Partington Cove.
Partington Cove sits forty miles south of Carmel along Highway 1 in Big Sur, roughly a one-hour drive down the coast. The stop is known for its steep trail through redwoods and a hand-carved 1880s wooden tunnel leading to a rugged, kelp-strewn cove once used to ship tanbark. Partington Cove is worth visiting if you want a short, steep hike down to sea level to watch massive swells break over granite rock. Look elsewhere if you need sandy beaches, wheelchair accessibility, cell service, or visitor facilities.
Last updated 4 Nov 2026
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What to do in Partington Cove California United States
The cove is an unstaffed pocket along Big Sur's coastal shelf, where the canyon drops steeply from Highway 1 to the ocean. Days here center on walking down through the woods, passing through the historic wooden tunnel, and lingering on the rocky point. It suits sure-footed travellers who appreciate raw coastline and industrial remnants without gift shops or paved walkways.
24 hours in Partington Cove California United States
Park at the Highway 1 pullout by 8:30 AM before crowds gather. Hike down the dirt trail to the tunnel and cove point, then climb back up for lunch at Big Sur Smokehouse or Nepenthe six miles north. Spend the afternoon viewing McWay Falls. Select 1 Day above to see it.
2 days in Partington Cove California United States
A second day lets you explore north Big Sur. Walk the bluffs at Andrew Molera State Park, grab pastries at Big Sur Bakery, and hike the damp river canyon in Pfeiffer Big Sur before enjoying local rock cod and Monterey Pinot Noir for dinner. Choose 2 Days to expand the plan.
3 days in Partington Cove California United States
With three days, venture south along Highway 1 to Sand Dollar Beach and the rugged cliffs of Mill Creek. Take time to stop for coffee in Lucia, watch for condors along the high ridges, and take an unhurried sunset walk along Garrapata's rocky bluffs.
Partington Cove California United States itineraries by interest
Coastal Walks in Partington Cove California United States
Descend the two-mile dirt switchback past canyon redwoods, cross the wooden footbridge over Partington Creek, and head straight to the rocky surf bench.
Industrial History in Partington Cove California United States
Walk the sixty-foot wooden tunnel hand-bored in the 1880s by John Partington to haul tanbark and oak timber down to waiting schooners in the cove.
Marine Life in Partington Cove California United States
Spot southern sea otters wrapping in bull kelp beds and grey whales migrating offshore past the granite headlands between December and April.
Native Flora in Partington Cove California United States
Identify coastal redwood groves, California bay laurel, wild blackberry thickets, and coastal sage scrub along the shaded Partington Creek canyon.
Tidepooling in Partington Cove California United States
Examine ochre sea stars, giant green anemones, and purple sea urchins clinging to the submerged metamorphic rocks at low tide on the western inlet.
Scenic Drives in Partington Cove California United States
Navigate the winding curves of Highway 1 between Carmel and Big Sur, pulling off at mile marker 37.5 for the unmarked trailhead gate.
Birdwatching in Partington Cove California United States
Watch for pelagic cormorants nesting on sea cliffs, belted kingfishers over the creek, and California condors soaring on thermals above the ridge.
Coastal Geology in Partington Cove California United States
Observe the sheer Franciscan complex rock formations, sea arches, and wave-carved surge channels where ocean currents funnel into the rocky inlet.
Nearby Dining in Partington Cove California United States
Order roasted albacore or the signature burger at Nepenthe up the road, or stop at Big Sur Bakery for wood-fired sourdough and ginger scones.
Picnicking in Partington Cove California United States
Carry bread, local cheese, and water down to the weathered wooden loading bench overlooking the churning turquoise waters of the outer cove.
Day Trips in Partington Cove California United States
Pair the hike with McWay Falls two miles south or explore the lime kilns and redwood trails at Limekiln State Park further down the coast.
Photography in Partington Cove California United States
Frame the dramatic contrast of light filtering through the western tunnel portal against the churning emerald surf and dark volcanic rocks.