Places to stay in Big Sur
Book unique places to stay, houses, and more on Airbnb
Top-rated places to stay in Big Sur
Guests agree: these places to stay are highly rated for location, cleanliness, and more.
Home in San Luis Obispo
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 377 reviewsThe Downtown House SLO with Private Parking
I have stayed at many places in SLO and this one is in my top 2!! Loved the walkable location, 6-10 minutes one way to downtown (depending on how fast you walk) and 6-10 minutes to my favorite breakfast place, Sally Loo’s. Beds were super comfortable, kitchen had everything we wanted, private parking is a bonus. The house was spotlessly clean. I don’t think I would have noticed the street noice if someone hadn’t mentioned it and I was kinda looking for it. Not an issue for us. David was an absolute pleasure to work with and helped make our stay as easy as could be. Quick to respond to any question and flexible. His document with things to do and restaurants is comprehensive! Thanks David!! We hope to see you again soon.
Home in Pismo Beach
4.93 out of 5 average rating, 311 reviewsHit the Beach from The Spot in San Luis Obispo
We enjoyed our stay at Pismo Beach thanks in large part to this perfect space. It was nice that each bedroom had their own bathroom and there was ample space to hang out and enjoy each others company. The living room is comfortable and inviting and the rooftop deck had great sunset views. The kitchen and BBQ were excellent and had all that we needed to make dinners together. The location is easily walkable to the beach, restaurants, and bars. Use of the garage and garage door opener made coming and going a breeze. There is street noise especially in the morning. If you are noise sensitive, the back bedroom is quieter. Everyone was very happy with our stay and look forward to revisiting!
Guest suite in Scotts Valley
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 709 reviewsSnug and Cozy between the Skyline and the Sea
Very cozy and cute. Was provided with a lot of necessities. Very clean
Treehouse in Cambria
4.91 out of 5 average rating, 114 reviewsCambria Treehouse Retreat+Nature Trees Tranquil
Diane and Dutch were super friendly hosts; they gave clear instructions and great recommendations for the area. Their place was very cozy and really close to the Christmas market, for which we were there. Highly recommend this place if you’re visiting Cambria. It’s also really close to downtown. It really was like being in tree house, a really nice one.
Home in Baywood-Los Osos
4.91 out of 5 average rating, 255 reviewsBayview Getaway
It was my granddaughter and Shelley’s niece, and they loved it. As it turned out there were only 2 girls, so they each had their own bedroom. We would definitely use it again.
Cottage in Carmel Valley
4.89 out of 5 average rating, 177 reviewsCarmel luxe, private, spotless, The Great Escape!
Great place in secluded Carmel Valley. Liked the private entrance with the private garden space. The unit was upstairs so didn't feel boxed in and had views of the surrounding area and mountains. Was great to wake up to various different birds chirping and singing. Very peaceful and calming place.
Home in Turlock
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 184 reviewsClassic Executive+Lovely Yard+Best Location
Lovely peaceful location, very nice and roomy Art & Craft Bungalow home in handy area with warm atmosphere as expected--enjoy!!!
Condo in Oceano
4.87 out of 5 average rating, 540 reviewsSEA ME & WAVE Pismo Oceano Shell Grover SLO Avila
Always a great property to stay at. Amber slways responds quickly and adds on great ideasto help your day be better even of is was good already. Love the suggestions on places to visit, food to eat and things to do. Thank you
Guesthouse in Paso Robles
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 827 reviewsRomantic Vineyard Guesthouse - 2 min from wineries
We had a wonderful stay at Rita's Romantic Vineyard Guesthouse! The quaint and cozy guesthouse was super charming, exquisitely decorated, and supplied with everything a couple would need for a weekend stay. The location was perfect, both close to town and to all the amazing wineries. Rita's communication and instructions were perfect, and Stephanie had the best local insights and recommendations. We would highly recommend staying at this property if your travels bring you to the area, and we hope to do so again ourselves in the near future!
Home in Paso Robles
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 121 reviewsOak Flat Retreat
Wow, we loved staying at Oak Flat Retreat! Four of us were there over Christmas; two of us in the main house and two out in the guesthouse, which allowed us a lot of privacy. Everything is tastefully decorated (with beautiful paintings) and comfortable, the kitchen had everything we needed, and there were board games to play and books to peruse. Even though the place is tucked into the rolling hills and feels rural (with deer roaming by), it's so close to town, and very easy to get to vineyards, downtown restaurants and shops, and the coast. The view from the house is gorgeous, especially if you hike farther up the hill. There's so much to do in the area, but you'll also want to build in time to just hang out at Oak Flat Retreat, it's so peaceful and beautiful.
Home in Santa Cruz
5 out of 5 average rating, 226 reviews8 Palms
It was a great place to come lay our heads. He had all the amenities we could possibly need. If I had questions, he responded quickly.
Apartment in Cambria
4.9 out of 5 average rating, 497 reviewsCharming Cambria studio
I had such a peaceful get away! The place was conveniently located and helpful tips on hiking trails etc. were provided in a welcome packet. I would definitely stay here again! 🙏🏼
Vacation rentals for every style
Get the amount of space that is right for you
Popular amenities for Big Sur places to stay
Big Sur beach places to stay
Home in Sand City
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 182 reviewsAmazing Ocean View! Monterey Luxury Beach Home!
We loved our stay here! The house was cozy and comfortable. Meli was very thoughtful and left us champagne and sparkling apple cider as well as many snacks to enjoy while we were there. The beds were all very comfortable. We loved hanging out in the living room and enjoyed cooking in the kitchen. The location was more industrial than I realized, but it was an easy drive to get to restaurants and the beach. There is a nice view of the ocean from the patio and out the windows.
Bungalow in Santa Cruz
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 301 reviews2 bdrm Bungalow 3 blocks from the Beach
The beach house is perfect. The attention to detail and amenities are well above average. We have visited for several years and nothing changes, which is perfect. The location is amazing. You can never run out of amazing places to walk to!
Home in Cambria
4.86 out of 5 average rating, 344 reviewsWindrush Inn Harbor House
Windrush is a beautifu, beautiful l spot. it is our second stay and I h a very a muscle condition so althea home is all one floor for me. it is a beautifully appointed kitchen and the views are amazing. We have a blind 7 or old lab that we love to take with us. this home is perfect for her, straight shot back bedrooms to living room. Gorgeous view and walkpaths everywhere!! We stayed 7 nights and loved every min.. We have celiac too so restaurants are very gf friendly for us and we had a scooter this stay from Slo.:)) Mike is easy to work with...views can't be beat.
Home in Aptos
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 212 reviewsRio Del Mar Beach House
The place is charming and well set up, and you cannot beat the location! It's right on the beach, and the sunsets are spectacular. We really enjoyed our stay! The kitchen and bathroom with the shower are older and reflect that (shower door didn't completely close, stovetop heating was slow and then really hot), but there was good hot water and had everything we needed. Because of the recent rain, we had an ant problem but they offered to help with that which we declined. We live in the Bay Area, too, and get ants when it rains, too. Overall, it was a lovely getaway that we'd consider booking again!
Townhouse in Watsonville
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 173 reviewsKingBed Suite Oceanfront steps to sand & fireplace
What a beautiful place! We loved every minute! So comfy and the condo had everything we needed!
Home in Half Moon Bay
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 146 reviewsEntire house:Steps to beach and ample space
Amazing place, this was the third time my family had spent the holidays here. Will stay here again.
Guest suite in Half Moon Bay
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 262 reviewsNew! Oceanview Penthouse, Walking to Beach
Never thought this way about an Airbnb before but Diana’s place amazed me beyond the listing pictures. The balcony ocean view was soothing, the room was cozy and sweet with all the basic amenities needed. It’s close in proximity to the beach trails we wanted to visit and we enjoyed a quiet reflective weekend on the coast. Would love to visit and stay here again!
Home in Aptos
4.87 out of 5 average rating, 174 reviews500 feet from the ocean/Rio del Mar
Myriam was responsive and helpful from the start including giving us a link to current evacuation areas when the storm of the year was pounding the coast (we were fine). we did find all spaces but the deck slightly smaller than expected and I would check about the mattress in the HP closet as it was only a 1" camp pad, which wasn't great for our 11 yo. Loved the locations and binders with local suggestions. Communication couldn't have been better and would stay here again although would check on HP closet mattress. easy walk to the beach and went daily.
Homes in Big Sur
Home in San Jose
4.81 out of 5 average rating, 136 reviewsM&J@5B3B/High speed Wi-Fi/yard for kid/Cisco | 668
We had a wonderful stay at this property! Our group of 10 felt right at home, and the entire house was spotless upon our arrival. The check-in process was seamless, which made things so easy for us. There were plenty of towels for our entire family. The only bathroom that had shampoo was the downstairs bathroom, but we had brought shampoo with us from home. The location was fantastic – just 5 minutes away from a local Target, Marshalls, Sprouts, and several other stores. The neighborhood was quiet, peaceful, and felt very safe. We couldn’t have asked for a better experience, and we would highly recommend this home to anyone looking for a comfortable and convenient place to stay!
Home in Paso Robles
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 222 reviewsMountain Springs Vacation Rental
What a gem! From the moment we walked in, we knew we'd picked the perfect spot for our getaway. The place was spotless and spacious, with plenty of room for us and our two dogs to spread out and get comfortable. Our hosts went above and beyond with thoughtful touches - the snacks, olive oil and wine awaiting us were a nice touch. The property is absolutely beautiful, and we spent time just unwinding and enjoying the peaceful space with our dogs. Marcy stopped by to say hello and it was nice to chat with her and learn a bit more about the property. Everything about our stay felt effortless and relaxing, exactly what we needed. This place is definitely on our list for future stays. Thanks for being such wonderful hosts and creating such a welcoming space!
Home in Paso Robles
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 314 reviewsClose to Dtown! Gorgeous MidCentury w/fire pit
We had a wonderful stay at Lisa’s place! The house was immaculate. My family found the space incredibly comfortable and functional. The house is located in a quiet residential area but very walkable to restaurants, coffee, etc. Lisa and Cody were great hosts - very kind and responsive. They were quick to answer any questions that came up and made sure we had a comfortable stay. Highly recommend!
Home in San Luis Obispo
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 255 reviewslinvics resort
Such a lovely, homey airbnb. The kitchen was better equipped than my own, including sharp knives. We loved hanging out on the sunporch and outside on the beautiful grounds. A real bargain in SLO.
Home in Atherton
4.88 out of 5 average rating, 8 reviewsHome in Atherton, Menlo Park
This house was perfect for our group. It’s a big and unique space, very practical with plenty of living/lounge space, indoor and outdoor dining, great swimming pool, etc. It’s on the older side, but very functional - and has things like air conditioning that aren’t at all givens in the area. WiFi works great, including for work from home. It’s equipped with the basics (and some unexpected odds and ends!), but if you want particular kitchen or bathroom supplies you may want to bring your own. It’s also very easy to pick up anything you need nearby. Would recommend!
Home in Paso Robles
4.87 out of 5 average rating, 503 reviewsBeautiful, Cozy Home Located 1 Mile from Downtown!
Lisa’s home felt like home away from home. Perfect spot to relax after wine tasting or a night downtown!
Home in Salinas
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 346 reviewsBig Valley View Home
casey was super easy to work with. gave great ideas of things to do and places to eat. this was our second time staying there and the home worked great for our group. highly recommend! and will be staying again in the future. thank you
Home in Paso Robles
4.93 out of 5 average rating, 138 reviewsDowntown 2bd 2ba house in Paso Robles.
Location, location, location. This can never be understated on quick mini vacation. This place had everything. Looking forward to spending some more time there soon!
Lake homes in Big Sur
Home in San Jose
4.86 out of 5 average rating, 43 reviewsPerfect home to spent for the holidays
Such a nice place to stay in Silicon Valley. Tucked back into the beautiful hills, with a walking loop through the oak trees just down the street. Responsive host. A perfect retreat.
Home in Santa Cruz
4.81 out of 5 average rating, 21 reviewsBeach House with Stunning Lake and Ocean Views
Our stay was wonderful! The view was breathtaking and we could not get enough of watching the birds on the water. Thank you for having us!
Home in Oceano
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 69 reviewsBeach Club, Two-Bedroom, Beach, Nature Trail, Lake
We recommend this place! It’s just so convenient for everyone to enjoy it. I personally love it and have the best time there ever, and love coming back soon .
Home in Paso Robles
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 93 reviewsVineyard House at Bianchi Winery
We arrived Friday evening after a long drive from Napa. Bianchi winery was still open with live music playing. Check-in was as easy with the code. The guest house was ready, nice and cool! The pictures don't do it justice. Every room was furnished nice, great beds, nice bathrooms and very clean. I've stayed at alot of Arbnb's and this one is at the top of my list. Perfect size for couples or a family sharing the space. Pet friendly, our dogs absolutely loved the place! We enjoyed cooking in the well stocked kitchen, and enjoying Bianchi's great wine on the front and back yard while listening to the music. Being in the wine industry you pay attention to the details that made it all so great! We also did a tasting and the staff were all friendly and fun. We had one minor problem with the internet during the Olympics, and the response was very quick and easily solved. Thank you to Beau and your team. We look forward to making another trip!
Home in Atascadero
5 out of 5 average rating, 14 reviews> Flamingo Oasis < across from Atascadero lake/zoo
We booked Amanda’s place for our out of state family to stay at during their visit over the Christmas holiday. They were very pleased and felt it had everything they needed. They asked to stay there again when they come next year.
Home in Paso Robles
5 out of 5 average rating, 46 reviewsSan Marcos Ranch
I can’t say enough about San Marcos Ranch. The owners have done a tremendous job making this property very special. It’s a rare gem in Central California, with lots of things to do nearby. As a guest, you can feel the love and care that went into creating this beautiful place. A walk around the lake pulls you into a paradise where you can easily imagine a very fun big party. The barn serves as an iconic centerpiece to this storied property. I am not in the wedding market, but couples looking for a special place to tie the knot should look no farther. For the rest of us, if you’re looking for a getaway for a few days with an easy drive into a highly respected wine region and world class restaurants, this is the place! I’ll definitely be back soon. Cheers! 🥂🤠🐄🐓🐴🐐🚜🐂🌾
Home in Bradley
5 out of 5 average rating, 5 reviewsOak Shores Sleeps 14,Game Room, Hot Tub, Lake Home
We had a great time staying at Nerces family home at the lake. The home was clean and had everything you needed for an enjoyable stay. We would totally stay here again!
Home in San Luis Obispo
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 44 reviewsLayzie Dayzie House | Downtown San Luis Obispo, CA
Cozy house that is very well furnished for a family stay. Really appreciated the kitchen that was fully stocked with cookware and lots of teas and Keurig coffee. Enjoyed the comfortable bed and plentiful high-quality bath towels. Fronts to a main street, but has a back exit into a nice neighborhood for a 15 minute brisk walk to downtown. Great 24-hour donut shop a block away that has savory breakfast pastries too.
Your guide to Big Sur
Introduction
Big Sur is both a tiny town and a vast region located about two and a half hours south of San Francisco, stretching for 90 miles along California’s Central Coast. Here, you can treat yourself to a rejuvenating weekend getaway full of towering redwood trees, breathtaking 360-degree vistas, stunning cliffs at the edge of the Pacific Ocean, and trails for all levels of hikers and cyclists. Take a dip in the Big Sur River at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park before a late lunch in town, or peer through the fog line to catch a glimpse of California condors, a critically endangered species of bird whose wingspan measures up to nine feet. Whether you’re looking for an active retreat or serenity in nature, Big Sur welcomes you.
The best time to stay in a vacation rental in Big Sur
Fans of dramatic fog and moody beaches will appreciate staying in one of Big Sur’s cabins from late fall through the end of winter, when the region is darker and cooler than the rest of the year. Drive with caution in January, when peak rainfall can result in slippery roads and even mudslides. Sun worshipers, fear not—you can experience Big Sur in golden light and comfort during the late spring and summer, when highs are in the upper 70s Fahrenheit. The signature fog will still make an appearance, but the rain and chilly temperatures, not so much.
Top things to do in Big Sur
Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
One visit isn’t enough to fully appreciate the diverse landscapes and activities afforded at this intersection of mountains, forests, river, and ocean. Channel your inner adventurer on the eight-mile Mount Manuel Trail to be rewarded with views of the Santa Lucia Mountains, or enjoy shorter trails that lead to and along the Big Sur River.
McWay Falls
An easy half-mile hike through Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park will lead you to McWay Falls, an 80-foot waterfall that flows year-round. Time your trek right to witness the waterfall splashing directly into the Pacific Ocean at high tide.
Bixby Bridge
Built in 1932, this feat of engineering creates a path between staggering cliffs and allows cars to pass 230 feet above Bixby Creek. There are multiple opportunities to pull over for a clear view of the iconic structure that is often featured in car commercials.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is the weather in Big Sur?
Big Sur's coastal location lends it a moderate climate year-round. Summers are warm, with average highs of around 75°F (24°C), while winters are cooler, with highs typically reaching 59°F (15°C). The area is known for its frequent coastal fog, especially during May and June, which can add a mystical ambiance to your exploration.
What are some of the best things to do in Big Sur?
Big Sur invites you to explore its diverse ecosystem. You can hike through redwood forests, discover hidden beaches, or admire the wildlife at Point Lobos State Reserve. Many travelers also find it rewarding to photograph the iconic Bixby Creek Bridge or to explore the historic Hearst Castle nearby.
What is the best time of year to visit Big Sur?
Spring and fall are often the most popular times to visit Big Sur, thanks to comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds. Local events such as the Big Sur International Marathon in April and the Big Sur Jade Festival in October draw many visitors. Winter offers quieter exploration opportunities, with the annual Gray Whale migration making it a prime time for wildlife watching.
What are the best places to stay in Big Sur?
For those who enjoy being close to nature, accommodations near Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park are often recommended. The areas around Carmel-By-The-Sea and Monterey are also popular due to their proximity to shopping, dining, and tourist attractions. For a more secluded stay, Ventana Big Sur provides houses nestled in the serene wilderness.
What are the best places to visit in Big Sur?
There are many natural wonders to explore in Big Sur. The frequently recommended spots include McWay Falls, a waterfall that plunges directly into the ocean, and Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park with its diverse wildlife and landscapes. For a dose of history, visit the Point Sur Lighthouse or Hearst Castle, located just outside of Big Sur.
What are some hiking trails in Big Sur?
Big Sur has numerous hiking trails for all skill levels. The Pfeiffer Falls Trail is a frequently suggested, easy path through a redwood forest leading to a waterfall. For more experienced hikers, the Ewoldsen Trail circles through diverse landscapes with incredible coastal views. Don't miss the Point Lobos trails, where you can spot seals, sea otters, and birdlife.
What are some family activities to do in Big Sur?
Big Sur provides a host of family-friendly activities. You can explore the tide pools at Point Lobos State Reserve, take a nature walk in Andrew Molera State Park, or visit the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History. Whale watching tours are also popular, providing a unique opportunity to learn about the marine life.
What are some of the best day trip ideas in Big Sur?
Big Sur's prime location allows for a variety of day trips. You can explore the Monterey Bay Aquarium, take a scenic drive along the 17-Mile Drive, or visit the charming town of Carmel-By-The-Sea. For those interested in history, the Hearst Castle is a fascinating site just a short drive away.
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