Any recommendations for places to stay in/around Big Sur? I've been to Esalen several times, and like it, but am looking for something a little less like hippie-camp, and maybe a little more like a spa.

What's your budget? My vote is for the Post Ranch Inn. When you see the prices then my guess is that you might cry. Ventana is amazing too, one step down from Post Ranch, but stil $$$$.

I've camped several times at Julia Pfeifer Burns campground, and I think they have an actuall inn there.

I have heard great things about the Post Ranch Inn but nothing about Ventana... Any particular highlights or comparisons? What makes the Post Ranch Inn worth more?

Thanks!

Post Ranch Inn is on the coast, where Ventana is across Hwy 1 from the Post Ranch Inn. Post Ranch Inn is spectacular, with individual lodging units that are set apart. Ventana is a larger resort, albeit very nice but just a step below Post Ranch Inn. Regardless of where you stay, be sure to have lunch or dinner at Post Ranch Inn. The restaurant has dramatic sea views.

I've never been to Post Ranch Inn but have heard it is outstanding. I have had lunch at Ventana, and although it is located on the mountain side of highway 1, the view from the restaurant is spectacular, especially from the outside tables on the deck. We were going to take some family there for a couple of nights until the reservation folks reminded me that it is "not appropriate" for children (except the restaurant).

Last year we spent one night at the Big Sur Lodge in Pfeiffer State Park and were very disappointed. The accommodations were quite spartan and the restaurant was awful.

Thanks for the tips!

Ventana is very nice, secluded, and great service. Post Ranch in has amazing views, and some very unique room types. My wife and I stayed at Ventana for a few nights after we got married, and thought it was great. Very peaceful and relaxing. They have a nice wine/cheese reception each afternoon (not sure if they still do it) with the manager in the lobby which we enjoyed. They make a point to talk with you and tell you a bit about the area and the property. There's 2 pools: one is European style (clothing optional) and the other is swim suites required. Neither ever had many people in them any time we went in August. The restaurant is also very good. The setting is in the woods, back on the hill side of highway 1, and there aren't any ocean views.

The Post Ranch Inn would be my choice if I could do either, but you will pay a premium for it. Alternatively, you could stay at Ventana and then have dinner at the Post Ranch Inn. Also, you can go get a drink at the bar at Post Ranch without staying there (just tell them at the gate you are going to the bar). That way you can enjoy the setting and view, without paying the premium.

So was thinking of spending 2 nights in Big Sur. Took a look at the hotels and they are absolutely outrageous.

Any suggestions for staying in or around this area at a reasonable cost? I'm not going to spend $800 a night.

http://www.bigsurcamp.com/sites.html

The cabins have queen beds and linens.

I guess the question is if you really want to stay in Big Sur or if you are ok with staying nearby (Cambria, Carmel) which offer much more reasonable options. I went there several times without spending the night right there, and found day trips are a very good option. If you need to be there, the cabins mentioned are great, but are often booked well in advance.

Cambria was a haul. Carmel looks like a good option or maybe Monterey (lots of reasonable hotel options).

I like the Hyatt Highlands Inn. It's at the north end of Big Sur. Some of the rooms have great views of the water as does the public space.

Thanks. Amazingly, Hyatt had C&P availability with an Ocean View King. 12,500 points + $150, truly amazing.

Any idea why TripAdvisor has it ranked kind of low though:

TripAdvisor

Carmel Hyatt Highlands is a great hotel. rooms are cabin style ( not real
Cabins) with a fireplace and great views.
Some complain about the price and some rooms are a little tired and the noise of the route (just ask for a room high up) but it's a very special place. At night is very peaceful and you can smell the wood burning. I would definitely recommend it.

Here is the FlyerTalk thread on the property. Go to the last couple pages to read recent reports.

http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/hyatt...er-thread.html