47900 Highway 1, Big Sur, California, United States | (831) 667-2200
One of the most beautiful hotels in the United States, if not the world
Gorgeous views of Big Sur abound
3 pools on-site: two clifftop "hot basking pools" kept at 104 degrees and one lap pool
The on-site restaurant is possibly the best in Big Sur, with tremendous views
Acclaimed spa offers unique treatments, including shaman sessions
Free morning yoga, meditation sessions, nature hikes, and star gazing
Stunning organic architecture
Eco-friendly practices (guests can even borrow a Lexus Hybrid)
Lots of free snacks, including those in the well-stocked minibars
Dedicated service
Adults-only property (a con for some)
Spa has just 4 treatment rooms (though guests can request services in their rooms)
Small fitness center
No TVs or alarm clocks in the rooms (a pro for some)
Pervasive fog can block ocean views
Adults-only property (a pro for some)
The 39-room Post Ranch Inn is one of the most beautiful hotels in the United States -- if not the entire world -- and offers a romantic, intimate stay amid gorgeous natural surroundings. The hotel is built into the cliffs of Big Sur, and the organic architecture is breathtaking, seeming to grow out of the ground beside the hotel's surrounding redwoods. The spacious, eco-sensitive rooms have ocean or mountain views (that are sometimes obstructed by the pervasive fog that the area is known for) and many feature floor-to-ceiling windows to better show them off. Rooms also have wood-burning fireplaces, radiant floor heating, outdoor showers or hot tubs, private decks, and organic bath products and linens -- but no televisions or alarm clocks as the hotel strives for a peaceful environment. The award-winning spa focuses on rejuvenating services and even has a shaman on-site; the restaurant, Sierra Mar, is one of the best in Big Sur; the hotel's clifftop pools are stunning; and free amenities (such as yoga and stargazing) are abundant.
