Big Sur locals fed up with overtourism

The Bixby Creek Bridge on Highway 1 is an iconic symbol of Big Sur. Spanning an arroyo by the blue sea, it stands prominently in the opening credits of HBO’S “Big Little Lies” and stars in countless selfies by nearly anyone who visits the California dreamscape.

This weekend, it got a temporary addition that revealed an ongoing frustration among many locals. A neon-yellow banner was draped over the bridge, blaring an all-caps message: OVERTOURISM IS KILLING BIG SUR.

For nearly two years, fires, heavy rains and mudslides ravaged Big Sur and upended life for residents. The ongoing closure of Highway 1, which stretches for 90 miles from San Simeon to Carmel, prevented visitors from making their way to the coastal escape and affected the local economy, which relies on tourism.

But in the year since the main road has reopened, tourism has ballooned again. A Fourth of July video posted to Vimeo shows miles of cars stopped in traffic as visitors pull over to take photos near the Bixby Bridge.

Residents’ frustration with the hordes who visit has been in plain sight for months.

In December, locals launched the Big Sur Pledge, asking tourists to honor the land.

“The recent increase in the number of visitors is challenging the safety and wellbeing of residents, visitors and the fragile natural environment. All of us can make a positive difference to protect and nurture Big Sur,” the introduction