
Holiday houses in Big Sur
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Top-rated holiday rentals in Big Sur
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Santa Cruz A-Frame
This unique A-Frame cabin, in a quiet mountain neighborhood with private creek access, was handbuilt in 1965 and remodeled in the summer of 2024. Now a little slice of heaven on the creek in the redwoods. *5-10 min to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, Roaring Camp Railroad, Loch Lomond Recreation Area, the Trout Farm Inn, Quail Hollow Ranch + Felton stores. *20 min to Santa Cruz, beach + Boardwalk. *1 min to Zayante Creek Market (EV charger) Find us on social: Insta @SantaCruzAFrame

Very Private, 3 Balconies, Jacuzzi, Espresso, King
Spacious, light-filled Carmel hilltop home with large hot tub and sweeping views of ocean & forest. 🌲🌅 With 3 balconies + generous primary suite on main floor, this highly private retreat offers an elegant tranquility with coastal charm. Spacious 🍽️ fully stocked kitchen features espresso machine + conical burr grinder 🫘☕ as well as French Press and sizeable gas range. 3 bedrooms +3 pull-outs. Chore-free checkout. Property is *not* walkable to downtown Carmel. Outdoor BBQ is electric.

A Magical Redwood Tree Fort Retreat
A Magical Glamping Retreat in the Redwoods Escape to a dreamy Tree Fort tucked among redwoods, where rustic charm meets modern comfort. Fall asleep to crickets and a bubbling creek, then wake to birdsong and fresh mountain air. Designed for couples and solo travelers seeking a romantic, peaceful escape. Relax in the hammock or gather around the fire pit with forest views. Enjoy hassle-free glamping with electricity, a cozy bed, a private bathroom with hot water, and a kitchenette. VRP#181501

Cozy Coastal Redwood Cabin
Rest and connect in this warm, cozy, and private cabin that is nestled in the redwoods. Only minutes away from Henry Cowell State Park, where you can enjoy world class mountain biking trails, hiking, or swimming in the river. Or, enjoy the beach 15 minutes away. This is a perfect place to refresh in the magic of the Coastal Redwoods. Music fills most nights either from the Felton Music Hall or from the chorus of frogs. And wake up in the mornings to the mist in the trees when the fog rolls in.

Serene Redwood Retreat w/Modern Comfort
At our Modern cabin nestled among 150 year old redwoods, we invite you to embark on a unique adventure of embracing the outdoors while only minutes from town. Wine tasting in downtown Carmel, World Class Golf at Pebble Beach or Hiking trails of Point Lobos and Big Sur. "Magical", "Amazing", "A True Sanctuary" are just a few words used by our guest to describe their stay with us. Get away and unplug in the stillness and solitude of our Serene Redwood Retreat. Please see property description.

Beautiful Farm in Carmel Valley
Our 2 bedroom guest house in beautiful Carmel Valley is close to Monterey, Big Sur, Pebble Beach and Carmel by the Sea. Sight see all day and escape to a pastoral setting five minutes from Carmel Valley Village with quaint shops, restaurants and over 20 wine tasting rooms. Visit with our alpacas, horses, giant tortoises, goats, sheep, donkey and more! Wake up to sunshine, fresh air and the donkey braying for breakfast! (Due to the nature of our farm we have a strict "No Pets" policy).

Blue Bonnet Ridge
Spring flowers paint the hills of the Central Coast. Warm days and crisp nights make spring a great time to enjoy the beauty of the wildflowers and wild life of the the back canyons. Enjoy the peace and solitude of the Central Coast back country in this 10ft x 12ft furnished wall tent. Enjoy the magnificent sunset over the vibrant greens, pinks and yellows of springtime in the back canyons. Temperatures average mid 60s/70s in the daytime and upper 40s/low 50s at night.

Sunset Cottage Vacation rental permit #111394
Charming ocean front cottage with views from Santa Cruz to Monterey. Located in Sunset State Park near Capitola and Santa Cruz. Path to quiet beach for great walks and glimpses of dolphins. A perfect place for a getaway or romantic weekend. TWO people maximum on the property at any time. There is only parking for ONE car. Pets are not allowed. NO SMOKING on the property-inside or outside. Two night minimum. Certified vacation rental property with Santa Cruz County.

Unique Sculptured House with Private Beach Access
Escape from the outside world to this one of a kind ROMANTIC Sculpture House. Enjoy its unique design, white rounded walls, sitting nooks, gas dome fireplace, and beautiful tranquil gardens. Sit back and relax in the rounded sunken bathtub perfect for two. This is the perfect romantic getaway and just one block away from private beach access. Named one of the most stunning Airbnb's in Santa Cruz. Enjoy more fun with zero extra Airbnb fees—we've got you covered!

Mountain Top Yurt in the Redwoods
Peaceful, clean, spacious, beautifully decorated and quiet 24' Yurt completely surrounded by Redwoods on top of the Santa Cruz Mountains. Spend a couple days meditating, reading or writing the next chapter of your memoir. Walking distance to Mount Madonna Retreat Center (open now through reservation only). County Park hiking and horseback riding trails located within 3 miles. Ideal place for photography and mountain/road biking.

Private Barn with Vineyard Views
Escape to The Black Barn, a stylish and peaceful modern farmhouse retreat in Paso Robles. Perched on 20 private acres, this unique space offers expansive wine country views. Perfect for a couple or small family of three, it features a king bed, a twin bed, and a private patio with a fire pit. Enjoy the ultimate private getaway just minutes from top wineries and attractions.

Oak Grove Cottage with fire pit
Escape to The Cottage, a charming retreat on the Central Coast, nestled under majestic oaks and twinkling bistro lights. Perfect for couples, this cozy space is your ideal home base for exploring Paso Robles wineries, SLO, and scenic Highway 1. Features a Cal King bed, full kitchen, and a private outdoor oasis with a gas fire pit. A magical setting for your next adventure.
Popular amenities for Big Sur holiday rentals
Other great holiday rentals in Big Sur

Luxe Wine Country Stay, Pool, Firepit | Devi Ranch

Chameleon House

Luxury Tent - Middle Grove

Oceanfront La Selva Beach Retreat + Panoramic View

Brutalist Architectural Retreat in Nature

Blue Haven Oceanfront Stay Near Cambria & Beaches

Luxe Glamping Cabin Near Big Basin State Park

Modern 1BR Carmel Beach Escape | Mins to Downtown
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.
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- Santa Cruz Beach
- Monterey Bay Aquarium
- Capitola Beach
- Pinnacles National Park
- Rio Del Mar Beach
- Carmel Beach
- Pfeiffer Beach
- Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
- Seacliff State Beach
- Carmel Beach
- Asilomar State Beach
- Twin Lakes State Beach
- Natural Bridges State Beach
- Manresa Main State Beach
- Pebble Beach Golf Links
- Sand Dollar Beach
- Big Sur Campground & Cabins
- Seabright Beach
- Santa Cruz Wharf
- Jade Cove
- WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca
- Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
- Garland Ranch Regional Park
- Sumner Beach




