Just off Highway 1 heading through Big Sur, Andrew Molera State Park is one of the highlights of the region. With remote beaches, steep oceanside bluffs, and dense forest, Andrew Molera has tons to offer.
One of my favorite hikes to do when visiting Big Sur is the Creamery Meadows Trail. This is a really short hike, only about 2 miles, but the destination is awesome, and its a great quick stop. While it won’t take up your whole day, unless you just want to sunbathe at the beach, this trail is a worthwhile stop on a drive through Big Sur.
Miles/Elevation:
2.4 miles
55 feet vertical gain
About Andrew Molera State Park:
Named for the former owner of the land it is situated on, Andrew Molera State Park first became public property in 1965. The park straddles Highway 1 on the Big Sur coast, and features hiking trails, beaches, forests, meadows, and the Big Sur River.
The park has 20 miles of hiking trails, and a 24 site walk-in campground. The campground is first come first serve, so make sure you get there early enough to find a site! The park has a $10 daily parking fee, but the pass you get is good for all other California State Parks on that day!
Getting To Andrew Molera State Park:
Andrew Molera State Park is located on Highway 1 in Big Sur on the Central Coast of California. There is not a robust public transit option in Big Sur, so you will most likely need to drive yourself.
The park is about 20 miles south of Carmel and Monterey, about a 30 minute drive. From San Francisco, the park is about a 2 and a half hour drive. While it is doable as a day trip from the Bay Area, it does require quite a bit of driving each way!
Creamery Meadows Trail:
From the parking area, to start the Creamery Meadows Trail, you will follow the road leaving the parking lot. On your left are some old buildings and farm infrastructure. After a short walk of a couple of minutes, you’ll turn right and come face to face with the Big Sur River.
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This to me is the fun part of the hike, but for those of you who don’t enjoy brisk, groan inducingly cold water, you may not love it! Some times during the year there is a small foot bridge to cross, but to me its more of an adventure to cross through the river! It’s usually only about knee deep, so either wear sandals, or take your shoes off for the crossing!
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Once across the river, it is a short 1 mile or so walk to the beach. Honestly, this is really more of a walk through the woods than a hike, but it’s really nice either way!
Always follow basic trail etiquette when on trail!
The trail is almost completely flat, and most of the time you will be walking on hard packed dirt. Immediately after you cross the river, the trail travels through open meadows interspersed with some areas of trees. Quickly though, the trail enters the coastal forest.
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The majority of the trail travels through the coastal forest, and while there aren’t any big open views, its a really pleasant walk! On busy days, you may encounter surfers headed to the beach, or people heading out with picnic supplies. But eventually, the trail will turn to sand, and you will shortly thereafter be at the beach!
The Beach:
The beach itself is pretty awesome, and the views are fantastic. Looking out in front of you is the open Pacific, with the waves crashing at your feet. On the left looking south, you can see some of the hills and bluffs of Big Sur, and to the right is the mouth of the Big Sur River where it enters into the sea.
The beach is littered with driftwood and washed up seaweed, and some people have even made shelters out of some of the driftwood. It makes a nice break from the wind!
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If you’re thinking about swimming, be careful because the waters here can be treacherous with hidden currents and rip tides. You can also swim in the Big Sur River before it enters the ocean, but either way, the water is going to be cold!
After you’ve enjoyed your visit to the beach, the walk back to the trailhead simply retraces your steps. The hike back is again flat and pleasant, but you will have to cross the river again so be ready!
After the river crossing, you’re more or less back at your car! From here, you can continue exploring Big Sur, heading either north or south to more parks, or head back to where you are spending the night.
Topdown Lifestyle Rating: 8/10
This is a short and easy hike that gives you a great payoff with a secluded beach, and has a fun river crossing at the beginning! I wouldn’t drive hours just to do this hike, but there is one of my go to’s in Big Sur, especially when I am with first time visitors, or people who aren’t huge hikers!
Pros:
- Ocean access at a secluded beach
- Short easy hike
- Awesome views from the beach
- Fun river crossing
Cons:
- No views on most of hike
- Trail can be busy
- Sand (I hate sand)
- Long drive from most cities/airports
Alternative Hikes:
Point Lobos South Shore Trail to Cypress Grove Trail
Beach, Bluffs, Panorama, Ridge, and Creamery Meadow Loop
East Molera Trail to Post Summit
When to Visit Andrew Molera State Park:
Andrew Molera is definitely a 4 season destination. Spring is a fantastic time to visit, and the weather should be pleasant and mostly dry. Spring is also the best time to see wildflowers in all their glory!
Summer brings the warmest temperature of the year (still comfortable), and morning fog that usually burns off by afternoon. Fall is generally the clearest weather, and winter brings the most precipitation, though it’s still a nice place to visit!
Honestly, I’ve been to this area every time of year, and Andrew Molera is always awesome. If you have the chance to go, you definitely should no matter what time of year!
Links for Further Reading:
Best trails in Andrew Molera State Park, California
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