I can’t recall exactly when I first heard about Big Sur, but from that moment it has been high on my travel wishlist. When a close friend was searching for the perfect place to celebrate her 40th birthday with beautiful weather and ocean views during the Caribbean’s hurricane season, Big Sur immediately stood out. It offered everything we were looking for: stunning nature, a sense of adventure, and the kind of relaxation that feels effortless. The fact that it is right here in the United States made it even better, with travel that was refreshingly easy and stress free.
Below, I’ll share firsthand insights and an honest look at key parts of the experience so you know what to expect. Every trip we offer is one we have personally experienced and genuinely loved.
We use the following tiered scale to help summarize experiences:
- Exceptional – A true standout that defines the journey
- Memorable – Consistently strong and deeply enjoyable
- Notable – Solid and worthwhile
We also indicate activity level using:
- High – More active and on the go
- Moderate – A balanced mix of activity and downtime
- Low – More relaxed and restful
- Scenery: Exceptional
Mountains meet the ocean in a breathtaking display of natural beauty - Activity Level: Low
Big Sur lets you set your own pace, from serene mornings to adventurous afternoons - Experiences: Memorable
Unforgettable views, magical wildlife moments, and luxurious, serene indulgence - Accommodations: Memorable
Accommodations blend stunning architecture, luxury, and seamless harmony with nature - Dining: Memorable
Consistently delightful, with good food, attentive service, and stunning views - Transfers: Exceptional
The drive along the Pacific Coast Highway and luxury hotel cars make getting around Big Sur unforgettable
Our journey began with rolling vineyards, mountain views, and a charming seaside village that felt straight out of a postcard. As we continued deeper into Big Sur, the scenery grew even more breathtaking. Towering cliffs plunged into the sparkling Pacific on one side, while rugged mountains framed the horizon on the other. Each turn revealed another view more stunning than the last, creating a sense of awe that never faded.
Scenery: Exceptional
Mountains meet the ocean in a breathtaking display of natural beauty
This trip is truly what you make it. We were craving a break from the pace of daily life, so we embraced slow mornings, late-morning spa treatments, and relaxed dinners each night. In between, we followed our whims, exploring a nearby seaside village, playing Bocce ball on the lawn, and hiking the scenic trails that surround the area. Whether you prefer peaceful, unhurried days or a schedule full of adventure, Big Sur lets you set the rhythm.
Activity Level: Low
Big Sur lets you set your own pace, from serene mornings to adventurous afternoons
The views in Big Sur are unforgettable. Everywhere you turn, it’s a “wow” moment. One of the most magical experiences was sipping cocktails in the infinity pool while orcas played below, a scene that held us captivated for hours. As if that weren’t enough, a majestic condor even glided overhead, completing the picture-perfect moment. Every detail of the landscape, from rugged cliffs to crashing waves and endless horizons, felt like a private show curated just for us, making it an experience of pure wonder and indulgence.
Experiences: Memorable
Unforgettable views, magical wildlife moments, and luxurious, serene indulgence
We chose to stay in two locations to fully experience both Carmel Valley and Big Sur. Our first stop in Carmel Valley featured lush gardens, welcoming staff, and easy access to charming restaurants and attractions, including the storybook town of Carmel-by-the-Sea.
After a few days, we ventured deeper into Big Sur, where the region’s dramatic natural beauty takes center stage. Our accommodations felt completely integrated with the environment, thoughtfully designed so that no redwoods were disturbed, with architecture that evokes Frank Lloyd Wright’s timeless style. Each room offered a unique experience. We stayed in a standalone one-bedroom house with an outdoor hot tub overlooking the mountains, while our friends enjoyed a cliffside retreat with sweeping ocean views. Every space was unlike anything I had ever experienced, perfectly combining elegance, comfort, and a deep connection to the surrounding landscape.
Accommodations: Memorable
Accommodations blend stunning architecture, luxury, and seamless harmony with nature
From charming casual cafes perched on cliffs with dramatic views to cozy nooks serving delicious food, and from refined fine dining to laid-back local spots, every experience was enjoyable. Excellent service is a given, and nearly every meal comes with breathtaking vistas, making dining here as memorable as the surroundings.
Cuisine: Memorable
Consistently delightful, with good food, attentive service, and stunning views.
Big Sur is about an hour from the nearest airport, and you can choose to rent a car or be chauffeured. The drive itself is absolutely spectacular, taking you down CA-1, also known as the Pacific Coast Highway. This iconic route is famous for breathtaking ocean vistas, dramatic cliffs, and landmarks like the Bixby Creek Bridge. Recognized as one of the world’s most scenic drives, it offers constantly changing landscapes and the quintessential California road trip experience. Once at the properties, many hotels offer cars that guests can borrow for free during their stay. We especially loved exploring the area in the hotel’s Mercedes-Maybach GLS.
Transfers: Exceptional
The drive along the Pacific Coast Highway and luxury hotel cars make getting around Big Sur unforgettable
Book an ocean-view room on the second floor. While our mountain-view room was lovely, the ocean views are truly spectacular and worth it.
Avoid late summer through early fall if you’re sensitive to wasps. Yellow jackets are particularly active during this time, swarming around food and making outdoor dining tricky. Hotels do their best to manage them, but for those with allergies, it’s best to visit at another time.
Explore beyond the hotel. The properties are serene and tempting, but there’s so much to see nearby. With hotel cars available for guest use, take advantage and discover the local sights while balancing it with relaxation at your retreat.
Big Sur was exactly what the doctor ordered. Surrounded by nature, good friends, and incredible experiences, it felt both healing and unforgettable. Traveling within the U.S. made the trip effortless, with less time spent commuting and more time spent savoring each moment. Whether you’re planning a long weekend or a week-long escape, Big Sur is the perfect destination for rest, adventure, and lasting memories.