Local residents, business owners, and tourists hoping to explore California’s famed coastal route received sobering news just ahead of Memorial Day weekend. The stretch of Highway 1 affected by major landslides will remain off-limits throughout the summer, prolonging the area’s longest closure on record.
In a recent statement to SFGATE, Caltrans spokesperson Jim Shivers confirmed that repairs at Regent’s Slide will keep the highway closed until at least summer 2025. This prolonged shutdown has left many wondering how it will affect local businesses, travel plans, and the future of one of the country’s most iconic scenic drives.
Why the Highway 1 extension of closures poses significant concerns this summer
Highway 1 is more than just a road; it is a vital link connecting Big Sur with the rest of California’s coastline. Since the stretch south of the Esalen Institute washed out on February 9, 2024, closure notices have repeatedly dashed hopes for a quick reopening. Crews worked hard through spring with heavy equipment, but weather challenges and slide activity have slowed their progress.
You might be asking: will the detours discourage tourists from visiting local communities? Unfortunately, many travelers are already reconsidering their summer plans, placing a financial strain on restaurants, hotels, and shops that rely on seasonal tourism.
Before the Regent’s Slide failure, a 4.3-mile section of the road known as Paul’s Slide had also caused disruptions in January 2023, leading to periodic closures. Although that portion reopened last June, the highway still isn’t accessible from just north of San Simeon, forcing visitors to find alternative routes into central California’s rugged coast.
Important details regarding Big Sur travel alternatives and repair progress updates
Caltrans representatives stress that certain coastal destinations remain open, particularly those in northern San Luis Obispo County. Towns such as Cambria, San Simeon, and Ragged Point are reachable by traveling from the south, and the department urges visitors to take advantage of these opportunities.
Meanwhile, maintenance crews work seven days a week to clear debris and stabilize the hillside at Regent’s Slide. Below is a brief table illustrating the current closure timeline and what travelers should know:
| Key Detail | Current Status |
|---|---|
| Closure Start | February 9, 2024 |
| Main Affected Section | Regent’s Slide, south of Esalen |
| Expected Reopening | Summer 2025 (subject to change) |
| Accessible Areas | Monterey/Carmel (north), SLO (south) |
Remember that Big Sur remains accessible from the north, so you can still enjoy part of this famous coastline by heading down from the Monterey area. Caltrans is monitoring the impact of weather, especially any potential rainfall, to ensure the stability of steep terrain.
Staying informed and planning ahead for coastal travel
While the extended closure continues to disappoint visitors, local authorities emphasize that nearby stretches of Highway 1 are still open for exploration. Check official updates, plan alternative routes, and consider supporting the businesses that remain accessible. This iconic region’s allure endures, and with patience, travelers will once again enjoy the full scenic drive.