Are you thinking about taking a trip to the amazing Californian coast? Well, it’s part and parcel of every tourist. You can enjoy the winding roads through the mountains and the waves of the Pacific Ocean.
Even better, you can spend the night in a secluded campsite to exclude the busy city life. Over the years, this has been the dream of every American tourist and it still holds water even today.
Every year, thousands of tourists come to enjoy the scenic view of the California coast. There are limitless outdoor recreation opportunities such as camping on the beaches and hiking the peaks.
If you are an outdoor enthusiast, there is always something for you to enjoy on the Big Sur trip. Here is the best guide for a trip to the Big Sur with everything you need to know, where to stay, the best hikes, things to do, and how to get there.
When to Visit
If you are planning to go camping in Big Sur, you should plan for it between June – August. The weather is agreeable at this time since the area becomes very wet during November – April. Note that, the coastal ridge receives about 100 inches of rain every year.
During the summer months, a lot of tourists crowd the Big Sur. In the winter months, there is too much rain keeping everyone away. When you visit in the off-season, you can enjoy the solitude and cheaper accommodation, but you should be prepared to get a little wet.
Do you have a little flexibility to wait for the inclement weather to pass? Well, you can visit during the shoulder seasons of April – May and September – October. If you are planning to hike in the mountains, it might be a little too rainy. However, you can spend time in a tent or in the coffee shops in the area. Even better, you can read a book and relax until the bad weather passes.
How to Get There
From the North
Big Sur is located 3 hours to the south of San Francisco. You can enjoy the scenic views on the road before you get there. Driving down the famous Pacific Coast Highway to get to the Big Sur is an unforgettable experience.
Driving from Santa Cruz, Monterey and Carmel, you can see stunning views of the Pacific Ocean from your vehicle. During summer, this road experiences a lot of traffic so you should be prepared accordingly. It’s a popular route for residents of San Francisco and Los Angeles.
From the South
When going to the Big Sur from Los Angeles, you should take about 5 hours, using the shortest route. PCH is not the fastest way to get to the Big Sur but it’s very scenic. You should do it if you have a lot of time on your hands and expect to spend about 6 hours on the road.
With this route, you can pop into the Hearst Castle located outside San Simeon. It is the home to one of the most powerful and richest businesspeople in America. The castle gives you a look at his opulence and how he lived.
Follow the I-5 and pass the exits going to Bakersfield before turning into Highway 46. Next, you will follow the northwestern route on Highway 101 and a few back roads going past the San Lucia Mountains. You will not see the stunning blue waters of the Pacific Ocean but it’s a rewarding drive. You will pass through the rural part of California and enjoy the time away from the busy city.
Best Campgrounds on the Big Sur Coast
Kirk Creek Campground
It is located on a 100ft bluff showing exquisite views of the Big Sur and the vast Pacific Ocean. Every campsite showcases amazing ocean views thereby making it the best campground in the Big Sur area.
The campground is close to a few scenic trails leading to the Los Padres National Forest. You can also follow a short trail from the campground and end up to a gorgeous rocky beach. There are more mountain biking and hiking trails a short distance away. Don’t forget to visit the famous Sand Dollar Beach renowned for surfing, sunbathing and swimming.
At the Kirk Creek campground, you can pitch up your tent or RV in any of the sites but there aren’t any hook-ups available. Each camping site comes with a picnic table as well as a campfire ring where you can grill and fry your food. Don’t forget to pack your own water since there is none available in the campground.
The fee is $35 per night and the campground is located 4 miles to the south of Lucia. If you want the best experience, you should book in advance. You can enjoy the amazing ocean views from every campsite.
Limekiln State Park
It is a campground with 24 campsites with a few of the sites located in a redwood groove found in Limekiln Creek. The rest are in more exposed spots in the open areas with ocean views located at the Limekiln Canyon.
Limekiln State Park also offers access to a small beach as well as a few hiking trails going to the Limekiln Canyon, Limekiln Falls, Hare Creek and the famous lime kilns. You can also get further into the wilderness by using the Stone Ridge Trail.
Every campsite is equipped with barbecue grills, fire pits and picnic tables. Some of the picnic tables are located at the bottom part of the canyon, close to the beach. The campsites found in the redwoods are small so only RV campers with vehicles up to 24ft are allowed, as well as trailers with 15ft length. The park doesn’t have hook-ups or dump stations.
However, it’s an ideal campground for tent or van campers. The fee is $35 per night and it is located 2 miles to the south of Lucia. As mentioned, some of the highlights are the lime kilns, Limekiln Falls and the Redwoods.
Plaskett Creek Campground
It is located close to the Sand Dollar Beach, one of the most popular and largest beaches in Central California. Just like other campgrounds in the Big Sur, there are a few hiking trails close to Plaskett Creek Campground. There are a few trails close to the Sand Dollar Beach, leading to bluffs overlooking the ocean and numerous coves in the area.
The campground features a park-like setting found under a scattered canopy of cedar, Monterey pine and Cypress trees. It brings out a fragrant aroma that’s unforgettable. All the campsites are covered in grass and it is found in the Los Padres National Forest.
You can enjoy camping with your family in one of the single-family sites or group camping in the RV or tent campsites. Each camping site has a campfire ring with a grill and a picnic table. The campground also has enough water to drink, wash utensils, shower and flush toilets.
The price per night is $35 and it is located 10 miles to the south of Lucia. Book it in advance to enjoy the campground, including the amazing Sand Dollar Beach located nearby.
Ventana Campground
It is located 30 miles to the south of Carmel and in a redwood canyon covering 40acres.
Ventana Campground features several campsites with each having a camping fire ring with a grill, parking space and enough room for two tents. There are clean restrooms with showers throughout each campsite.
Even better, if you run out of anything when camping, you can buy it from the general store.
If you don’t want to cook camp food, you can always visit the Ventana Resort for a cocktail or proper meal. The campground is relatively shady and cool, thanks to the redwood trees in the area. Don’t forget to pack a sweater or jacket, in case you get cold.
It’s likely going to be cold during the night so find the nearest firepit and keep warm. Even better, you can enjoy the amazing glimpse of the stars and the moon from the redwood trees.
It costs $85 for a night at Ventana Campground and is ideal for tents and campervans only.
Riverside Campgrounds & Cabins
Here, you will find 34 sites for pitching tents and parking RVs. The campground is located along the Big Sur River and covered 16 acres of magnificent Redwoods.
It is a private campground and more expensive compared to the state campgrounds. You can expect to pay $75 per night here. However, you can enjoy some luxuries such as hot showers, laundry services and clean restrooms.
Also, the campground features a grocery store stocked with various camping supplies. Every campsite has water and electricity hook-ups for RVs as well as picnic tables and fire pits. You can visit the nearby restaurants and enjoy a good meal any time of the day.
Don’t forget to bring fish rods to enjoy catching fish in the Big Sur river.
Big Sur Campgrounds & Cabins
It is yet another private campground with a park-like setting. You can expect to pay more expensive rates to spend a night here compared to the state parks. The campground costs about $65 to $80 per night.
The Big Sur Campground can accommodate tents, RVs and trailers up to 40ft long. Each campsite comes with a picnic table, a fire pit, hot showers and a bathhouse.
If you are planning to go camping with your family, you can enjoy any of the activities in the campground. Start by swimming in the river or float down the river with the inner tube rentals. You can go fishing or play volleyball or basketball in the available courts.
You can pitch your tent among the surreal Redwood trees and enjoy camping in one of the most beautiful places in the Big Sur Coast. You can visit the beach and enjoy spectacular hiking trails a few minutes away.
Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
It is a popular campground because it is close to the McWay Falls. The campground offers amazing ocean views. There are 2 campsites found in this amazing campground and are located to the western part of the Pacific Coast Highway. You can only hike to the campsites because vehicles are not allowed.
Pack water since there is none in the campground but you can prepare your food in the fire pits and sit by the picnic tables. Also, pack away your garbage to carry as you leave since there are no garbage bins. It is only $30 per night and you should book at least 6 months in advance.
Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
It features more than 180 campsites close to the Big Sur River and can take trailers about 27ft long as well as RVs 32ft long.
It features a dump station with some campsites having water taps but there are no other hookups present. Only a few sites can accommodate tents. However, there are restroom facilities and hot showers available for campers.
It costs about $35 to $50 every night. It fills up months in advance so you need to book early, especially in the winter season. You can access the beach and view amazing attractions such as hiking trails, waterfalls and redwood groves.
Walk-in Only Tent Sites at Big Sur
The Big Sur area has a few walk-in tent-only campgrounds where you don’t need any reservations. Here is a list of these sites.
Andrew Molera State Park
The campground is home to 24 primitive campsites. You can access it through a hike and it is about 0.3miles from the parking lot. The campsites are located in an open meadow where only 4 people can stay in every site. You don’t need reservations to stay at this amazing campground.
Bottcher’s Gap (Closed)
It is yet another primitive campground located 8 miles inland. To access the campground, you have to drive up a narrow road. The campground only has 12 spaces for tent camping.
Prewitt Ridge
It is located in Los Padres National Forest. Free and dispersed camping is allowed. From this campground, you can enjoy amazing views of the coastline and the clouds below from the mountain top. There are no water sources nearby and facilities. To access the campground, you need to hike up the long, rough and winding road.
Free Camping at Big Sur
Big Sur is quite popular and most people assume there are not free camping places. However, there are a few areas where you can pitch a tent or bring your campervan and spend the night in it. Of course, you need to know where to look.
Note that, national parks allow free camping along the forest roads. If you are looking for free camping areas, you need to research whether there are any parks managed by Forest Services.
The Los Padres National Forest stretches on the coastline of the Big Sur. It’s the best place to get free camping spots. Try Plaskett Ridge, Los Burros Road or Nacimiento-Ferguson Road. Look for a good spot and claim it early enough for the best experience.
Best Hikes in Big Sur
Most people visit the Big Sur to enjoy the scenery. However, if you are a hiking enthusiast, there are some good hiking trails you can enjoy. There are over 80-day hikes, so there is always something for everyone to enjoy.
Some of the hikes are tough while others go through beaches and forests. It’s pretty easy to find something you love.
However, you need to check the conditions on the ground before going on the hike. Here is a list of the best hikes in Big Sur
McWay Waterfall Trail
With this trail, you can enjoy magnificent views of the best waterfall in Big Sur. The hike brings out the majestic 80ft McWay Falls. The hike covers a distance of 0.64 miles and you can enjoy northern and southern views of the coastline. It’s a must-do hike whenever you are in Big Sur.
Ewoldsen Trail
If you only have a few hours to spend at Big Sur, you can try the Ewoldsen Trail. It’s the best complement to the McWay Waterfall Trail since both trails start at the same parking lot found in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park.
As you go higher, the trail becomes a little tougher but you can enjoy the amazing views of the redwood forests, the ocean and the canyon. It covers a total distance of 4.5miles with an elevation of 1600ft.
Pfeiffer Falls & Valley View Trail
It is a highly recommend hike because it is moderate and can be done by people of different ages. It covers about 2 miles and you can enjoy views of the redwood forest and rocky waterfall.
If you are looking for a bigger challenge, you can go through the oak trees and sit on the overlook bench where you can enjoy unforgettable views of Big Sur River Gorge.
Limekiln Trails
Some of the highlights of the limekiln trails include a waterfall, historic lime kilns and lush creeks. It’s an easy hike covering about 2 to 3 miles.
It also features a few trails branching out with amazing surprises. It’s an out and back hike but you can take a walk to the coast to enjoy the best views of the scenic rocky beach.
If you are lucky enough, you might see some dolphins. It’s a very pleasant hike for any hiking enthusiast out there.
Andrew Molera Loop
With this hike, you can enjoy a good workout with amazing views of the coastal bluff. It covers 8.8 miles with an elevation of 1,100ft as well as switchbacks that bring out the best views of Point Sur and the lighthouse.
You can enjoy access to numerous remote beaches and an overall unforgettable time.
Vicente Flat Trail
It covers about 10.2 miles and is a strenuous out and back trail with a quite tricky terrain. In the first few miles, you will go up a steep uphill alongside the mountains as you climb the coastal ridge which levels out in the end. It covers an elevation of 1,800ft and it is very good for hikers everywhere. You can enjoy magnificent views of the ocean, mountain and the canyon as well as the oak trees. It’s the best way to combine a workout, nature and fun.
Pine Ridge Trail to Sykes Hot Springs
You can enjoy views of streams and redwood groves as you go up this steep and rocky trail. At the end of the trail, you can enjoy the beautiful Sykes Hot Springs. The elevation is 1,700ft and you will arrive at the hot springs after 10 miles.
It is also a pet-friendly hike so you can bring along your dog but make sure it is leashed. The hike might be difficult but most people do it to visit the hot springs. If you want some solitude, you should plan to take the hike during the weekdays and avoid weekends.
Cruickshank Trail
With this trail, you will start off among switchbacks before getting to a straight trail on the canyon near Villa Creek. It covers 6 miles and you can enjoy nature in the form of trees, ocean, creeks and mountain views.
At the end of the hike, you will come to the Villa Creek Camp that hosts several smaller pools and waterfalls. You can gain an elevation of 1,200ft to make the hike a little tough but it’s definitely worth it.
What Else Can You Do In Big Sur Besides Hiking?
If you are not planning to go hiking in the Big Sur, there are plenty of other activities to do. These include:
Driving Down Highway One
You can go either south or north but the most recommended direction is from south to north. Here, you can enjoy clear skies and unmatched scenery of the Big Sur. It’s definitely worth the quiet time and unforgettable views.
Horseback Riding
You can enjoy the best horseback riding tours in the Andrew Molera State Park. You can enjoy the overall beauty of the Big Sur as you ride a horse through the streams, meadows, redwood groves and secluded beaches.
Point Sur Lighthouse
It is a famous landmark in California. No reservations are needed and it is open for guided tours. Bring warmer clothes because the lighthouse tends to be a little colder than the rest of the area. The Point Sur lighthouse has a very interesting story that everyone should hear.
Henry Miller Memorial Library
It is a nonprofit arts center, performance venue and bookstore. It was previously the home to Henry Miller, an author but it is now the best venue for various community events such as lectures and book signings.
Pfeiffer Beach
If you are looking for a great place to take amazing pictures at sunset, the Pfeiffer Beach is a great choice. It faces to the west and unpopular among many tourists.
It has unique purple sand where kids and adults love sinking their feet in. You can swim, relax and build castles at this beach and have the most amazing time.
State Parks
The Big Sur is home to a few state parks where you can relax at the beach, watch the wildlife and enjoy a great picnic. One of the best and most notable parks is the Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park.
Here, you can see the different types of wildlife, the tide pools and the large 80ft waterfall. You can enjoy nature in any of the state parks without necessarily going for a hike.
Hot Springs
You can relax as you soak in one of the natural hot springs. Some of the popular hot springs are the Tassajara Zen Center and the Esalen Hot Springs. You don’t have to hike to get to these amazing wonders of nature.
Shopping
The Big Sur also hosts numerous gift shops and art galleries. You should check out Heartbeat Gallery, Hawthorne Gallery and the Phoenix Shop found at Nepenthe for great souvenirs.
What Should You Pack?
The gear needed for the trip is going to depend on two important factors: the duration of your stay and what season of the year you plan to go.
Even if you plan to visit in winter you won’t need to take cold-weather gear, yet pants, a rain-fly for the tent and a good-quality rain jacket will ensure that your trip is a lot more pleasant.
Supplies For Day Hiking
Small Backpack
You will basically need around 15 to 25 liters to store all your essentials.
Snacks
You need energy for the trail and your body needs salt and sugar to provide you with enough power to get through your day. Something like a snicker bar is a fantastic source of fuel.
Water
Make sure you have a hydration-bladder or a reusable bottle. On hot days, you will drink about a liter of water each hour while out on a trail.
Insect Repellent
Insects love the wilderness along with your blood. Make sure you are applying insect repellant regularly to keep these nasty pests away.
Rain Jacket
If you have a compact rain jacket, it’s always a good idea to have one with you. If it is winter carrying a rain jacket is a must.
Sunscreen
Certain trails will be exposed to the elements so make sure you are wearing an SPF 30 or higher.
Emergency Supplies
Anything can happen while you are out in the wild and you might get lost and not make it back in time to a trail-head. It is important to carry a headlamp, extra food, an emergency blanket, and gear to start a fire if a disaster strikes.
Basic First-Aid Kit
Make sure your kit contains bandages, Band-Aids, antibacterial ointment, blister patches, antihistamine tablets, and ibuprofen.
Camping and Overnight Backpacking Supplies
Large Backpack
If you plan to camp in the wilderness or back-country, you will need between a 35 to 50-liter pack to accommodate all your essentials.
3-Season Tent
Big Sur is known for occasional snowfall, but your biggest concern should be the rain. You also need to ensure the seams on the tent are sealed and use a rain-fly unless you know for certain that there is no rain expected overnight.
Sleeping Pad
Your comfort levels are up to you, but when you plan to go car camping, then carrying extra weight is not an issue. It would be a good idea to take along a 4-inch-thick sleeping pad.
15° Sleeping Bag
This may seem extreme, especially if you are going camping in summer. But you can unzip the sleeping bag and just use it as a covering. It is best to come prepared in case it does get cold.
Cooking Supplies
If you plan to camp at one of the campgrounds, you should take along a cast-iron skillet, or an aluminum or titanium set of pans and pots. You should also think about a cook-stove if you plan to camp in the backcountry as fires are usually not allowed.
Day Hiking Supplies
Refer to the list above. You will need a small backpack, for hikes from your campsite or campground.
How To Stay Safe When Camping In Big Sur
Overall, Big Sur is a safe camping spot. However, there are some things you need to know about:
Poison Oak
There is Poison Oak just about all over in Big Sur, yet it is also easy to avoid when you know what you are looking for. The ultimate advice is to stay away from any tree or plant that has three leaves.
Wildfire
Wildfires that occur in California are dramatic. In an inaccessible or remote region like Big Sur, fires are often scary and serious.
Always take care when you light a fire and make sure you never leave your campfire until it is out completely. Make sure you have an “escape plan” if you run into a wildfire.
Bugs
There are many insects and bugs in Big Sur. Make sure you come prepared with a good bug spray. There are many mosquitos out there that are just waiting to suck your blood. Be prepared to find everything from bees and scorpions to tarantulas and many different spiders.
Mudslides
After a long period of drought and then heavy rainfall, mudslides are common across the coast and are often dangerous. Avoid trying to drive through heavy rain when you can.
Ticks
In some instances, you cannot avoid ticks. They are often found on the tips of plants and long grass where they jump onto you as you walk past. To lower your chances of a tick bite, stay in the middle of trails, and stay out of the long grass.
You should also check your body every few hours to make sure none have jumped onto you.
Rattlesnakes
The rattlesnakes might not be common, yet they are very poisonous. They are often hard to spot due to their colors. They may hide behind rocks or be lying on a trail, so make sure that you are always watching where you are going.
Mountain Lions
Encountering a mountain lion in Big Sur is pretty rare. It is important that you stay alert, and if you do see one, try not to startle it.
Black Bears
You may spot a black bear on occasion. If you do see one treat it like a mountain lion and don’t make any sudden movements. You should also try not to hike with food as this can attract bears.
Tips For Camping In Big Sur
Whether you have plans to go camping in Big Sur in a tent, an RV, a car, or a bike, here are a few important tips to keep in mind:
Book the Campgrounds You Plan to Use
Make sure you book well ahead of time to ensure you get the camping grounds that you prefer. Many of the grounds will keep about 50% of their pitches (campsites) on a “first come first serve” basis, that can planning a real nightmare. It is no fun to find out there are no spots left on a weekend or in one of the peak seasons.
Take Money with You
For the campgrounds, you will need to pay cash for the day bookings and to buy wood.
Fill Up with Water and Fuel Before You Enter Big Sur
The garages sell water for around $1 for 5 gallons. The fuel in Big Sur is extremely expensive. You should also think about buying food in the San Luis Obispo and Monterey area. The on the road choices are really minimal.
Large Vehicles are More Intimidating to Drive Down Big Sur
Many poor drivers come through the area, and if you are forced to swerve in order to avoid another driver, you will be the vehicle that will be nearest to the edge of the ocean. Pay attention and use caution. If you would like to take in the view, rather stop making sure you have pulled completely off the roadway.
Explore the Forestry Roads
If you are driving a large RV, rather avoid the gravel roads. Los Burros, also known as Willow Creek Road to the south of Plaskett, is really worth the drive, while the overall drive isn’t too steep. It is also warmer when driving through the hills, allowing you to enjoy the sunshine even when the coastline is covered in fog.
Use Nacimiento-Fergusson Road as an Entry Point into Big Sur
This entry point is twisty and narrow, which means it is not great for large RVs. Yet it is fantastic. There are also 2 popular campgrounds along this road, called Ponderosa and Nacimiento.
Consider the Lesser-Known Campsites
There are many big-name campsites, yet there are other lesser-known ones like Bottcher’s Gap up Palo Colorada Road. The views are amazing and the drive is simply spectacular.
If You Cannot Find a Place to Stay for the Night, You Can Stay the Night on One of the Forestry Roads
These roads are less frequently patrolled and experience less traffic. Camping overnight is not allowed along Highway 1.
Get a Fire Permit
These permits are important if you would like to light a fire in the wilderness and this permit is also required if you have plans to use a gas-stove for cooking. You can get one online or visit one of the ranger stations.
It is important to know that more than 80% of the “wild” fires actually arise from humans, so be careful when you are out in the backcountry.
Bring Enough Food, Fuel, and Water
Keep in mind that your car needs gas to run, while you need water and food. Make sure you have enough before you head out, especially when it comes to more remote and isolated areas.
Take Enough Personal Hygiene Products
You should take enough products to deal with natural body needs when you are out in the bush, and you may have to “pack it up” when required. Not all locations will allow you to dig holes, so you need to make sure you have the right waste-management items with you.
The Cleanwaste Toilet Kits work well, but if you do decide to dig ensure that do so a minimum of 200-feet from water sources and your camping spot, and dig your holes at least 6 to 8-inches deep.
Leave Behind No Traces
Whatever you decide to take with you on a trail must return with you. If you do see any trash along the way, pick-it-up. Driving can also leave a mark. Stay on the designated trails which will stop you from damaging the surrounding vegetation along the way.
Where to Eat in Big Sur?
Stocking up on food and supplies in advance is the best way to save money when you plan to camp in Big Sur. But if you want to enjoy some of the tastiest foods in the region, these are some of the best places to enjoy a meal in Big Sur.
Nepenthe
Nepenthe is a cliffside restaurant to have a great Californian experience with delicious food and wine list with more than 400 selections. If you try their famous ambrosia burger or roast chicken dinner with a glass of red wine, you will definitely come back for more.
Sierra Mar
Sierra Mar is all about fine dining. If you are a guest at Post Ranch Inn, you are entitled to a free buffet breakfast. If not, you should be making reservations for lunch or dinner.
Chef Elizabeth Murray has a three-course lunch and four-course dinner menu to knock your socks off.
Deetjen’s (Closed)
At Deetjen’s, you have access to four romantic candlelit rooms for dinner every evening. The dishes here are simple but hearty. In fact, some of the dishes include grilled grass-fed filet mignon and spiced up seafood saffron paella.
Chef Domingo Santamaria is very creative and turns organic and local foods into masterpieces that are able to set new standards for delicious food.
Big Sur Bakery and Restaurant
Big Sur Bakery and Restaurant creates comfort food the right way. You should chill out in this rustic environment to enjoy your meal – whether wood-fired pizza or fresh pastries.
Don’t forget to try one of their sumptuous desserts before you leave the place. Our suggestions are the lemon ice cream pie or the flourless brownie with hot fudge.
Big Sur Deli
This is a family-owned deli and a true gem in the area. The sandwiches here are quite famous throughout Big Sur and are reasonably priced.
If sandwiches are not your favorite, you can try a variety of other goodies including calzones, salads, and chicken.
If you want delicious food but don’t want to spend an arm and a leg on it, this is the best place for you.
The Best Hotels In Big Sur – Camping Alternatives In The Region!
Are you looking to enjoy Big Sur without gas stoves and the mosquitos? If so, you should choose one of the plenty of hotels and other accommodations in the area. You can have a cozy night after an adventurous day when you opt for a hotel in the area.
Carmel Valley Lodge
Carmel Valley Lodge is a great alternative to camping at a lower price point. It’s situated on a scenic drive from Big Sur and surrounded by greenery and mountains. It’s sure to make for an unforgettable stay in Big Sur.
The hotel has spacious rooms with a private patio overlooking the garden or pool. Every room includes a full bathroom, fireplace, and cable TV. You can opt to enjoy a continental breakfast before starting your day camping. A quick dip in the pool will let you relax in the evening.
Carmel Valley Village is just a short walk away where you find wine tasting, shops galore, and restaurants. Even though Carmel Valley Lodge is an hour away from Big Sur, it is one of the best places to stay in the region without breaking the bank.
Ventana Big Sur
Ventana is located right in the midst of Big Sur. You can opt for a room at Ventana for a reasonable price. You can view the ocean, canyon, or forest from the room – which is sure to dazzle you as soon as you wake up in the morning.
The bathroom consists of a shower and a tub including fluffy towels. Some rooms have a hot tub on the deck or a fireplace for your convenience.
When you move outside the room, you have the option of either enjoying the heated pools or a Japanese hot bath. The move out for a delicious meal at one of the two restaurants in the hotel. You can enjoy tours around the property, yoga classes, wine tasting, and an on-site art gallery while staying in the hotel.
If you plan to stay in style in Big Sur, you should definitely opt for this hotel.
Post Ranch Inn
One cannot compile a list of the best hotels in Big Sur without including the Post Ranch Inn. Just imagine the scenery with access to the sweeping cliff-top views from the property!
The hotel has a rustic-modern architecture. The cozy guest rooms have giant windows with views of the ocean and redwoods. There is also an accessible outdoor space and a private tub. Staying at this marvelous hotel is nothing short of remarkable.
Your booking will include many extras such as buffet breakfast and a fully stocked minibar. Outdoor yoga, star gazing, and nature walks are available on request. The property has a complete spa with world-class dining options that will blow your mind away.
But the rooms at the hotel don’t have alarm clocks and TVs. It’s ideal for anyone who is looking to be free from modern-day distractions.
Final Words
The aforementioned article outlines everything one needs to know in order to have an unforgettable and successful Big Sur experience. No matter what your personality or travel style is, you should get ready to fall in love with Big Sur right now.
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