Big Sur, CA, Decided.
Every decision that matters, on one page.
✦ Stay: Post Ranch Inn ($$$$)
✦ Eat: Sierra Mar — book WEEKS — reserve well ahead, especially for non-guests and for sunset seatings; the room is small and demand is high. Confirm current hours/format (tasting vs à la carte, lunch availability) on the official site, and confirm Highway 1 access to Post Ranch before counting on it.
✦ Stay: Glen Oaks Big Sur ($$-$$$)
✦ Eat: Nepenthe — book none (no reservations) — but TIME IT: arrive off-peak (mid-afternoon) or well before sunset to get a terrace table, as the wait peaks at golden hour. Café Kevah (below) is the more casual overflow. Confirm current seasonal hours before relying on it.
✦ Stay: Deetjen's Big Sur Inn ($$-$$$)
✦ Eat: Big Sur Bakery — book Bakery counter is WALK-UP (morning pastries/coffee); the DINNER restaurant recommends reservations (DAYS ahead in season) — the room is small. Confirm current days/hours before relying on it; it can be closed certain days.
✦ Stay: Treebones Resort ($$-$$$)
✦ Eat: Big Sur River Inn Restaurant — book Generally WALK-IN (casual) — arrive off-peak in summer for the coveted river-chair seating, which fills. Confirm current hours/days and whether reservations are taken in season on the official site.
When to go: April, May, September, October.