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Big Sur is one of California’s most breathtaking stretches of coastline — where rugged cliffs meet turquoise waves and redwood forests frame the iconic Highway 1. Whether you’re planning a family road trip, a romantic escape, or a weekend adventure with friends, choosing the right place to stay can truly shape your experience.
After exploring Big Sur multiple times (and falling in love every single visit), I’ve curated a list of the best places to stay in Big Sur — from cozy, budget-friendly campgrounds to luxurious retreats with once-in-a-lifetime views.
This 90-mile stretch of wild coastline is pure magic — where towering redwoods meet dramatic cliffs, and waterfalls tumble straight into the Pacific. No matter how many times you visit, Big Sur always feels like discovering California for the first time.
Budget-Friendly and affordable Big Sur Stays and Campgrounds
You’ll find affordable places to stay in Big Sur California by looking beyond luxury resorts. Hidden gems deliver authentic experiences that won’t break the bank. So, If you’re traveling on a budget or love the idea of waking up surrounded by redwoods, these spots offer great value and plenty of charm.
Big Sur Campground & Cabins: Family-friendly camping
A peaceful, family-friendly spot nestled among redwoods along the Big Sur River. You can bring your own tent or rent one of their cozy cabins.
If you’re looking for a peaceful spot to stay in Big Sur, this place is such a gem! 🌲 It’s tucked among majestic redwoods along the beautiful Big Sur River, and it’s perfect for families — you can swim, float down the river in an inner tube, or just relax under the trees. I also love that they have quiet hours from 10 pm to 8 am, so you actually get to enjoy the sounds of nature (and some solid sleep 😴). The rooms are super comfy with private bathrooms, terraces, and amazing mountain or river views. Oh, and it’s spotless — 9.3 for cleanliness and 9.4 for location!
📍47000 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920
💡 Why stay here: Great balance of comfort and nature.
Riverside Campground: Pet-friendly and peaceful
Another riverside gem! 🌲 This spot is perfect if you’re traveling with your furry friend — it’s actually the only campground in Big Sur that allows pets in the cabins! The property sits on 16 acres of redwood forest with RV sites, tent camping, and 12 cozy cabins right by the river. You’ll find all the little comforts — free WiFi, hot showers, and even morning coffee. And I love that they have a weather guarantee, so you don’t have to stress if rain shows up. It’s the kind of peaceful nature reset everyone needs. ☕🐾
📍47020 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920
💡 Insider tip: Bring water shoes — you’ll want to wade in the river!
Ripplewood Resort: Affordable with amenities
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly stay in Big Sur, Ripplewood Resort is such a hidden gem. 💛 Cabins start around $135, and some sit right along the Big Sur River while others have gorgeous forest or mountain views. Each one comes with all the basics — housekeeping, bathroom essentials, and even free firewood if you snag one with a cozy indoor fireplace. Perfect for a quiet night under the redwoods. 🌲🔥
Fernwood Resort: Glamping and live music
If you want that classic Big Sur experience without spending a fortune, Fernwood Resort is such a great pick. 🌲 It’s tucked among the redwoods along the Big Sur River and has a little bit of everything — cozy rooms, rustic cabins, glamping tents, and even campsites. There’s live music most Saturday nights, and during the summer, you can cool off in the natural swimming hole just steps from camp. 🎶💦
It’s perfect for families or groups who want comfort with a laid-back vibe. Plus, there’s a small general store, an on-site restaurant, and an awesome community feel that makes it hard to leave.
📍47200 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920
💡 Tip: Book early if you want a cabin — they go fast, especially in summer!
Tips for saving on Big Sur lodging
Staying in Carmel-by-the-Sea, 45 minutes away, cuts costs by half compared to Big Sur properties. Campground spots fill up six months ahead, so book early. The best deals come from state parks and Forest Service campgrounds, where you’ll find sites for $15 nightly.
Mid-Range Lodges and Cozy Cabins
These mid-range places to stay in Big Sur, California blend charm and comfort at better prices than luxury options.
Big Sur Lodge: Comfort in Pfeiffer State Park
Big Sur Lodge is tucked right inside Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, surrounded by towering redwoods and endless hiking trails — basically, a dream for nature lovers. 🌲 The 62 cottage-style rooms have a cozy, rustic charm, each with easy access to the property’s pool and forest paths.
When you book directly, you also get free entry to Julia Pfeiffer Burns, Andrew Molera, and Pfeiffer Big Sur State Parks — a huge bonus if you plan to explore more of the coast. While the décor might feel a bit old-school, guests love the homey feel, crackling fireplaces, and the on-site restaurant that serves local California cuisine.
If you’re looking for simple comforts and unbeatable access to Big Sur’s trails, this lodge is a gem worth checking out. ✨
Glen Oaks Big Sur: Rustic-modern charm
Glen Oaks Big Sur started as a simple motor lodge in 1957 and has since transformed into a chic retreat with a rustic-modern vibe and eco-conscious design. 🌿 You can choose from 16 Adobe Motor Lodge rooms with cozy gas fireplaces, 16 cottage-style units with kitchens or kitchenettes, or even a two-bedroom house — perfect for families or groups.
Travel + Leisure even named it one of the “World’s Most Romantic Hotels”. Guests rave about the environmentally friendly touches, from recycled stone and bamboo to organic cotton bedding and Pendleton wool blankets. The private redwood grove trails and Big Sur River access are perfect for unwinding in nature, complete with Adirondack chairs for ultimate relaxation.
A night here ranges from $300–$800, and it’s ideal for travelers seeking style, comfort, and a true Big Sur experience surrounded by towering redwoods. ✨
📍47080 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920
💡 Best for: Design lovers who want comfort in nature.
Big Sur River Inn: Historic riverside stay
Big Sur River Inn is more than just a place to stay — it’s a full Big Sur experience. 🌲🏞️ Start your day with a meal by the river, then kick back in one of their famous Adirondack chairs — yes, right in the water!
This 88-year-old riverside gem began as the Apple Pie Inn in 1934 and now offers 20 rustic rooms tucked among towering redwoods. The historic dining room serves up classic meals with the river as your backdrop, or you can pack a picnic and enjoy the scenery up close.
Rooms range from $175–$495 per night, giving you incredible Big Sur charm and a true taste of local flavor without breaking the bank. Perfect for families, couples, or anyone wanting that iconic riverside escape. ✨
📍46800 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920
💡 Perfect for: Families and couples looking for that Big Sur charm close to Highway 1.
Deetjen’s Big Sur Inn: Vintage Big Sur experience
You have to check out Deetjen’s Inn — it’s historic, cozy, and just full of soul. Every room feels totally unique, like stepping back in time surrounded by the forest. 🌲✨
This Big Sur gem was crafted by Helmuth “Grandpa” Deetjen and his wife Helen between 1936 and 1961, and it’s even on the National Register of Historic Places. True to its roots, it’s unplugged — no TVs, phones, WiFi, or cell service — so you really get to relax and soak in the Big Sur vibe.
The property has charming spots like the Hayloft Hostel, Castro Cabin, and Creek House. Prices range from $110 for hostel-style rooms with shared bathrooms to $435 for private cabins. It’s the perfect spot to disconnect, unwind, and experience Big Sur the way travelers did long ago.
📍48865 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920
💡 Stay here if: You love vintage charm and storybook vibes.
The Camp at Carmel Valley
Just a short drive north of Big Sur, this spot offers a laid-back, nostalgic summer camp vibe. You can book rustic cabins or bring your own RV.
📍20805 Cachagua Rd, Carmel Valley, CA 93924
💡 Best for: Groups, families, and anyone who loves open space and outdoor fun.
Unique and Secluded Retreats
Big Sur, California has some extraordinary places to stay that go beyond regular hotels and motels. These spots give adventure seekers a chance to experience something truly special.
Treebones Resort: Yurts and eco-luxury
If you’re looking for something completely unique in Big Sur, you have to check out Treebones Resort. 🌊✨ Famous for its ocean-view yurts, glamping tents, and even a human-sized nest, it’s an off-the-grid experience that still feels super comfy.
Perched on a cliff with stunning Pacific Ocean views, the yurts come with cozy beds, hot water, and spacious decks with Adirondack chairs — perfect for soaking in the scenery. For something extra special, try the 500-square-foot autonomous tent with a king bed, gas fireplace, and outdoor fire pit.
It’s eco-luxury at its best, completely self-sufficient, and honestly unforgettable. Pro tip: book 11-12 months ahead because spots go fast!
📍71895 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920
💡 Don’t miss: Their on-site sushi bar and incredible sunset views.
New Camaldoli Hermitage: Quiet spiritual escape
This Benedictine monastery welcomes everyone looking for peace and quiet. Each room has a private bathroom and a porch with beautiful ocean views. The monks gather four times daily to pray, and certain areas remain silent. Guests eat their meals alone, while the kitchen stays stocked with cereals, fruits, and fresh dishes.
Lucia Lodge: Remote cliffside cabins
Perched on a cliff overlooking the Pacific, this small family-run lodge offers unbeatable ocean views and a quiet, peaceful atmosphere.
This historic resort stands 300 feet above the ocean with 10 modernized cabins. A pioneer family built the property in the 1930s. The resort has four standalone cabins near the cliff edge. The “honeymoon cottage” stands out with its breathtaking views.
📍62400 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920
💡 Fun fact: It’s been in the same family for generations!
Sykes Camp: Backpacking to hot springs
The challenging Pine Ridge Trail leads to Sykes Camp and its natural hot springs after 19.7 miles. Hikers climb 5,442 feet in elevation on this 11-13 hour journey. Campfires aren’t allowed as of August 2025, but you can use stoves with a free permit.
Luxury Resorts Stays in Big Sur with Iconic Views
If you’re looking for an unforgettable stay — where ocean views, world-class dining, and spa-worthy comfort meet — Big Sur’s luxury stays are worth every penny.
Post Ranch Inn: Cliffside elegance
Okay, if you’re dreaming of the ultimate Big Sur getaway, let me tell you about Post Ranch Inn. Perched 1,200 feet above the Pacific, this adults-only spot isn’t just a hotel—it’s basically a soul reset. Imagine rustic elegance meeting jaw-dropping nature views across just 40 rooms and private homes. No wonder it earned a Three-Key rating in the MICHELIN Guide—only 11 hotels in the U.S. have that!
The architecture is next-level. Think sophisticated treehouse vibes made from reclaimed wood, steel, and stone, all blending perfectly with the cliffs. The Cliff House is my personal favorite—inside is stunning, and the private deck with a soaking tub? Pure magic, especially with those Pacific Ocean views.
And if you’re a foodie (or just like pretending to be one), Sierra Mar restaurant will blow your mind—epic ocean vistas, inspired dishes, and a wine list that actually won the Wine Spectator Grand Award. Honestly, it’s the kind of place that makes you want to slow down, soak it all in, and never leave.
📍47900 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920
💡 For couples: This is the ultimate romantic escape.
Alila Ventana Big Sur: Forest luxury
f you’re looking for a place that feels like a little slice of heaven, this resort is it. Spread over 160 gorgeous acres, it’s where the sky, sea, mountains, and redwoods all somehow meet—totally magical. The vibe stays super peaceful since rooms are only for two guests max, so it never feels crowded.
There are 54 secluded suites, most with cozy wood-burning fireplaces and private hot tubs (yes, please!). The best part? It’s all-inclusive. That means meals, drinks, wellness classes, and curated experiences are all covered. You can join mindful movement sessions, lounge by serene pools, or wander into secret forest nooks.
Basically, it’s luxury glamping at its finest—think infinity pools, world-class dining, and dreamy tents all tucked into the redwoods with the ocean as your backdrop. Total indulgence, zero stress.
📍48123 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920
💡 Perfect for: Romantic getaways and milestone celebrations.
Hyatt Carmel Highlands: Oceanfront comfort
If you want ocean views without sacrificing comfort, check out Hyatt Carmel Highlands at 25136 California 1, Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93923. This four-star gem sits right above the Big Sur coast and feels like a peaceful retreat, complete with cozy rooms, a fitness center, pool, and spa services.
All 142 rooms are thoughtfully designed—fireplaces, premium bedding, and even laptop-friendly workspaces if you need a little work-cation. And the Pacific’s Edge restaurant? Breakfast and lunch with jaw-dropping ocean views. Plus, you’re just a short drive from spots like Point Lobos State Natural Reserve and Carmel Beach, so adventure is never far away.
🌅 Final Thoughts
Whether you’re sleeping under redwoods or soaking in a hot tub overlooking the ocean, Big Sur has something for everyone. Each stay offers its own kind of magic — so it really depends on the vibe you’re going for.
✨ Before you book, make sure to check availability early — spots fill up quickly, especially in spring and summer!
If you’re planning a California adventure, follow @RealWorldMami for more local travel tips, hidden gems, and family-friendly itineraries.
Conclusion
Big Sur’s breathtaking coastline has amazing places to stay that fit any budget or style. My multiple trips to this magnificent coastal region taught me how the right place to stay can boost your whole experience of this natural paradise.
You’ll find luxury spots like Post Ranch Inn with its cliffside elegance, or Alila Ventana Big Sur’s all-inclusive forest retreat. The rustic-modern charm of Glen Oaks or Big Sur River Inn’s historic riverside setting works great for mid-range budgets.
Without doubt, budget travelers have great choices too. Family-friendly campgrounds and affordable cabins deliver that classic Big Sur experience. On top of that, you can find unique stays like yurt glamping at Treebones, peaceful retreats at New Camaldoli Hermitage, or backpacking to hidden hot springs.
Big Sur’s magic comes from more than just its dramatic coastline meeting mountains. Your choice of where to stay becomes part of your story. The experience differs completely between falling asleep to ocean waves in a luxury suite and waking up surrounded by towering redwoods in a tent.
Think over what matters most to you before planning your trip. You might want easy access to hiking trails, ocean views, a relaxed riverside spot, or maybe even total seclusion. Note that the most popular places fill up fast, especially during peak seasons.
The time you spend finding your perfect match in Big Sur pays off big time. Nothing beats soaking in a cliffside hot tub at sunset or enjoying morning coffee by the Big Sur River as fog lifts through the redwoods. These moments stick with you long after you’re back home.
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