Long time lurker first time poster. I'm going backpacking in Big Sur next Fri-Mon. I've back packed a lot in my younger days (boy scouts)and have done it about once a year since. 34 now. I'm not super experienced. I'm taking my girlfriend with me who has not done much. Maybe a couple trips a decade ago. She is one of the best car campers I've ever seen though!
I would appreciate any advice on trails and camp spots. Sykes hot springs seems a good initiation for her, albeit possibly crowded. I purchased Hiking and Backpacking Big Sur by Analise Elliot which has a lot of good loops and out and backs. Girlfriend picked one that was about 30 miles which I thought would be a bit much. Her gear is Heavy. I'm thinking about 24 miles max. Sat and Sun would be the only time to get real miles in.
We are leaving Berkeley about 6pm on Fri and need to be back about 4pm Mon. Fri night will be a small night hike or car camp there. Monday we should leave about noonish.

If anybody has suggestions I'm all ears.

Thanks,
GL