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B Big Sur Beaches Access: Various Big Sur is blessed with bone-white beaches that adorn its coastline like pearls at the throat of a goddess. Some are closely guarded secrets, some are easily accessible, some less so and some are entirely off-limits to the public. Because of its ruggedness and lack of develop- ment, Big Sur is also hands-down the best local place to observe wildlife such as sea otters, seals and sea lions. The cliffs offer spectacular views of migrating whales in season as well. Some examples: Jade Cove—just as its name implies, rock hunters flock here, searching for the abundant nephrite jade found here. It's also a popular spot for hang gliders and parasailing. Pfeiffer Beach—located at the end of Sycamore Canyon, this beach is famous for its "keyhole rock," a huge rock formation featuring a tunnel through which ocean waves surge. Andrew Molera State Park—a leisurely hike from Highway 1, the beach at the mouth of the Big Sur River, this beach is a great place to satis- fy the dream of riding a horse on the beach, ala Charleton Heston in "Planet of the Apes." Garrapata State Park—with two miles of beachfront, this park offers lovely views of the coast, all the way south to Point Sur. Whales and wildflowers abound in season. Point Lobos—Whaler's Cove is one of the most sublime scuba diving sites on the West Coast. Access is through the State Park, and is limited to 15 teams of two divers per day. Kayaking is permitted but access is also limited. C A R M E L M A G A Z I N E • S P R I N G / S U M M E R 2 0 1 5 113 POINT LOBOS Photo: Bart Keagy