
Holiday rentals in Big Sur
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Top-rated holiday rentals in Big Sur
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Magical & Romantic Beachfront Home at Pajaro Dunes
Beautiful oceanfront condominium with an unobstructed view to Monterey Bay & the Pacific Ocean; just 20 minutes south of Santa Cruz & 30 minutes north of Monterey/Carmel. Newly remodeled with granite counters, new kitchen appliances, paint, furniture, tile and carpeted floors. Electric fireplace adds to the magical ambience this home embraces. High ceilings, just steps to the beach. Convenient parking. 2 bedrooms & 2 full bathrooms, 1200 sf. A great place to kick off your shoes and relax.

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

Guesthouse Carmel Highlands ~ Ocean Views ~
Serene fully-furnished 900 sq. ft. studio guesthouse 6 blocks up the hill from the beach, with 180 degree ocean-view, and 180 degree mountain and wilderness view from a private balcony. The guesthouse is artfully decorated, and is quiet. Our whole neighborhood is affluent and beautiful with plenty of beaches to explore. It is the perfect place to stay and visit remote Big Sur to the south, but also be close to the incredible restaurants & shops in Carmel. Our guests prefer a no pets policy.

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.

Copper Nest beach retreat with stunning views
The Copper Nest is an ideal getaway located steps from the beach in the gated community of Pajaro Dunes where the Pajaro River meets the Pacific Ocean. This newly designed three bedroom home is customized to create a serene beach retreat for you and your guests. This newly designed three bedroom home has a well equipped kitchen and outdoor seating, game, and BBQ areas. There are stunning ocean and agricultural views from every room. Close to California's popular food and travel regions.

Peaceful Treehouse with Ocean View
Featured by Sunset Magazine as a “chic escape,” this Peaceful Treehouse-style retreat blends mid-century design with natural materials like wood and stone for a calming, sanctuary feel. Light pours through floor-to-ceiling windows beneath soaring wooden beams, and Japanese-inspired sliding doors add to the architectural charm. Set high in the trees with ocean views, the home offers three elevated decks including one with a hammock - perfect for relaxing and enjoying the surrounding canopy.

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).

Lake Views Hilltop Ranch - 160 Acre Escape
Secluded private hilltop cabin just 5 minutes from the marina, between Lake Nacimiento and Lake San Antonio. Set on 160 lake-view acres—bring your boats! Horses and longhorn cattle graze nearby (and no flies!). This artfully designed 3BR, 2BA ranch home offers sweeping lake, valley, and mountain views. Located on the Wildflower Triathlon route—perfect for cycling, scenic drives to wineries and missions, and epic stargazing. Wildlife sightings possible!

Charming Carmel Cottage - Close to Downtown!
Step into this charming, quintessential Carmel Cottage located close to downtown Carmel. Easily accessible and set back on a corner lot, you'll be centrally located to all Monterey Bay has to offer. You're a short walk to all the shops and restaurants in downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea, as well as within walking distance to the beach. Truly a zen-like experience, we can't wait for you to stay in our beautiful home.

Boho A-Frame Cabin w/ Sauna
Escape to this enchanting unique A-Frame cabin guesthouse on California's central coast. With a sauna, fireplace, BBQ, and starlit sleeping loft. It's the perfect retreat for two. Surrounded by state parks, the bay, and hiking trails, adventure awaits right outside your door. Whether you're seeking serenity or exploration, this hidden gem offers the ultimate California escape.

The Barn at Old Morro
Escape to The Barn at Old Morro, a beautifully renovated floral studio turned private retreat. Perfect for 2, this light-filled space features a king bed, dedicated office, full kitchen, and a magical outdoor area with a fire pit and BBQ under oak trees. Your serene, centrally-located home base for exploring the Central Coast, from Morro Bay to Paso Robles wine country.
Popular amenities for Big Sur holiday rentals
Other great holiday rentals in Big Sur

Chameleon House

Luxury Tent - Middle Grove

Private Treetop Beach House

Brutalist Architectural Retreat in Nature

The Silverbird - vintage 1986 Airstream with views

Blue Haven Oceanfront Stay Near Cambria & Beaches

Carmel Rustic Cabin Like a Treehouse + Dog

The Vineyard House in the Pastures of Heaven
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
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- Santa Cruz Beach
- Monterey Bay Aquarium
- Capitola Beach
- Pinnacles National Park
- Rio Del Mar Beach
- Carmel Beach
- Pfeiffer Beach
- 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
- Seabright Beach
- Santa Cruz Wharf
- Big Sur Campground & Cabins
- Jade Cove
- Sumner Beach
- Steamer Lane
- Garland Ranch Regional Park
- Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
- WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca




