Andrew Molera Trail Camp

Biking

Andrew Molera features out-and-back bike trails for a reason - you’ll want to see the park’s scenery more than once. Andrew Molera’s trails take bikers on a scenic ride past ocean views, wildflowers, and riveting ridgelines. Our favorite rides include: Ridge Trail: This is the main biker thoroughfare of Andrew Molera. Alternating between wide and narrow stretches of trail, it wastes no time bringing bikers to a climb that takes them to a breathtaking overlook. Beach Trail: If you aren’t out to break a sweat, this trail can be just as great of an option. The level trail sees more traffic from beachgoers, so make sure you can appreciate the surrounding scenery while at the same time warning “on your left”. Typically, these trails are avoided from November through April unless you are willing to trudge through an icy cold (and knee high) portion of the Big Sur River. And, if you are willing to do that, well...kudos (and enjoy having the trails to yourself).

Boating

While there is no motorboating in the area, check out our kayaking & canoeing section for more information.

Hiking

Andrew Molera State Park offers a variety of trails that can take hikers along the Big Sur river or more towards the coast. Among the more popular of the area’s hikes is the Andrew Molera loop (which combines the Creamery, Ridge, Panorama and Bluffs trails). This loop is 8.8 miles long and exposes hikers to beautiful coastal bluff views and remote beach access. No matter what trail you stumble upon in this park, you are bound to be rewarded with astounding scenery.

Horseback riding

Is there anything more picturesque than riding a horse down California's coastline? We couldn’t think of anything either. That being said, Andrew Molera state park is the perfect place to saddle up and create the Kodak moment of Kodak moments. Tour guides in the area provide routes and guidance.

Paddling

Although the Big Sur coast is, by nature, fairly inaccessible, it can be a rewarding place for kayakers to explore. Andrew Molera offers a sandy beach that differs from the typical rugged and challenging put ins that line the rest of the Big Sur coast. If you can manage to lug your boat the full mile from the nearest parking lot, you may just be rewarded with some of the best solitude and shoreline your kayak has ever seen.

Wind sports

When the conditions are right, Andrew Molera can be a wonderful place for watersports such as kiteboarding and windsurfing. The rugged scenery and awesome views don’t hurt either.

Off-roading (OHV)

Much of Andrew Molera is off the beaten path, making it suitable for off roading. Rocky mountain trails connect Bixby Bidge to Andrew Molera. Off roaders should enjoy the scenic rewards of their efforts, but be cautious about steep overlooks and unexpected dropoffs. We must insist that you exercise extreme caution navigating these areas. While the roads in the are are certainly fun to explore, please remember Off Highway Vehicles are forbidden within Andrew Molera Park.

Surfing

Surfing at Andrew Molera State Park can be a hit-or-miss adventure (but when it’s a hit, it’s a hit). The area doesn’t coincide with any seasonal patterns. For the best surfing conditions, seek out this stretch of shore when the wind is coming from the northeast (best around low and mid tide). Camping so close to a great break is the kind of adventure that you will seek out time and time again. You can’t beat it. Trust us, we’ve been there.

Wildlife watching

Marked by a variety of different landscapes, Andrew Molera state park is great for those seeking to watch wildlife . If patience is your game, you may even be able to spot a California Condor.