California’s coast has been a prime location for many iconic movies and TV shows. Its mix of stunning cliffs, serene beaches, and charming towns provides a perfect setting that filmmakers love. These beautiful places not only look great on screen but also make fantastic real-life destinations for fans wanting to see these sites firsthand.
Iconic Scenes from California’s Coast
HBO’s “Big Little Lies” is one of the best recent examples of California’s coast in television. Set in Monterey, the series highlights the area’s stunning views, from the vast Pacific Ocean to the quaint streets of the town. The opening credits alone, featuring aerial shots of Bixby Creek Bridge and the surrounding cliffs, set the stage for a series that intertwines dramatic stories with beautiful coastal scenery.
Monterey’s coastline and beaches provide a dramatic backdrop for the show’s intense plotlines. Key locations include Lover’s Point Park in Pacific Grove, where many crucial scenes take place, and Fisherman’s Wharf, adding local color and authenticity. These sites have become popular tourist spots, with fans visiting Monterey to see where their favorite scenes were filmed.
The California coast has also been featured in many other movies and TV shows. Santa Monica with its famous pier starred in the movie “Forrest Gump”. Malibu Beach was featured in the movie “Malibu Lifeguards”. Each location has its own appeal, making the California coast a favorite destination for filmmakers.
17 Mile Drive
For those wanting to explore California’s cinematic coastline, the 17 Mile Drive is a must-see. This scenic route, which runs through Pebble Beach, offers some of the best coastal views in the state. Visitors can stop at various points of interest along the way, each providing a glimpse into the natural beauty that attracts filmmakers.
Highlights of the 17 Mile Drive include the Lone Cypress, a tree perched on a granite hillside overlooking the ocean. This landmark is a popular spot for photos and has appeared in films such as “The Sandpiper” (1965) starring Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton. Other notable stops include Bird Rock, where visitors can see seabirds and marine mammals, and Stillwater Cove, known for its calm waters and beautiful scenery. These locations have been featured in movies like “Basic Instinct” (1992).
Tours of 17 Mile Drive provide an excellent opportunity for those interested in delving into the history of the region and its significance in film and television, for best 17 Mile drive tours reviews check out hikinginbigsur.com. These tours offer a comprehensive overview of the natural and cultural history, enriching the experience of exploring these iconic landscapes.
Whale Watching on California’s Coast
Besides visiting film locations, another great way to enjoy California’s coast is through whale watching tours. Monterey Bay is one of the best places for this activity, offering a chance to see humpback whales, gray whales, and sometimes blue whales. The bay’s nutrient-rich waters attract a wide range of marine life, making it a top destination for whale watching.
Monterey is also famous for whale watching tours. A particularly exciting time for whale watching in Monterey is during the gray whale migration from December to April. During this period, thousands of gray whales travel from the Arctic to Baja California, passing through Monterey Bay. This migration is a spectacular event, attracting many visitors eager to see these majestic creatures.
Iconic Lighthouses Along the Coast
Lighthouses are notable features of California’s coastline, providing historical significance and scenic views. One of the most famous is the Point Sur Lighthouse, located on a rugged outcrop along the Big Sur coast. Established in 1889, this lighthouse has guided mariners safely through the foggy, treacherous waters of the Pacific for over a century. Visitors can tour the lighthouse and its grounds, learning about its history and enjoying views of the coastline. Point Sur Lighthouse was featured in the 2010 film “The Sandman.”
Another noteworthy lighthouse is the Pigeon Point Lighthouse, situated between Santa Cruz and San Francisco. Standing at 115 feet, it is one of the tallest lighthouses on the West Coast. The surrounding area is ideal for picnicking, tide-pooling, and exploring coastal trails. The lighthouse’s setting has made it a popular spot for photographers and filmmakers. Pigeon Point Lighthouse appeared in the 1983 movie “The Fog,” establishing its place in the cinematic and cultural landscape of California’s coast..
California’s coast offers a mix of cinematic history and natural beauty, making it a perfect destination for movie fans and nature lovers alike. Whether you’re interested in seeing the filming locations from “Big Little Lies” or exploring the scenic 17 Mile Drive, there’s plenty to see and do. Don’t forget to add a whale watching tour to your itinerary for a chance to see some of the ocean’s most amazing animals. Plan your trip today and discover why California’s coast is such a popular and captivating destination.
