Pfeiffer Beach sits at the end of a two-mile dirt road off Sycamore Canyon Road in Big Sur, and the drive alone tells you what you’re getting into—wild, windswept, and genuinely dramatic. Managed by the U.S. Forest Service, this stretch of Monterey County coastline has shown up in countless movies and photo books because the place actually looks that good. The purple-hued sand is real, the sea stacks jutting from the water are massive, and you’ll understand why people make the effort to get here.

Dogs on leash are welcome, which means your dog can wade into the waves, dig in that distinctive sand, and explore the rock formations without restriction. The beach is expansive enough that even when it’s busy, you don’t feel crowded. The backdrop of dramatic cliffs and the Pacific stretching out in front of you never gets old, even on a short visit.

Bring fresh water and a bowl—the beach doesn’t have services, and your dog will need a drink after splashing around. You’ll also want to pack snacks or lunch since there’s nowhere to grab food nearby. The tide pools along the shoreline are worth exploring if the timing works out, and you’ll see starfish, anemones, and other marine life if you look carefully.

If you’re staying in the area or want to extend your day, the Big Sur trails nearby welcome leashed dogs too. The combination of beach time and forest hiking makes for a solid full day. Just keep in mind the drive back out that dirt road—it’s scenic but can be slow if you’re behind other cars, especially during peak visiting hours. Pick up after your dog and rinse the sand off before you leave to keep the place in good shape for everyone else.