Can I sleep on the side of the road in Big Sur?

No, sleeping on the side of the road in Big Sur is not legal or safe.

While there are many scenic pullouts along Highway 1, these areas are intended for short stops, not overnight camping. Monterey County has taken steps to crack down on illegal camping to protect the natural environment and ensure visitor safety against potential hazards such as passing vehicles, wildlife, and steep drop-offs. Big Sur visitors should respect these regulations and plan ahead by only camping in designated public campsites or Hipcamp sites.