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Vacation rentals in Big Sur

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Vacation rentals for every style

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Popular amenities for Big Sur vacation rentals

Self check-in
Beachfront
Gym
BBQ grill
Laptop-friendly workspace

Big Sur beach vacation rentals

Guest favorite
Home in Watsonville
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 158 reviews

Copper Nest beach retreat with stunning views

Guest favorite
A coastal view is presented, showing a lush, green landscape transitioning to sandy beach and ocean. The clear blue sky complements the vibrant ground cover, while the home is partially visible on the right, featuring a spiral staircase and deck overlooking the water.
Home in Pescadero
4.91 out of 5 average rating, 184 reviews

Oceanfront Views - Steps to the Beach

Top guest favorite
Home in Aptos
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 234 reviews

Rio Del Mar Beach House.

Top guest favorite
A coastal cabin is situated on rugged cliffs overlooking the ocean. The structure features large windows, allowing for expansive views of the water. Lush greenery surrounds the home, highlighting its natural setting against a cloudy sky.
Home in Montara
5 out of 5 average rating, 106 reviews

Sea Wolf Bungalow

Superhost
The exterior of the Beach House is presented, showcasing a spacious back yard with well-maintained grass and decorative stone paths. A patio area equipped with seating and a barbecue grill is visible, surrounded by trees providing shade. Large windows reflect the inviting design of the house.
Home in Cayucos
4.87 out of 5 average rating, 310 reviews

The Beach House - On Cayucos Beach

Superhost
The Beach House is situated directly on the sands of Pismo Beach, featuring a well-lit exterior with large windows. The structure is elevated on stilts, surrounded by coastal vegetation and palm trees, against a backdrop of a colorful sunset sky.
Home in Pismo Beach
4.87 out of 5 average rating, 327 reviews

Beach House ON Pismo Beach

Superhost
A spacious grassy yard is surrounded by lush gardens, showcasing colorful flowers and greenery. A seating area with wooden chairs is situated near a fountain, providing a tranquil spot to enjoy the views. The sky displays varying shades of blue, contributing to the serene atmosphere.
Home in Half Moon Bay
4.86 out of 5 average rating, 312 reviews

* Beachfront Paradise * with Direct Beach Access

Guest favorite
The image showcases a modern Airstream parked on a sandy area overlooking the ocean. A large retractable awning extends over an outdoor seating arrangement that includes a fire pit surrounded by chairs. Lush green grass and a wooden fence frame the scene, highlighting the coastal setting.
Camper/RV in Half Moon Bay
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 192 reviews

Beachfront California Coast Airstream_Luxury (NEW)

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Private Big Sur vacation rentals

Guest favorite
A rustic wooden sign marked 'Sand Dollar Farms' directs left towards a gravel road. Surrounding grasses gently sway in a natural landscape, with a soft gradient of browns and greens visible in the background.
Guesthouse in La Selva Beach
4.9 out of 5 average rating, 646 reviews

cute cottage walking distance to beach

Top guest favorite
An expansive wooden deck features a table surrounded by chairs, offering ocean views and sunlight. The deck is bordered by a railing, with trees visible in the background. A barbecue unit is included, enhancing the outdoor space.
Apartment in Cambria
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 155 reviews

Stunning Ocean View Deck in Cambria-The Perch

Top guest favorite
A spacious sleeping area features a King size bed set against a cherry wood accent wall. Colorful decorative pillows add a touch of style. Natural light floods in through large sliding glass doors, which provide access to a patio with outdoor seating and scenic canyon views.
Guesthouse in Carmel-by-the-Sea
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 326 reviews

Carmel By the Canyon

Top guest favorite
A covered outdoor patio offers stylish seating around a central fire pit, overlooking expansive views of rolling hills. A ceiling fan provides comfort, while soft light illuminates the landscape at sunset, creating a welcoming space for relaxation.
Home in Paso Robles
5 out of 5 average rating, 255 reviews

High Ridge Cottage, Paso Robles

Top guest favorite
The bedroom features a spacious bed dressed in neutral linens and a decorative throw pillow. Two bedside tables with lamps frame the bed, while a rocking chair and a small plant create a calming corner. Natural light enters through two windows adorned with lace curtains.
Guest suite in Del Monte Forest
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 753 reviews

Pebble Beach Guest House

Guest favorite
The living room showcases a cozy seating arrangement with a plush sofa and accent chairs. A wooden coffee table sits at the center, surrounded by decorative plants. High wooden beams grace the ceiling, while a fireplace adds warmth, and large windows provide natural light.
Home in Carmel-by-the-Sea
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 150 reviews

Charming Carmel Cottage - Close to Downtown!

Top guest favorite
A charming green guesthouse is nestled among towering redwood trees. The structure features multiple windows that bring in natural light, enhancing the connection with the surrounding forest. Sunlight filters through the branches, creating a serene outdoor atmosphere.
Cabin in Los Gatos
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 943 reviews

Private Guest-House in the Redwoods

Top guest favorite
A charming cottage exterior is surrounded by mature oak trees, offering a serene outdoor space. A patio features a dining table with chairs and a pair of rocking chairs, inviting relaxation. Nearby, decorative lanterns and planters enhance the inviting setting.
Cottage in Paso Robles
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 243 reviews

Vintage Ranch Cottage, Paso Robles, California

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Big Sur house rentals

Guest favorite
A bright sunroom features large windows allowing ample natural light. A brown leather sofa and a coordinating loveseat are arranged around a light wood coffee table. Two neutral armchairs provide additional seating. A ceiling fan and modern TV enhance the comfort of the space.
Home in Del Rey Oaks
4.93 out of 5 average rating, 241 reviews

Cypress House in Monterey Bay

Guest favorite
A bright and airy living space features a large window allowing natural light to fill the area. The room includes a cozy seating arrangement with a gray sofa, a wooden dining table with chairs, and decorative wall baskets. A kitchenette is visible in the background.
Home in San Luis Obispo
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 328 reviews

Wine Country Hilltop Retreat

Top guest favorite
A bright living area features a spacious sectional sofa, accented with soft striped fabric. A wooden coffee table centers the space, complemented by two vibrant red chairs. Large windows allow natural light and glimpses of distant ocean views, enhancing the cozy atmosphere.
Home in Cambria
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 420 reviews

Hummingbird House in Charming Cambria

Top guest favorite
The image captures a scenic view of a vineyard landscape at sunset, framed by a large tree and various plants in the foreground. Gentle hills lined with vines stretch toward the horizon, while warm light casts a golden glow over the scene.
Home in Paso Robles
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 219 reviews

Entire Hobby Farm, Surrounded by Vineyards

Guest favorite
An outdoor patio with natural stone tile features wooden seating and a low table. The kitchen is visible through expansive glass doors, highlighting a modern design. Lush greenery surrounds the space, creating a serene atmosphere under a clear blue sky.
Home in Del Monte Forest
4.89 out of 5 average rating, 105 reviews

Private Treetop Beach House

Guest favorite
A coastal landscape captures rocky formations emerging from the deep blue ocean waters. Gentle waves lapping against the stones are highlighted under clear skies, creating a serene seascape that extends towards the distant horizon.
Home in Pacific Grove
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 263 reviews

Adorable Sea House

Guest favorite
A solitary cypress tree leans dramatically over a curved sandy beach. The tranquil blue waters gently lap against the shore, with soft waves visible under a clear sky. Nearby, a layer of fog can be seen rising from the distant hills.
Home in Carmel-by-the-Sea
4.88 out of 5 average rating, 139 reviews

Light and spacious Carmel cottage

Guest favorite
A spacious deck is visible, adorned with modern outdoor furniture and surrounded by lush greenery, creating an inviting outdoor space. Large sliding glass doors lead into a bright interior with a cozy seating area and a fireplace, blending the indoor and outdoor environments.
Home in Aptos
5 out of 5 average rating, 240 reviews

Modern Beach Retreat-Free EV Charging

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Your guide to Big Sur

Introduction

Big Sur is both a tiny town and a vast region located about two and a half hours south of San Francisco, stretching for 90 miles along California’s Central Coast. Here, you can treat yourself to a rejuvenating weekend getaway full of towering redwood trees, breathtaking 360-degree vistas, stunning cliffs at the edge of the Pacific Ocean, and trails for all levels of hikers and cyclists. Take a dip in the Big Sur River at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park before a late lunch in town, or peer through the fog line to catch a glimpse of California condors, a critically endangered species of bird whose wingspan measures up to nine feet. Whether you’re looking for an active retreat or serenity in nature, Big Sur welcomes you.

The best time to stay in a vacation rental in Big Sur

Fans of dramatic fog and moody beaches will appreciate staying in one of Big Sur’s cabins from late fall through the end of winter, when the region is darker and cooler than the rest of the year. Drive with caution in January, when peak rainfall can result in slippery roads and even mudslides. Sun worshipers, fear not—you can experience Big Sur in golden light and comfort during the late spring and summer, when highs are in the upper 70s Fahrenheit. The signature fog will still make an appearance, but the rain and chilly temperatures, not so much.

Top things to do in Big Sur

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

One visit isn’t enough to fully appreciate the diverse landscapes and activities afforded at this intersection of mountains, forests, river, and ocean. Channel your inner adventurer on the eight-mile Mount Manuel Trail to be rewarded with views of the Santa Lucia Mountains, or enjoy shorter trails that lead to and along the Big Sur River.

McWay Falls

An easy half-mile hike through Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park will lead you to McWay Falls, an 80-foot waterfall that flows year-round. Time your trek right to witness the waterfall splashing directly into the Pacific Ocean at high tide.

Bixby Bridge

Built in 1932, this feat of engineering creates a path between staggering cliffs and allows cars to pass 230 feet above Bixby Creek. There are multiple opportunities to pull over for a clear view of the iconic structure that is often featured in car commercials.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How is the weather in Big Sur?

    Big Sur's coastal location lends it a moderate climate year-round. Summers are warm, with average highs of around 75°F (24°C), while winters are cooler, with highs typically reaching 59°F (15°C). The area is known for its frequent coastal fog, especially during May and June, which can add a mystical ambiance to your exploration.

  • What are some of the best things to do in Big Sur?

    Big Sur invites you to explore its diverse ecosystem. You can hike through redwood forests, discover hidden beaches, or admire the wildlife at Point Lobos State Reserve. Many travelers also find it rewarding to photograph the iconic Bixby Creek Bridge or to explore the historic Hearst Castle nearby.

  • What is the best time of year to visit Big Sur?

    Spring and fall are often the most popular times to visit Big Sur, thanks to comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds. Local events such as the Big Sur International Marathon in April and the Big Sur Jade Festival in October draw many visitors. Winter offers quieter exploration opportunities, with the annual Gray Whale migration making it a prime time for wildlife watching.

  • What are the best places to stay in Big Sur?

    For those who enjoy being close to nature, accommodations near Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park are often recommended. The areas around Carmel-By-The-Sea and Monterey are also popular due to their proximity to shopping, dining, and tourist attractions. For a more secluded stay, Ventana Big Sur provides houses nestled in the serene wilderness.

  • What are the best places to visit in Big Sur?

    There are many natural wonders to explore in Big Sur. The frequently recommended spots include McWay Falls, a waterfall that plunges directly into the ocean, and Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park with its diverse wildlife and landscapes. For a dose of history, visit the Point Sur Lighthouse or Hearst Castle, located just outside of Big Sur.

  • What are some hiking trails in Big Sur?

    Big Sur has numerous hiking trails for all skill levels. The Pfeiffer Falls Trail is a frequently suggested, easy path through a redwood forest leading to a waterfall. For more experienced hikers, the Ewoldsen Trail circles through diverse landscapes with incredible coastal views. Don't miss the Point Lobos trails, where you can spot seals, sea otters, and birdlife.

  • What are some family activities to do in Big Sur?

    Big Sur provides a host of family-friendly activities. You can explore the tide pools at Point Lobos State Reserve, take a nature walk in Andrew Molera State Park, or visit the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History. Whale watching tours are also popular, providing a unique opportunity to learn about the marine life.

  • What are some of the best day trip ideas in Big Sur?

    Big Sur's prime location allows for a variety of day trips. You can explore the Monterey Bay Aquarium, take a scenic drive along the 17-Mile Drive, or visit the charming town of Carmel-By-The-Sea. For those interested in history, the Hearst Castle is a fascinating site just a short drive away.

Destinations to explore

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