you want to spend time hiking or exploring, then a whole day is better. Hearst Castle is excellent and definitely worth the time. It just depends on how you want to prioritize.

Hearst Castle is amazing. An incredible work of art and archetecture. Truly one of the most beautiful places in the states. Glorious views and impeccable attention to detail in the construction of the building, the decor, and the grounds. The decor and the art, not to mention the stories surrounding the building of it and what took place in it are fascinating.

It was quite the happening place in its hey day (30's and 40's, and big with the Hollywood crowd) and about anybody who was anybody was wined and dined in the castle. They tell the story that if you ever turned down an invitation to Hearst Castle, you were not invited again.

I have toured it three times and would gladly go again. They have about four different tours and each tour reveals new sensational information about the history and the goings on. A do not miss for a CA trip, IMO.

Yes, the Hearst Castle is certainly worth your time. We enjoyed it.

Yes, I too agree that Hearst Castle is a great place to see. I would recommend a morning tour of Hearst Castle and an afternoon drive along Big Sur. I don't think it's necessary to spend the enire day along Big Sur. If you did I's suggest a stop at Julia Pfeiffer Burns redwoods park.

Having just returned from a mini-hiking trip in Big Sur, I would suggest the following as possible stops: Limekiln State Park - best inland falls; Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park - best (and only) falls that cascade into the Pacific Ocean; and Pt Lobos - possibly the most beautiful of all the State Parks in this area. You should budget a minimum of an hour for each stop. You could easily spend an entire day in one state park.

Thanks for your advice. I think we will do an early tour and then drive on up the coast and make the stops along the way the everyone has suggested.