Looking for the best hotels in Big Sur? This stunning stretch of California’s central coast is a dream destination for many—especially those who love cruising along Highway 1’s dramatic cliffs with endless ocean views. But the scenery is just the beginning: Big Sur is famous for its secluded campgrounds, world-class hiking, and incredible farm-to-table dining (don’t miss Chez Noir or Nepthene).
Whether you’re after a luxurious five-star escape in Big Sur’s famous fog or a cozy retreat among towering redwoods, Vogue has you covered with top hotel picks. Here are the best places to stay—now cue the Big Little Lies soundtrack.
### Post Ranch Inn
Post Ranch Inn isn’t just one of Big Sur’s best hotels—it’s one of the best in the country. Recently awarded three Michelin keys (the highest hospitality honor), it’s easy to see why. Designed by modernist architect Mickey Muennig, the hotel blends seamlessly into the cliffs above the Pacific. Some mornings, you’ll wake up to find your room wrapped in fog (if you choose an ocean-view suite—their treehouses are nestled among redwoods). The on-site restaurant, Sierra Mar, serves exceptional farm-to-table cuisine (this is, after all, where the concept was born). Romantic and unforgettable, it’s perfect for couples or special occasions.
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### Alila Ventana Big Sur
If “glamping” had a dictionary definition, Alila Ventana Big Sur would be the picture. Set across 40 wild acres in a redwood canyon, this hotel and tented camp offers hiking trails, Japanese hot baths, and two pools—so much that you might not want to leave. (Though the breathtaking beauty of Big Sur right outside is worth exploring.)
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### Deetjen’s Big Sur Inn
Deetjen’s is charmingly rustic. Built in 1937 by Helmuth and Helen Deetjen, the historic cabins—tucked among creeks and redwoods—are now on the National Register of Historic Places. The vibe is simple and serene: no cell service, Wi-Fi, or TVs (though many rooms have wood-burning stoves). It’s a favorite retreat for artists seeking quiet inspiration. Don’t miss their famous breakfast—order the buttermilk pancakes or breakfast burrito.
### La Playa Hotel
For a stay in town, La Playa Hotel in Carmel-by-the-Sea is a perfect choice. Originally a mansion owned by an artist and his wife (a Ghirardelli chocolate heiress), it recently reopened after a $20 million renovation by Post Company. The rooms feel like a stylish yet relaxed beach house, many with ocean views. The moody, eclectic lobby—with floral carpets, nude statues, and Spanish architecture—hints at its glamorous past, while Bud’s Bar is the kind of place where hours slip away. Outside, lush gardens and a pool invite relaxation, and the beach is just a short walk away.
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