It’s not just that COAST Big Sur is inside a converted water tank, it’s not just that its rooftop cafe serves the best coffee on the coast (Cat & Cloud, from Santa Cruz) and a date nut shake cookie to die for, and it’s not just that the art they showcase is the real deal, with serious cred; it’s all of those along with a true sense of investment in the local community. COAST’s pedigree is impeccable, having showcased the sleek, bronze animals of groundbreaking sculptor Loet Vanderveen since 1958. But there’s no resting on laurels here; the gallery is constantly adding new artists, as many as possible from the coastal community.

For more locally sourced goods, stop in at Coast Big Sur, a restaurant serving delectable California fare, including avocado salads and sourdough pizza. Guests can choose to dine in at the rooftop tables or take the food to go (a picnic at Sand Dollar Beach, perhaps?).

COAST Big Sur, formerly known as Coast Gallery, boasts a rich history as intriguing as the art it houses. Founded in 1958 as a refuge for post-World War II artists and writers, it quickly became a cultural hub affectionately known as “The Bank.” The gallery’s most striking feature is its unique architecture: three 34-foot redwood water tanks, repurposed into an innovative gallery space. These tanks, milled from old-growth redwood trees, offer visitors a glimpse into the monumental size of the world’s largest known tree, General Sherman.

Located within a creatively repurposed water tank, COAST stands as a one-of-a-kind fine arts venue with a charming rooftop cafe. This hidden gem offers more than just a picturesque setting – the menu is a culinary journey with a commitment to organic, locally-sourced, and ethically-produced ingredients. Indulge in delightful offerings such as hearty veggie stew, artisanal sourdough pizza, and decadent homemade ice cream, all complemented by a selection of craft beers and wines curated from California's vibrant small-scale producers.

Also worth looking out for is the Coast Gallery Big Sur on Highway 1, which was founded more than 50 years ago and remains one of the biggest galleries of its kind in the whole of the USA, specialising in traditional American Crafts. The Coast Gallery currently showcases literally thousands of art works from almost 300 different American artists, although for many, its scene canyon setting alongside a meandering mountain stream is equally appealing.

Coast Big Sur Restaurant is an exquisite, family-owned eatery located in Big Sur, California. With views of the Pacific Ocean from its rooftop terrace, this restaurant is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Coast offers a picnic-inspired menu with a delicious sourdough pizza being the menu highlight, wines sourced from California’s Central Coast, pastries, and amazing soft-serve ice cream!

Coast Big Sur (49901 Hwy 1), founded in the 1950s, has found new life since owners Peter and Merle Mullin took the reins in 2016. After a lengthy renovation and the arrival of chef Nick Balla (Bar Tartine), this cafe-gallery-boutique is now a must-stop. Balla, known for his impressive ferments, preserves and zero waste ethos, has crafted a short but satisfying lunch menu be enjoyed on the rooftop terrace.

The Coast Gallery has a storied past that spans decades, going through states of disrepair and passing through several owners before it was acquired by locals Peter and Merle Mullin in 2016. Functioning as a local gallery, visitors can also visit COAST Big Sur for its fare, which is made using local ingredients. Come for lunch and try their sourdough pizza or dig into the gallery's Mezze lunch bowl.

(831) 625-5181, photography.org Coast Big Sur Come for the view from this gallery/cafe/ gift shop overlooking the Pacific, stay for the artwork by local artists and automobile memorabilia, plus a cup of coffee or a meal. The original Coast Gallery, founded in 1958, spent A world of talent performs here and resides here. Monterey County supports both renowned and up-and-coming artists.

COAST Big Sur is one of those places that’s part coffee shop, part art gallery, and part epic lunch spot – all in a converted water tank. When you first walk in, the ground floor is a gallery and gift shop space with cool local crafts, but the real magic happens upstairs at the rooftop cafe. The terrace has plenty of seating and overlooks the ocean.

Housed in repurposed Redwood water tanks, Coast Big Sur originally started in the late 1950s as a place for local artists to exhibit and sell their creations. Fast forward six decades and multiple owners, this shop and gallery nestled along Highway 1 is packed with elevated casual cuisine – from picnic-inspired items to local beer and wine.

Located between Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park and Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, COAST is perfectly situated for a break from one of the windiest sections of the road. This may not be the most obvious place to stop when in Big Sur with kids, but the whole family can enjoy ice cream and coffee with gorgeous views from the rooftop terrace.

Located just seven miles from Pfeiffer Beach, this historic cafe serves fresh food almost as beautiful as the coastal views. COAST is a tribute to the local landscape and Big Sur’s unique history. Located inside two redwood water tanks milled from old-growth redwood trees, this cafe and gallery was revived in 2015 by two Big Sur locals.

When hunger strikes, head to COAST Big Sur, a charming spot offering light bites, coffee, and artisanal goods. There is free parking available, and you can enjoy a snack while taking in the stunning views from the outdoor seating area. They have a selection of pastries, sandwiches, and beverages, perfect for a mid-day refuel.

This could be one of the sweetest spots on your Big Sur day trip!. This is a sweets café and art gallery, and is the perfect time to stop and stretch your legs!. COAST Big Sur is 7 miles south of Pfeiffer Beach Big Sur and 5 miles north of McWay Falls, so it’s a great stop on the Big Sur day drive or for a sweet treat!

Visit the largest gallery of American Crafts in the United States. The gallery first started as a platform to offer opportunities to the new artists of Big Sur. At present, the gallery has become so popular that thousands of works, done by more than 250 American artists and craftsmen are displayed in this gallery.

One of my favourite finds in Big Sur is this cafe called COAST Big Sur because of the cool building design and amazing atmosphere here. It opens from 11am to 4pm, serving brunch, ice cream, coffee, and alcoholic beverages. Although the price is a bit steep, just think of it as a premium for the amazing view.

You really can’t experience the California Coast if your trip did not include Big Sur. And you cannot have a complete Big Sur experience unless you visit Nepenthe!. My favorite artist, Big Sur local Erin Gafill shared her favorite local spots and I am so thrilled to share all of our recommendations with you!

Coast Big Sur is a go-to for any Big Sur visitor, with a small but flavorful menu starring local ingredients, pastries, along with coffee, beer and wine and seasonal lemonades. New here: If you have a group and want to picnic, they’re offering catering services as well. 49901 Highway 1, Big Sur.

When the former Bar Tartine Chef Nick Balla came to COAST, he reimagined the menu. Alongside Bar Tartine Alumni, Andrea, and Tyler Rue, they created the COAST Big Sur you see today. It’s a delightful meal — whether you opt for the picnic takeaway or sit on their rooftop with ocean views.

If you’re looking for somewhere to grab lunch with your four-legged companion, head over to COAST Big Sur. Situated next to Pacific Coast Highway, this cozy café offers spectacular views – and is dog friendly!. Coast Café has an outdoor seating area on top of a giant redwood water tank.

Whether you're planning a business trip or a vacation, Big Sur has many top-rated hotels to choose from. Big Sur Lodge (price from US$204), Alila Ventana Big Sur - Inclusive Resort (price from US$2,059) and Post Ranch Inn (price from US$2,106) are among the best choices for your stay.

Driving around Big Sur requires two things: An epic car playlist and some bangin’ food. While I can’t guarantee the music will be on point, COAST has got you sorted when it comes to food. The menu might be small, but it’s mighty – packed with pizzas, snack boards, tarts, and salads.

Start off at COAST BIG SUR, a cafe and gallery south of the town of Big Sur. Built in a former redwood water tank, Coast is a modern hunter-gatherer dream of picnic fare and cortados. Pick up a few sandwiches and salads for later—and, just an idea, a soft-serve swirl for now.

We particularly loved Big Sur Bakery for breakfast and lunch, their bacon croissant twist is absolutely to die for!. Plus, it is located near the beautiful Loma Vista Gardens venue and has a few shops in the center if you like to shop around for gifts to take home.

If you’re looking for a snack, espresso, or a quick brew, stay away from the overhyped spots and check out the artsy Coast Big Sur. The picnic-inspired menu and to-go snacks are delicious, and you can enjoy them on a big rooftop terrace overlooking the ocean.

At COAST Big Sur, you'll find farm-to-table cuisine, where housemade dips, soups and breads are some of the best things on the menu. The view from COAST Big Sur is also amazing on a clear day and I love to stock up on pantry essentials here to bring home.

COAST is an art gallery in a converted water tank, offering the road-weary soft serve ice cream on its rooftop terrace cafe. Drinks and small plates are also available, to be enjoyed either in the sunny Zen garden or on the roof, under shady umbrellas.

This amazing place closed in August 2024 due to the land being sold. It was one of the coolest stops in the area and a personal favorite of ours!. It is a combination of art gallery, gift shop and cafe all in one.

Tartine alumni Nicolaus Balla and Andrea and Tyler Rue fell so hard for Big Sur amid COVID they made a temporary move permanent. (Edible reported on the new wave of Big Sur chefs, Balla included, last year.)

COAST cafe offers a picnic-inspired menu, coffee, beer and wine sourced from California's Central Coast, grab n' go pastries, soft-serve ice cream and stunning ocean views from a rooftop terrace.

Coast Big Sur is the place to go for a light lunch or breakfast. They also make amazing coffee and delicious house-made ice cream. This restaurant and art gallery is a must-see in Big Sur.

The service was wonderful, the art and boutique are great to check out. There are places to eat indoors and outdoors. I highly recommend the gluten free bread with some olive hummus!

Those that are doing a California Coast Road Trip typically fly into San Francisco International Airport (2.5 hour drive) or Los Angeles International Airport (5.5 hour drive).

Coast Big Sur - A unique dining spot with coastal views that combines art, design, and nature, featuring a menu of fresh, organic, and locally-inspired dishes.

I hope this guide to the perfect weekend getaway in Big Sur helps plan your trip!. Feel free to reach out on my Contact page if you have any questions!

MM 32 | Esalen Institute | 55000 Highway 1 | Big Sur, CA, 93920 | Reservation Required | 888.837.2536 | 703.342.0500

Fortunately, the Big Sur Coast Gallery was there for us to make a safe u-turn. Even better, it turned out to be fairly photogenic:

Here's an itinerary for things to do when driving from Big Sur to Monterey to Santa Cruz to San Francisco.