Question 1

What is the best area to stay in Big Sur?

Accepted Answer

The best areas to stay in Big Sur are along Highway 1, particularly near the central stretch encompassing Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park and the surrounding coastline.

This central area is where you'll find a concentration of the region's most iconic natural attractions and dining options. It's characterised by dramatic coastal cliffs, redwood forests, and breathtaking ocean views. While spread out, it offers convenient access to hiking trails and scenic overlooks.

For couples seeking a romantic and secluded retreat, staying near Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is ideal. This area provides a sense of being truly immersed in nature, with easy access to trails like the Pfeiffer Falls Trail and the beautiful Big Sur River. Many accommodations here offer stunning ocean or forest views, great for a peaceful escape.

Families looking for a blend of outdoor activities and comfort will also find this central area appealing. With its proximity to the state park, there are opportunities for gentle hikes, picnics by the river, and exploring the natural beauty without extensive travel.

Question 2

What are the best hotels in Big Sur that travellers recommend?

Accepted Answer

Two of the best hotels in Big Sur that receive consistently high recommendations from travellers are the Post Ranch Inn and the Alila Ventana Big Sur - Inclusive Resort.

The 5-star Post Ranch Inn, with a superb 10.0 rating, offers an exceptional luxury experience. Guests frequently highlight the incredible service and excellent food. The hotel provides amenities such as suites, fireplaces, designer toiletries, and a stocked minibar. Many rooms offer stunning mountain views, and the hotel is conveniently located just 3.2 kilometres from Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park.

Another highly recommended option is the 4.5-star Alila Ventana Big Sur - Inclusive Resort, which has a 9.0 rating. This resort is praised for its super clean rooms and friendly, helpful staff. It features amenities like deep soaking bathtubs, fireplaces, premium bedding, and a poolside bar. This resort also offers mountain views and is located 3.8 kilometres from Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park.

Question 3

What are the best family hotels in Big Sur?

Accepted Answer

For exceptional family stays in Big Sur, consider the Big Sur Lodge or Alila Ventana Big Sur - Inclusive Resort.

The 3-star Big Sur Lodge, with a rating of 8.4, is located only 0.6 km from Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, making it an excellent base for exploring the natural beauty of the area. Guests frequently mention the nice and clean rooms, along with the friendly and amazing staff. The lodge also provides free cribs and self-parking, which are beneficial for families.

Another highly-rated option is the 4.5-star Alila Ventana Big Sur - Inclusive Resort, which has an impressive rating of 9.0. It is praised for its super clean rooms and the friendly and helpful staff. The resort offers a pool and rooms with mountain views, along with amenities such as premium bedding and large soaking bathtubs. While it is a luxurious option, it provides a very comfortable experience for families. Find more child-friendly accommodations in Big Sur

Question 4

What are the best 5-star hotels in Big Sur?

Accepted Answer

For an exceptional 5-star hotel experience in Big Sur, the Post Ranch Inn is an outstanding choice.

This luxurious 5-star hotel boasts a superb 10.0 review rating and is highly regarded by guests for its incredible service, excellent food, and great location. The Post Ranch Inn offers suites with premium bedding, air conditioning, and fireplaces. Guests can enjoy mountain views, a stocked minibar with complimentary items, and private outdoor hot tubs. For added touches of luxury, the hotel provides champagne service, designer toiletries, and bathrobes. It also features an on-site art gallery and couples dining options. The Post Ranch Inn is conveniently located just 3.2 km from Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. Find more luxury hotels in Big Sur

Question 5

Are there any all-inclusive hotels in Big Sur?

Accepted Answer

For an all-inclusive experience in Big Sur, the Alila Ventana Big Sur - Inclusive Resort is an excellent recommendation.

This 4.5-star resort, with an impressive 9.0 rating, offers an inclusive stay with a wide range of features designed for relaxation and well-being. Guests can enjoy a full-service spa with daily offerings, including reflexology, body treatments, detoxification wraps, aromatherapy, Thai massage, hot stone massage, body scrubs, deep tissue massage, body wraps, facial treatments, manicures and pedicures, Ayurvedic treatments, and general massage services. Guests frequently comment on the super clean rooms and the friendly and helpful staff. The resort is conveniently located near Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, approximately 3.8 km away.

Question 6

What are the best spa hotels in Big Sur?

Accepted Answer

For an exceptional spa experience in Big Sur, consider the Post Ranch Inn and the Alila Ventana Big Sur - Inclusive Resort.

The 5-star Post Ranch Inn, boasting a great 10.0 rating, offers a range of spa treatments including couples' treatment rooms, deep tissue massage, Thai massage, and aromatherapy treatments. Guests consistently praise its incredible service and excellent food. It is also conveniently located just 3.2 km from Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park.

Another outstanding option is the 4.5-star Alila Ventana Big Sur - Inclusive Resort, which has a 9.0 rating. This resort features a full-service spa with amenities such as Ayurvedic treatments, hot stone massage, and detoxification wraps. Guests frequently comment on the super clean rooms and friendly, helpful staff. It is situated 3.8 km from Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park.

Question 7

Which beach resorts in Big Sur do travellers love?

Accepted Answer

For a truly exceptional beach resort experience in Big Sur, travellers consistently praise the Alila Ventana Big Sur - Inclusive Resort.

This 4.5-star inclusive resort, with an outstanding 9.0 rating, is highly regarded by guests for its serene setting and comprehensive amenities. It features an array of spa treatments, including reflexology, hot stone massages, and aromatherapy, alongside full-service spa facilities available daily. Guests frequently mention the super clean rooms and the friendly and helpful staff. The resort is also conveniently located near Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, just 3.8 km away, and offers beautiful ocean views.

Question 8

What hotels in Big Sur offer free breakfast?

Accepted Answer

In Big Sur, two excellent hotels that offer complimentary breakfast are the Post Ranch Inn and the Lucia Lodge.

The 5-star Post Ranch Inn, with a superb 10.0 rating, provides a full free breakfast. Guests consistently praise the excellent food, great location, and incredible service. This luxurious hotel also features a full-service spa with a wide range of treatments, including deep tissue massage and aromatherapy, and is conveniently located near Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park.

Another wonderful option is the Lucia Lodge, which has a 9.0 rating and offers a free continental breakfast. Guests frequently comment on the cozy and clean rooms, the beautiful location, and the super friendly staff. The lodge also provides free self-parking and ocean views, and it is close to Limekiln State Park.

Question 9

What are the top pet-friendly hotels in Big Sur?

Accepted Answer

For top pet-friendly hotels in Big Sur, consider the Big Sur Lodge or the Alila Ventana Big Sur - Inclusive Resort.

The 3-star Big Sur Lodge, with an 8.4 rating, is a great choice for those travelling with pets. They permit dogs and provide food and water bowls, ensuring your canine companion is well looked after. The hotel is conveniently located just 0.6 km from Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. Guests often describe the rooms as nice and clean, and the staff as friendly and amazing.

Another excellent option is the 4.5-star Alila Ventana Big Sur - Inclusive Resort, which has a 9.0 rating. This resort is also pet-friendly, welcoming cats on-site and offering food and water bowls. It features a full-service spa with a wide array of treatments, including deep tissue massage, hot stone massage, and aromatherapy. The resort is located 3.8 km from Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. Guests consistently praise the super clean rooms and the friendly and helpful staff.

Question 10

What are the best budget hotels in Big Sur?

Accepted Answer

For budget-friendly accommodation in Big Sur, consider Lucia Lodge and the 3-star Big Sur Lodge.

Lucia Lodge, with an excellent rating of 9.0, offers a comfortable stay with ocean views. Guests appreciate the complimentary continental breakfast, free self-parking, and free Wi-Fi. It is located just 3.1 km from Limekiln State Park. Customers frequently describe the rooms as cosy and clean, the location as beautiful, and the staff as super friendly.

Another great option is the 3-star Big Sur Lodge, which has an 8.4 rating. This lodge provides free toiletries and free self-parking. It is situated within a mountain setting and some rooms include a kitchen, which is convenient for longer stays. The lodge is particularly well-located, being only 0.6 km from Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. Guests often comment on the nice and clean rooms, the great and affordable location, and the friendly and amazing staff. They also highlight the good amenities and the great coffee shop on site.

Question 11

What are the most romantic hotels in Big Sur for couples?

Accepted Answer

For a truly romantic escape in Big Sur, the Post Ranch Inn and the Alila Ventana Big Sur - Inclusive Resort are exceptional choices for couples.

The 5-star Post Ranch Inn, boasting a superb 10.0 rating, offers an incredible experience with its stunning ocean views and private hot tubs, some of which are outdoors. Many rooms feature private furnished balconies and cosy fireplaces. The hotel provides excellent couples dining opportunities and dedicated couples treatment rooms within its full-service spa, which offers a wide range of treatments including deep tissue massage and hot stone massage. Guests frequently praise the incredible service and delicious food. It is also conveniently located just 3.2 km from Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park.

Another outstanding option is the 4.5-star Alila Ventana Big Sur - Inclusive Resort, which has a 9.0 rating. This resort is designed for relaxation and romance, offering couples dining and an extensive full-service spa. The spa features a variety of treatments such as reflexology, aromatherapy, and Thai massage. Rooms can offer breathtaking ocean or mountain views, and some include private hot tubs and saunas. Guests consistently mention the super clean rooms and the friendly, helpful staff. It is located 3.8 km from Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park.

For a more intimate and secluded experience, consider Lucia Lodge, which holds a 9.0 rating. This lodge offers beautiful ocean and mountain views and provides complimentary continental breakfast. Guests appreciate the cosy, clean rooms and the super friendly staff. It is located 2.5 km from Limekiln State Wilderness and 3.1 km from Limekiln State Park. See all romantic hotels in Big Sur

Question 12

What are the best hotels in Big Sur near Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park?

Accepted Answer

For an exceptional stay near Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, consider the Post Ranch Inn, Alila Ventana Big Sur - Inclusive Resort, or the Big Sur Lodge.

The 5-star Post Ranch Inn, with an outstanding 10.0 rating, is a superb choice for those seeking luxury. It features a pool, an art gallery, and offers stunning mountain views. Guests can enjoy champagne service, designer toiletries, and a minibar stocked with complimentary items. It is located just 3.2 km from Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park.

Another highly-rated option is the 4.5-star Alila Ventana Big Sur - Inclusive Resort, which has a 9.0 rating. This resort offers a pool, mountain views, and rooms with premium bedding and a fireplace. There is also an on-site art gallery and a poolside bar. It is situated 3.8 km from Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park.

For travellers looking for a more budget-friendly yet highly-regarded option, the 3-star Big Sur Lodge, rated 8.4, is an excellent choice. It is conveniently located just 0.6 km from Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park and offers amenities such as free self-parking and kitchens in some rooms. Guests often praise the nice, clean rooms and the friendly, amazing staff.

Question 13

Can I cancel my hotel reservation on Expedia?

Accepted Answer

You can cancel your hotel reservation on Expedia, although it depends on the cancellation policy of your booking. Most bookings are refundable if cancelled within 24 to 48 hours of the scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. If free cancellation is available, you can cancel directly through your Expedia account by logging in, going to ‘My Trips’ and selecting your reservation. To find flexible deals, filter your search by ‘Fully refundable property’ for hotels in Big Sur.

Question 14

How can I save on a hotel booking in Big Sur with Expedia?

Accepted Answer

One Key™—Expedia’s free travel rewards program—gives you instant access to discounts with Member Prices on Big Sur hotels. Plus, you’ll earn OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings to use on future trips. Booking an Expedia hotel and flight package is another great way to save, where bundling can result in significant savings.*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

Question 15

How much is the nightly rate for a hotel in Big Sur?

Accepted Answer

Prices for hotels in Big Sur often vary, but you can find a great deal from NZ$136 on Expedia. All sorts of factors affect price, such as the time of year or the days of the week you choose for your stay. Find the best deals by being flexible with your dates, and sort search results by ‘Price: low to high’ for our cheapest rates.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	52.5°F (11.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	51.8°F (11.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
March	52.3°F (11.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
April	53.4°F (11.9°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	55.2°F (12.9°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
June	58.3°F (14.6°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Average
July	60.1°F (15.6°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	61.2°F (16.2°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	61.9°F (16.6°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
October	60.1°F (15.6°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
November	55.9°F (13.3°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
December	52.2°F (11.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low

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Our top choices for Big Sur hotels

1. Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay

2. Carmel Mission Inn

3. Big Sur Lodge

4. Post Ranch Inn

5. Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa

6. Alila Ventana Big Sur

7. The Monterey Hotel

8. Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa

9. Casa Munras Garden Hotel & Spa

10. Embassy Suites by Hilton Monterey Bay Seaside

11. The Quail

12. Monterey Beach Hotel, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel

13. Motel 6 Marina, CA - Monterey

14. Hotel Pacific

15. Stargazer Hotel

16. Hyatt Carmel Highlands

17. Carmel Bay View Inn

18. The Stevenson Monterey

19. InterContinental the Clement Monterey by IHG

20. Pacific Inn

Our guide on where to stay in Big Sur

Lucia

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Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

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Pacific Inn

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Bay Breeze Inn

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