Big Sur vacation rentals

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Top-rated vacation rentals in Big Sur

Guests agree: these vacation rentals are highly rated for location, cleanliness, and more.

Superhost

Tiny home in Aptos

4.78 out of 5 average rating, 313 reviews

Bamboo Cottage in Aptos Mountain Retreat & Spa

Om Oasis is a beautiful and lush retreat center on several acres of a remote and peaceful 15 acre mountain top property. We host guests who wish to connect with the beauty of nature and experience peace. We are 10-15 minutes up the mountain and partially off-grid with little to no cell reception but with a great WiFi connection. There are a total of 7 guest accommodations (including this one) spread out over our developed 3 acres, making it always a very private experience and easy to distance.

May 7 – 14

€ 142 per night
Guest favorite

Apartment in Carmel-by-the-Sea

4.87 out of 5 average rating, 819 reviews

Private romantic 1 br in Carmel Woods- love dogs

Dog friendly! Private entrance to 2 rm studio overlooking the forest w/ floor to ceiling windows. Queen memory-foam bed, bathroom w/shower & amenities, kitchenette w/ dishes, microwave/convection oven, burner, toaster, coffee.Far ocean view, sunsets, deck, gas grill. Quiet, fireplace, complimentary wood, free internet, TV, DVDs, LPS, All amenities. Beach towels/mats, ottoman/cot, free parking. Peaceful. Let us know about dogs when booking. note: ceilings are low in spots & there are some steps.

Mar 24 – 31

€ 130 per night
Guest favorite

Tiny home in Carmel Valley

4.94 out of 5 average rating, 217 reviews

The Redwood Cabin in the Oaks

Just a 25 minute country road drive from Carmel Valley Village and all it's great wine tasting rooms and restaurants. 40 minutes to Carmel and it's shops and beaches. 50 minutes to Pebble Beach and the amazing scenery and golfing. An easy hike to the Los Padres dam and it's beautiful spillway waterfall. Ride your mountain bike along the seaonal Cachagua creek and head up Chews Ridge. Very quiet and private. Shop for that perfect bottle of wine in the Village and enjoy it in privacy on the deck.

Jul 17 – 24

€ 135 per night

Popular amenities for Big Sur vacation rentals

Big Sur beach vacation rentals

Guest favorite

Apartment in Carmel

5.0 out of 5 average rating, 277 reviews

HawksPerch Haven Studio DO NOT REQUEST, CONTACT US

Jan 19 – 26

€ 214 per night
Guest favorite

Vacation home in Watsonville

4.95 out of 5 average rating, 327 reviews

Magical & Romantic Beachfront Home at Pajaro Dunes

Dec 11 – 18

€ 376 per night
Guest favorite

Home in Watsonville

4.96 out of 5 average rating, 615 reviews

Sunset Cottage

Mar 11 – 18

€ 249 per night
Guest favorite

Guest suite in Carmel-by-the-Sea

4.99 out of 5 average rating, 235 reviews

GreyHavens studio, Carmel Highlands — NO FEES

May 6 – 13

€ 302 per night
Guest favorite

Guest suite in Del Monte Forest

4.98 out of 5 average rating, 665 reviews

Pebble Beach Guest House

Jun 5 – 12

€ 313 per night
Guest favorite

Home in Santa Cruz

4.89 out of 5 average rating, 472 reviews

Town-and-Nature

Sep 15 – 22

€ 98 per night
Guest favorite

Home in Cambria

4.98 out of 5 average rating, 223 reviews

Cute Cambria Cottage~Ocean Views and Dog Friendly!

Oct 29 – Nov 5

€ 173 per night
Guest favorite

Home in Carmel

4.96 out of 5 average rating, 143 reviews

Isolation Retreat - ocean view & hot tub

Nov 21 – 28

€ 464 per night
Guest favorite

Apartment in Pacific Grove

4.96 out of 5 average rating, 268 reviews

Spectacular Award Winning Ocean Front 2 Bed 2 Bath

Oct 24 – 31

€ 871 per night
Superhost

Guesthouse in La Selva Beach

4.9 out of 5 average rating, 557 reviews

cute cottage walking distance to beach

Sep 16 – 23

€ 192 per night
Superhost

Apartment in Pacifica

4.79 out of 5 average rating, 670 reviews

Luxury Beach View Apartment

Mar 13 – 20

€ 174 per night
Guest favorite

Home in Aptos

4.97 out of 5 average rating, 394 reviews

Ocean View & Beach Walk at SeaBelow

Jun 17 – 24

€ 234 per night

Big Sur house rentals

Guest favorite

Home in Paso Robles

5.0 out of 5 average rating, 120 reviews

High Ridge Cottage, Paso Robles

Feb 27 – Mar 6

€ 485 per night
Guest favorite

Home in Paso Robles

4.98 out of 5 average rating, 487 reviews

The Olive House

Aug 25 – Sep 1

€ 352 per night
Superhost

Home in Watsonville

4.81 out of 5 average rating, 268 reviews

Remarkable Reader's Garden Retreat in the Country

May 31 – Jun 7

€ 146 per night
Superhost

Home in Carmel-by-the-Sea

4.88 out of 5 average rating, 163 reviews

Cabin Nestled in Forested Canyon

Jun 13 – 20

€ 736 per night
Guest favorite

Home in Carmel-by-the-Sea

4.93 out of 5 average rating, 102 reviews

The Carmel Hideaway - A Luxury Pied-à-terre

May 11 – 18

€ 994 per night
Guest favorite

Home in Baywood-Los Osos

4.92 out of 5 average rating, 950 reviews

Stargazing Studio with Private Deck

Oct 29 – Nov 5

€ 109 per night
Guest favorite

Home in Pacific Grove

4.86 out of 5 average rating, 630 reviews

Cottage Retreat Steps from the Sea

Nov 29 – Dec 6

€ 373 per night
Guest favorite

Home in Cambria

4.96 out of 5 average rating, 267 reviews

Cambria Beach House with Nature View

Oct 2 – 9

€ 166 per night
Guest favorite

Home in Pacific Grove

4.97 out of 5 average rating, 372 reviews

Sallie’s Cottage

Jan 19 – 26

€ 522 per night
Guest favorite

Home in Watsonville

4.98 out of 5 average rating, 107 reviews

Copper Nest beach retreat with stunning views

Oct 23 – 30

€ 652 per night
Guest favorite

Home in Pacific Grove

4.98 out of 5 average rating, 166 reviews

Endless Summer Home Steps To Lovers Point Beach

Feb 13 – 20

€ 610 per night
Guest favorite

Home in Pacific Grove

4.95 out of 5 average rating, 219 reviews

Adorable Sea House

Oct 30 – Nov 6

€ 774 per night

Beach house rentals in Big Sur

Guest favorite

Home in Pacific Grove

4.99 out of 5 average rating, 122 reviews

Beach Cottage - walk to ocean and restaurants

Dec 7 – 14

€ 510 per night
Guest favorite

Home in Baywood-Los Osos

4.99 out of 5 average rating, 119 reviews

Great little beach house. County License# 6012116

Jul 14 – 21

€ 134 per night
Guest favorite

Home in Pacific Grove

4.91 out of 5 average rating, 264 reviews

Mermaid Crossing

Dec 5 – 12

€ 748 per night
Guest favorite

Home in Pacific Grove

4.87 out of 5 average rating, 99 reviews

Sea View Cottage 2 Bedroom Suite - Seven Gables

Dec 16 – 23

€ 631 per night
Guest favorite

Home in Castroville

4.96 out of 5 average rating, 165 reviews

Oceanfront Retreat w/Private HotTub

Feb 19 – 26

€ 796 per night
Guest favorite

Home in Monterey

4.89 out of 5 average rating, 121 reviews

Monterey Bay Oasis on the Ocean!

Jul 24 – 31

€ 594 per night
Guest favorite

Home in Carmel-by-the-Sea

4.93 out of 5 average rating, 368 reviews

Elegant Carmel Cottage

May 7 – 14

€ 255 per night
Superhost

Home in Half Moon Bay

4.9 out of 5 average rating, 132 reviews

Luxury Beachfront Penthouse Walk to the Beach

May 6 – 13

€ 1,001 per night
Guest favorite

Home in Santa Cruz

4.9 out of 5 average rating, 393 reviews

180°OceanView+HotTub+EBikes+Surfboards+SUPS+Kayak

Mar 9 – 16

€ 864 per night
Guest favorite

Home in Los Osos

4.94 out of 5 average rating, 328 reviews

Baywood Park Garden Cottage

Jun 20 – 27

€ 151 per night
Guest favorite

Home in Aptos

5.0 out of 5 average rating, 192 reviews

Modern Beach Retreat-Free EV Charging

Dec 30 – Jan 6

€ 378 per night
Guest favorite

Home in Santa Cruz

5.0 out of 5 average rating, 122 reviews

Serene luxury beach bungalow in Pleasure Point

Dec 9 – 16

€ 532 per night

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

  1. Airbnb
  2. United States
  3. California
  4. Monterey County
  5. Big Sur