Big Sur

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See. Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Diverse ecosystem with kelp forests, sea otters, and migrating humpback whales. Partington Cove A ritual for many visitors, offering scenic hikes. Santa Lucia Mountains Dotted with coastal redwoods and waterfalls, offering commanding views. Big Sur River Explore this river and its surrounding natural beauty.

Eat. Nepenthe×2 pubs Enjoy a potent sunset margarita at this iconic spot.

Stay. Post Ranch Inn×2 pubs A singular resort perched on dramatic oceanfront cliffs, blending with nature. Alila Ventana Big Sur×2 pubs An upscale retreat with complimentary minibar, outdoor spa tubs, and daily activities.

AfarAug 10, 2026

Pack the Car—California’s Pacific Coast Is Calling

From redwood-lined cliffs in Mendocino to yacht charters in Newport Beach, California’s 820-mile coastline is a road trip unlike any other. Along the California’s coastline, infinite adventures await.

21 things in this story
  • Post Ranch InnHotelRomantic retreat overlooking the Pacific in Big Sur.
  • Alila Ventana Big SurHotelRetreat among the redwoods in Big Sur.
  • Elsewhere
  • Ferry BuildingFerry terminalSan Francisco, United StatesMarketplace featuring the city's best local purveyors.
  • The DutchieRestaurantMorro Bay, United StatesSeafood spot in Morro Bay.
  • Golden Gate BridgeSightSan Francisco, United StatesOne of the Wonders of the Modern World.
  • Timber Cove ResortHotelJenner, United StatesCozy lodge overlooking the Pacific with modern design.
  • Carmel Beach HotelHotelCarmel-by-the-Sea, United StatesNewer sister property to L'Auberge Carmel.
  • Oracle ParkSightSan Francisco, United StatesAttend a Giants game from March to September.
  • WaterbarRestaurantSan Francisco, United StatesOffers Pacific oysters and a massive wine list.
  • Cavallo PointHotelSausalito, United StatesHistoric lodge offering bay views.
  • Nick's CoveHotelTomales Bay, United StatesCozy hotel with kayaks and a restaurant.
  • Point Reyes National SeashoreNature reservePoint Reyes Station, United StatesOffers beachside hikes and seasonal whale watching.
  • Nicholson HouseGuest houseMendocino, United StatesVictorian-era house serving local cuisine and microbrews.
  • Harbor House InnHotelElk, United StatesInn attracting foodies with a celebrated restaurant.
  • Sea Ranch LodgeHotelSea Ranch, United StatesEco-friendly buildings integrated into the coastline.
  • Fort Ross State Historic ParkSightJenner, United StatesHistoric park near Timber Cove Resort.
  • 17-Mile DriveTrailMonterey, United StatesPicturesque drive on the Monterey Peninsula.
  • Casa PalmeroHotelPebble Beach, United StatesHistoric lodging on the Monterey Peninsula.
  • L'Auberge CarmelHotelCarmel-by-the-Sea, United StatesFive-star hotel in Carmel-by-the-Sea.
  • Grassy Bar Oyster CompanyRestaurantMorro Bay, United StatesSeafood spot in Morro Bay serving oysters.
  • ChamisalRestaurantSan Luis Obispo, United StatesLocated in a tranquil setting just 10 minutes from downtown San Luis Obispo in the beautiful Edna Valley.
Read the full piece at Afar →

Lonely PlanetJul 30

22 best beaches in the US

From the Caribbean to the Pacific Northwest and beyond, Lonely Planet editors have picked the 22 best beaches in the US.

23 things in this storyRead the full piece at Lonely Planet →

Condé Nast TravelerJul 9

The Best Airbnbs Near California's Majestic Big Sur

With towering redwoods and stirring ocean vistas, these properties embody the magic of Big Sur.

26 things in this storyRead the full piece at Condé Nast Traveler →

Condé Nast TravelerJul 6

The Best Hotels in Big Sur for a Relaxing Off-Grid Getaway

Whether you seek an upscale retreat, glamping spot, or refurbished motel, there's a perfect stay for you here.

31 things in this storyRead the full piece at Condé Nast Traveler →

Condé Nast TravelerDec 4, 2025

The 50 Most Beautiful Places in the US

“America the Beautiful,” indeed.

5 things in this story
  • Highway 1HotelIconic American road trip route along the coast.
  • Elsewhere
  • Grand Prismatic SpringSightYellowstone National Park, United StatesLargest hot spring in the US, a rainbow ring of colors.
  • Cades CoveSightGreat Smoky Mountains National Park, United StatesVerdant valley with wildlife viewing opportunities.
  • Angel OakSightCharleston, United StatesOne of the most beautiful places in America.
  • Clay Head PreserveSightBlock Island, United States190-acre nature conservancy with walking paths.
Read the full piece at Condé Nast Traveler →
Ask AI · Big Sur

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