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Jun 17, 2023

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THE world has many spectacular beaches, but not all have color-changing sand. Depending on the time of day you visit, California's Pfeiffer Beach has vibrant pink or purple-colored sand. Located on

THE world has many spectacular beaches, but not all have color-changing sand.

Depending on the time of day you visit, California's Pfeiffer Beach has vibrant pink or purple-colored sand.

Located on land within Los Padres National Forest, Pfeiffer Beach is a spectacular hidden gem destination.

The beach is within the Big Sur region of California and is relatively easy to access by car.

Here is everything you need to know about Pfeiffer Beach.

Pfeiffer Beach is known for its purple sand along the northern parts of the beach.

The purple sand is from manganese garnet deposits that wash onto the beach from the nearby hills.

This secluded central California destination boasts beautiful scenery and color-changing sand.

Visitors have also reported seeing pink or even green sand depending on the weather conditions.

Located on Sycamore Canyon Road just off Highway 1, the small beach is so hidden, it can be difficult to find.

However, if you're lucky enough to get there and find parking, the views are some you'll never forget.

Most reasonable accommodations are located within 30 miles of Pfeiffer Beach.

However, there are plenty of affordable resorts outside of the area but still within driving distance.

Hotels and resorts in the area typically cost about $250 per night but can cost less depending on where you choose to stay.

Those traveling from out-of-state can opt to fly to San Francisco International Airport and rent a car to drive down the coast to the Big Sur area.

Flights to San Francisco are nonstop from many major cities, including New York, Miami, Chicago, and Dallas.

There is also a regional airport, Monterey Regional, located only an hour's drive from Pfeiffer Beach.

While flights to Monterey from other states aren't typically nonstop, the drive is shorter.

Overall, roundtrip flights to the central California area from many parts of the US can be found for under $300.

The hidden nature of the beach and its small size make it a top-notch destination.

It's consistently ranked among the best beaches in all of Monterey County.

There are ample photo opportunities as well - especially in the late afternoon leading to sundown.

The famed Keyhole Arch is just offshore and provides a stunning photo subject - especially when the lighting is right and the sun shines through at sunset.

The arch is one of the most photographed spots in the Big Sur region.

In addition to being located on land within a National Forest, Pfeiffer Beach is also maintained by the California Coastal Commission.

Pfeiffer Beach is a great place to bring a picnic meal so you can dine with amazing ocean views.

There are four picnic tables available on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Saltwater fishing is allowed at the beach if you bring your own equipment.

Swimming is also allowed at the beach but is not always advised due to the rocks and strong ocean currents.

Pfeiffer Beach offers ample nature and bird-watching opportunities.

You might even see surfers in the water.

Camping, however, is not permitted.

The nearest airport is Monterey Regional, located about an hour north of the beach.

The larger San Francisco International Airport is two hours north.

The US dollar is the accepted form of currency.

A valid passport is only required if visiting from outside the US, or if you're traveling to another country after your visit to Pfeiffer Beach.

English is the spoken language.

Due to its location, the beach can be chilly, so wearing layers and having a windbreaker jacket is advised.

Signage for Pfeiffer Beach isn't visible from Highway 1, so knowing the coordinates of the destination will help you find the parking lot.

Parking typically costs about $12.

Pfeiffer Beach is not located within Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park or Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, despite the similar names.