Post Ranch Inn
Carmel / Monterey, California, United States · ★★★★★ · 10.0/10 Exceptional · guest rating
Luxury hotel on the cliffs of Big Sur with Pacific views, the Sierra Mar restaurant, a spa, a pool, an art gallery and houses set among redwoods.
Post Ranch Inn is on Highway 1 in Big Sur, high above the Pacific. It opened in 1992 with the idea of blending into the landscape: its tree houses rise among old redwood forests and the ocean-view houses sit near the cliffs. The setting is open nature, with few services around and plenty of room for calm. It is a place to slow down.
The Sierra Mar restaurant offers ocean views, and the hotel adds a spa with aromatherapy, massage and wraps, a pool, a hot tub with a view, a bar, an art gallery, a garden and a fitness center. Guided activities such as stargazing, hikes and yoga are reported; confirm availability and hours with the hotel before you travel, because coastal weather can change plans.
Why stay here
- Luxury hotel on the cliffs of Big Sur
- Tree houses among redwoods and views of the Pacific
- Sierra Mar restaurant with an ocean view
- Spa, pool and hot tub with open scenery
- Tip: book the restaurant as soon as you confirm your room
The setting
The photos show modern buildings with balconies over the ocean, bedrooms with large sliding glass doors and relaxation areas with wooden loungers facing the sea. You can also see a hot tub looking out to the horizon, a spa with an enclosed glass tub and sunsets from wooden structures. The architecture aims to merge with the terrain, with simple lines and natural materials.
What we like
- Pacific views from a setting of cliffs and redwoods
- Architecture that blends into nature, with tree houses
- Sierra Mar restaurant with an ocean view
- Spa, pool and hot tub with open scenery
- State parks and trails very close
Worth knowing
- Big Sur is remote: few services nearby and long drives
- A small, intimate property, so it is best to book well ahead
Don't miss
Reserve a table at Sierra Mar for sunset and spend a morning on the trails of Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. With a car, McWay Falls and the purple sand of Pfeiffer Beach are two unforgettable stops along Highway 1.
Facilities
- Pacific Ocean views
- Sierra Mar restaurant
- Spa with body treatments
- Pool and hot tub
- Art gallery
- Garden
- Lobby bar with a fireplace
- Fitness center
- Room service
- Wi-Fi in the rooms
- Parking
- 24-hour front desk
Location
The hotel is at 47900 Highway 1 in Big Sur, in Monterey County. On foot, Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is about 12 minutes away. By car, Big Sur Station is 4 minutes, Andrew Molera State Park 9, Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park 13 and McWay Falls 17. Monterey airport (MRY) is about 51 minutes away. Traffic and road conditions vary.
Address: 47900 Highway 1, Big Sur, CA, 93920
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Frequently asked questions
How far is it from the airport?
Monterey airport (MRY) is about 51 minutes away by car, according to the listing. The coastal road is winding and can have delays, so allow extra time.
Can I eat at the hotel?
Yes, the Sierra Mar restaurant has ocean views. It is wise to reserve a table ahead and confirm hours with the hotel.
Which parks are nearby?
Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is about a 12-minute walk, and Andrew Molera, Julia Pfeiffer Burns and McWay Falls are 9 to 17 minutes away by car.
Does it have a spa?
Yes, Post Ranch Spa offers aromatherapy, massage and body wraps. Book in advance and confirm the treatment menu with the hotel.
Want to compare dates? Check availability for Post Ranch Inn / see the current rates.
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