Things to do in Ragged Point

There is no shortage of incredible things to do in Ragged Point. This beautiful Highway 1 destination offers up spectacular scenery, serene hiking trails and unique lodging overlooking California’s pristine Pacific coastline. Known as the Gateway to Big Sur, there are few places that can boast a more stunning landscape. Home to dramatic cliffs, black sand beaches, secluded waterfalls and iconic road stops, you’ll soon discover some of the most scenic scenery in the world. Whether you hike to a lovely waterfall or savor a romantic meal cliffside, you’ll find a plethora of rewarding things to do in and around Ragged Point.

Ragged Point Inn is the perfect clifftop hideaway to enjoy a fiery sunset along Highway 1. Explore the Ragged Point Inn’s grassy outlook, offering up one of the best elevated sunset views in all of California. Kick back and watch the sun sink while relaxing in a complimentary lounge chair or bring a blanket and cuddle up on the manicured grass. Plus, Ragged Point’s popular onsite restaurant offers a walk-up window where you can purchase local wine, craft beer and gourmet food items to be enjoyed at the inn’s picnic tables as the sun goes down.

Enjoy dinner with a Pacific ocean view at Ragged Point Restaurant. If you’re craving a traditional seated dining experience, you’ll want to claim your own cliffside table. Choose from a selection of local wine offerings and seasonal plates crafted with delicious local ingredients. Fresh seafood, regional produce and perfectly cooked steaks come together to create a luxurious menu that blends the best of ocean and ranch. Whether you choose the lobster, ribeye or soup of the day, you’re sure to savor a delightful taste of Highway 1’s vibrant culinary offerings all while gazing along the azure horizon.

Stay at Ragged Point Inn and experience the pinnacle of Highway 1 luxury living. Cliffside rooms offer breathtaking views of the Pacific as far as the eye can see. Paired with comfortable amenities and an onsite spa, you can easily recharge and rejuvenate in your own coastal oasis. Keep an eye out for whales, otters and dolphins while you enjoy your morning coffee—you never know what kind of wildlife will cross your path when you lodge at Ragged Point inn. Speaking of good mornings, be sure to start your day off right at the Inn’s onsite Mocha cafe, where espresso, Danish and scones are served piping hot. Sip a classic cappuccino or grab something a tad different like a whimsical “honeybee latte” made with lavender and elderflower. Fuel up for a day of Highway 1 exploration when you dig into a hot breakfast made to order with all your favorite savory or sweet fixings. Whether you choose a quick egg croissant, the crab cakes Benedict or a stack of fluffy pancakes hot off the griddle, you’ll feel ready to take on an exciting day ahead.

Hike to a waterfall in Ragged Point and feel the rush of Highway 1’s natural splendor. With two unique waterfall options to explore, you’ll be able to choose the adventure that best suits your particular skill level and desire. Black Swift Falls is one of the region’s most coveted and challenging hikes for experienced hikers. Although the simple sign says “Nature Trail,” you’ll experience so much more than simply a pretty trail. The base of the cliffs are just a half mile from the trailhead, and visitors should note that the path is steep, featuring an approximate 400-foot drop in elevation. Breathtaking panoramas, a sparkling waterfall and secluded black sand beach are your reward. Looking for something a little easier to accomplish? Salmon Creek Falls is a great option for those who want to view a waterfall without much hiking experience. The easy, approximate quarter-mile hike is more accessible to beginners while still yielding lovely results. The nearly 120-foot waterfall is absolutely magical for all ages to experience—even greater still when viewed after a rainstorm.

Concerts in the Plaza at Ragged Point Inn deliver an engaging musical experience for all ages and walks of life to enjoy. The Plaza is the perfect place to stretch your legs, enjoy the sun and dance to a plethora of local and touring musical offerings. Surrounded by food vendors and small shops, this inviting outdoor area serves as Ragged Point’s dynamic hub of activity. The Inn’s popular concert offerings run from May through October, kicking off each weekend from noon to 4 p.m. Concerts are free to the public and are hosted in the Plaza, although some musical events are also showcased on the Ragged Point Lawn (check with the Inn for details before you go). Whether you’re inclined toward folk, country, jazz, blues or rock, you’ll find the best hand-picked tunes to groove to. Go on, tap your toes to the music as local chefs grill up ribs, chicken and Dungeness crab to curb your appetite. Pair your meal with a cold craft beer or glass of local wine for a true “dinner and a show” experience.

There’s plenty to do and see nearby Ragged Point. One great option? Head North to Big Sur and discover one of the most incredible natural wonders on planet Earth. Located on Highway 1 just north of Ragged Point Inn, this ethereal wonderland represents one of the nation’s top attractions. Home to sparkling Pacific ocean views, towering mountains and pristine beaches, this beloved scenic byway is well worth cruising through. Be sure to take a trip across Bixby Creek Bridge, one of the most photographed bridges in California due to its aesthetic design, graceful architecture and magnificent setting. Ready to relax and enjoy the view? There’s no better seat than the Cliffside Hot Springs at the Esalen Institute. Nestled between sea and sky, this soothing, clothing-optional hot springs provides an awe-inspiring respite for mind and body.

Want more Ragged Point area excursions nearby? Head South on the North Coast Scenic Byway and soak up iconic sights and stops along the way. A nationally recognized scenic byway, the 57-mile stretch of Highway 1 between Ragged Point and Edna Valley is popular among cyclists, wine tasters and whale watchers alike. Explore William Randolph Hearst’s famous hilltop mansion, stroll along a historic pier at WR Hearst State Beach and wine taste at Hearst Family Winery in San Simeon. Farther south, visit charming coastal antique shops in Cayucos and discover a tiny town that time forgot in Harmony, California (population 16, if you count the cows). Your southbound Highway 1 Road Trip ends as brilliantly as it began, with wine tasting along the rolling vineyards of Edna Valley.

First Highway 1 Road Trip ever? There’s a few places you should be sure to check out. First up: Park it in San Simeon for a tour of William Randolph Hearst’s world famous castle, featuring ancient works of art, glittering pools and artful architectural design. Truly, Hearst Castle was crafted for once-in-a-lifetime photo opportunities, so be sure to pose for a few keepsake pics. Next up, Highway 1’s popular Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery, home to a robust population of Elephant Seals. Free and open to the public all year round, you’ll be able to view these majestic creatures from a safe viewing area as they live out their daily routines. Kids will especially enjoy watching adorable baby Elephant Seals nurse and sunbathe along the sand.

If you’re looking for things to do in Ragged Point, you’ve come to the right place. From seasonal-fresh meals enjoyed oceanside to wildlife sightings, waterfalls and wine tastings, your next Highway 1 Road Trip is sure to be chock full of incredible memories. Time to pack the car and hit the road: Ragged Point’s many-splendored delights are waiting to be explored now.