Find your own piece of Big Sur
The Hawthorne Gallery
This gallery represents the work of local artists Gregory Hawthorne, Barbara Spring, Albert Paley, Frederick Gregory and other renowned artists, with one-of-a-kind contemporary paintings, sculpture, blown glass, ceramics and jewelry.
Hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Directions: From Ventana, drive south on Highway 1 for 0.7 miles. The gallery is on the east side of the highway across from Nepenthe.
Info: 831.667.3200; www.hawthornegallery.com
The Phoenix Shop at Nepenthe Big Sur
In the same way that Nepenthe has served as a social gathering place for the Big Sur community, the Phoenix is Big Sur’s largest gift shop and a favorite stop among tourists seeking meaningful mementos of their trip. The shop’s book section is well-stocked with famous and lesser-known titles by local authors and literary legends. The jewelry, clothing, musical instruments, toys and body-care products represent the finest in regional artisanship.
Hours: 10:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Directions: From Ventana, drive south on Highway 1 for 1 mile. Nepenthe is on the west side of the highway; the shop is located on the lower level beneath Café Kevah.
Info: 831.667.2347; www.nepenthebigsur.com
Coast Gallery Big Sur
Established in 1958, Coast Gallery was the first gallery in Big Sur. This historic landmark was designed and built by Gary Koeppel from large recycled redwood water tanks, and now houses six galleries and an indoor-outdoor cafe. With over 3,000 art and craft works created by more than 250 local and international artists and artisans, the Coast Gallery is one of the largest galleries of American crafts in the United States.
Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Directions: From Ventana, drive south on Highway 1 for about 3 miles. The gallery is on the east side of the highway.
Info: 831.667.2301; www.coastgalleries.com
Post Ranch Mercantile
The Post Ranch Mercantile sells tableware, home accessories and bedding, natural clothing and body-care products, as well as Post Ranch Inn branded souvenirs.
Hours: 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Directions: The shop is located inside the Post Ranch Inn, directly across Highway 1 from Ventana’s entrance. Be careful crossing the highway.
Info: 831.667.2795; www.postranchmercantile.com