Boutique Luxury

Post Ranch Inn

Perched 1200 feet up on a ridge overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Post Ranch Inn is an architectural gem, and seamlessly blends understated rustic luxury, immaculate cuisine and astounding service.

CA-1, Big Sur, California, USA

Highlights

We think it offers one of the best sunsets in the world overlooking the Pacific Ocean
A harmonious blend of rustic luxury, style and sophistication
An ideal place to stay for a honeymoon or romantic holiday
The most coveted resort in California

It is a testament to its amazing atmosphere that so many guests fall in love with Post Ranch Inn and return year after year, such is its remarkable unique charm and setting. To start with, the views over the Pacific at sunset are outstanding, especially with cocktail in hand from your own private deck. For those wanting to stay somewhere really very special for three or four days, look no further than Post Ranch Inn - it is a Scott Dunn hot tip.

It is set within its own 100-acre estate, so by day you can wander off on hiking trails through wild heaths and redwoods, or head off to the many beaches around Big Sur. You can return for a plunge in one of the three pools, which as you can imagine all have staggering views. The food at Post Ranch Inn is somewhat legendary, blending seasonal Californian fare with French, Asian and Mediterranean inspired flavours, while the evening menus are quite extraordinary. The restaurant, Sierra Mar, offers floor to ceiling windows, making the most of its location. Of course, there is a superb spa.

There are only 39 suites and rooms that all have the perfect mix of rustic luxury, blending into the natural beauty of the location. All rooms have a private deck that look over the ocean or the mountains. They have lovely fireplaces and come with everything you would expect, except TVs, which are a welcome exclusion in a place like this. The Coastal, Cliff and Ocean Houses offer spellbinding views of the Pacific from their floor-to-ceiling windows. The tree houses are always a Scott Dunn favourite, and these do not disappoint, set within hundred year old oaks. For those wanting mountain views then the Mountain Houses are the ones to opt for.

When to visit

Best time to visit

Good time to visit

Average time to visit

Top tip:

Wine buffs or those celebrating should ask the sommelier for the secret wine list at Sierra Mar!

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Horse Riding

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Location

CA-1, Big Sur, California, USA

Post Ranch Inn is located on the Big Sur coast off Highway 1, 30 miles south of Carmel, 150 miles south of San Francisco and 300 miles north of Los Angeles.

Post Ranch Inn is a 3-hour drive from San Francisco International Airport. Alternatively, Los Angeles is a 4-hour drive from the Inn.

Our Top Tours Featuring This Hotel

Just Us: Californian Honeymoon

On this luxury escorted USA tour, you can indulge in a stylish journey through California, where your guides will take you to exclusive locations in LA and San Francisco. You'll also stay at the finest hotels, including an extraordinary retreat on Big Sur, take a trip to the stunning Sonoma Valley and experience coastal life in Santa Barbara.

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Alternative Places to Stay Nearby

Ventana Big Sur, An Alila Resort

Rewarding guests with spectacular views of the Pacific Big Sur coastline, Ventana Big Sur, an Alila Resort, is an adults only retreat, brimming with pampering amenities and perfectly placed to explore this remarkable stretch of the California coast.

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Top Things to Do Nearby

Disneyland Private VIP Tour

Experience the magic of Disneyland with a VIP guide, skipping queues and customizing your day! Meet Disney characters, enjoy top attractions, and access exclusive parade and show viewing areas.

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Explore San Francisco in a Private Cable Car

Take a private sightseeing tour aboard the Powell-Hyde streetcar, enjoying stunning views of San Francisco's landmarks, from Coit Tower to Lombard Street, with a local guide.

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Private Old Town San Diego Food and Wine Tour

Discover San Diego's Old Town on a culinary walking tour! Enjoy historic landmarks, unique food pairings, craft beers, tequila, California wines, and decadent chocolate in a vibrant cultural setting.

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Private Surfing Lesson

Learn to surf along the California coast with a private expert instructor. Master wave timing, pop-ups, paddling, and ocean safety, leaving confident and ready to ride like a pro!

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Newport Beach Private Sailing Charter

Set sail from Newport Beach for a half-day sailing adventure. Help hoist the sails, explore Laguna Beach's secluded coves, swim, and enjoy marine life sightings, before returning to the marina.

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Beekeeping Experience at Carmel Valley Ranch

Embark on a VIP apiary tour in Carmel Valley, donning beekeeping gear to explore a hive of 60,000 Italian honeybees. Learn about their social structure, sample fresh honey, and take home a special gift.

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Private Santa Monica & Venice Beach Tour with Picnic

Explore LA with a journalist guide! Bike through Venice Beach, enjoy a picnic in Santa Monica, and take a scenic coastal drive to hidden landmarks, colorful murals, and stunning ocean views.

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Yosemite Hiking Excursion

This morning, explore Yosemite's Mariposa Grove on a private guided hike. Marvel at giant sequoias on a tailored 4- to 5-hour trek or shorter 2-hour walk. Learn their ecology, capture stunning photos, and enjoy lunch back at your hotel afterward.

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Private Insider Architecture Tour

Dive into Palm Springs' mid-century modern scene on a private tour. Explore iconic homes, admire interiors, and learn about architects like Wexler and Frey. See outdoor art and celebrity estates on this insider’s journey!

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Private Lake Tahoe Boat Tour

Enjoy a private 27-foot luxury boat tour of Lake Tahoe with a guide. Explore Tahoe City, Emerald Bay, and Camp Richardson, plus enjoy hiking, local culture, and scenic views before returning to your hotel.

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Private Joshua Tree Hike

Explore Joshua Tree’s wild beauty on a 1-6 mile off-trail adventure. Hike through canyons, towering rocks, and surreal vistas while your guide shares history, geology, and wildlife insights—plus optional rock scrambling!

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Beachside Horseback Ride and Scenic Picnic Lunch

Soak in breathtaking views as you embark on a guided horseback ride along Santa Barbara’s sun-drenched coastline.

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Why Scott Dunn for Luxury Hotels?

Unique to You

We listen to your travel goals and craft unique holidays that are bespoke to you.
We’re with you every step of your life’s travel journey, from honeymoons to family trips and beyond.

Seamless Service

Global offices in the UK, US, Singapore, and Hong Kong for 24/7 seamless service.
We offer flexibility if your plans change so you can book with confidence and peace of mind.

Carefully Curated Collection

We’ve curated an elevated collection of accommodation, experiences, and guides.
Committed to fostering close global relationships to continue bringing you unique experiences.

Luxury in Every Sense

We deliver a sense of luxury that matters most to you.
Awarded Condé Nast Traveller’s Top Travel Specialists in the World 13 years in a row.

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