Live Your Best Lives
  1. Travel FAQs
  2. United States
  3. California (CA)

US 1 closures near Big Sur

Hi, We are traveling in May. We will be in Cambria for a few days and then in Pacific Grove for a few days. US 1 is closed from Lucia to Slates Hot Springs, so when we go from Cambria to Pacific Grove we will need to take the 101. Which means no drive through Big Sur. I'm thinking we would be able to drive south from Pacific Grove through Big Sur to Slates Hot Springs, knowing we would have to loop back to Pacific Grove? Or will US 1 be a mess due to people turning around at road closures? Worth trying?

Driving US 1 through Big Sur is always an iconic experience, but closures between Lucia and Slates Hot Springs will complicate your plans in May. The main issue with attempting a partial drive from Pacific Grove south to Slates Hot Springs is that everyone approaching from the north will encounter the same closure, so there can be congestion as people turn around at the blocked section.

If you still want to experience some of Big Sur’s scenery on your way south, here are some considerations:

  • The stretch north of Slates Hot Springs toward Limekiln State Park and Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park is usually open, so you could drive south from Pacific Grove to an open point south of Big Sur, enjoy the viewpoints, and then turn back.
  • Expect some delays near the closure point due to traffic and vehicles turning around.
  • The drive will be slower than usual because of narrow, winding roads and potential single-lane sections for construction.
  • Make sure to check live Caltrans updates for the most current closure and detour information before you go.

Alternative options if you want a smoother experience:

  • Skip the southern Big Sur portion and focus on scenic spots north of the closure, such as Bixby Bridge, McWay Falls, and Pfeiffer Beach, if accessible.
  • Consider doing a loop the opposite way: drive south from Cambria along 101, stay overnight somewhere near the northern Big Sur area (e.g., Big Sur or Monterey), and explore the open sections of the coast without backtracking too far.

In summary, it is technically possible to drive south from Pacific Grove toward Slates Hot Springs, but be prepared for traffic and turnaround congestion. If your priority is a relaxing scenic drive, you may have a better experience adjusting your route to the open portions rather than pushing to reach the closed section.

More California (CA) Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Slate

Popular Destinations

Kanas
Sipo Bridge
Yanggu
Yuewang Tower

Popular Travel Questions