Big Sur has been a dream destination long before Big Little Lies and its cast of suburban moms with a knack for accidental murder came along. The California coast truly has it all: endless scenic highways perfect for road trips, breathtaking cliffside views for photographers, and plenty of hiking and swimming spots for adventure seekers. If you’re planning a West Coast getaway—or just need that final push to make it happen—why not start by booking your stay? From charming cottages to stunning stone mansions, the best Airbnbs in Big Sur offer the perfect home base.
Vogue’s Guide to the Best Airbnbs in Big Sur:
– For Architectural Drama: Chameleon House, from $368/night
– For a Treetop Oasis: Peaceful Treehouse with Ocean View, from $568/night
– For Panoramic Ocean Views: Big Sur Stone House, from $1,084/night
– For a Unique Home: Big Sur Dream Home, from $673/night
– For a Cozy Stay: The Seaside Cottage, from $293/night
– For Mediterranean Charm: The Olive House, from $392/night
From Carmel and Monterey to more secluded spots, we’ve found 10 vacation rentals worth adding to your wishlist. Our top picks include a mid-century treehouse straight out of the 1960s, a Spanish-inspired villa set in an olive grove, and a sprawling cliffside property with sweeping Pacific views. Read on to find the perfect one for your West Coast adventure.
Peaceful Treehouse with Ocean View
Courtesy of Airbnb
Escape to your own adult treehouse. Every detail here radiates mid-century charm, from the wood-framed floor-to-ceiling windows to the clean-lined furniture. It sleeps up to eight people—or nine if someone doesn’t mind the outdoor hammock—and is just minutes from Nicene Marks Redwood Forest State Park, ideal for nature-loving groups.
– Rooms: 3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom
– Amenities: Washer, dryer, TV, coffee maker, shared beach access, outdoor furniture, balcony, hammock, beach essentials, parking
– Location: Aptos
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The Seaside Cottage
Courtesy of Airbnb
For a cozier stay in a more central coastal location, book this charming cottage. It was redesigned by a local designer with help from artisans, featuring unique touches and even some designer pieces—like the Mario Bellini cream leather sofa in the living room. French doors open to a backyard, perfect for dinners and drinks at home.
– Rooms: 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom
– Amenities: Bathtub, washer, dryer, TV, Bluetooth sound system, travel crib, high chair, board games, indoor fireplace, coffee maker, barbecue tools, patio, backyard, outdoor furniture, grill, beach essentials, pet-friendly
– Location: Seaside
– BOOK NOW
Big Sur Dream Home
Courtesy of Airbnb
With curved walls, exposed beams, and windows on nearly every side, this is one of Big Sur’s most unique rentals. Surrounded by redwoods and oaks, it’s a secluded retreat for travelers seeking peace and immersion in nature. Spend your evenings stargazing from the hot tub—don’t forget your binoculars!
– Rooms: 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom
– Amenities: TV, Bluetooth sound system, indoor fireplace, coffee maker, barbecue tools, patio, outdoor furniture, loungers, grill, hot tub
– Location: Carmel-by-the-Sea
– BOOK NOW
The Olive House
Courtesy of Airbnb
Set on a 20-acre working olive farm in Paso Robles, this beautiful villa offers rolling views of hills and vineyards, with the coast still within easy reach. The home features terracotta and mosaic tiles throughout, and the air is filled with the scent of lavender and lemons—a bonus of staying on an agricultural estate.
– Rooms: 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms
– Amenities: Bathtub, washer, dryer, TV, Bluetooth sound system, air conditioning, indoor fireplace, coffee maker, barbecue tools, terrace, backyard, outdoor furniture, grill, EV charger, pet-friendly
– Location: Paso Robles
– BOOK NOW
Big Sur Stone House
Courtesy of Airbnb
If, when you think of Big Sur, you imagine…Imagine a grand cliffside mansion with breathtaking ocean views—this vacation rental is for you. It offers plenty of space for a large group, and the Pacific backdrop creates the perfect setting for celebrations like bachelorette parties or birthday trips. Inside, luxurious touches like heated floors add to the appeal.
Rooms: 3 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms
Amenities: Bathtub, outdoor furniture, outdoor shower, washer, dryer, HDTV, Bluetooth sound system, travel crib, indoor fireplace, board games, coffee maker, shared beach access, fire pit, hammock, beach essentials, loungers, hot tub, pet-friendly
Location: Big Sur
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Carmel Large Guesthouse
Courtesy of Airbnb
Compact and cozy, this cheerful one-bedroom is close to downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea and the beach. With a small kitchenette, it’s ideal for a couple planning to explore nearby restaurants and shops. For a relaxed morning, brew fresh coffee to enjoy on the balcony.
Rooms: 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom
Amenities: TV, coffee maker, balcony, workout equipment
Location: Carmel-by-the-Sea
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Grand Oak Cottage
Courtesy of Airbnb
This cottage looks like it’s straight out of a fairytale—nestled under a large oak tree, with chickens roaming the property and a creek running alongside. A cozy fireplace and spacious kitchen make it perfect for chilly evenings indoors.
Rooms: 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom
Amenities: TV, indoor fireplace, backyard, terrace, coffee maker
Location: San Luis Obispo
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Carmel by the Sea Rustic Retreat
Courtesy of Airbnb
At 400 square feet, this studio is just right for a couple. Despite its small size, it’s full of charm, featuring an antique claw-foot tub, treetop views, and a beautiful stone fireplace. The beach is also nearby if you want to explore.
Rooms: Studio
Amenities: Bathtub, indoor fireplace, coffee maker, fire pit, outdoor furniture, patio
Location: Carmel-By-The-Sea
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Chameleon House
Courtesy of Airbnb
Architecture lovers will appreciate this modern concrete home, set among oak trees for ultimate peace and quiet. Surrounded by olive trees and lush plants, with occasional deer visitors, it features floor-to-ceiling glass doors that open to the outdoors for seamless indoor-outdoor living.
Rooms: 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom
Amenities: TV, indoor fireplace, grill, outdoor furniture, patio
Location: Carmel Valley Village
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Pacific Horizons
Courtesy of Airbnb
Families will love this spacious rental, especially its child-friendly amenities like baby safety gates and a travel crib. There’s plenty of room to relax, including a front deck with a fire pit for cooler evenings. For adventure, Point Lobos Nature Preserve—a hiking trail with stunning water views—is just a two-minute drive away.
Rooms: 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms
Amenities: Bathtub, washer, dryer, mosquito net, HDTV, sound system, travel crib, high chair, board games, indoor fireplace, coffee maker, barbecue utensils, fire pit, outdoor furniture, patio, grill, beach essentials, hot tub, cleaning available during stay
Location: Carmel-By-The-Sea
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Frequently Asked Questions
Of course Here is a list of helpful and naturalsounding FAQs about the top Airbnbs in Big Sur for a road trip
General Planning Questions
Q Why should I stay in an Airbnb in Big Sur instead of a hotel
A Airbnbs often offer unique secluded properties with stunning private views of the coastline or redwood forests that you cant get at a standard hotel making your road trip stop more memorable
Q When is the best time to book an Airbnb in Big Sur for a road trip
A Book as far in advance as possible ideally 36 months ahead especially for summer and fall The most soughtafter properties get booked up extremely quickly
Q Are Big Sur Airbnbs petfriendly
A Some are but its not the norm You must carefully check each listings House Rules section Never assume a property allows pets unless its explicitly stated
Q Whats the average price per night for a top Airbnb in Big Sur
A Prices vary widely but expect to pay anywhere from 300 to over 1000 per night for premium properties with iconic views and high demand
Q Is cell service and WiFi reliable in Big Sur
A Cell service is very spotty throughout Big Sur Many Airbnbs provide WiFi but it can be slow or satellitebased Always plan to download driving directions and checkin instructions offline beforehand
Booking Logistics
Q What are the checkin and checkout times usually like
A They are often stricter than hotels with checkin around 400 PM and checkout around 1100 AM This allows hosts ample time to clean and prepare the remote property for the next guests
Q Do I need a 4×4 vehicle to get to these Airbnbs
A It depends entirely on the specific property Some are right off Highway 1 while others are down long steep unpaved driveways Always read the listing description and reviews to see if guests mention needing a 4WD vehicle
Q Whats the cancellation policy like
A Policies vary but many top properties have strict cancellation policies due to their high demand Always review the policy before booking and consider travel insurance