Ventana Big Sur

When you reach the edge of the continent, where the sky, the sea, the mountains and the redwoods all converge, you find a place of unmatched beauty and tranquility. You feel the pull that has drawn artists and thinkers for centuries.

And you’re enveloped by the same inspiration to discover, (dis)connect and create. You’ve reached Ventana Big Sur, an enclave tucked among the forests in one of the most iconic and dramatic landscapes on Earth.

It’s a place where you see the world, and even yourself, a little bit differently. Where you can find your center, soothe your body and stir your imagination. And where romantics, visionaries and seekers find the fuel that feeds their souls.

With 59 secluded suites featuring expansive balconies, 160 magnificent acres of natural splendor on the rugged Pacific coast, and amenities and activities both private and purposeful, Ventana embodies the notion that space is luxury.

This is a place where everyone can find what they seek, from romance and emotional connection to perspective and solitary reflection. And with so much change in the air, so much in Big Sur remains as it has always been—and as it is meant to be.

The towering redwood forests. The crashing sea down below. The supportive, nurturing environment that fosters meaning, strengthens relationships, and encourages you to define your own unique path.

Nothing can change the special feeling that rises within you at Ventana Big Sur—and soon, you’ll feel it once more.

RUSTIC. REFINED. REIMAGINED.
Ventana Big Sur’s distinctive services, facilities, and amenities create an atmosphere ideal for romance and self-discovery—even as they have been thoughtfully refined to reflect our new reality. Your safety and comfort are always our top priorities. Amenities and Services:

• Welcome amenity
• Two heated outdoor swimming pools—one with an infinity-edge hot tub (capacity for the hot tub currently is limited to two couples at one time)
• Japanese baths (two persons per bath)
• Fitness facilities—reopening date to be determined
• Dining in-room, poolside, or perched above the ocean at The Sur House
• Daily snacks—ranging from healthy to indulgent
• Daily Morning Movement classes and guided hikes
• Complimentary reusable water bottles
• Self-guided garden tours

Excursion Outpost
From hiking in the redwoods to lounging by the sea, Big Sur is a natural wonderland ripe for exploration. Ventana Big Sur guests enjoy access to Excursion Outpost—which features a wide selection of complimentary equipment and amenities to help you make the most of your adventures.

Whether you’re heading into the forest or down to the beach, simply call the front desk to reserve your gear! (All equipment is first come, first served. We ask that guests return all Excursion Outpost items within 24 hours.)

• Yeti coolers
• Yeti wine glasses and beer cozies
• Beach blankets
• Camp chairs
• Card games
• First aid kits
• Tripods (Gorilla Pods and full tripods)
• Hiking Poles (adjustable men’s and women’s)
• Patagonia day packs (men’s and women’s)
• Blankets
• Swiss Army knives
• Compasses
• Flashlights

Get Set to Jet with XO
Book a private charter flight with XO to begin your premium Ventana experience before you even arrive in the redwoods: Ventana Big Sur guests gain exclusive access to discounted pricing for private charter flights with XO for direct travel to Monterey Peninsula Airport

THE COAST HOUSE
Ideal for larger parties, the Coast House can be booked as a one-bedroom or two-bedroom configuration.

A 500-square-foot living room with a kitchen, dining area, powder room and large deck are perfect for gatherings with friends and family — while two Superior Hot Tub Suites, one on each side, when booked as a 2-bedroom, provide a separate measure of solitude.

Wherever you find yourself, you’ll enjoy dramatic views both inside and out. Relax in front of the wood-burning fireplace. Take a soak in your private outdoor hot tub. Revel with those closest to you. The Coast House is designed to feel just like a home away from home.

THE COTTAGE HOUSE
The ultimate Big Sur journey begins in our Cottage House. This standalone refuge, the premier accommodations at Ventana, takes your experience to another level. Lounge in the comfortable furnishings, or suspend yourself in a swaying hammock outside your door.

Relax in the soaking tub for two inside, or take in the forest canyon views from your private outdoor hot tub. Light the wood-burning fireplace for a night of warmth and romance, or snuggle under the stars. Your options are just as vast as the Cottage House’s 722 square feet of indoor luxury and 600-square-foot deck.

BIG SUR VILLA
The expanse of Big Sur is awe-inspiring — and Ventana’s Big Sur Villas evoke a similar response, thanks to spacious bi-level accommodations with plenty of room to roam. Make yourself at home in the first-floor living room, lounge on the full-size sofa and light the wood-burning fireplace for rustic ambience.

When it’s time to retire for the evening, head to the second-floor bedroom, where your king bed and an open-concept stone-lined master bathroom await. Private outdoor spaces on both levels provide the perfect setting for taking in stunning Big Sur views.

SUPERIOR HOT TUB SUITE
The Superior Hot Tub Suite provides everything you need for the perfect escape on the California coast — including a private hot tub and 300-square-foot outdoor deck overlooking the forests and meadows of Big Sur.

This secluded suite also features a wood-burning fireplace, a decadent king bed and a spacious custom-appointed stone bathroom.

BIG SUR SPA SUITE
The Big Sur Spa Suite combines the best of indoor and outdoor living to transform your Ventana visit into a relaxing spa experience. Take a soak in the bubbling hot tub on your spacious patio, while you soak in the views of the ocean, canyon or forest.

Or spend a lazy afternoon lounging in the oversized hammock. You’ll find the suite’s interior just as inviting, with a dining alcove, wet bar, bathtub for two and wood-burning fireplace.

A MOST FITTING WAY TO BEGIN EXPLORING AGAIN
We are pleased to announce the reopening of our tent cabins. While you’ll find that the redwoods have remained the same, and that our safari-style accommodations are as luxurious as ever, we do need to let you know about some notable changes to the glamping experience—all made with your well-being in mind.

In accordance with social distancing guidelines, Ventana Big Sur hotel guests and Ventana Glamping guests will now enjoy distinct areas on the property. The resort grounds including swimming pools, fitness studios and dining facilities are now reserved exclusively for resort guests.

Glamping guests will not have access to the resort and will no longer be subject to a resort fee. In addition, we are happy to announce a menu of enhancement packages that feature coolers, s’mores ingredients, and more! Please click here for all the details.

A MORE REFINED WAY TO CONNECT WITH NATURE.

We’re all looking for places that fire our imagination, places that call to us. The places that put things into perspective, but at the same time, have the power to change our perspective entirely. Big Sur is one of those places.

Sleep deeply on a custom-designed mattress and premium linens in your safari-style canvas tent. Marvel at the views of a 20-acre canyon. Light up the fire pit, make s’mores and tell stories—or just let the landscape do all the talking.

It’s a luxury camping experience, a more refined way to connect with the outdoors and experience the full splendor of Big Sur.

EXPANSIVE. EXCLUSIVE.

The Sur House, high above the Pacific where the forest, mountains, and sea converge, now features a more spacious seating plan with fewer tables—along with greater exclusivity, as the restaurant is reserved for Ventana overnight guests during breakfast and dinner periods.

Our new inclusive model enhances the experience even further; meals are included with your stay, and upgraded options such as alcoholic beverages are available for separate purchase.

Ocean views from the terrace are as breathtaking as ever, and so is the Big Sur-inspired cuisine, which features fresh ingredients from our expansive organic garden. View our Sample Menus.

Sur House outdoor tables
Here, the culinary team takes their inspiration from this rich and fertile region, showcasing Big Sur’s seasonal bounty through modern American cuisine. It’s deeply rooted in the unique styles and flavors of California’s Central Coast—the perfect blend of classic preparations and contemporary flair.

INSPIRED BY THE SUSTAINABLE INGREDIENTS OF CALIFORNIA’S CENTRAL COAST

An extensive collection of small-production Central Coast wines has been carefully assembled by a team of local vintners and The Sur House sommelier. Craft cocktails and a curated selection of beer, along with a specialty bar menu, also are offered.

Sur house bar
The elegant, rustic setting, highlighted by natural wood interiors and furnishings, is every bit as awe-inspiring as the cuisine.

And the expanded ocean-view patio and windows all overlook Mother Nature’s own melting pot of Big Sur—on one side, the infinite ocean and rugged coast beckon; on the other are mountains, sprawling redwoods and wildlife.

With 160 acres of pristine Big Sur wilderness, Ventana is one of the most inviting places in the world to dine outdoors. Use the map of our favorite hidden locations among the redwoods and high above the Pacific, or satisfy your taste for adventure and discover your own!

VENTANA GLASS HOUSE
The exquisite Glass House and its breathtaking ocean views create a private dinner experience like no other. Perched on the edge of the continent, your party will enjoy a prix-fixe menu (modifications available by request) and memories to last a lifetime.

FIND INNER PEACE AND CONNECTION
Big Sur has long been known as a sacred, curative site, a setting that gives you the time and space to focus on the things that really matter.

For an especially memorable couples treatment, our new outdoor cabanas provide a uniquely private spot for pampering. Engage all of your senses as the ocean breezes wash over you, the scent of Redwoods fills the air and the sounds of the forest are all around you.

From reflexology and unique body treatments to amazing traditional massages, a visit to Spa Alila will leave you with a profound sense of well-being—one that takes hold deep in your soul.

THE HEALING POWER OF EARTH AND SEA
Big Sur has long been known as a sacred, curative site, and the Spa Alila sensory experience is designed around encouraging inner peace and connection.

Our skilled bodyworkers will guide you through a powerful and energizing process, with treatments rooted in both traditional and modern methods from around the world and products that meld the healing properties of earth and sea.

For an especially memorable couples experience, our new outdoor cabanas provide a uniquely private spot for pampering. Engage all of your senses as you look out over the forest, with the ocean breezes washing over you and the scent of redwoods filling the air.

Whether you choose a traditional massage, reflexology treatment or one of our many other unique offerings, a visit to Spa Alila will leave you with a profound sense of well-being—one that takes hold deep in your soul.

VENTANA FUSION MASSAGE
A traditional Swedish treatment with medium to deeper pressure, offering a blend of synergized massage modalities for your individual needs. Combined with stretches, this allows for a relaxing experience with deeper release where needed.

ESSENCE PORTRAITS
Watch your inner landscape unfold in brilliant colors while discovering your spirit guides, animal spirits, and soul mates as Sofanya paints your essence through your unique color patterns. View a portfolio of previous work in the spa relaxation area. 90 minutes

ASTROLOGY READINGS
Since ancient times, astrology readings have explored one’s birth chart to define the essential stages of life’s journey. Readings bring clarity to areas of conflict, emphasizing one’s strengths, and providing tools for managing life in new and creative ways.

WEDDED BLISS BEGINS LIKE THIS
Ventana is the ideal setting to share your most momentous day with those closest to you. After all, unforgettable celebrations of any size begin with a location that inspires wonder. And here, the ocean, mountains and forest blend into an astounding backdrop for your special occasion.

Begin your journey together overlooking the rugged Pacific Coast, or surrounded by towering redwoods. Discover an awe-inspiring setting that provides a new perspective, along with heightened significance.

Our 12,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor spaces make anything possible—all can be safely configured for social distancing, and other key services and amenities have been refined as well.

Make memories for a lifetime. Build stronger bonds. Celebrate with those who matter most. Even with a little more physical separation, weddings at Ventana can still bring everyone closer.

LIKE NOWHERE ELSE ON EARTH

You’re about to embark on one of the biggest adventures of your life. It’s far from an ordinary day—and that’s why you deserve an extraordinary celebration in one of the world’s most iconic destinations.

Imagine saying your vows overlooking the canyons and forest, or surrounded by redwoods. Enjoying a sunset reception or dinner under a canopied arbor. And dancing under the stars to celebrate your new adventure together.

Every couple wants an unforgettable place to say “I do,” and Ventana rises to the occasion with rustic, romantic venues perfect for intimate yet safe gatherings. Sur Vista is a beautiful terrace overlooking the expanse of Big Sur.

The Redwood Circle of Life is a small, protected area encircled by majestic trees—just right for exchanging vows. And the rolling meadows and enveloping canopy of the Redwood Cathedral are simply enchanting.

SET THE STAGE FOR SUCCESS
The best events all begin with a little inspiration—something you’ll find plenty of at Ventana Big Sur. Whether it’s a corporate retreat, sales meeting, product launch or strategy session, our Big Sur setting features more than 12,000 square feet of stunning indoor and outdoor spaces overlooking the rugged Pacific Coast and surrounded by towering redwoods.

All offer flexible configurations for social distancing and safety, and we have refined other key aspects of our operations as well, from catering to cleaning. At Ventana, it’s possible to be productive and have peace of mind, too.

BIG SUR AND STORIED REGION
Located at the intersection of the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Lucia Mountains, Big Sur is one of the most iconic destinations in the world. As you drive along the California coast, following the curves that hug the edge of the continent, you will quickly come to understand what all the fuss is about.

Big Sur has a history that’s as remarkable as its setting, a rich and storied heritage of diverse civilizations, cultural influencers, forward thinkers and artists of every kind.

This is where people come to find what they’ve been looking for — even if they don’t quite know what it is yet. It’s the kind of place that can change you, if for no other reason than the fact you’ll never forget it.

To help you make the most of your time here, see our Big Sur Destination Guide, a comprehensive resource with details about the history, wildlife, landmarks, destinations and recreation opportunities you’ll find along this epic 90-mile stretch of coastline, from Carmel Highlands in the north all the way down to San Simeon.

A MAGICAL PLACE FOR EXPLORATION
Located at the intersection of the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Lucia Mountains, equal parts American legend and natural wonder, Big Sur is one of the most magical places on Earth. As you drive along the highway hugging the edge of the continent, you quickly come to understand the allure of this iconic destination.

Geographically speaking, “Big Sur” denotes a 90-mile stretch between Carmel to the north and San Simeon to the south. There is no downtown — only miles of staggeringly beautiful coastline, ocean cliffs, steep ridges, jagged peaks, deep gorges, flowing rivers and a population of approximately 1,000 residents.

Big Sur’s history is as remarkable as its setting, a rich and storied heritage of diverse civilizations, cultural influencers, forward thinkers and creative artists of every kind. This is where people come to find what they’ve been looking for — even if they don’t quite know what that is yet.

From star-strewn skies to pristine beaches and forests, Big Sur offers plentiful opportunities to unwind and explore. Adventurers will find enticements including an array of hiking trails and a variety of other outdoor pursuits such as cycling, surfing and horseback riding.

Central Coast landmarks, both manmade and natural, dot the landscape, including the purple sands of Pfeiffer State Beach, the arches of Bixby Bridge and the historic Point Sur Light Station.

Destinations such as Hearst Castle, Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park and Point Lobos State Reserve have earned national acclaim, and for good reason: Seldom do nature’s glory and humanity’s ingenuity align so ideally.

THE WEATHER OF BIG SUR
While the scenery is the main draw for this part of the Central Coast, the weather in Big Sur plays a big part in what makes our region so livable (and lovable).

Average highs typically don’t get above the upper 70s, and our average lows usually don’t dip below 40—this is weather that you could call perfectly mild, or just “perfect.”

Because the landscape around here varies so much, the microclimates do, too. That’s inevitable when you combine mountains, forests, and the Pacific Ocean. But overall, there’s really never a bad time to visit Big Sur.

Depending on what you’re looking for, different times of year might be better suited for your needs, though. Want consistent sun, with little to no chance of rain? Summer is your best bet, with nearly nonexistent precipitation and the highest average highs of the year.

Don’t mind a bit of rain if it means you can avoid the prime-season crowds? January and February usually see the most precipitation (9 inches a month on average), but temperatures still can reach the 60s.

Of course, it’s not always calm here, and recently, weather has caused or exacerbated some of Big Sur’s most challenging events in recent years.

From the drought-fueled Soberanes fire in 2016 to unprecedented rainfall causing a massive landslide the following year, the weather here, just like the environment, can be unpredictable. It’s all part of the Big Sur experience.

THE CALL OF THE FRONTIER
From its beginnings as an unmapped expanse to its more recent history as a hippie hideaway, Big Sur has embodied the American experience: wild, free and unrestrained.

EARLY INHABITANTS
Once called “El pais grande del sur” by Spanish settlers, “the Big Country of the South” referred to the unexplored wilderness along the coast south of Monterey.

Thousands of Native Americans lived in the Big Sur region prior to the arrival of Spanish explorers in the 16th and 17th centuries. They belonged to three separate coastal tribes, each with different languages, religious beliefs and cultures.

The Ohlone, also known as the Costanoans, spanned from San Francisco to Point Sur. The Esselen occupied the area between Point Sur and Big Creek and inland to the upper Carmel River and Arroyo Seco watersheds.

The Salinan lived from Big Creek to San Carpoforo Creek. The three tribes were mainly hunter-gatherers, relying on a diet of acorns as well as fish from the ocean and nearby rivers.

SPANISH ROOTS
Even though Spanish expeditions of California started with Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo in 1542, and continued with Sebastian Vizcaino’s visits to Carmel and Monterey in 1602, Big Sur remained protected from the Spanish until Gaspar de Portola’s second expedition in 1770.

It was then that Father Junipero Serra established Mission San Carlos at present-day Carmel River State Beach, along with two other missions east of the Santa Lucia range, Mission San Antonio in the San Antonio Valley and Soledad in the Salinas Valley.

The Spanish brought Ohlones, Esselens and Salinans into the missions, and drastically altered native life in the region. When Mexico won its independence from Spain in 1821, California became a Mexican state, with Monterey remaining the state capital.

The vast mission lands were secularized and divided into livestock “ranchos.” Any law-abiding Mexican Catholic was now eligible to receive land grants.

These ranchos still shape land-use patterns around Big Sur: Andrew Molera, Garrapata, and Point Lobos State Parks, and the lands of San Antonio and Nacimiento Reservoirs were carved out from larger ranchos.

After years of tension between Mexican ranch owners, or “Californios,” as they called themselves, and American pioneers migrating west through the Sierra Nevada, conflict erupted at the outset of the Mexican War.

In 1846, the United States seized California. In 1849, gold was discovered at the foothills of the Sierra. On September 9, 1850, California statehood was declared, making it the 31st state in the nation.

Two land grants spanned Big Sur — the 8,984-acre Rancho El Sur, owned by Juan Bautista Alvarado, and the 8,876-acre Rancho San Jose y Sur Chiquito.

The 1862 Homestead Act successfully enticed settlers to the Arroyo Seco and Big Sur valleys. Early Homesteaders were self-sufficient; they ran cattle and horses, hunted, made cheese, kept bees, planted orchards and raised poultry, hay and vegetables.

They married into already-existing Indian and Spanish coastal families, thus mixing the heritage of the old settlers. Their names and legacies are still present down the coast: Soberanes, Molera, Cooper, Pfeiffer, Castro, Burns and Gamboa.

THE POST LEGACY
Among Big Sur’s early pioneers, one of the most remarkable is William Post. In 1848, 13-year-old Bill Post arrived in Monterey. A native of Connecticut, he was the son of a retired sea captain, and was himself in love with the sea.

Bill had sailed the Atlantic as a cabin boy on The Brooklyn before he came ashore at Magdalena Bay with a friend. The next morning, the two lads found their vessel gone, so they walked barefoot to La Paz, where they got onto The Mizzen Top, a government ship heading to Yerba Buena (San Francisco).

The boys disembarked at Monterey. Penniless, Bill fished in the bay with an old fisherman, trading his fish in town for a dollar. In 1849, the gold rush started and Bill followed everyone to Sacramento. However, when he returned to Monterey, Post was just as poor as when he had left.

In 1858, he married Anselmo Onesimo, a Rumsen Indian girl from the Carmel Valley. Together, they found a piece of land at Soberanes Creek and decided to head to Big Sur. On March 1, 1859, Charles Francis Post was born in the cabin his father had just finished building.

The Posts then had Joseph W. Post in 1862, and later two daughters, Mary and Ellen. Today, the Post legacy is integral to Big Sur. The Post House, located at the highway turnoff to Ventana, still remains. The Post Ranch Inn, across on Highway 1, is built on Post land.

BEATNIKS AND HIPPIES
In the early 1900s, the region more formally adopted its current identity when residents petitioned the government to officially name the post office “Big Sur.” Then, in 1937, Highway 1 brought the 20th century to the region.

Built by convict laborers, the highway paved the way for Big Sur’s modern culture of artists, beats, hippies, tourists and the wealthy. Henry Miller moved to Big Sur in 1944, and his 1958 “Big Sur and the Oranges of Hieronymous Bosch” inspired a generation of Beat writers to follow in his footsteps.

The Hippies followed the Beatniks in the 1960s, thus contributing to Big Sur’s bohemian counterculture. While the 1960s are no longer, the culture of New Age Mysticism and experimental psychotherapy still thrives, making Big Sur an all-American haven of modern eclectic nature-attuned spirituality.

BIG SUR TODAY
It wasn’t until the early 1950s that electricity arrived in Big Sur, and it still doesn’t extend to some of the more remote areas. Big Sur’s 300 square miles are predominantly comprised of state parks, national forests and unincorporated public land.

The region is sparsely populated, with about 1,000 inhabitants who are an eclectic mix of descendants of the original settler and rancher families, visitors who never left, wealthy homeowners, artists looking for inspiration and writers seeking tranquility.

The mountainous terrain, limited property available for development and environmentally conscious residents have kept the “Big River to the South” largely unspoiled — allowing it to retain a romantic, frontier mystique.

AN UNSPOILED HAVEN
Geologically, Big Sur is a youthful region. The Santa Lucia mountain range has taken its shape in a mere five million years through the collision of tectonic plates and the compression of massive faults.

The hard crystalline rocks that constitute the high peaks of the Santa Lucia Range, such as the Ventana Double Cone and Pico Blanco, are made of various types of granite, marble, schist and gneiss. These rocks formed over millennia through the solidification of sandstone, siltstone and limestone.

Today, Big Sur bridges the flora and fauna of Northern and Southern California, while differing markedly from those regions’ climates due to the sheer topography of the Santa Lucia Range.

The result is a diverse array of ecosystems, including coastal scrub extending along the coast, chaparral particularly in the Ventana and Silver Peak Wildernesses, redwood forests, riparian (riverside) woodlands, grasslands along the slopes of the Santa Lucia Range, oak woodlands, and mixed evergreen forests nestled along deep, dark canyon floors and atop the Santa Lucias’ dry, rocky slopes.

The ocean off Big Sur is an official Marine Sanctuary and Sea Otter Refuge, with kelp beds, offshore rocks and deep underwater canyons providing diverse marine habitats.

As one of the last areas of unspoiled coastline in California, Big Sur is home to numerous protected species. Keep your eyes peeled for the endangered California condor, the largest land bird in North America, soaring overhead or perched on rocky outcroppings along the highway.

In the waves along the shoreline, look for southern sea otters floating and bobbing in the surf. View northern elephant seals, once hunted to near-extinction, gathering on the beaches of San Simeon twice yearly to breed.

And scan the horizon in winter and summer for the spouts of migrating blue, gray, orca and humpback whales.

UNIQUE HABITATS PANORAMIC VIEWS
Whether you’re looking for an easy stroll or a serious challenge, the geographic diversity of California’s Central Coast makes it an ideal place to explore on foot. From secluded beaches to majestic mountains to verdant forests, the landscape surrounding Big Sur offers a wide variety of unforgettable hiking experiences.

To see Big Sur through the best local guides, contact Ventana’s reception desk to reserve a hike with Big Sur Guides and Hiking. For more than 40 years, Big Sur Guides has been leading hikes in Big Sur. Trails vary depending on weather conditions and participants’ skill levels. A picnic option is offered on all hikes.

ADVENTURE AT EVERY TURN
Whether you are a mountain biker extraordinaire or a surfing connoisseur, Big Sur offers the opportunity to explore California’s coast in all kinds of ways. Bike, ride, surf or even kiteboard your way across Big Sur during your stay at Ventana.

CYCLING
Whether on a road bike or a mountain bike, cycling Big Sur is a demanding endeavor. Highway 1 is the stuff legends are made of; expert road riders seek the thrill of its heart-pounding hills, sharp curves and unparalleled views.

For a mountain biking challenge, try the 10-20% grades of Rocky Ridge Trail in Garrapata State Park, or a more moderate ride on Old Coast Road between Bixby Bridge and Andrew Molera State Park. Mountain biking is also allowed in the following places:

• Pfeiffer Ridge Trail in Andrew Molera State Park
• Cone Peak Road between Nacimiento Summit and Cone Peak
• Lake San Antonio

HIKING
Let Big Sur Guides and Hiking show you the beauty of Big Sur with a taste of everything magical – from old-growth redwood trails and secret waterfalls to spectacular beaches and ocean coves.

KAYAKING
Big Sur’s rough and exposed coast is not the ideal environment for the inexperienced or to learn a new sport. Be prepared with proper equipment, research the tides and wind conditions and use expert, local advice.

Launch sites include Carmel Bay, Molera Beach and Whalers Cove in Point Lobos State Reserve (by reservation at pt-lobos.parks.state.ca.us). If you don’t have your own kayak, Monterey Bay Kayaks offers a variety of tours that explore the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary.

DIVING
Point Lobos State Preserve has two diving sites: Whalers Cove and Bluefish Cove. Divers experience one of the richest marine habitats in California, with lush kelp forests, a wide variety of marine animal, and vibrant underwater colors.

Reservations are recommended. All divers must register at the reserve entrance. Other sites include Carmel Bay, Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park’s underwater preserve and Jade Cove.

SURFING
The rough breaks and cold water off of Big Sur’s coastline make for less-than-hospitable surf conditions, but seasoned surfers will enjoy the breaks near Ghost Tree on the Monterey Peninsula, Willow Creek, and the north end of Molera Beach in Andrew Molera State Park.

WINDSURFING AND KITEBOARDING
The San Simeon Coast, specifically the Arroyo Laguna area, is one of California’s top windsurfing and kiteboarding destinations. The area features stunning ocean views and spectacularly rugged scenery.

THE GLASS HOUSE GALLERY
The Glass House Gallery at Ventana Big Sur is perched 1,100 feet above the majestic Pacific Ocean and features exquisite paintings, photographs, and sculptures by local artists.

Works of art by Erin Lee Gafill, Bob Kolbrener, Emile Norman, and Doug Steakley currently adorn this spectacular space, a repurposed industrial CONEX box. The Glass House Gallery also offers apparel, bath amenities, books, leather goods, local crafts, and other exclusive Ventana Big Sur mementos.

JOURNEY TO BIG SUR
After sheltering in place for the past few months in San Francisco, Sara and Lewis are eager to explore Big Sur. They invited us along—and Lewis allowed us a peek into his journal.

The day after we made our reservation, Josh from Ventana called to help us set up our stay. Dinner reservations at The Sur House, activities, things like that.

But he also asked what we would like to know about safety, which was really helpful—we’re excited about the trip, but I know Sara was a bit worried about that aspect. To be honest, I was, too. It made us feel a lot better to know the resort is following strict cleaning protocols and is offering no-touch services.

The drive down Highway 1 was incredible. It’s an amazing way to start a vacation. And it went more quickly than we thought—before we knew it, we were in our room at Ventana.

I wanted to go explore, but Sara immediately went into relaxation mode. “Can’t we just take in the view for a little while?” When we walked out onto the balcony and saw all the trees, I went into relaxation mode, too!

With the all-inclusive offering, it was all so simple and seamless. We went on a hike, had a fantastic dinner at The Sur House, and lounged by the pool with drinks every day. Everywhere we went, the staff remembered that we were celebrating our anniversary, which was really nice.

And that falconry experience! I’m pretty sure I let out a little yelp as that bird swooped down toward us, but it was a blast. My favorite part was the picnic I surprised Sara with the following day, though.

All it took was a few clicks on the tablet and we had an amazing basket ready to go right when we needed it. I found a hidden spot (thanks to Ventana’s very helpful map), and we spent the afternoon talking and laughing while marveling at both the scenery and the snacks.

Sara wants to come back—like next week. I think we have ourselves a new anniversary tradition.

Website: www.ventanabigsur.com

Rooms: 60

Price: from 820 EUR per night