Jean Carroll
We research, evaluate and select travel destinations based on a number of factors, including our writers’ experience, user reviews and more. It’s where rolling mountain ridges, crashing ocean waves, and lofty redwood trees come together in effortless beauty — away from the typical crowds of California cities.
It’s also a great place to find luxury cabin rentals that boast hotel-level amenities while immersed in a natural wonderland.
Taking a drive up and down famous Highway 1 along the Pacific Coast is an obligatory experience you won’t soon forget. If you’re ready to disconnect and venture where the cell service is weak, here are our favorite cabin rentals, cottages, and Airbnbs near Big Sur, California! The open floor plan draws everyone in from the gourmet kitchen, dining area, and cozy living room to foster an intimate sense of togetherness.
Aside from the luxury three bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms inside, there’s also a detached studio you can add to your booking for an additional fee. Step outside and enjoy the home’s fire pit circle for twelve, the Jack and Jill copper soak tubs, the wine barrel dry sauna, yoga area, and outdoor shower. Why you should stay: Secluded wooden home with a unique architectural structure, a yurt bedroom, and a private hot tub and fireplace.
The home is beautifully framed in gleaming wood, while tall panes of glass brighten and open up the space.
Located just a ten-minute drive from Garrapata Beach, this property places you in the peace of surrounding redwoods, oaks, and mountain ridges. Designed by the area’s well-known Alan Turpen, this three-bedroom, three-bathroom home is warm and inviting.
Exposed beams and shining wooden panels cover the walls and the ceilings, and the expansive wraparound deck is a dream. If the fantastic views don’t immediately sell you on this Big Sur rental, the nearby hiking trails, swimming pool, and spa will. Why you should stay: Accommodate a large group and marvel at stunning coastal views from a luxurious Big Sur cabin. The masterfully designed property was featured in Architectural Digest, and has appeared in films and TV shows — like Basic Instinct and Big Little Lies. Inside this 12,000 square foot coastal mansion you’ll find luxurious furnishings, high-end appliances, and all the expected amenities of a world-class vacation rental — plus a fitness center with Scandinavian dry sauna. Why you should stay: Sleep oceanside on the Carmel coast while surrounded by fragrant gardens and spectacular views.
There are two-bedrooms and two-bathrooms for up to six guests, with each room hosting a king and a twin bed for families traveling with children. Popular area destinations like The Monterey Bay Aquarium, Carmel-by-the-Sea, and the Pacific Groves Lighthouse are all within a 30-minute drive away. Situated atop a ridge overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the Morning Glory Ranch is south of Big Sur and provides ultimate privacy and seclusion.
The property is just over 50 miles south of Carmel and runs on solar power and a backup generator if needed.
The home can accommodate up to ten guests for large group getaways, family retreats, and private events. The main house has two bedrooms and two bathrooms, and for bookings with more than six guests, the poolside studio is included to sleep four additional people.
You can even arrange to book in-house massages, group yoga classes, and concierge services before your arrival if you so desire. If you’re seeking a romantic getaway for two in Big Sur, look no further than The Gallery House, a charming oceanfront cottage nestled amongst towering cypress trees and Monterey pines. Outside, lounge on the chaise chairs and take in the vast ocean and sunny views on the stone patio.
Throughout the home, you’ll enjoy hardwood floors, exposed wooden beams, and matching furnishings. The kitchen is stocked with all of the cooking essentials, and there is a dining table and cozy sofa seating for two on the lower level. As you climb the stairs to the bedroom, you’ll notice the generous closet space and adjoining balcony deck.
Start your mornings or end your days taking in the beautiful forest views from the comfort of your room. Get epic travel ideas delivered to your inbox with Weekend Wanderer, our newsletter inspiring more than 10,000 readers every week.
