Big Sur is an awesome stretch of spectacular coastline in central California, where the Santa Lucia Mountains rise over 5,000 feet from the ocean. The area is characterized by craggy coastal head lands backed by mountains and carved canyons. The area¿s topography, as well as its wilderness and national forest designations, have kept Big Sur unspoiled. Day Hikes Around Big Sur includes a cross-section of 80 excellent hikes lying along the coastline and throughout the interior mountains. These hikes accommodate every level of hiking experience, ranging from easy beach strolls to elevated climbs with far reaching views. The trails have been chosen for their scenery, variety, and ability to be hiked within a day. Highlights include isolated beaches, eroded coves with tide pools, rugged marine terraces, redwood and Monterey cypress groves, canyons, waterfalls dropping into mossy glens, oak studded meadows, lighthouses, and numerous overlooks from the ocean to the mountain peaks. Undoubtedly, these hikes include some of the best scenery in Big Sur and California. Each hike includes its own map, accurate driving and hiking directions, and a quick overview of distance/time/elevation. The summaries allow hikers to choose a trail appropriate to their ability and desire. This 184-page book is a comprehensive hiker¿s guide to the Big Sur area. Companion hiking guides, also by Stone, include Day Hikes Around Monterey & Carmel and Day Hikes On the California Central Coast.