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Distance
90 mi
Estimated days
2
From
Carmel
To
San Simeon
Best rig class for this route
Class B
PickRV's route-aware filter pre-selects rigs that fit the Highway 1 — Big Sur Section clearances, length restrictions, and altitude range.
Browse fitting rigs →Make it a trip
Rent an RV or boat in California
The rigs here are owned by local hosts. Browse what fits Highway 1 — Big Sur Section, or reach California owners directly.
Browse California rigs
Wear the trip
Original road-trip apparel, maps, and decor for the way home.
PickRV Shop · ships in 3-5 days
Wear the trip. Bring back the souvenirs.
Georgia Live Oak Tee — Retro RV Travel Poster
GA · original travel-poster tee · XS–5XL
Hawaii Erupting Volcano Tee — Retro RV Travel Poster
HI · original travel-poster tee · XS–5XL
New York Pizza Slice Tee — Retro RV Travel Poster
NY · original travel-poster tee · XS–5XL
South Dakota Buffalo Tee — Vintage Travel Art
SD · original travel-poster tee · XS–5XL
Iowa Sweet Corn Tee — Vintage Travel Art
IA · original travel-poster tee · XS–5XL
Massachusetts Whale Tee — Vintage Travel Art
MA · original travel-poster tee · XS–5XL
Michigan Mitten Tee — Retro RV Travel Poster
MI · original travel-poster tee · XS–5XL
New Mexico Hot Air Balloon Tee — Retro RV Travel Poster
NM · original travel-poster tee · XS–5XL
Ohio Rocket Tee — Retro RV Travel Poster
OH · original travel-poster tee · XS–5XL
Vermont Pancakes Tee — Vintage Travel Art
VT · original travel-poster tee · XS–5XL
FAQ
How long is Highway 1 — Big Sur Section?
90 miles. PickRV recommends 2 days at a relaxed pace including rest stops + photography time.
Best rig class for Highway 1 — Big Sur Section?
Class B. Reason: clearance, length restrictions on mountain passes, fuel economy on long stretches, and ease of camp setup at scenic overlooks.
When should I drive Highway 1 — Big Sur Section?
Verify mountain pass + park-road open dates per state segment. PickRV's route planner overlays seasonal closures.
Can I pick up the rig in Carmel and drop in San Simeon?
Yes — PickRV supports one-way rentals between most major US cities. Drop-off fees vary by corridor — see /oneway/carmel/to/san-simeon for live pricing.
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Plan Highway 1 — Big Sur Section — state hubs + PickRV tools · 3
One click each: every state the route touches + cost + rig-match tools.
California rules · last verified 2026-05-10
- Rental tax
- 9.75%
- Min driver age
- 21+ std · 25+ Class A
- Gravel roads
- Permit required
- Generator quiet
- 22:00-06:00
Ready to roll?
California is waiting.
Flat 15% built into the renter price — your base rate stays 100% yours · 48h free cancel. Owners + companies + tour operators all welcome.