Top reasons to visit Big Sur
- Stunning Coastal Views: Big Sur boasts breathtaking coastal scenery, perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.
- Outdoor Activities: Enjoy hiking, golfing, and guided tours to see California condors, catering to adventure seekers.
- Beautiful Beaches: Relax on picturesque beaches that offer serene getaways and stunning sunsets.
- Charming Accommodations: Stay in luxurious resorts or cozy lodges with amazing views and unique experiences.
- Enriching Wine Tasting: Explore nearby wineries for a delightful wine-tasting experience amidst stunning landscapes.
Find great hotels in and around Big Sur
Discover the enchanting beauty of Big Sur with a stay at one of its remarkable hotels, offering a range of accommodations from luxurious resorts to charming lodges. Whether you're seeking pet-friendly options, an adventurous getaway, or a unique winery-themed experience, Big Sur has something for every traveler. Enjoy breathtaking views and exceptional amenities while immersing yourself in the stunning natural landscape that defines this iconic Californian destination.
- Carmel Mission Inn: Nestled 32.2km from Big Sur, the Carmel Mission Inn boasts a cozy, pet-friendly atmosphere, perfect for travelers seeking a welcoming retreat. This 3.5-star hotel encourages guests to bring their furry companions along for the adventure, with amenities such as permitted pets, restrictions in place for safety, and waived fees for service animals. The inn features comfortable accommodations that promote relaxation after a day of exploring the stunning California coastline.
- The Quail: Located 30.6km from Big Sur, The Quail is a luxurious 5-star destination that caters to business travelers and families alike. This golf-themed property offers an array of services designed for children, including a mini-golf course, window guards for safety, and complimentary cribs. Guests can indulge in golfing experiences, ensuring a fun and active stay. With its upscale amenities and family-friendly environment, The Quail promises a memorable vacation for all.
- Big Sur Lodge: Situated directly in Big Sur, the 3-star Big Sur Lodge offers a unique blend of beachside charm and pet-friendly accommodations. Travelers can enjoy direct access to the beach, making it an ideal spot for those looking to unwind by the ocean. The lodge welcomes pets with specific policies, including food and water bowls and restrictions for dogs only. With a focus on business travel, guests will find the facilities conducive for both work and relaxation amid the breathtaking natural beauty of the area.
Where to stay in and around Big Sur
Discover the enchanting allure of Big Sur, California, where breathtaking coastal views and serene getaways await. This picturesque destination is perfect for beach vacations and outdoor adventures, offering a romantic and relaxing atmosphere. Explore nearby areas for family-friendly excursions and captivating scenery that showcases the stunning California coastline. With its great places to unwind, Big Sur promises an unforgettable vacation experience that will leave you rejuvenated and inspired.
- Carmel Valley: Nestled 24.1km from Big Sur, Carmel Valley is a charming city that offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures and stunning scenery. This destination sees a steady flow of travelers throughout the year, with peak visits from May to July. Visitors flock here for its beautiful beaches and tranquil golf courses. Enjoy activities like golfing or exploring the nearby recreational areas, which provide a great backdrop for relaxation. Local landmarks include picturesque bays and state parks that showcase the natural beauty of California.
- Silver Peak Wilderness: Located in close proximity to Big Sur, Silver Peak Wilderness is a natural paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The area attracts visitors year-round, peaking from June to August. Known for its adventurous vibe, this wilderness offers a wealth of recreation opportunities, including hiking trails and campgrounds. Explore the scenic beaches or immerse yourself in the tranquility of the surrounding parks and national state parks. With its rugged terrain and breathtaking landscapes, Silver Peak is an ideal spot for those seeking adventure and natural beauty.
- Carmel Highlands: Situated 29.0km from Big Sur, Carmel Highlands is a picturesque village that enchants visitors with its outdoor allure and striking coastal scenery. The village sees consistent visitor numbers, peaking in April and June to July. Known for its beautiful golf courses and recreational areas, Carmel Highlands is the perfect destination for leisurely outdoor activities. Explore nearby beaches and bays, or take a trip to the national park to fully experience the area's natural wonders. This charming village offers a serene escape just a short drive from the bustling attractions of Big Sur.
Things to do in and around Big Sur
Big Sur offers a stunning outdoor experience with breathtaking scenery and beautiful beaches. Visitors can enjoy activities such as golfing, wine tasting at nearby wineries, and exploring the best hiking trails. Don’t miss the chance to see California condors on a guided tour and indulge in unique Alila experiences. With its recreational areas and natural beauty, Big Sur is a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Shopping
In Big Sur, you can shop at local boutiques and galleries. If you're up for a drive, visit Carmel Plaza, 33.8km away, or The Barnyard, 32.2km away, both offering a variety of shops and family-friendly vibes. Antique Clocks is another option, located 40.2km away.
Recreation
Experience the serene Quail Lodge Resort & Golf Club for a round of golf surrounded by nature. Unwind at Garland Ranch Regional Park, where you can immerse yourself in tranquility and relaxation. Enjoy the captivating performances of the Monterey Symphony for an enriching cultural evening.
Adventure
Embark on the Salmon Creek Falls Trail for a scenic hike, where lush landscapes and stunning waterfalls await. For adrenaline enthusiasts, the WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca offers thrilling motor racing events, while the nearby Waterfront provides a perfect outdoor setting for relaxation and recreation.
Nightlife
In Big Sur, the Sunset Center offers a romantic theater experience 33.8km away, perfect for culture lovers. For family fun, the Monterey Mirror Maze & Lazer Challenge, located 40.2km away, provides thrilling arcade adventures. The Golden State Theatre, 38.6km from Big Sur, captivates with its enchanting performances.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Big Sur
Big Sur is budget-friendly with free access to attractions like Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, Pfeiffer Beach, and McWay Falls. For transport, consider biking or hiking to save costs. Visit in March or December to January for lower accommodation rates, avoiding the pricey July to September peak season. Tuesdays are typically the cheapest days to stay. Use Expedia to compare prices and book package deals that include flights and activities for better savings. Look for last-minute deals, beverage discounts, and advance reservations to maximize your budget.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Big Sur are March and December to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to July to September, where prices are slightly higher.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Big Sur is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Big Sur is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to set your budget, choose your desired location, and much more. You can organize your results to display prices from the lowest to the highest, making it easy to find the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you can refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save on expenses by combining your Big Sur hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
Find the best attractions in Big Sur
Big Sur, California, is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking stunning scenery and beach getaways. Explore the breathtaking coastline, visit picturesque waterfalls, and enjoy the serene Big Sur River. This region offers a plethora of adventures and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for travelers looking to immerse themselves in the great outdoors. Don't miss the opportunity to experience the enchanting charm of Big Sur's south coast.
- Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park: Experience the breathtaking beauty of Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, where towering redwoods and scenic vistas create a perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures. Enjoy hiking trails that lead to stunning viewpoints, offering a true sense of tranquility and connection to nature.
- Pfeiffer Beach: Relax at Pfeiffer Beach, famous for its unique purple sand and dramatic rock formations. This beach offers a picturesque setting for sunbathing, beachcombing, and photography, all while soaking in the refreshing ocean breezes.
- McWay Falls: Witness the stunning McWay Falls cascading onto the beach below, creating a romantic and enchanting atmosphere. This iconic waterfall is easily accessible and provides a perfect spot for breathtaking photos and serene moments in nature.
Best time to go to Big Sur
The best time to visit Big Sur is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. September is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. February is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Big Sur
Flying into Big Sur is convenient with several nearby airports. Monterey Peninsula Airport (MRY) is situated 37.0km away and offers excellent hotel options such as the 5-star Quail, 6.4km from the airport, and the 4.5-star Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa, just 1.6km away. Salinas Municipal Airport (SNS) is 48.3km from Big Sur, with nearby accommodations like the 3-star Residence Inn by Marriott Salinas Monterey, 6.4km from the airport. King City Airport (KIC) is 62.8km away, featuring options like the Days Inn by Wyndham King City, 3.2km from the airport. These hotels provide easy access to transportation services for a seamless travel experience.