Big Sur, California, USA
The luxury 100-acre Post Ranch Inn is situated at Big Sur in a cliff top position overlooking the Pacific Ocean. An adult only eco resort, the property has two infinity spa pools, separate pool, spa, and two-and-a-half miles of hiking trails
Our review
The Post Ranch Inn is a private 100-acre sanctuary hidden in cliff side wooded grounds overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Imagine a place where there are no children or dogs, guestrooms don’t have televisions or alarm clocks and you can genuinely escape from the stresses of everyday life. Then you have imagined this little haven.
We arrived during a rare thunderstorm with torrential rain, but were still able to appreciate the beauty of the place. Around 40 private luxury wooden cottages are dotted through the grounds, inspired by nearby redwood trees – and some built on stilts around them – and all with outside decks or terraces facing the ocean or with mountain views. They are a triumph of design in wood and glass. The biggest have their own outdoor Jacuzzi and all have a wood-burning stove. There is a mini bar with complimentary snacks and soft drinks.
A gourmet breakfast is complimentary for all guests and runs until 10.30am; so lazy lie-ins are almost obligatory. There are two heated infinity spas to wallow in overlooking the Pacific, a separate pool, fitness room and a well-equipped spa. Nearly every day there are yoga lessons or you may go for a guided hike on the two-and-a-half mile trail or later on watch the stars. There are also regular tours of the chef’s garden and his beehives. On site are Lexus cars, some of which are for guests’ use or you may be driven around the local area in one, perhaps to a local restaurant, but my guess is you will probably want to stay put.
Solar energy provides the resort with 70% of its power. If you must, you may use the free Wi-Fi.
There is also a library where guests may borrow books and board games and use the computer and printer.
Despite the atrocious weather, I could see this really is like a little paradise and there is very little not to like. Perfect for romantics and those suffering from burnout.
Rooms
Post Ranch Inn features approximately 40 individually designed rooms and suites, each integrated into the natural landscape. Accommodation includes cliff houses, tree houses and ocean houses, many with private terraces, outdoor soaking tubs or infinity hot tubs. Interiors emphasise sustainable design, natural materials and uninterrupted views of the Pacific Ocean or surrounding redwood forests.
Food and Drink
Sierra Mar is the resort’s signature restaurant, dramatically positioned on the cliffs above the ocean. The menu focuses on seasonal Californian cuisine, with ingredients sourced from the hotel’s organic garden and local producers. Dining is by reservation and exclusively for guests, with an emphasis on tasting menus paired with curated wines.
The restaurant lounge also serves breakfast and light refreshments throughout the day, complemented by panoramic sunset views over the coast.
Wellness
The Spa at Post Ranch Inn offers a holistic wellness experience inspired by nature. Facilities include open‑air treatment rooms, meditation spaces and yoga platforms overlooking the ocean. Treatments focus on relaxation and mindfulness, accompanied by daily wellness activities such as yoga, guided hikes and breathwork sessions.
Facilities
- Destination spa and holistic wellness programmes
- Three infinity swimming pools
- Ocean‑view fine dining restaurant
- Daily yoga, meditation and guided nature walks
- Organic garden supplying the kitchen
- Library and quiet relaxation spaces
- Complimentary valet parking and Wi‑Fi
Location
Post Ranch Inn is located in Big Sur on California’s central coast, set high above the Pacific Ocean along Highway 1. Nearby highlights include Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, McWay Falls, Bixby Creek Bridge and the rugged coastline of Big Sur.
Getting there
Address: 47900 Highway 1, Big Sur, CA 93920 USA
Arriving by car: 150 miles south of San Francisco325 miles north of Los Angeles
Arriving by air: Monterey Airport – 45 minute drive
More information
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* Note: The hotel review was last updated in early 2026. Please let us know if you spot any factual errors.