Highway 1 Reopens, Big Sur Prepares for Increased Summer Tourism
Highway 1 in Big Sur, California, has reopened after three years of repair due to landslides, leading to a significant increase in tourism. The highway, which stretches 100 miles between Cambria and Carmel, is a popular route for road trips. Since its reopening in January, local businesses have experienced a surge in visitors. For instance, the Nepenthe restaurant has seen a 45% increase in guest volume. The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) reports a 40% rise in restaurant and retailer guest counts and a 900% increase in northbound traffic at Ragged Point. Despite the rise in gas prices, which have increased by 26% from the previous year, many travelers are opting to visit Big Sur, finding it more affordable than flying. 
