A place that is incredibly enchanting and sure to please anyone passionate about embracing nature is the luxurious Ventana Inn Big Sur. Not only is the location ideal for observing the majesty of Big Sur and the California Coastline, but also for enjoying it all in a five-star luxury resort.
The views are spectacular!
There are too many reasons to list why this is an Always5Star recommend for a stay in Big Sur, California. However, there may be five best reasons to love Ventana Inn Big Sur that I am sure will have you putting this destination on your dream travel list.
The Ventana Inn Big Sur
The Ventana Inn is perched hidden on the hillside above the Pacific Coast Highway 1 and ensconced within the crowning glory of Big Sur’s redwood trees. As you turn off Pacific Coast Highway you will begin your drive on the narrow road path up to the “Social House” where a valet will greet you and direct you up the stairs to the check-in and reception area. Immediately you are aware that you are about to embark on a very exclusive break from life’s craziness and challenges.
When you do arrive be sure to put yourself in the right mindset and observe the grounds and your surroundings. Notice the soft trickling fountain (beautiful art sculpture as well) which will soothe you and begin your journey of relaxation. Notice the quietness, the soft breezes that playfully rustle the leaves of the surrounding redwoods. All these peaceful sounds come together to create tranquility and bliss!
Why Ventana Inn Big Sur is a Magical Destination:
🌟 Adults Only Resort – Privacy and Romance
As much as I love children, I still appreciate the opportunity to check out and have an adults-only vacation especially if you’re wanting a holiday that is all about retreating from life and creating a sense of tranquility! The resort is so peaceful that I saw several people who came to enjoy it alone. However, because of the privacy that each room allows, this is a perfect place to celebrate your romantic moments too!
🌟 Amenities Not to be Missed
Ventana Inn Big Sur offers several benefits and amenities that make your stay singular. Here are just a few:
Wine Tasting
This is a treat! Every night while my hubby and I were there, they offered a wine tasting and cheese platter from 4-5. The wines were fantastic and we looked forward to this hour to relax on their veranda and to take in the spectacular views of the ocean.
Spa Treatments and Fitness Center
Though I did not experience either of these, I did tour Spa Alila and would highly recommend it if you have the opportunity. The outdoor spa cabanas especially looked fabulous for a romantic outdoor couples massage.
Fitness Opportunities:
Check the schedule each day for their offerings. While we were there, they offered Tai Chi and Yoga each morning.
Japanese Hot Baths
This is singular to the Ventana Inn Big Sur. There is a Men’s only and Women’s only side, and the two converge to a co-ed section.
Japanese Bath House 
Womens Entrance to the Japanese Bath House 
Japanese Bath House Women’s Changing Area 
Japanese Bath House Womens Only Baths 
5StarTip🌟:
Enjoy the Japanese hot baths late at night! Just find an alcove and sit back in the warm water, relax, and stargaze.
Guided Nature Hikes
The guided nature hike at the resort takes place every morning to tell about the fauna and history of the resort
Two Pools
There are two heated pools. The “Meadow Pool” is located next to the Social House and the “Mountain Pool” is located up near the Japanese hot baths. Note: The Mountain Pool pool does not have a hot tub.
Infinity Hot Tub
The Infinity hot tub is located right off the “Meadow Pool”. My hubby and I enjoyed this hot tub each day, as the views are exceptional. Make sure you enjoy during the day so you can see and fully appreciate the beauty of the view!
Sunset Views
The best places to see the stunning sunset are the lawn, the deck above the pool, or the deck with the dry sauna above the pool as well.
Shuttle Service
The resort offers a shuttle golf cart service to nearby restaurants. This is a fabulous perk and an opportunity to try a restaurant off the property. If you decide on Nepenthe Restaurant, I strongly recommend not going on the weekends as it can be quite crowded however it might be worth it though…the views are breathtaking!
Glass House Gallery
Located right off The Sur House restaurant is a small art gallery inside an all-glass house. Though the structure is quite small, going into the structure to see the views is worth it!
🌟 The Sur House Restaurant and Views View Views
My hubby and I thoroughly enjoyed eating all our meals at The Sur House. You simply cannot beat the views on the patio, and the culinary options suited us quite well.
The menu is inventive and the entire dining experience was always outstanding. I love that they utilize produce from their own organic garden and from local suppliers. We enjoyed breakfast and an early dinner each day and night of our stay.
5StarTip🌟:
We found eating at 2-3 p.m. offered the best views and best seating options on the patio. You avoid both the lunch and dinner crowds.
5StarTip🌟:
To reach the restaurant from the resort, there is a walking path. The path is lit at night…but it can be a long walk. I loved it, but something to be aware of.
🌟 Explore Nature
There are great walking paths all around the property to enjoy while you at the resort. You are also within close proximity to amazing hikes in Big Sur.
5StarTip🌟:
Take the time to check out their glamping and tent spots located on the beautiful 160-acre grounds. The path down to these spots is a good workout (steep hill) but totally worth it.
Top 5 Hikes:
Nearby I would highly recommend the following hikes. However, please note that some trails may be closed and should be researched before attempting. To determine whether these trails are open please click on links provided below:
- McWay Waterfall Trail (.64 mile) – Easy Hike
- Pfeiffer Falls / Valley View Trails (2 miles) – Easy to Medium Hike
- Andrew Molera Loop (8.8 miles) – Medium to Challenging Hike
- Limekiln Trails (3 miles) – Easy Hike
- Ewoldsen Trail (4.5 miles) – Challenging Hike
🌟 Accommodations:
During our stay, my hubby John and I enjoyed the Vista Hot Tub Suite in the Redwood Building. Our suite was #2.
Vista Hot Tub Suite
This suite offers your very own private deck and hot tub! Another great feature is a wood-burning fireplace (very romantic!!).
The suite is oversized and is 773 square feet. It overlooks meadows and some redwoods, with a bit of an ocean view. From the hot tub, we were able to sip champagne and enjoyed starry skies! To say the evening was perfect would be an understatement!
Vista Hot Tub Suite Features:
- Private hot tub
- King bed
- Comfortable chairs and seating area and wood-burning fireplace
- Small dining table
- Large stone bathroom
- Indoor soaking tub for two with views of the patio and outdoors
- Double vanity sinks
- A separate shower that looks over the patio (almost seems outdoors) and dressing area
- Large deck with patio furniture for lounging in. Ours had a large day bed that we thoroughly enjoyed
Ventana King Guestroom
Before checking out, I asked if we could see a standard king room for future reference. Staying here can be quite expensive, and I was curious when we come to stay again how we would enjoy a less expensive room. Honestly, this room was superb and found it certainly would be a room that I would enjoy as well. Especially if you requested the second-floor ocean view rooms.
Ventana King Guestroom Features:
- King bed
- Window seat
- oversized bathroom with a large soaking tub
- Private deck some come with ocean views
- 414 square feet
🌟 Location:
48123 Highway 1 – Big Sur, CA 93920
🌟 Hyatt – Part of the World of Hyatt Rewards Program:
Hyatt has just acquired this property as part of its extensive new portfolio. Stays and status count here! As a Globalist they honored my late check-out of 4 p.m. and daily breakfast at the Big Sug House. For more information about the award program: World of Hyatt Program
Final Thoughts:
While staying at The Ventana Inn Big Sur, I found that as my cell signal began to fade away, I was able to start to recharge my own battery. I began to appreciate the energy flow of this incredible environment that the resort creates to anchor myself and refuel my core being. I know that you will experience this too and wholeheartedly wish that you will have the opportunity to do so soon!
Cheers to your stay at Ventana Inn Big Sur!
About Pamela Rossi
I am passionate about travel and taking each moment and making it a five star experience. My goal is to create those experiences for YOU!
This is an absolute dream destination!