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City Guide: Big Sur

So it's less a city, and more coast. Either way, we’ll take it. In collaboration with David Yurman.

Travel
City Guide: Big Sur
Meagan Wilson

We can only describe Big Sur as one of those places you just *have* to visit, at least once in your lifetime. From the epic Redwoods to miles of sandy California coast, there’s something for pretty much everyone. It’s the kind of place best experienced with someone you’re extra close to, so you can fully check your cynicism at the door, and just let the undeniable beauty wash over you without having to act all cool about it. And despite Big Sur’s obvious outdoorsy-ness, we’ll be the first to tell you that you can go about your visit in a way that’s decidedly luxurious and indulgent—just in case the whole pitching a tent thing isn’t exactly your vibe (guilty).


Post Ranch Inn

That whole skipping the tent and sleeping bags in lieu of a fancy hotel thing? That’s this place, right here. It's probably one of the prettiest hotels in the entire country, and the rooms’ price tags are reflective of that—but it's also worth every last penny. Choose a suite based on your desired view and vibe (will it be cliff? Or ocean? Mountainside?) and the settle in to chill, there’s really no way to be disappointed with any option you choose. Same goes for their incredible award-winning spa, and restaurant…

Sierra Mar

Okay, so we’re cheating a teensy bit here. But in the case that you’re not able to splash out on one of Post Ranch Inn’s ultra-luxurious rooms, we strongly advise you to make your way to their restaurant, Sierra Mar. Even if it’s only to get a glimpse of the kind of view you’re missing out on. Their Lavender Panna Cotta and selection of oysters doesn't hurt, either. This calls for what will probably be your fanciest moment of the trip—we recommend a slinky ‘90s-style slip dress and spangly statement earrings, like these ones from David Yurman.

Andrew Molera State Park

State Parks are kind of Big Sur’s *thing*. They’re a dime a dozen, so to speak, only they’re all incredibly otherworldly and stunning. Andrew Molera is especially special, though, given that it's relatively untouched. Keep things lowkey with a pair of ankle boots and a stack of delicate David Yurman bracelets.

The Esalen Institute

As a private retreat center that dates back to the 1960s, Esalen is West Coast hippie at it’s absolute peak. Just off the cliffs of Monterey, you’ll find the place where Henry Miller, Susan Sontag, and Joan Baez alike once got in touch with their inner…whatever. Famed for their healing hot springs and waters, Esalen offers weekend, five day or seven day stays so you tap in to your whatever too. We recommend a delicate thread of David Yurman beads to slip around your neck (and stay there)... after all, bathing suits are optional.

Part of the series:

City Guide

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