Big Sur on the California Coast

Driving through Big Sur is one of the most breathtaking road trips in the world. Stretching along California’s rugged central coast between Carmel and San Simeon, this iconic portion of Highway 1 offers dramatic ocean vistas, towering cliffs, redwood forests, and a raw natural beauty that feels untouched by time.

The journey begins just south of Monterey, where Highway 1 begins to hug the coastline. As you climb into the Santa Lucia Mountains, the road winds and dips with the contours of the cliffs, offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. One of the first major landmarks is the Bixby Creek Bridge, a graceful, arched span often featured in photographs and films. Just beyond are stops like Pfeiffer Beach, famous for its purple-hued sand and rock arch, and McWay Falls in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, where an 80-foot waterfall cascades directly onto a secluded beach.

Big Sur is more than just a scenic drive - it's an experience. Along the way, you’ll encounter small lodges, rustic cabins, and roadside cafes nestled among the redwoods. The area has no major towns, limited cell service, and only a few gas stations, reinforcing a sense of isolation and peace. Many travelers pull over frequently to hike, picnic, or simply admire the views.

Driving Big Sur is best done slowly, ideally during daylight hours to appreciate the views and safely navigate the narrow, winding roads. Whether you're exploring for a day or staying overnight, this stretch of coastline is unforgettable. A place where land and sea collide in the most spectacular way.

 

Sundown at the Hat Motel on 35mm

A charming stopover to capture some vintage style b-roll on good old fashioned 35mm.

Jaws at Universal Studios Hollywood

One of the most iconic and thrilling segments of the Universal Studios Hollywood Tram Tour is the Jaws experience, a nostalgic nod to Steven Spielberg’s 1975 blockbuster. As the tram winds its way through the Universal backlot, guests are transported to the sleepy seaside town of Amity Island, where danger lurks just beneath the surface. The setting, built around a small marina with quaint buildings and fishing boats, sets the stage for a chilling encounter.

As the tram pauses near the water, guests are drawn into the scene with an unsuspecting calm—until the infamous dorsal fin appears. With sudden splashes and the classic suspenseful music playing, a mechanical great white shark lunges from the water in a dramatic attack, creating a startling and unforgettable moment. Flames burst from nearby fuel tanks, water sprays into the tram, and the sense of danger feels surprisingly real despite the attraction’s age.

This portion of the tour is a fan-favorite not only for its jump scares but also because it captures the spirit of classic Universal movie magic. The shark itself is a nod to the original animatronic beast nicknamed “Bruce,” used in Spielberg’s film. Though simple by today’s standards, the Jaws scene continues to thrill generations of guests with its practical effects and clever staging.

Whether you're a longtime fan of Jaws or simply love a good scare, this portion of the tram tour is a quintessential part of the Universal experience, blending film history with theme park excitement.