The Best Bixby Bridge Photo Ops

It’s no secret that California is very photogenic, as it’s one of the most photographed states in the world. With so many places to choose from, which one should you go to first?

The Bixby Bridge is an iconic symbol of the Big Sur coastline's beauty. Named after Charles Henry Bixby, a New York businessman, Bixby Bridge stands at the end of Palo Colorado Road along the picturesque Big Sur coast of California. Officially opened in 1932, it boasted the highest single-span archway in the world at that time, reaching a height of 280 feet and spanning a total of 714 feet. The construction of the bridge was a remarkable spectacle, with materials being transported across the canyon via a cable suspended 300 feet above the creek - an impressive engineering feat that still draws admiration today.

Why bixby creek bridge?

So what makes the Bixby Bridge so special? If you love photography and capturing stunning views with your camera lens, the Bixby Bridge is the place for you. With its unique architectural design, the Bixby Creek bridge easily integrates into the surrounding cliffs, creating a stunning scene that attracts all who cross its path. The dramatic cliffs, vibrant greenery, and rolling waves create a fantastic backdrop for the bridge and are ideal options for photographers.

Best Time to Photograph Bixby Bridge

If you’re looking for the perfect Bixby Creek bridge photo options, consider the time of the day you want to visit. 

Lighting Conditions by Time of Day: Golden hour, midday, sunset

You can capture the bridge at dawn when it’s bathed in soft light, and the morning fog can add a mystical vibe to your shots. In the afternoon, the stunning scenery is immersed in the golden glow. After the sunset, you can photograph the bridge in a more atmospheric setting, ideal for excellent long-exposure shots. 

Seasonal Considerations: Fog, clear skies, spring wildflowers

Choosing the right season to visit the bridge, of course, defines your experience. The most popular times are during the summer months when the weather is warm and the days are longer. However, if you decide to go there in summer, be prepared for crowds. In spring and fall, you can enjoy beautiful scenery paired with cooler weather.

Top photo spots around the Bixby Bridge?

We’re sure you’re wondering where the best spots to take pictures of the spectacular bridge are. Worry not! We’re here to provide you with all the information necessary for you to go on your photography journey.

The most obvious point would be directly on the bridge itself, to capture the sunset at the Bixby Bridge seems like the easiest and most appealing option. While this is a very viable choice, the road on the bridge does not have any sidewalks or safe areas for pedestrians to stop and take their cameras out, making it less optimal. Fortunately, however, there are many other spots to go to if this one doesn’t seem worth the risk.

North Side Turnouts (iconic head-on shots)

A few of these locations are found in the northern part of the structure, which includes the Castle Rock Viewpoint. This spot is located at the oceanside, north end of the bridge. You will have a very good view of the bridge from there; keep in mind, though, that this is one of the most sought-after spots of the Bixby Bridge, so it can get pretty crowded. Especially during sunsets, weekends, and holidays. It has the largest parking lot, closest to the bridge, making it very convenient and easy to access. 

South Side Pullouts 

Consider also going to the Hurricane Point View for an unobstructed view of the Bixby Bridge and the ocean. You can find the spot in the southern part of the area, a mile away from the bridge itself, free of crowds, and get your lenses ready for some amazing photo ops.

Viewpoint on Old Coast Road 

Another spot is the Old Coast Road, also found north of the bridge. This road was actually the one travelers used before the Bixby Bridge was built, and it was not the safest or most comfortable road to cross. However, if you would like to catch an awesome glimpse of the bridge’s top view and take a picture from a perspective not many usually go for, you can definitely use this spot.

Drone Photography: What You Need to Know

If you‘re into drone photography, be sure to follow the requested regulations. It’s important to know that for drone flights below 1,000 feet over the bridge, you’ll need a permit from NOAA.

A few of these locations are found in the northern part of the structure which includes the Castle Rock Viewpoint. This spot is located at the ocean-side north end of the bridge, you will have a very good view of the bridge from there; keep in mind, though, that this is one of the most sought spots of the Bixby Bridge so it can get pretty crowded, especially during sunsets, weekends and holidays. It has the largest parking lot, closest to the bridge, making it very convenient and easy to access. A small historical fact about this spot is that it once had a gas station, restaurant, and small hotel that all got destroyed by a fire in 1940, and whatever remained was bulldozed off the cliff.

Photography Tips for Bixby Bridge

Trying out different angles and viewpoints can help you create a variety of compelling shots. From the northern side of the bridge, you can see the entire span of the bridge curving over the rugged coastal landscape. From the beach below, a view looking up at the bridge opens up. You can also use elements, like rocky coastlines or wildflowers, as a frame for the bridge.

Safety and Accessibility

Parking Guidelines 

There are several places to park at the Bixby Creek Bridge. The most popular one is a decent-sized pullout, with several marked parking spots, on the ocean side at the north end of the bridge. You can also find a small pullout at the south end, with just a few parking spaces. We highly recommend that you not park in non-designated areas.

Safe Viewing Areas 

In addition, be careful when choosing your viewing areas. While shooting, stay on designated paths and watch for traffic. The safest place is the parking area, away from the edges. Don’t climb over the guardrails and avoid entering restricted areas.

Tips for Planning Your Visit 

Check the Weather 

When deciding on the best time to visit the bridge, don’t forget about weather conditions. Check a website app or website like weather.com for forecasts and plan your journey. 

Regardless of the weather, be prepared for the coastal climate. Dress in layers, carry sturdy footwear, and a waterproof jacket if you plan to walk along the coastline. Don’t be afraid of foggy or cloudy weather. These conditions can add a moody feel to your photos. Embrace the mysterious mist enveloping the bridge and dramatic skies.

Apps for photo planning, weather, and road closures

If you’re feeling lost on where to start, don’t worry. We’ve gathered some of the apps that could be of much use for your planning.

• "PhotoPills" will help you plan your shots based on the time of day. 
• "Windy or weather underground" will give you the weather conditions necessary for your shooting planning. 
• "Alltrails" is super helpful for your journey navigation, offering trail reviews and GPS maps.

Around the Bixby Bridge, Big Sur

While the Bixby Bridge is the main star of Big Sur images and attractions and one of the most widely known spots on the Pacific Coast Highway, there are a few other spots found around the bridge itself that are definitely worth checking out.

The McWay Falls is a great addition to the list of places to photograph, named after an early settler of New York called Christopher McWay. The McWay Falls is an untouched piece of nature, as the trails do not allow hikers to go all the way down to the beach. This is a good opportunity to take your time and find the perfect point of view for your craft, without the worry of potential incoming crowds.

The next one is a shy one, as Pfeiffer Beach doesn’t show itself to just about anybody, almost hidden away at the end of an unpaved, bumpy one-lane road. A hidden gem of a location, the sunsets at Pfeiffer Beach are absolutely breathtaking. While the area can go mostly unnoticed by the average passersby, you will find it by carefully looking for it.

Bixby Bridge, with its stunning architecture and surrounding natural beauty, is a perfect spot for anyone looking to enjoy breathtaking views while capturing incredible photos. However, it can sometimes be a little difficult to time your itinerary, as the lighting can change very quickly during the day. You might not get to all these locations in the span of one afternoon, but whichever spot you decide on photographing, it will surely be worth the trip.