Are you looking for the best Airbnb Big Sur rentals? This list contains the top 14 properties that will take your California road trip getaway to the next level.
Big Sur is a beautiful 90-mile stretch of mountainous coastline that borders the Pacific Ocean. It stretches between the seaside cities of San Simeon and Carmel-by-the-Sea. It’s widely regarded as one of the most scenic driving routes in the USA, if not the world.
Some Airbnbs are found scattered along the route, but most places are located towards the northern end of Big Sur. This is where the bigger cities of Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea are, which are very tourist-focused.
If you’re searching for unique Big Sur accommodation, this list has plenty of options for all types of travelers.
Airbnb Big Sur: The Best Vacation Rentals
Take a glance at some of the Airbnbs in Big Sur you can expect to see on this list.
- Best Airbnb in Big Sur For Families – Entire House/apt in Pebble Beach
- Best Big Sur Airbnb For a Weekend Away – Soak up the Futuristic Vibe in a Minimal, All-White Lounge
- Best Value Big Sur Cabin Rental – Serene Redwood Haven in Big Sur
- Most Luxurious Big Sur Cabin – Cabin Nestled in Forested Canyon
- Best Big Sur House Rental in Monterey – Explore Monterey Marine Life from a Pacific Grove House
Also, you’ll notice that every second Airbnb has a video underneath it. This is to provide you with more information on the area and popular attractions nearby.
Top 14 Airbnbs in Big Sur, California
Let’s get into our list of the top properties. From Big Sur cabin rentals to modern apartments and private homes, here are the best Airbnbs.
1) Entire House/Apt in Pebble Beach
Best Big Sur House Rental For Families
Location: Monterey County
Airbnb Plus: Yes
Superhost: Yes
Price: $434+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/plus/14555202
If you’re looking for Big Sur rentals for families or groups, this is your place. There are three bedrooms and three bathrooms that accommodate a total of six guests. You’ll have everything you need for a fun social trip.
The kitchen is equipped with high-quality appliances, making it perfect for mealtime. And, there’s a large dining room table with plenty of seating. The spacious living room is a cozy spot to hang out. It features a big comfy couch, a fireplace, and flat-screen television.
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Guest Review: “Eduardo’s place was very cozy and comfortable. We came home to find the fireplace already lit, which made us feel very welcomed. The home was spacious, well-decorated, and clean. Amenities were well-maintained, and the bed was very comfortable. We would definitely come back again!”
2) Soak Up the Futuristic Vibe in a Minimal, All-White Lounge
Best Weekend Big Sur Airbnb
Location: Carmel-by-the-Sea
Airbnb Plus: Yes
Superhost: No
Price: $296+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/plus/27521512
This modern Airbnb is sleek and stylish. The unique decor gives it character and makes it a fun place to spend a few nights. It’s set in a quiet neighborhood, just a 15-minute walk from Downtown Carmel and 20 minutes from Carmel Beach.
The two bedrooms are inviting spaces to return to after a busy day. Both have ensuite bathrooms and flat-screen Smart TVs. The coffee station will satisfy all your caffeine needs. Make a cup and enjoy it outside at the shared seating area or in the airy living room.
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Guest Review: “Wonderful place to stay. As an artist, I chose this Airbnb for the decor and was pleased to see the art and decor was even better in person. Super fun and funky. Loved every second of staying here! Would stay again. Host was very helpful!”
3) Serene Redwood Haven in Big Sur
Best Value Big Sur Cabin Rental
Location: Carmel-by-the-Sea
Airbnb Plus: No
Superhost: No
Price: $135+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/13491131
This is one of the most charming and affordable Big Sur cabins. It sits near a creek among giant redwood trees. And, scenic hikes and parks are just a short drive away. There is no WiFi or a TV, so you can disconnect and relax.
Soak up the beauty of your surroundings in the garden, which includes seating. Fire up the grill for a BBQ, or use the fully equipped kitchen to make your meals. Between the queen bed and the additional queen Murphy wall bed, four guests fit comfortably.
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Guest Review: “This was exactly advertised. Charming and more spacious than we expected. It was impeccably clean and the kitchen was well suited for us. This was an amazing, secluded place in the midst of our Big Sur adventure.”
4) Cabin Nestled in Forested Canyon
Most Luxurious Big Sur Cabin
Location: Carmel-by-the-Sea
Airbnb Plus: Yes
Superhost: No
Price: $639+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/plus/28580594
This Big Sur cabin is perfect for a forest getaway. The unit is tucked away in a quiet location in the woods. Enjoy the scenery from the outside patio, or the many large windows and skylights inside the house.
The large kitchen and dining room will sort you out for mealtime. And the living room is perfect for entertaining or relaxing. There are multiple fireplaces inside that set a cozy mood. And, the two bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms are very inviting.
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Guest Review: “We loved staying here! The area is so intimate and surrounded by giant redwoods. The 1930’s house is so charming and inviting. The decor and style of the house were amazing. The owners were very helpful and easy to contact. We will definitely be back.”
5) Explore Monterey Marine Life from a Pacific Grove House
Best Big Sur Vacation Rental in Monterey
Location: Pacific Grove
Airbnb Plus: Yes
Superhost: Yes
Price: $365+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/plus/21142337
This Airbnb is the perfect home base for exploring the Monterey Peninsula. It’s just a few blocks from attractions like the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Pebble Beach, and Cannery Row.
The house offers all of your essential amenities and facilities. The two bedrooms are modern and spacious, and the two bathrooms are stocked with complimentary toiletries.
After a busy day of sightseeing, head back to the roof terrace or backyard patio for cocktails. If you’re not eating out, the kitted-out kitchen has everything you need to prepare a feast.
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Guest Review: “I loved our stay at Lee’s place! I especially appreciated the early check-in, the plentiful towels, the coffee setup, and the washer/dryer! The upstairs master bedroom and bath are a DREAM; it was so relaxing to spend time there. Thanks for a lovely stay.”
6) The Mermaid Bungalow
Location: Seaside
Airbnb Plus: Yes
Superhost: Yes
Price: $173+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/plus/21407114
This Airbnb resides in a 1930’s bungalow. It’s full of vintage charm and character. The kitchen has all your dining essentials, including a coffee-making station. And, the living room has all your digital essentials, including a Smart TV with Netflix and HBO GO.
The cozy bedroom is simple and tidy. It sleeps two, but if you’re traveling with a baby, the host provides a pack ‘n play crib.
Lastly, you can’t beat the location. It’s within walking distance to local eateries and the beach. And you can drive to attractions like Fisherman’s Wharf and the Monterey Bay Aquarium in just 10-15 minutes.
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Guest Review: “It served as a cozy anchor for our vacation. The hosts were super gracious and hospitable. The location is ideal to explore Monterey/Carmel.”
7) Sallie’s Cottage
Location: Pacific Grove
Airbnb Plus: Yes
Superhost: Yes
Price: $368+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/plus/26468647
This Big Sur cottage has a colorful interior and lots of thoughtful touches. It serves as a great anchor for any coastal getaway. The area is super local, with the beach, restaurants, and the downtown district within walking distance.
When you’re not out exploring, cook up some local recipes in the kitchen. Then, end your evening lounging on the comfortable sofa watching TV. The bedrooms both have queen-sized beds – but only one has a TV. Make sure you call dibs if you’re doing the booking.
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Guest Review: “I had a great stay. The location was perfect for staying local or exploring nearby Big Sur. The place was spotless and a clutter-free space with thoughtful appointments. The private drive made for easy parking after a long day at the beach.”
8) Big Sur Dream Home
Location: Carmel-by-the-Sea
Airbnb Plus: No
Superhost: Yes
Price: $364+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/12606638
For a relaxing vacation, this place will check all of the boxes. The property offers a panoramic view of the redwood and oak-filled scenery. Enjoy your surroundings from the outside hot tub or by the cozy fire.
The inside has large floor-to-ceiling windows that fill the whole space with light. The layout is very unique. One-bedroom is in a yurt-style room on the deck, and the other is upstairs in a loft-style room.
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Guest Review: “Fantastic Airbnb and fantastic host. Mary is super friendly as are the people she works with. The Airbnb is very private and has everything you would need to enjoy yourself in Big Sur. This is the best Airbnb that I have been to in a long time and my only problem was that the trip wasn’t longer. I will definitely be back and will look to stay for a much longer period of time.”
9) Big Sur, Goat Farm, Ocean Views!
Location: Big Sur
Airbnb Plus: No
Superhost: No
Price: $650+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/465810
As far as cabins in Big Sur go, this one is super central. It’s located in the heart of the coastal route, just 1.5 miles from Pfeiffer State Park. The cabin is on a working farm, full of animals and natural beauty, enhanced with ocean views.
It offers all the amenities to make you feel pampered and comfortable. For cooler nights, the master bedroom has a wood-burning stove and the bathroom has a large tub. The kitchen and living room are well-appointed and there’s even a reading room where you can curl up with a good book.
Possibly the best feature is the large deck/patio. It provides dramatic views of the Big Sur coastline.
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Guest Review: “If you know and love Big Sur you will enjoy this as a one-of-a-kind experience. Our family and friends loved helping out with the animals and appreciated the opportunity to share in this beautiful location. Sarah and Sky and Loki were great hosts. Such great memories were made and we hope to be back soon!”
10) Big Sur Airbnb Getaway -Rosehaven- Morning Lite Cabin
Location: Carmel-by-the-Sea
Airbnb Plus: No
Superhost: No
Price: $155+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/16405369
This rustic cabin in Big Sur is perfect for a quiet getaway in the woods. It has a studio layout, with the kitchen, dining room, queen-sized bed, and seating area in one big room. The large windows provide beautiful glimpses of the forest in every direction.
When you’re not inside getting cozy by the fire, you’ll be outside, relaxing on the spacious deck. Read a book on the hammock or take a bath in the outdoor tub surrounded by the sights and sounds of nature.
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Guest Review: “A wonderful unique experience in the magical treehouse. I can’t think of a thing that could make it more special. Probably not like anywhere you have ever stayed before. Charming.”
11) HawksPerch Haven Studio
Location: Carmel-by-the-Sea
Airbnb Plus: No
Superhost: Yes
Price: $185+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/1407844
This snug studio apartment is perfect for one to two guests. It’s situated in close proximity to many hiking trails and parks, making it a great spot for nature lovers.
After a fun day sight-seeing in Big Sur, cook something up in the full kitchen, or wind-down with a hot bath. End your day relaxing on the rooftop deck with a cocktail and endless ocean and canyon views. Or, rest your feet on the double bed while watching TV.
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Guest Review: “Jill and Kevin were exceptional hosts. I would highly recommend to anyone looking for a quiet weekend and/or hoping to explore the Big Sur and Carmel areas. The view is absolutely beautiful, and the setting is very peaceful. There were many thoughtful touches throughout the studio and we had a very comfortable and pleasant stay.”
12) One of Most Beautiful Spots on Earth
Location: Carmel-by-the-Sea
Airbnb Plus: No
Superhost: Yes
Price: $114+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/5815918
This simple and stylish Airbnb fits harmoniously into the natural landscape. It’s surrounded by a lush pine forest that looks out over the Pacific Ocean. You can catch some incredible sunsets over the water from the outside patio, or even right from the family room sofa.
There is one bedroom with a king-sized bed and ensuite bathroom. The queen sofa sleeper in the family room can sleep two more guests. Lastly, thanks to the full kitchen and comfy living room, you’ll be all set for a quiet coastal retreat.
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Guest Review: “We had an amazing stay at Jim’s place! The place was very clean and the beds were extremely comfortable. We also loved that you can see the ocean from the front window! We had everything we needed for a relaxing weekend away from home. Would definitely love to stay again!!”
13) Cliff House – Big Sur Coast with Ocean Views
Location: Monterey
Airbnb Plus: No
Superhost: Yes
Price: $953+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/43509189
Located just a stone’s throw from the pacific, this house supplies an abundance of magnificent ocean views from nearly every room. It has an open floor plan and large windows that immerse you in the natural beauty of the central coast.
Every area of the house is well-equipped. The kitchen is stocked with all of your cooking gadgets. The inside and outside dining table sets are perfect for mealtime. And the living room and two bedrooms are modern and cozy.
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Guest Review: “Everything about our stay was perfect. The location is incredibly hard to beat, what an amazing view. House is far from the road so it’s quiet, other than the sound of waves crashing on the rocks below. House had everything we needed and was super clean. We certainly look forward to staying here again one day!”
14) Spectacular Horizon/Ocean View, Entire Guesthouse
Location: Carmel-by-the-Sea
Airbnb Plus: No
Superhost: Yes
Price: $409+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/13532410
This guesthouse is set in a very scenic location overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The private balcony supplies the best views, but you can also catch glimpses from inside thanks to the many large windows.
The kitchen is suited for preparing light meals. It connects with the rest of the studio suite, so you can socialize and cook at the same time. During your downtime, you can use the free and fast WiFi, or watch a DVD on the TV.
When you’re ready to start your day, downtown Carmel is just a 10-15 minute drive away. Coastal parks, including Point Lobos and Garrapata State Park, are just five minutes away.
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Guest Review: “Great location and extremely peaceful. Close to everything you need yet just far enough away to escape. Su was very helpful, made plenty of recommendations for things to do, and was extremely quick in responding to us.”
Best Day Tours and Trips From Big Sur
Monterey is just north of Big Sur. It offers many coastal and aquatic attractions, making it a great city to visit. Here are three fun tour options for exploring the area.
Monterey Bay: Whale Watching Tour
“Monterey Bay is the premier destination for whale watching all year! There are whales seen every day here in Monterey. Trips are narrated by a marine biologist or naturalist who provides educational and interesting information about the wildlife.”
Price: $65+ USD
Monterey: 17-Mile Drive Bike Tour
“Legendary for its beauty, 17-Mile Drive meanders up and down the hills of Pebble Beach. Admire stunning seaside views, famous golf courses, and amazing mansions on this guided e-bike tour.”
https://www.getyourguide.com/activity/monterey-l548/monterey-17-mile-drive-bike-tour-t248107
Price: $79+ USD
Monterey: Scenic Half-Day Self-Guided Electric Scooter Tour
“Discover the wonders of Monterey and soak up epic coastline views from the comfort of a seated electric scooter. Travel at your own pace using a GPS driven app to guide you around the most iconic sights and landmarks along the shore.”
Price: $90+ USD
Am I Missing Any Cool Big Sur Airbnbs?
This vast area of central California is full of hidden gems. Considering its sheer volume, it’s possible I may have missed a quiet retreat or some cozy cabins near Big Sur. If you find any that deserve a spot on this list, shoot me a message and I’ll see what I can do about adding them in.
Other Recommended Readings Beyond Big Sur
Are you looking to plan another trip? Check out these posts for more travel inspiration.
- The 18 Coolest & Best Airbnbs in Santa Barbara For the Perfect California Getaway
- The 18 Best Airbnbs in Big Bear, California | Big Bear Airbnb Cabins
- The 22 Coolest and Best Airbnbs in Hawaii For the Ultimate Vacation Experience
- Top 20 San Diego Music Festivals | The Ultimate SD Festival List 2019
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- The 15 Coolest & Best Airbnbs in Detroit For a “Motor City” Getaway
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- Top 12 Airbnb Alternatives to Try For Your Next Vacation Booking
- The 16 Best Brooklyn Airbnbs For the Coolest New York Experience
Big Sur Vacation Rentals: Final Thoughts
There are some incredible properties along the Big Sur coastal route. Even though each one is so uniquely different, they all draw inspiration from the stunning central coast landscape.
Whether you’re after a luxury Airbnb with all the bells and whistles, or a cozy cabin in the woods, this list will sort you out.
If you’re looking for more central California spots to explore, make sure to check out this list of the best Airbnbs in San Luis Obispo.
