Closest Major Airport To Big Sur, California

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The allure of Big Sur, California, is undeniable. With its rugged coastline, towering redwoods, and breathtaking scenery, it's a destination that beckons to nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. If you're planning a trip to Big Sur, one of the most common questions you'll have is: "What's the closest major airport?" Let's dive into the details to help you plan your journey.

Nearest Airports to Big Sur

While there isn't a major airport directly in Big Sur, there are several nearby options that offer easy access to this stunning region. Here are the closest major airports to Big Sur:

1. Monterey Regional Airport (MRY)

• Distance to Big Sur: Approximately 120 miles (193 km), 2-3 hour drive
• Airlines: American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, Alaska Airlines, and Allegiant Air
• Rental cars available: Yes

The Monterey Regional Airport is a convenient option for those traveling to Big Sur. From the airport, you can rent a car and take Highway 1 south, which will take you directly to Big Sur.

2. San Jose International Airport (SJC)

• Distance to Big Sur: Approximately 140 miles (225 km), 2.5-3.5 hour drive
• Airlines: Major carriers including American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, and Alaska Airlines
• Rental cars available: Yes

San Jose International Airport is another viable option for travelers heading to Big Sur. From the airport, take Highway 101 south and then connect to Highway 1 south, which will take you to Big Sur.

3. San Francisco International Airport (SFO)

• Distance to Big Sur: Approximately 170 miles (274 km), 3-4 hour drive
• Airlines: Major carriers including American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, and Alaska Airlines
• Rental cars available: Yes

While San Francisco International Airport is a bit farther from Big Sur, it's still a viable option, especially if you're flying internationally or have a connecting flight. From the airport, take Highway 101 south and then connect to Highway 1 south, which will take you to Big Sur.

Getting to Big Sur from the Airport

Once you arrive at one of the above airports, you'll need to get to Big Sur. Here are some options:

Rental Cars

Rental cars are widely available at all three airports. You can choose from a variety of companies, including Alamo, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, and National.

Shuttles and Buses

There are also shuttle and bus services available from the airports to Big Sur. Some popular options include:

• Monterey-Salinas Transit: Offers bus service from Monterey Regional Airport to Big Sur
• Big Sur Shuttle: Provides shuttle service from San Jose International Airport and San Francisco International Airport to Big Sur
• California Shuttle Bus: Offers bus service from San Francisco International Airport to Big Sur

Taxis and Ride-hailing Services

Taxis and ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft are also available from the airports to Big Sur. However, be aware that these services can be more expensive than rental cars or shuttle services.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while there isn't a major airport directly in Big Sur, the nearest airports offer convenient access to this stunning region. By understanding your options and planning ahead, you can easily get to Big Sur and start exploring its natural beauty.

We hope this article has been helpful in planning your trip to Big Sur. If you have any questions or need further assistance, please don't hesitate to ask. Happy travels!