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There simply is not a time when the rugged, captivating coast of Northern California is anything but an extraordinary escape. On a clifftop overlooking blue expanse of the Pacific Ocean in Big Sur, Post Ranch Inn is a place of natural and intimate luxury, reflecting not only the beauty of its environs, but the quintessential relaxed attitude as well. With views of sea on one side, and mountains on the other, this property features organic architecture inside and out. Guest rooms are a study in rustic elegance, set in a series of small structures, with each space affording a scenic vista unlike any other. A king bed, wood-burning fireplace, indoor spa tub, and private deck will greet you, and indulgent touches like terry robes, slippers, and a complimentary mini bar offer even more reason to delight in this awesome getaway. Head over to Post Ranch Inn's award-winning spa for an out-of-this-world treatment, set in a room overlooking the surrounding mountains and ocean. From the Big Sur Jade Stone Therapy to the Organic Garden Facial or soul-soothing shaman sessions, this is truly a place of mind and body renewal.
Post Ranch Inn
47900 Highway 1
Big Sur, California
93920
Nearest Airport: MRY
This review is LONG overdue, as I am now here on my 3rd stay over Christmas Eve at the Post Ranch Inn; and, each time I just can't wait to return again. This is an exceptionally special place that I dreamed of visiting for 10 years before finally making it here - and it more than exceeded my expectations. The Ocean House I stayed in my 1st time was so beautiful that I was moved to tears (that happened again today, when I entered the Cliff House!). My 2nd stay was in the Pacific Suite which was also stunning. Here, there is unmatched ambience: the property itself claims some of the most spectacular Big Sur coastline, and they incorporate thoughtful and elegant architecture that cohesively embraces its natural surroundings. The rooms are designed and positioned to perfectly showcase jaw-dropping views. I love coming here for solo getaways to celebrate milestones or take much needed time for myself to recharge. I can gaze endlessly at the horizon and watch "nature's color show" as the sea and sky change throughout the day. It's breathtakingly beautiful. I came for Christmas last year and there is nothing like waking up to a sunrise view of the expansion Pacific Ocean. It was so memorable that I have made it a tradition that I hope to continue for years to come. A big warm thank you to DJ, Chin, Cindy, and the entire team at PR who each play a part in creating a wonderful experience every time I come. PR has come to feel like a home away from home, with heavenly views that celebrate the unique beauty and magic of Big Sur. A special shoutout in particular to DJ who I met on my 1st stay and is the absolute best! He always goes above and beyond to help me pick the perfect room and set me up for a memorable stay, from extra little touches to personalized recommendations on how to spend my time, and checking in on me in a truly authentic and caring manner. His dedication to his guests and his team is amazing, and I can't thank him enough for all he's done!
GXinSF - San Francisco, California
Why do we keep returning to Post Ranch Inn? Let me count the ways… First, we were married there, which makes it an incredibly meaningful place for us. But it’s not just the significance of our wedding—it’s the little details and thoughtful touches that make each return visit so special. The staff feel like family—not just to each other, but now to us as well. They remember the little things: our preferences, what we enjoy, and even details from our conversations. Much like a family, the beauty lies in the stories, and the staff at Post Ranch Inn remember and continue our story every time we visit. Every detail of the accommodations is attended to with care and thoughtfulness. From the complimentary food and beverage items in the room to the choice of French press or Nespresso for your morning coffee, the experience is curated for your comfort. The high-quality robes and slippers make you feel pampered, and the staff keeps your firewood and starters fully stocked so you can enjoy the soothing aroma of a wood-burning fireplace. If the weather turns or you’ve had your fill of exploring the Mercantile or lounging by the pool, the staff will happily give you a lift back to your room. The spa experience is another highlight—if you book a couple’s massage, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the redwoods paired with one of the best massages you’ll ever have. It’s so relaxing you’ll fight to stay awake just to savor every moment. The Jade and Meditation pools are like Heaven on the edge of Earth, with reflections on the water and views of the Pacific so stunning they’re almost beyond description. Dining at Post Ranch Inn is extraordinary, whether it’s poolside service from the Sierra Mar team while you soak and gaze at the ocean or a candlelit dinner in the restaurant itself. The complimentary breakfast is top-notch—I highly recommend the chocolate smoothie or the quinoa breakfast bowl (I sub the egg for tofu). Sometimes, my husband and I opt for room service at dinner to savor the breathtaking sunsets over the ocean while sipping wine and enjoying a meal by the fire. And when we do dine at Sierra Mar, the new à la carte menu offers flexibility, though their signature five-course meal remains a must-try. Their sommelier is incredibly knowledgeable and always ready to help with wine pairings from their extensive collection. The housekeeping staff is equally remarkable. They’re thorough, attentive, and always accommodating. If we leave a note requesting “extra cookies, please!” or “less seltzer and more matcha lattes,” they deliver every time. It’s first-class service in every sense. We also can’t overlook the exceptional reservations and front desk teams, who set the tone for each visit. Whether we have questions or need to adjust our dates, they go above and beyond to accommodate us whenever possible. For instance, when CalTrans kept rescheduling a bridge closure within the same month, the reservations team patiently worked with us to adjust our stay—even though this time, unlike the 2017 bridge collapse, they couldn’t chopper us in (and no, we didn’t actually expect them to!). Post Ranch Inn is the epitome of Big Sur elegance—a place where the staff, accommodations, natural beauty, and overall experience come together to create something truly magical. You’ll never want to leave. Every visit feels like life at its finest, and we are endlessly grateful for it.
Shannon F - West Linn, Oregon
One of the most breathtaking spots we've ever been; it was incredible to experience it in such a private and gorgeously composed setting. The views of the pacific and the seaside cliffs are forefronted in the rooms, the restaurant, and other spaces around the resort. The gorgeous architecture and sculpture work both complement the natural scenery without distracting from it. Loved the sense of being nestled into the mountains at the lap pool, and stunned by the sunset over the pacific viewed from the meditation pool. Everything about the way the post ranch is cultivated speaks to a deep care for both people and the land -- reflected in their investment in local community and sustainability, and also the exceptional attention to detail with which all of our needs/desires were anticipated. We were really impressed.
Beatrix H
Post Ranch Inn is an amazing place! Everywhere you go, you are surrounded by beauty, comfort, and peace. It is the perfect place to detach from the rat race! We especially loved hiking through the redwood forest on the property. We also couldn't get enough of the view from the restaurant, Sierra Mar. We appreciated that the staff kept our room stocked with firewood - and we kept the fire going each evening. I love the sustainability efforts at Post Ranch, too. It was a beautiful, relaxing vacation. Just what we needed - in a place of unimaginable beauty!
Cheryl Z - Tampa, Florida
My wife and I had the time of our lives. We decided to book a Babymoon and were pampered with the such lovely and personal staff. They even provided a sparkling cider for my wife and I to enjoy (no wine during her pregnancy of course). And the views!! Wow! We decided to order In Room Dining in the evening and then stopped by the restaurant for the complimentary breakfast which were both delicious. We’re definitely not waiting for another Babymoon before we stay here again!
Jorge G
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