Although the lure of Big Sur is timeless, hopping in the saddle is a novel way to enjoy the spectacular scenery. At Molera Horseback Tours - one of the few companies that offer the service in Big Sur - riders of any experience level can go for a jaunt.

The corral is in Andrew Molera State Park, about 20 miles south of Carmel off Highway 1. The relatively undeveloped park covers nearly 9,000 acres, including beach access, miles of hiking and mountain biking trails, and two dozen walk-in campsites.