Drivers and Big Sur visitors will soon be able to enjoy more stunning views of the rugged cliffs off Highway 1 on California’s Central Coast under a recent agreement between state regulators and a Monaco billionaire to open the iconic cliffside property to the public. Amazing view.
The California Coastal Commission and Rocky Point owner Patrice Pastor reached an agreement last month to open the 2.5-acre oceanfront parcel to the public in exchange for clearing code violations related to unapproved construction and property changes by the previous owner.
According to the Mercury News, Pastor’s real estate company Esperanza Carmel purchased the Big Sur property, most notably the site of the later-shuttered Rocky Point restaurant, for $8 million in 2021, with plans to open one The 166-seat fine-dining restaurant and 14-room inn offer views of some of California’s most beautiful terrain.
But Pastor inherited a host of problems with the land, including a Coastal Commission investigation into the previous owner’s unapproved infrastructure changes to “environmentally sensitive habitat.” The owners have also restricted public access to the land, with “no trespassing” signs and locked gates in place, The Mercury News reported.
Located about 10 miles south of the charming seaside town of Carmel, this cliffside restaurant offers panoramic views of the stunning scenery along Highway 1, where visitors can “glimpse playful sea otters, dolphins, seals and many whales.” Migrate along the coast. It was closed in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Coastal Commission agreed to clear up the violations and any possible fines if Pastor promised to improve the property and secure development rights on the surrounding cliffs. He also agreed to replace “no trespassing” signs with public access signs and said he would improve trail access and add bathrooms and important parking spaces. The agreement was signed on May 17, according to The Mercury News.
“This coastline is one of California’s true treasures, with breathtaking views,” said Lisa Haage, director of law enforcement for the California Coastal Commission. “We worked hard to develop a deal that would provide amenities for visitors and residents, including trails, picnic tables and even public parking and restrooms.”
Pastor, a billionaire from Monaco who has purchased several properties in Carmel in recent years, bought the land in Big Sur with ambitions to develop the property and open a restaurant, hotel and visitor center. The agreement is limited to clearing violations and guaranteeing public access, but could ultimately make it easier for pastors to get approval for redevelopment plans.
Esperanza Carmel did not respond to a request for comment.
The Coastal Commission is expected to formally approve the agreement at a June 14 meeting in Morro Bay.
