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. Our inclusive experiences lends a rare opportunity to reduce the decisions one makes in a day. Each overnight stay includes breakfast, lunch, dinner and a host of Signature activities.
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 Alila Ventana Big Sur—and soon, you’ll feel it once more.
We are proud to have been named in Condé Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards 2022 as one of the Top 12 Resorts in Northern California. While the natural beauty of the central coast may draw our guests to Alila Ventana Big Sur, it is the dedication, enthusiasm, and genuine care of our incredible team members that leave our guests with unforgettable memories and the desire to return.
In honor of our recent Readers’ Choice Award, we wanted to highlight a few guest experience reviews* from Trip Advisor that remind us why we we do what we do:
Anniversary Joy
This was one of the most magical places we've visited in Big Sur and the Bay Area, not to mention around the world. The setting and amenities and hotel itself were gloriously luxurious and serene, but what made the stay were the staff. Truly some of the most kind, energetic and engaged people I've ever encountered at a fine hotel and resort. They were so proud of the place, the experience and their role there. It was a joy to interact with every single person we met, from valet to room service to wait staff at the restaurant, guides in the forest, check-in, the pool, EVERYONE!
– Tracy E.
The Ultimate Lifetime Experience & Global Travel Destination
Alila Ventana Big Sur is the epitome of a magical and unrivaled getaway in the beautiful area of Big Sur, California. Alila Ventana offers stunning resort facilities, a beyond-gorgeous nature oriented setting, world-class service, and delicious yet sophisticated cuisine offered in the all-inclusive package continuously sourced from local ingredients.
My wife and I have been fortunate to have had 2 trips to Alila Ventana over the past few years. It is hands down our favorite resort in the world and a resort we plan to frequent as often as we can…Whether it be exploring the beautiful hiking trails across the resort, lounging by one of the two pools/spas, enjoying ocean and sunset views, dining at the Sur House, or just relaxing in the exceptional "modern cabin" rooms, Alila Ventana checks every box for the perfect getaway and is an absolute gem for those who enjoy traveling. It is truly a one-of-a-kind experience.
The hotel is phenomenally managed in all facets and truly offers a world-class experience. Not only is Alila Ventana by far the best resort in the beautiful Big Sur region but is a "must visit" for the most passionate and discerning global travelers.
– Andrew D.
Beyond My Wildest Dreams: MAGNIFICENT!
Words nor photos can adequately express the enormity of the beautiful experience that being at this spectacular property is and was… The resort has embraced the pristine beauty of the surroundings, which are incomparable. There is nothing contrived, it all flows and allows the guest to feel the depth of this most exquisite place.
The arrival through the Coastal Redwood forest to check in takes your breath away…Every single employee, from housekeeping to serving at the restaurants to check-in and experiences seemed full of joy and so happy to be in that beautiful place and help us to have the most stellar experience.
THE FOOD!!! OMG…The service!!! Unmatched… We loved everything we tried and could not get enough of their blueberry rosemary ice-cream!!!
We were beyond amazed by the incredible Falconry experience with Antonio. Again, words cannot describe this. Antonio is so learned and shared so many interesting and compelling facts with us: I think we may become birders! The beekeeping experience with James was equally wonderful. What a bright and delightful guy! He made it interesting, fun and we learned so much and feel, again, compelled to learn more about our surroundings and nature. James Nimmons also taught an astronomy class that was WONDERFUL!! Do not miss this opportunity while staying at Ventana!!
The mountain pool was a wonderful place to lunch and relax, and that spa that overlooks the forest was MAGICAL! The Japanese Bath was also a delightful spot: especially to see the stars at night!
The smells, the sounds (wind in the trees, birds, raindrops), the magnificent service, the fantastic food and drink, the location--as close to heaven as I believe I have ever been--and I say that as a person of faith!
Thank you to everyone who makes this resort so very special and full of kindness and appreciation for the magnificent place it is so exquisitely positioned within!
– Amanda B.
Not Enough Superlatives to Describe Ventana
So many aspects of Ventana deserve my highest praise. Big Sur is a magical place--the iconic rugged coastline, the redwood forests of massive trees that have stoically watched over Big Sur's inhabitants for hundreds of years, the spiritual vibe felt on the area's numerous hiking trails, and so much else. Ventana, even though a "resort" with all the expected comforts, incorporates all of these, as it rises hundreds of feet above the ocean. It is a VERY romantic place.
Our room had an ocean view. Our balcony had a hammock which I used to drift away for a few minutes every day. The rooms, the food, and most of all, the obviously knowledgeable, well trained and genuinely gracious employees (on every level) made our 5 night stay one of my most memorable vacations, and I have traveled extensively for over 50 years. The entire staff's service was memorable.
We languished at times at one of the 2 pools and especially enjoyed the Japanese baths. We also spent much of our days hiking at Andrew Molera State Park and at Pfeiffer State Park. The hiking trails range from easy to very strenuous and everything in between. There are some excellent walks on the Ventana resort property as well. As the title above suggests, there just aren't enough words.......
We cannot thank our guests and the readers of Condé Nast Traveler enough for the praise and recognition of our efforts to create a truly memorable experience. We look forward to being part of your stories created at Alila Ventana Big Sur, and we hope you share them with us!
*Reviews may be edited for clarity
Go To Magazine