One of the most beautiful stretches of coastline on earth, Big Sur occupies the prized swath of land between Hearst Castle and Monterey, California. Known for its jagged cliffs, towering redwoods, scenic bluffs and coastal waterfalls, Big Sur includes highlights like Bixby Bridge, Pfeiffer Beach and Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. Often referred to as the longest stretch of undeveloped scenic coastline in the contiguous United States, Big Sur’s rugged 90-mile shoreline is an essential addition to any California road trip itinerary.
Given that the region is largely undeveloped, Big Sur airbnbs are in very short supply. Luckily, we’ve put our journalistic skills to good use and combed the internet to compile a list of the 11 best Big Sur cabins and airbnbs with breathtaking ocean or forest views.
Best Big Sur Airbnbs and Vrbos
Map of Big Sur Airbnbs
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Big Sur Airbnbs with Ocean views
Beautiful Big Sur Airbnb in a Perfect Location
Rated 4.9 out of 5 on Vrbo
Privacy, natural beauty and breathtaking views characterize this 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom home situated on 5 private acres of land in central Big Sur. The owners aren’t exaggerating when they claim to have the “best location in Big Sur”. The property is located within walking distance of Post Ranch Inn, Ventana Big Sur and Big Sur Bakery. Discounts are available for stays of 30 days or longer.
Rates average $1,800 per night for the property. Check availability on Vrbo.
Fine Print: Minimum stay varies by season. Taxes and fees excluded from the above rate. Free cancellation up to 60 days before check-in. Children of any age welcome. Pets not allowed.
Oceanfront Big Sur Airbnb with Dramatic Views
Rated 4.8 out of 5 on Vrbo
Set along a pristine stretch of coastline between Big Sur and Carmel, this oceanfront property is the perfect home base for those planning to spend a month or more in the area. With 3 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms, there’s plenty of space for a family of 4 to 6 (+ furry companions), and the home includes modern appliances, an outdoor dining area, an indoor fireplace and laundry facilities. Bixby Bridge is less than a mile away and Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is just 10 miles south.
Rates average $295 per night for the home. Check availability on Vrbo.
Fine Print: This home is intended for rental on a monthly basis. Taxes and fees excluded from the above rate. Free cancellation up to 60 days before check-in. Pet friendly free of charge.
The Gallery House
Rated 5 out of 5 on Vrbo
Set above the ocean and hugged by Monterey pines and large cypress on either side, this intimate 1-bedroom home is truly something special. Owned by two artists, the cottage exudes warmth and character, and was designed to be a sacred retreat from the noise of everyday life. The property includes an ocean-facing patio with chaise loungers and is situated just over a mile away from the world renowned Esalen Institute and Hot Springs.
Rates average $375 per night for the cottage. Check availability on Vrbo.
Fine Print: Minimum stay varies by season. Taxes and fees excluded from the above rate. Bookings are non-refundable. Pets not allowed.
Big Sur Cabin on a Working Ranch
Rated 4.8 out of 5 on Airbnb
Ever wanted to experience what life is like on a working ranch? If so, this 2-bedroom, 1.5 bathroom cabin is just the property for you. Located on a private ranch with goats, chickens and horses (to name just a few), this airbnb includes a kitchen, laundry facilities and WiFi. There are spectacular ocean views from both bedrooms, and the cabin is just a mile from Big Sur Bakery and 1.5 miles from Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. Bonus tip: Guests are welcome to join the owners for milking in the Milkshed each morning!
Rates average $650 per night for the cabin. Check availability on Airbnb.
Use this link to get $40 off your first Airbnb booking.
Fine Print: 4-night minimum stay. Taxes and fees excluded from the above rate. Free cancellation up to 5 days before check-in. Pets not allowed.
Big Sur Airbnbs with Forest Views
Littlehouse in the Big Sur Redwoods
Rated 5 out of 5 on Vrbo
Tucked away in the redwoods alongside a running creek, this rustic-meets-modern 1-bedroom cabin ticks all the boxes when it comes to planning a secluded getaway for two. Fitted with a gas fireplace, private deck and luxury bedroom and bathroom, it’s the ideal place to return to after a day spent exploring Big Sur. Littlehouse is less than 5 miles from Bixby Bridge and just 10 miles from Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park.
Rates average $325 per night for the home. Check availability on Vrbo.
Fine Print: Minimum stay varies by season. Taxes and fees excluded from the above rate. Free cancellation up to 30 days before check-in. Pets not allowed.
Big Sur Campground and Cabins
Rated 4.5 out of 5 on Google
While these cabins aren’t listed on Airbnb or Vrbo, the fact that they’re situated in the middle of a towering grove of redwoods near Big Sur River makes them impossible to exclude. Big Sur Campground and Cabins offers everything from studio cabins to larger 2-bedroom units, as well as more classic A-frames. Certain units include fully stocked kitchens and all units include private bathrooms (with the exception of camping cabins).
Rates start around $350 per night for studio cabins and $570 per night for 2-bedroom cabins. Check availability and book.
Fine Print: No minimum stay. Taxes and fees excluded from the above rate. Cancellation up to 3 days before check-in with a $50 fee per cabin. Pets not allowed in cabins.
Dreamy Big Sur Airbnb with Hot Tub
Rated 4.9 out of 5 on Vrbo
Located close to Bixby Bridge, this 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom home accommodates 2 and gives guests the option of sleeping in the loft or in the adjoining yurt! The airbnb comes with 2 queen beds and a wood stove, hot tub, bbq, outdoor fireplace and hammocks for lounging. Our favorite feature – the floor-to-ceiling forest views from the bathroom window!
Rates average $565 per night for the property. Check availability on Vrbo.
Fine Print: 2-night minimum stay. Taxes and fees excluded from the above rate. Free cancellation up to 30 days before check-in. Pets not allowed.
Glen Oaks Big Sur Cabins
Rated 4.5 out of 5 on Tripadvisor
Described as “California’s Best Boutique Motel” by Forbes, the cabins at Glen Oaks Big Sur perfectly pair coziness with luxury. Located right off Hwy 1 in the heart of Big Sur, cabins range from studios to 2-bedroom units, each with its own little details that make it unique. We personally love the twin outdoor baths belonging to Big Sur Cabin (featured in the photo above). All cabins feature magnificent redwood views and are located near Big Sur River.
Rates start around $440 per night for a studio cabin. Check availability and book.
Fine Print: No minimum stay for most units. Taxes and fees excluded from the above rate. Cancellation up to 7 days before check-in with a $30 fee per cabin. Pets not allowed.
Other Airbnbs near big sur
Marinus Big Sur Luxury Estate
Rated 5 out of 5 on Vrbo
Perched on a cliff along the rugged Big Sur Coast, this 4-bedroom, 4-bathroom luxury estate offers panoramic views from every room and sleeps up to 8. The property features beautiful indoor-outdoor living spaces, an outdoor hot tub and fireplace, an in-home theatre room and a fitness area. Located on 1.5 acres of private land, Marinus Estate is situated half a mile from Ragged Point Inn and 10 miles from Hearst Castle.
Rates average $1,400 per night for the property. Check availability on Vrbo.
Fine Print: 4-night minimum stay. Taxes and fees excluded from the above rate. Free cancellation up to 30 days before check-in. 1 small dog allowed at an additional fee.
Abalone Cottage in Carmel-By-The-Sea
Rated 5 out of 5 on Vrbo
Set in the charming seaside town of Carmel-By-The-Sea, Abalone Cottage is located just over 20 miles from the heart of Big Sur. A 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom home sleeping up to 4, this beachfront property offers sweeping views of Point Lobos and Monastery Beach. Highlights include an indoor fireplace, outdoor bbq and an outdoor dining area that’s just steps from the ocean.
Rates average $455 per night for the cottage. Check availability on Vrbo.
Fine Print: Minimum stay varies depending on season. Taxes and fees excluded from the above rate. Free cancellation up to 60 days before check-in. Pet friendly at an additional fee.
Whalers Cottage in Carmel-By-The-Sea
Rated 4.9 out of 5 on Vrbo
Dating back to 1898, this historic Carmel-By-The-Sea property was formerly owned by A.M. Allan, a successful whaler and abalone fisherman who operated in the area. The 3-bedroom, 1.5 bathroom cottage is located steps from Monastery Beach and features an indoor fireplace, large windows with views of Point Lobos, and lovely outdoor living spaces. Big Sur is just a 30 minute drive away.
Rates average $650 per night for the cottage. Check availability on Vrbo.
Fine Print: 5-night minimum stay. Taxes and fees excluded from the above rate. Free cancellation up to 60 days before check-in. Pet friendly at an additional fee.
Big Sur FAQs
Where is Big Sur?
Big Sur is set on the central California coast along Hwy 1 between Monterey and San Simeon. It’s roughly 300 miles north of Los Angeles and 150 miles south of San Francisco.
What Makes Big Sur So Unique?
Big Sur is often referred to as the longest and most scenic stretch of undeveloped coastline in the contiguous United States. It’s one of the only places you can find Redwoods so close to the sea and it’s known for its dramatic and varied landscapes.
Why Is It So Hard To Find Big Sur Airbnbs?
Big Sur is located in Monterey County and Monterey County has very strict short-term rental laws. In essence, home rentals of less than 30 days are not allowed. This is why you’ll see so many Big Sur airbnbs listed with a 30-day minimum stay. Still, some are located just outside the county and aren’t bound by the law while others simply ignore the law or find a way around it.
Browse all of our lodging guides
All photos courtesy of hotel, booking or information sites.
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