The best camper van rentals near Big Sur, CA

Located about three hours south of San Francisco, the rugged coastline of Big Sur is marked by redwood forests and fog-trimmed waterfront on California’s central coast. It’s an outdoor paradise for road trippers, camper van dwellers, and backpackers. The laid-back atmosphere combined with striking views makes for the ultimate camper van vacation destination.

The small town of Big Sur is surrounded by the much greater Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, full of hiking trail options, wildlife, and several developed and dispersed camping areas. The Santa Lucia Mountains rise above the creeks and rivers of Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park and offer one of the most beautiful backdrops you can imagine for a few nights camping in a camper van.

Sand Dollar Beach is one of the longest stretches of soft sand on the Big Sur coast and is a popular place to spend the day and go for a swim or lounge on the beach with a picnic. It’s a hot spot for fishing and is also considered one of the best surfing spots in Big Sur. 

One of the most iconic photo spots in the state of California is Bixby Bridge. Constructed in 1932, the iconic bridge rises 260 feet above a steep canyon and Bixby Creek. From this vantage point, you’ll get dramatic views of the Pacific Ocean, the surrounding forests, and towering bluffs.

Just north of Big Sur is Andrew Molera State Park, another amazing recreation area offering camping facilities for tents, RVs, and camper vans. The wilderness here is also home to several spectacular waterfalls, the best known being McWay Falls in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, where the 80-foot waterfall spills onto white sands and flows into the Pacific Ocean.

At the northern end of Big Sur is Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, one of the top natural attractions on Carmel Bay. This coastal park is a popular spot for whale watching, especially for humpback and gray whales heading north or south in shoulder seasons. Sea lions and sea otters can be seen all year round sunbathing on the rocky coast or splashing close to shore.

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Melodious: Storyteller Overland Classic MODE 4x4

Storyteller Overland Classic MODE 4x4•High Top in Live Oak

Sleeps3

Seats4

$275/ night

Big Sur first became incorporated into the country of Mexico in 1821, at the same time the country gained independence from its Spanish colonialists. It became part of the US along with the rest of California in 1850.

Highway 101, the coastal road through Big Sur, has experienced several washouts over the years. Road construction is a familiar sight along a few stretches of road because of coastal erosion. Be sure to plan ahead to fully enjoy your route.