Where to Stay in Big Sur (Best Hotels 2023) - Bon Traveler (2024)

This post may contain affiliate links that help support my business in creating content like this. If you make a purchase using one of these links, I may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. Read my disclosure for more information.

When it comes to visiting Big Sur, nothing beats staying along the Pacific Ocean. These Big Sur hotels are some of the top choices for your visit and there is a range of choices for all budgets.

California’s Big Sur is undoubtedly one of the top travel destinations in the United States and in large has to do with its landscape. Its breathtaking location as you pass over the Bixby Bridge with the grand ocean to one side and towering redwoods to the other makes it unique.

It seems that with each turn you make in Big Sur, a new view presents itself.

Whether you’re headed through on a road trip down California’s coast or your weekend destination is Big Sur, be sure to carve out some time. After blowing right through it on several day trips, I finally had the opportunity for an extended stay in Big Sur. What I found was a place so connected with nature that I felt disconnect unlike before.

There is so much to do in the area when it comes to hiking and experiences. You’ll also find a wide range of restaurants. Be sure to check out my Big Sur Guide to help plan your trip.

When it comes to choosing a hotel, my recommendation is to consider both the budget and location. You may find that you prefer the amenities at one hotel with its location over the other.

Here is a look at the best Big Sur hotels for all budgets. And remember, always book ahead as availability is limited.

Short on Time? Here Are My Top Picks for Best Hotels in Big Sur:

1. Alila Ventana, for the best all-inclusive resort
2. Big Sur Lodge, for the best family-friendly stay
3. Big Sur River Inn, for the best budget stay

The Best Hotels in Big Sur for All Budgets

1. Alila Ventana

When it comes to offering the best package, Alila Ventana delivers with its new all-inclusive stay. Included in your room rate, you have your three meals and select activities. It is the second most expensive hotel in Big Sur, however, it comes with a lot of value and an unbeatable location. The luxurious suites are set with soaking tubs and fireplaces, perfect for the cooler months. You won’t want to miss a sunny afternoon by their pool with views over the valley. Their restaurant has epic ocean views and dinner is three courses. And don’t forget to explore their property for awesome hikes through the redwoods. Ventana Big Sur truly has it all for the guests looking for an elevated experience in nature. Book the best rates here.

Close to: Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, Andrew Molera State Park, and local restaurants.
Budget: $$$$
Address: 48123 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920

2. Post Ranch Inn

The award-winning luxury hotel in Big Sur is set apart from the rest. The Post Ranch Inn is one of the most expensive hotels in California and for good reason. Situated high up on the cliffs along the ocean, it has a treehouse feeling to its property. Each of the suites and tree houses for rent is uniquely decorated and spacious. On property, the Sierra Mar restaurant serves its guests world-class cuisine. It’s a bucket list hotel and one that may just take the cake for the most romantic getaway in California. The high price point makes it the most expensive hotel option in Big Sur. In return, a private retreat set with all of the luxury amenities you can need makes it worth it. Book the best rates here.

Close to: Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, Andrew Molera State Park, and local restaurants.
Budget: $$$$
Address: 47900 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920

3. Glen Oaks

One of our personal favorite hotels in Big Sur is Glen Oaks. Their two options for accommodations are wonderful, both the lodge and freestanding cabins. I’m a huge fan of the cabins and love that they’re situated under the redwood trees of Big Sur. The cabins are beautifully designed and really spacious — very romantic too for a getaway. You can often grab a night here for under $400 which is a steal for a luxurious stay in comparison to other luxe options in Big Sur. We love their food as well at their on-location restaurant. Staying at Glen Oaks puts you at a wonderful spot to explore around Big Sur. Book the best rates here.

Close to: Local restaurants, Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, and Pfeiffer Beach
Budget: $$$
Address: 47080 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920

4. Treebones Resort

If you’re looking to go glamping in California, Treebones Resort is the “OG” of glamping along the ocean. Their luxurious yurts are dotted along the coastline with some epic views. You won’t want to miss dining at their Wild Coast Restaurant and Sushi Bar — yes, sushi in Big Sur. I love that the rooms here are stand-alone and you really feel immersed in nature. This is a bucket-list hotel for me personally in Big Sur area and can’t wait to go stay a night here. Book the best rates here.

Close to: Sand Dollar Beach, Los Padres National Forest, and Salmon Creek Falls Trail
Budget: $$$
Address: 71895 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920

5. Big Sur Lodge

Perfect for the whole family, Big Sur Lodge is right in the heart of Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. This lodge is a wonderful choice for those looking for a home base for their central California adventures. It’s a beautiful building and their rooms are well done. You can easily go for hikes right out of the lodge itself too. Book the best rates here.

Close to: Located in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
Budget: $$
Address: 47225 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920

6. Fernwood Campground & Resort

Fernwood does it all from campground sites to glamping motel and tent cabins for rent. The location is ideal for getting out into the state parks and exploring Big Sur. You’ll find a range of accommodations here for under $200 a night which is a great option to be right in the heart of Big Sur. Book the best rates here.

Close to: Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park and Andrew Molera State Park
Budget: $$
Address: 47200 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920

7. Big Sur River Inn

One of the classic inns that has been in Big Sur since 1932, Big Sur River Inn is a great choice. Their onsite amenities like the restaurant and general store complete a stay that is along the river. Their guest rooms are motel-style and come in a few different configurations. Book the best rates here.

Close to: Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park and Andrew Molera State Park
Budget: $$$
Address: 46800 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920

8. Ragged Point Inn and Resort

This rustic-chic hotel along the Pacific Ocean is at the southern point of the Big Sur Area in San Simeon. The Ragged Point Inn and Resort is wonderfully situated right at the edge and feels quite intimate given its location. You can find a restaurant on-site and free parking while you explore. Book the best rates here.

Close to: San Simeon, Hearst Castle, and
Budget: $$
Address: 19019 CA-1, Ragged Point, CA 93452

9. Lucia Lodge

A historic hotel in Big Sur, Lucia Lodge is wonderfully located with sea views. It is a hidden gem, you may recognize it from some popular Netflix shows as well. For those looking for a quiet getaway, Lucia Lodge offers rooms near the ocean at the lowest price in Big Sur. Book the best rates here.

Close to: Limekiln State Park and New Camaldoli Hermitage
Budget: $$
Address: 62400 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920

Other Top Hotels Close to Big Sur

If you’re not able to snag a room at any of the above hotels, you may consider staying in Carmel Valley or Carmel itself. Both of these locations are within a day trip of Big Sur and have a lot of experiences to offer for a central California trip. The other option would be to head further south to the area of Cambria, though this would be quite far.

My top three choices for hotels north of Big Sur are:

1. Carmel Valley Ranch
2. Bernardus Lodge & Spa
3. Hyatt Carmel Highlands

My top three choices for hotels south of Big Sur are:

1. White Water in Cambria
2. Oceanpoint Ranch
3. Cambria Beach Lodge

Helpful Big Sur Guides to Plan Your Trip

If you’re looking to plan an epic trip to this part of California, you’ll want to spend a bit of time planning. There is a lot to do in the Big Sur area and a lot of destinations you can consider nearby to add to your visit. If you’re planning on doing a road trip, I would recommend setting aside at least one to two nights in Big Sur alone for your trip.

Here are a few other destination guides that can inspire your trip:

• The Ultimate Central Coast Resort Town: Carmel Valley
  Don’t miss the area of Carmel Valley for incredible wine tasting and a resort destination. This part of California has sunshine almost year-round. For those who love golf, you’ll also love visiting here as the courses are wonderful.
• First-Timer’s Guide To Carmel, California
  Carmel-by-the-Sea is an enchanting fairytale town along the ocean. It’s one of my favorite destinations in California for food and location. Their downtown is walkable and is home to great shopping and tasting rooms.
• The Ultimate 72 Hour Itinerary In Monterey CountyThis itinerary will help plan your ultimate trip in Monterey County with the destinations of Big Sur and Carmel Valley. It’s designed to give you the best of both worlds.
• The Design Lover’s Guide To A Central California Road TripEver wanted to visit Cambria, San Luis Obispo, and Paso Robles? Check out my guide for a design-focused trip. I found three epic hotels to plan your trip around and am dishing out all of my tips for top things to do.
• The Ultimate Travel Guide To Cambria, California (Things To Do)We love Cambria, California for a hidden gem in Central California. After visiting Big Sur, you may want to check out this town. There is even a wonderfully designed hotel you may consider booking for your trip.

Save this post for later on Pinterest