Travel Guide: A Weekend in Big Sur

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Have you ever been to Big Sur? One word: MAGICAL. During our most recent trip we stayed at Ventana (see a full review on this post). Below I’ve put together some of our favorite stops, the one thing you CANNOT forget, and some tips for making the trek if you’re coming from Los Angeles.

First off, if you're planning to rent a car definitely do some research! Apparently car rental companies don't want you to rent a car in location A and return it to location B so they impose really ridiculous fees (I mean, like airplane flight $$) so it takes some calls and what not to get a deal. We booked our "silver stallion" aka a silver Toyota Corolla through AVIS.

DON'T FORGET:

There's very limited cell service in Big Sur; even the resorts have very spotty wifi or none at all.  Don't forget to:

• Save your maps offline (psst... here is the google map of the above)

• Download music to your phone/offline playlists ; this is game changer, especially because there's a lot of driving involved with a trip like this and the radio doesn't work

Glamping at Ventana, Big Sur

Where to Stay

• Ventana: see my full review of the property here for both the glamping and hotel stays

• Treebones Resort: While they do have regular camp grounds, the Yurts are the main attraction at Treebones. Think "glamping". Each Yurt is fully equipped with heater, sink, and a wine opener. (the important things!) Bathrooms are communal up by the lodge, so bring shower flip-flops. Almost every yurt has a view of the ocean; the scenery is nuts! One thing to note is that it’s pretty far from the main Big Sur area where other restaurants and activities are located.

eats

• Big Sur River Inn: a beautiful outdoor restaurant that is right on the Big Sur river. It's at the northern most point of Big Sur, so if you happen to be traveling in from SF it's a great first top. We did dinner here: the pesto pasta and burger were delicious!

• Big Sur bakery: definitely the best brunch spot in town. If you're not grabbing brunch just stop by for pastries and a coffee!

• Nepenthe: This is by far the most beautiful spot we dined at all weekend. You'll be instantly transported to the Amalfi coast or somewhere in Italy. Expect a wait but I promise it's totally worth it. I highly recommend the burger - it’s what they are known for and will not disapoint.

• Madonna inn: if you happen to be driving all the way back to LA then make sure to stop at the Madonna Inn to a) check out the property and b) eat at the restaurant. It's so quirky and fun!

I always like to remind friends that in Big Sur you’re paying a premium for the location. Expect even the basic things to be much more expensive than they are at home; we’re talking $6 gas and $20 burgers!

Glamping views at Ventana

sites to see

• Lovers point: gorgeous park and lookout point in Monterey. This is definitely a stop only if you're coming from SF, and although 15 minutes out of the way, the views are so stunning!

• Pfieffer state beach - not to be confused with the 2 other Pfieffer locations, this is the spot that actually allows you to lay on the beach and play in the water. All the rest are only lookout points high above the water!

• Julia pfieffer burns state park - the Mcway waterfall is located within this park as well as a few great hiking trails. It's $10 park in the park itself, so you could park on the highway and walk which many people ended up doing.

• Elephant seals a little wildlife action on the way back to LA. There are 100s of elephant seals hanging on the beach, mating, fighting, napping... it's fun!

Poolside at Ventana Big Sur

The stunning views combined with total relaxation is what makes Big Sur such a great spot. There's nothing like being entirely off the grid for a weekend surrounded by some of natures most beautiful things. And now you know why I can't wait to go back!

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More adventures right this way