The best places to stay in Big Sur are a little hard to come by, but we’ve got you covered.

Big Sur is one of the most beautiful places in California. It’s also one of the most difficult to get to, and that’s why it’s so special.

It’s not just any old beach town. It’s a place where you can feel at one with nature, and get away from the hustle and bustle of city life. There are plenty of things to do in Big Sur, but if you’re looking for a quiet retreat, this is definitely the place for you.

This post will help you find the Best places to stay in big sur, glen oaks big sur, where to stay in big sur on a budget, and places to stay in big sur glamping.

Places to stay in big sur glamping

If you’re looking for a different kind of vacation, Big Sur is a great place to go. It’s a beautiful area that’s perfect for hiking and camping, but it can also get crowded during the summer months. If you want to go glamping (glamorous camping), we’ve got some great options for you!

Find Places to stay in big sur glamping below;

1) WHALERS COTTAGE – POINT LOBOS BEACHFRONT

This luxury cottage at Point Lobos could not be any closer to the water without being submerged! Just a few steps from Monastery Beach, this two-level location provides pristine views of the Pacific Ocean and comes with all the bells and whistles. Enjoy the sounds of the ocean swells, dare to go diving, or simply enjoy the comforts of your rental property during your stay. Point Lobos is home to several similar rentals (see video below), so if this one is booked you’re sure to find other equivalent options!

Location: Carmel

Price: $655+ per night

Sleeps: 6 people (5 beds/3 BR/2 bath)

2) REJUVENATING OFF-THE-GRID TINY HOUSE

The appeal of this tiny house location, location, location! Sitting on 20 private acres of land, your only neighbor is the property owner (over an eighth of a mile away and totally our of eyesight and earshot). Enjoy the natural surroundings such as a bubbling creek, lavender fields, and serene oak woodlands, or drive roughly an hour to any number of locations from Japanese-style hot springs to the beaches of Big Sur. This is the place for anyone needing to relax, reflect, and enjoy true peace and quiet.

Location: Monterrey County

Price: $170+ per night

Sleeps: 4 people (3 beds/2 BR/1 bath)

3) COZY RUSTIC CABIN RETREAT

This rustic retreat is ideal for a romantic getaway, family vacation, or a solo traveler’s paradise just a short distance from wine tasting in Carmel Valley Village, sweeping views and hiking trails, and mountain views. If you’re lucky, you may even see some local wildlife from the front porch! You’ll feel at home with the comfortable and spacious interior, fully stocked kitchen, appliances, and amenities. This quaint location will have you feeling like you’re in the middle of nowhere while still having easy access to surrounding activities and eateries.

Location: Carmel Valley 

Price: $225 avg. per night

Sleeps: 4 people (1 bed/1 BR/1 bath)

4) VENTANA BIG SUR  

Ventana Big Sur is the absolute peak of glamping in Big Sur, and the five star resort has now added luxury glamping to its impressive list of visitor accommodation offerings. Their range of safari tent styles are plush, stylish and so comfortable, and a stay in one includes access to all the resort amenities, including the swimming pool and on-site restaurants. Stay in a “Redwood Glampsite”, with easy car access, or venture deeper into the wilds of Big Sur and stay in a “Canyon Glampsite” – remote luxury tents accessible only by foot. And their central location just off the main Big Sur highway makes exploring the region so easy and breezy. 

Location: Near Monterey 

Price: $300+ USD per night

5) TREEBONES RESORT

Treebones Resort isn’t just the best luxury glamping destination in Big Sur, but it also has the best range of glamping options on offer. The gorgeous resort, where guests can enjoy a pool, massage services, breakfast and even yoga, has glamping options to suit any budget. From basic campsites with incredible views to plush ocean view yurts to sprawling luxury tents with a private fire pit and deck, Treebones is the place to completely unwind in style in one of California’s most rugged and beautiful locations.

Location: South Big Sur 

Price: $300+ USD per night

6) BEAUTIFUL GLAMPING TENT IN MARINA CA #4

Glamping in Big Sur is still quite a niche offering and therefore not super cheap on average, but this tent offers an affordable glamping experience for Airbnb users. The stylish and comfortable tent is located in Marina Dunes RV Resort, just minutes walk to the beach. You’ll enjoy a private yard with fireplace and BBQ, an on-site clubhouse and many local outdoor activities. Marina is a great California town and a beautiful gateway to Big Sur. Monterey is in close proximity, as is Salinas. 

Location: Marina 

Price: $100+ USD per night 

7) PEACEFUL MOUNTAIN HIDEAWAY IN CARMEL VALLEY 

Location: Carmel Valley 

Price: $200+ USD per night 

Escape with your other half and spend some quality time in California’s majestic Big Sur region at this gorgeous one bedroom tiny house. A step up from tent glamping, the popular Airbnb is on a sprawling woodsy property with incredible views. The rustic yet stylish interiors include all you could possibly need, and outside there’s a deck and a private bathhouse. This is a romantic retreat deep in the stunning Carmel Valley, just a short drive to the beach, leading vineyards and wineries, hiking trails and Big Sur towns like Carmel and Monterey. 

8) FERNWOOD RESORT BIG SUR

If you’re looking for a Big Sur glamping experience with a few quality inclusions thrown in, consider a stay at Fernwood Big Sur. The resort boasts a range of accommodation options, including luxury canvas tents with heating and their own private picnic table and fire pit. Fernwood Resort is the perfect all-rounder if you don’t want to veer too far on your relaxing stay. There’s bathhouses on site, a tavern to dine at, a general store with cafe and a range of local hikes to head out on. The location is also super central to the entire Big Sur region, and just off the main highway. 

Big Sur: 8 Things to do on a Highway 1 Road Trip

Location: Big Sur 

Price: $175+ USD per night

9) LUXURY TENT

Big Sur glamping Airbnbs are popping up left, right and centre, and this particular tent in eco-friendly Saddle Mountain Ranch is a top notch choice. The bright and friendly canvas tent has cozy bedding and a private outdoor area with a fire pit and BBQ. The campground has all the amenities you could need, including a heated pool, hiking trails and a kids playground. The ranch is located just off Carmel Valley Road in the artsy beachfront town of Carmel-by-the-Sea. 

Location: Carmel-by-the-Sea 

Price: $150+ USD per night

10) YURT ON THE FARM

Located just outside the Big Sur town of Salinas, this charming yurt is one of the most popular Airbnb glamping stays. The brand new yurt features a luxury bed, full kitchen, huge deck, an outdoor fire pit and unbeatable views of the surrounding vineyards. There’s a croquet course and hiking trails just a stone’s throw away. Stock up on s’mores and glamping essentials in the towns of Monterey and Carmel, just 40 minutes away. 

Location: Salinas 

Price: $150+ USD per night

11) SADDLE MOUNTAIN RANCH, RV AND CAMPGROUND

Saddle Mountain Ranch is a local icon in Big Sur, and they’ve now added luxury tents to their existing accommodation options, which includes RV sites, basic campsites and cabins. Just a few minutes off Highway 1 on a rambling forested property with hiking trails, the woodsy destination’s glampsites have luxe bedding, a BBQ, outdoor seating and a fire pit. Carmel-By-The-Sea is just five minutes away and Monterey 10 minutes. An affordable Big Sur glamping experience you just have to have. 

Saddle Mountain Ranch RV, Camping and Cabins

Location: Carmel-By-The-Sea 

Price: $125+ USD per night

12) RIPPLEWOOD RESORT 

Ripplewood Resort in Big Sur takes the everyday camping experience to the next level. The rustic property – located just off Highway 1 – features a large number of cabins with their own patio and fire pit. Regardless of which cabin you book, you’re promised an exceptional view. There’s a pool and the Big Sur river winding past, as well as an on-site cafe, grocery store and gas station. There’s really no reason to leave at all, but if you do there’s a range of waterfalls, hikes and coastal lookouts to enjoy in close proximity. 

Cribs: Ripplewood River Cabins in Big Sur

Location: Big Sur 

Price: $200+ USD per night 

13) GAZEBO TENT 

Carmel-by-the-Sea is one of the Big Sur region’s most captivating towns, with a profoundly artistic reputation and jawdropping coastal views. Soak up the vibe of Carmel from this glamping tent, another top offering from Saddle Mountain Ranch. The luxury tent has a cozy bed with an electric blanket and a fine pit with BBQ. It also has valley views to die for. The ranch has a pool and other great features. 

Location: Carmel-by-the-Sea 

Price: $150+ USD per night

Best places to stay in big sur

Big Sur is a majestic place, with beautiful views and a feeling of being at one with nature. It’s a great place to visit no matter what time of year you go, but if you’re looking for some amazing places to stay, we’ve got your back.

To help you find the perfect place for your next trip, we’ve listed some of our favorite spots to stay in Big Sur below:

1. Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

Large portions of the area inland from the Big Sur coastal strip are protected by the Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. When visitors wish to remain in the center of Big Sur, they choose accommodations within of Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. It gives visitors access to the best hiking routes in the area and a genuine sense of oneness with nature.

Being a protected parkland, there is little to no development within Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. The resorts are small and often boutique in style. There are plenty of log cabins and luxury shacks within the Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, which gives a sense of authenticity and wildness to a stay within this beautiful space. Being so off the beaten track, many of the hotels and resorts have invested in making their in-house dining options as delectable as can be.

The best time to visit Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is during the summer months, from April to October.

Good For: Active Travelers, Adventure Travelers, Couples, Families, Groups, Hikers, Nature Lovers, Off-The-Beaten-Track Travelers, Road Trippers

Neighborhood Highlights: Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, 17-Mile Drive, Bixby Creek Bridge McWay Falls, Point Lobos, Pfeiffer Beach, Pfeiffer Ridge, Nepenthe Restaurant, Andrew Molera State Park

Hotel Recommendations:

• Fernwood Resort – Fernwood Resort is one of the most popular hotel options in Big Sur. Offering forest views from every room, Fernwood Resort allows guests to feel immersed in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. There is free parking on site available for all travelers. The accommodation is rustic – some would say basic.
• Ventana Big Sur, An Alila Resort – Ventana Big Sur, An Alila Resort is a superb hotel in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. This adults-only resort offers a luxurious stay from start to finish. The hotel boasts two heated swimming pools and a Japanese hot bath. The resort sits within a secluded 160-acre private estate.
• Lotus Blossom Cabin – For travelers who want to have a truly immersive experience, Lotus Blossom Cabin is the best place to stay in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. Guests have the whole cabin to themselves, including a double bedroom. There is a kitchen, complete with all the utilities and appliances to make proper meals.

2. Carmel-By-The-Sea

The tiny beachside city of Carmel-By-The-Sea is one of the most popular places to stay in Big Sur. Although a destination in its own right, Carmel-By-The-Sea stands at the gateway to Big Sur.

Home to a wealth of art galleries and museums, Carmel-By-The-Sea is a little cultural haven. When you add the beautiful scenery into the mix, you are on to a winner. There is a collection of fairytale-like cottages in Carmel-By-The-Sea that are ever so photogenic. This is a city with a heap of history to explore.

The food culture in Carmel-By-The-Sea is next level. California sets the bar high on the food front and Carmel-By-The-Sea does not disappoint. Foodies travel from far and wide to get a table at coveted L’Auberge Carmel and La Balena.

The beaches that surround Carmel-By-The-Sea are gorgeous. Camel River State Beach is a bird sanctuary too.

Good For: Active Travelers, Beach Bums, Culture Vultures, Couples, Families, Foodies, Hikers, Nature Lovers, Roadtrippers

Neighborhood Highlights: Carmel River State Beach, Point Lobos, 17-Mile Drive, Monterey, Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, Tor House and Hawk Tower, Mission Park Trail, Lone Cypress, Carmel Bay, Carmel Heritage Society, Lovers Point State Marine Reserve, Dawson Cole Fine Art Gallery

Hotel Recommendations:

• Pine Inn – Pine Inn is a very good hotel in Carmel-By-The-Sea. Offering charming decor and a lovely, welcoming atmosphere, Pine Inn is a home away from home in Big Sur. The hotel features classic design elements with modern amenities like WiFi and flat-screen TVs. There is free parking at Pine Inn.
• Briarwood Inn – Briarwood Inn is a cozy little bed and breakfast in Carmel-By-The-Sea. It is just a five-minute walk away from Carmel Beach itself. There is a light, complimentary breakfast included in the room rates and guests are invited to join port and sherry tastings in the evenings.
• Carmel Green Lantern Inn – Carmel Green Lantern Inn is a popular hotel that is set just a four-minute walk from the beach. As a bed and breakfast, Carmel Green Lantern Inn offers a complimentary breakfast to all guests. It is served in buffet style and adds to the great value for money offered by Carmel Green Lantern Inn.

3. Monterey

Based just south of Carmel-By-The-Sea is the coastal city of Monterey. Having provided inspiration for world-renowned author John Steinbeck, Monterey is a charming city. Cannery Row is the street that iconizes Monterey and sits right on the waterfront. Once the site of a bustling sardine canning factory, Cannery Row has been regenerated into a shopping avenue filled with stores selling California’s finest wines, amongst many other things.

Fisherman’s Wharf should be the first port of call for any food-loving travelers heading to Monterey. As a thriving wholesale fish market until the late 1960’s, Fisherman’s Wharf is now home to clam chowder stalls and many other must-visit gems.

For those interested in finding out more about the history of Monterey, take a visit to Colton Hall. Once a government building, Colton Hall now hosts exhibits on the history of Monterey and the surrounding area. The lawns and gardens of Colton Hall are great for a gentle afternoon stroll.

Good For: Active Travelers, Beach Bums, Budding Historians, Culture Vultures, Couples, Families, Foodies, Hikers, Nature Lovers, Roadtrippers

Neighborhood Highlights: Cannery Row, Fisherman’s Wharf, Colton Hall, Old Fisherman’s Wharf, Monterey Bay Coastal Trail, Dai17 Museum, California’s First Theatre, Lovers Point State Marine Reserve, Museum of Monterey, Monterey Mirror Maze, Asilomar State Beach, Point Pinos Lighthouse, Monterey Museum of Art

Hotel Recommendations:

• InterContinental The Clement Monterey – InterContinental The Clement Monterey is one of the most luxurious hotels in Monterey and is located right on Cannery Row. This allows guests to stay within a two-minute walk of the beach. On-demand movies are available in all rooms and a mini bar too.
• Jabberwock Bed & Breakfast – Jabberwock Bed & Breakfast is a superb hotel in the heart of Monterey. Located just a six-minute walk from the beach and a few blocks from famous Cannery Row, Jabberwock Bed & Breakfast is a great place to stay. There are large Victorian beds in all the rooms and some feature a hot tub.
• Monterey Bay Inn – Monterey Bay Inn is a fabulous hotel on Cannery Row. All rooms feature a balcony that offers views either of Cannery Row itself or gorgeous Monterey Bay. There is a coffee machine, cable TV and laptop safe in each and every room. The continental breakfast spread at Monterey Bay Inn is impressive.

4. King City

King City is an off the beaten track location to stay near Big Sur. Set inland from the rugged coast, it is the ideal place to stay for budget-conscious road trippers or backpackers. King City has a lot of history but is a rather sleepy kind of town. There are just 12,000 people living here, and the town has been designed to suit their needs.

King City Shopping Centre is home to all the high street stores and is a great place to stock up on food for the rest of the road trip. San Antonio Park is a great place for a morning run or an afternoon workout. The King City Golf Course is open for non-members. It is a great course that has been landscaped around San Lorenzo Creek.

Set across three buildings, a restored barn, school, and blacksmith shop is the Monterey County Agricultural & Rural Life Museum – a must-visit when in King City.

Good For: Budget Travelers, Off-The-Beaten Track Travelers, Like a Local Travelers, Road Trippers

Neighborhood Highlights: Monterey County Agricultural & Rural Life Museum, Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, King City Golf Course, King City Shopping Centre, Starbucks, San Lorenzo Park, San Antonio Park

Hotel Recommendations:

• Days Inn by Wyndham – The Days Inn by Wyndham offers an outdoor swimming pool and sun deck. The hotel has both suites and double rooms available. Each suite comes with a kitchenette that can be used to prepare basic meals. Days Inn by Wyndham offers a complimentary continental breakfast every day.
• Keefers Inn – Keefers Inn is a cheap and cheerful hotel option in King City. Offering premium amenities like an outdoor swimming pool and a jacuzzi, Keefers Inn is great value for money. There is a 24-hour reception and free parking is available. All rooms feature a coffee machine and a work desk.
• Super 8 by Wyndham – Super 8 by Wyndham can be found on Broadway Circle. An unfussy but well-equipped hotel, Super 8 by Wyndham offers spacious rooms for great rates. There is an outdoor swimming pool with sun terrace and a gas BBQ for guests to use. There is free WiFi and free parking.

5. Cambria

Cambria sits to the south of Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park and is one of the most picturesque villages along the Big Sur coast. There are dozens of quirky things to do in Cambria that make for a memorable stay.

The Nitt Witt Ridge, for example, is a hillside house that sits on a 2.5-acre plot. Although there is no cultural or historical significance to Nitt Witt Ridge, it is an enjoyable place to explore. Guided tours generally leave every hour on the hour and visitors are taken on a tour of the house and grounds. There is a wonderful collection of hand carvings and all sorts of other mix-match artwork made from locally sourced materials.

Aside from Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, Cambria is the gateway to Hearst San Simeon State Park. Both a nature preserve and a cultural heritage site, this is a great place to reconnect with nature and enjoy the great outdoors.

Good For: Active Travelers, Beach Bums, Culture Vultures, Couples, Families, Foodies, Hikers, Nature Lovers, Off-The-Beaten Track Travelers, Road Trippers

Neighborhood Highlights: Nitt Witt Ridge, Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, Hearst San Simeon State Park, Cambria Historical Museum, Moonstone Beach Park, Artefacts Gallery, Leffingwell Landing State Park, Vault Gallery, Harmony Headlands State Park, Harmony Glass Works, Shamel Park

Hotel Recommendations:

• Fogcatcher Inn – Fogcatcher Inn is just a two-minute walk from Moonstone Beach Park. This fabulous hotel is one of the most popular hotels in all of Big Sur. The hotel offers guests use of the outdoor swimming pool and hot tub. The rooms are all inspired by Big Sur and feature a fireplace.
• Fireside Inn on Moonstone Beach – Fireside Inn on Moonstone Beach is a gorgeous hotel that overlooks the ocean. There is a heated outdoor swimming pool and a luxurious hot tub. All rooms feature a fireplace and flat-screen TV. The ensuite bathrooms boast soft bathrobes. There are complimentary cookies upon check-in.
• Little Sur Inn – Little Sur Inn is a superb hotel on Moonstone Beach Drive. The spacious and modern rooms feature a seating area, gas fireplace and a coffee machine. Many rooms offer ocean views and there are complimentary binoculars in these rooms. The breakfast at Little Sur Inn is a great start to the day.

6. San Simeon

San Simeon is the southernmost town along the Big Sur coastline. Some may say that San Simeon saves the best until last, and it is a fair statement. One of the most popular things to do in San Simeon is to go elephant seal watching. The village is home to the only elephant seal rookery in the world. This amazing little sanctuary is free to enter every day of the year and sightings are almost guaranteed.

Hearst Castle is a man-made, must-visit spot in San Simeon. Built with the vision of George Hearst, a wealthy miner, Hearst Castle is open for tours daily. Visitors can explore the grand rooms, the cottages and kitchen, as well as the gardens. The evening tour is one of the most popular options as the twilight makes the castle look even more beautiful.

Piedras Blancas Light Station is an off the beaten track destination in San Simeon and is not to be missed.

Good For: Active Travelers, Beach Bums, Budding Historians, Culture Vultures, Couples, Families, Hikers, Nature Lovers, Off-The-Beaten Track Travelers, Road Trippers

Neighborhood Highlights: San Simeon Elephant Seal Sanctuary, Hearst Castle, Neptune Pool, William Randolph Hearst Memorial State Beach, Piedras Blancas Light Station, Arroyo Laguna State Beach

Hotel Recommendations:

• San Simeon Lodge – San Simeon Lodge is a good hotel on Castillo Drive. Offering guests use of the heated outdoor swimming pool and sun terrace with deck chairs, San Simeon Lodge is great value for money. All rooms have a coffee machine, fridge and a TV with cable channels. Parking is available.
• Cavalier Oceanfront Resort – Cavalier Oceanfront Resort is a well-equipped hotel that overlooks the Pacific Ocean. Guests have all the facilities they could ask for and more. They can work out in the fitness room or take a dip in one of two swimming pools. Each room features a minibar and a gourmet coffee machine.
• The Morgan at San Simeon – The Morgan at San Simeon can be found on Hearst Drive and is a boutique hotel, ideal for couples. All the must-visit attractions in San Simeon are close by and the staff are happy to help with travel plans. There is an outdoor swimming pool and sun terrace at The Morgan.

Glen oaks big sur

If you’re looking for a secluded vacation spot, Glen Oaks Big Sur is the perfect fit.

This glen is located in Big Sur, California and offers easy access to the coast and redwood forests. It’s also only an hour from San Francisco and Monterey. The area has been used by humans since prehistoric times, but it wasn’t until the early 20th century that it became a popular tourist destination.

The glen offers lots of options for enjoying the outdoors including hiking trails and scenic drives. If you’re looking to explore the forest more closely, there are also spots where you can go birdwatching or look for bears! There are also plenty of spots to enjoy nature without getting too close; there are great spots for stargazing at nightfall if that’s something you’re interested in doing while visiting this area.

If you’re looking for a romantic getaway with your significant other or just want some time away from reality, Glen Oaks Big Sur is a great place!

Glen Oaks is a small village with a population of around 5,000 and just over 30 miles from Los Angeles. It’s known for its location on the coast, which allows residents to enjoy the beach without having to travel far. Glen Oaks is also close to the Big Sur Trail, which provides an opportunity for hiking and biking enthusiasts to explore their surroundings.

The Glen Oaks community has many attractions that are open year-round, including golf courses, museums, shopping centers and restaurants. The area also offers many parks and recreation areas where residents can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking or fishing.

The city is home to several schools including Glen Oaks Elementary School which serves grades K-6; Pacifica High School which serves grades 7-12; as well as two private schools: St. John Bosco High School and St. Joseph High School (which also has an elementary school).

Where to stay in big sur on a budget

If you’re looking to visit Big Sur but are on a budget, there are a few things you can do to make it work.

First, know that the most expensive part of your trip is going to be lodging. Big Sur has some of the most expensive hotel rooms in California. If you want to stay somewhere relatively affordable, then consider staying outside of Big Sur and driving in every day. You’ll save a lot on gas and parking fees (which can add up quickly if you’re staying in the heart of town).

Second, know that there are lots of options for camping in Big Sur. You can find sites for as little as $30 per night and as much as $200 per night—but most are somewhere around $50 per night. If you’re willing to camp out under the stars in a tent or take advantage of one of the many campgrounds with cabins or yurts available, then camping could be a great way to save money on lodging while still getting access to all the amazing sights and sounds of this beautiful area!

One of the best ways to get a cheap stay in Big Sur is to book your room through Airbnb. You can find something from $30/night or less, and if you’re lucky, there are some great deals on entire homes.

Another option is to stay in one of the many campgrounds in the area. You can get an RV campsite for around $20/night or a tent site for as little as $10/night. If you don’t want to go all-in with an RV or tent, you can also find cabins for around $40/night.

We hope you’ve found this post helpful in your search for the perfect spot to stay while you’re in Big Sur! With so many options and so much to do, you’re sure to find the right one for your next trip. Book now, and don’t forget to pack those hiking shoes!