Exploring the Allure and Challenges of Big Sur
The breathtaking 70 miles of coastline that compose the unincorporated area of Big Sur in California exude a captivating, almost mystical charm, primarily due to its extraordinary natural beauty. This remarkable region, characterized by towering redwood forests, stunning vistas of the Pacific Ocean, meandering rivers, and rejuvenating natural hot springs, has long been a magnet for celebrities, artists, and millions of visitors alike. In fact, Kirk Gafill, the president of the Big Sur Chamber of Commerce, estimates that a staggering 90 percent of the local economy relies on tourism.
However, accessing and living in this picturesque area is becoming increasingly challenging. Big Sur’s lifeline, Highway 1, is a scenic two-lane route that was constructed between 1919 and 1937 as part of a statewide initiative aimed at transforming the California coastline into a drivable tourist haven. Yet, in the past two years, this vital thoroughfare has faced a series of devastating challenges, including catastrophic fires, severe winter storms, and landslides that have intermittently severed the community from the outside world for extended periods.
In March, a significant section of the highway crumbled into the ocean, restricting vehicle access to residents for a troubling two months. Another severe landslide in February continues to obstruct the southern portion of the coastline; as of last month, efforts to clear debris from the road have been halted indefinitely. According to the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans), that segment of the roadway is not expected to reopen until 2025 at the earliest.
Jonathan Warrick, a research geologist with the U.S. Geological Survey based in Santa Cruz, remarked, “It’s probably one of the most challenging places to keep a road open on the coast of the lower 48.” The reality is undeniable: the coast is slowly but surely eroding into the sea. While the geological dynamics of Big Sur have historically led to landslides since Highway 1 was carved through the Santa Lucia Mountains, the rising frequency and severity of these closures have posed significant challenges in recent years.
Much like other renowned tourist destinations grappling with the impacts of climate change globally—ranging from the canals of Venice to the corals of Australia’s Great Barrier Reef—Big Sur faces the daunting task of sustaining its tourism-driven economy while simultaneously mitigating the environmental impact of millions of visitors on its delicate ecosystem.
Both locals and tourists recognize an urgent need to take action to preserve this awe-inspiring landscape. A collaborative effort is essential to find a way to coexist harmoniously with the region’s stunning yet volatile geography. This task is made even more complicated by the area’s unique topography, the absence of a unified governing body, and a growing housing crisis that threatens to further diminish the already limited full-time population of Big Sur.
