rapunzelexplores — Partington Cove

: I love finding hidden gems and off beaten trails, so when I found out there was a small coastal trail in Big Sur that takes you through a historic tunnel and opens up to a hidden ocean cove, I knew I had to do it immediately. 🌊 📍 Partington Cove, Big Sur If you’ve been to Big Sur, you know how easy it is to drive past some of the most incredible spots without even realizing they’re there. There are barely any signs & signals, pullouts appear out of nowhere, and half the magic of Big Sur is discovering places you would’ve completely missed otherwise. That’s exactly how Partington Cove Trail feels. From the roadside, you’d never guess that a short trail leads to a hidden cove tucked between dramatic cliffs. You walk down a quiet forest path, cross a wooden bridge hanging over the cliffs, and then enter a historic tunnel carved directly into the rock. The second you come out on the other side, you’re greeted with the most stunning hidden cove with turquoise water, dramatic cliffs, crashing waves, and views that genuinely look straight out of a movie scene. What makes this place so special is that it still feels untouched. While many Big Sur stops get packed with crowds, this one feels quiet, raw, and almost secret. It’s the kind of place that makes you stop for a second and just take it all in. A few things to know before you go: • The trail is short but the walk back up is steep • Wear good walking shoes • Parking is limited along Highway 1 & for this one you’ve to do roadside parking • Go early or around sunset for the best experience • Keep an eye out because it’s VERY easy to miss while driving Honestly, spots like this are why I’ll never get tired of exploring the California coast. Save this hidden gem for your next Highway 1 road trip and follow along to see what I discover next! #bigsur #sfbayarea #highway1 #hiddengems #visitcalifornia