This was my 2nd time at Lucia Lodge (not really a lodge but a set of cottages sitting high on he cliffs above the Big Sur coast with a small shop and restaurant a short walk away), and my companion's first time. After nice stops in San Simeon and Avila Beach, my companion insisted the Lucia cottage was by far the best, most unique stay of the 3 days. They are are indeed unique: no TV, no phones in rooms, and it is off the grid so no cell coverage either- are you going thru 'e' withdrawal yet?? They have added a limited satelite wireless access since I was there 2 years ago, so now you do not have to go through total withdrawal when you stay.
The original cottages were built in the '30's so they are old and lean, creak, and have the obvious termite damage to show their age. That said, you will not find a more unique, truly rustic (the old cottages define 'rustic') location on the CA Central Coast. Only had breakfast at the restaurant (breakfast open for guests only) and is more than adequate. Never ate dinner at Lucia, only eaten at Deetjen's at Big Sur Inn and highly recommend it.
The short hike up to the overlook above the cottages is an absolute sunset must.
If 'rustic' or cozy/romantic is not you, find another place, otherwise this is a must stay.

This is a tough review because we didn't actually stay inside the lodge, we slept in the car in the parking lot due to highway 1 being closed directly north of the lodge and directly south, so we were pretty much stuck on the highway on the day before Christmas eve with dozens of other stranger and Lucia lodge was completely sold out. However, they were so incredibly nice, they allowed us all to group in their parking lot and kept the lights and the bathrooms open all night long we did interact with the staff. Also, we dined at their restaurant, super long wait as you can imagine tons of stranded holiday travelers needing to eat, and the service there was also great, given the situation they were incredibly nice and considerate. Food was pretty decent as well, it was a bit on the pricey side but it was rather good.

It was getting dark and I was not willing to drive the PCH anymore so I stopped here. The room accommodates 2 only and was 170. I had a view from room 4. The bed was comfortable, has a comforter and enough pillows. There is a shower stall and the bathroom is basic. The rooms sit on a ledge over looking the ocean. From room 4 there is a view. The lodge is old and has been there forever. There are no lights in this area so you can see all the stars at night. You hear the ocean waves at night, you see the sun come up over the St Lucia mountains and over the pacific ocean in the morning. My description does not give it the glory it truly is. They have internet via satellite and you will get a password to access it. The rooms have no tvs. You are not there to watch tv. The stars at night put on a show for you and in the morning you get a whole new show. Hummingbirds were flying around, whales were playing out in the ocean. Check out isn't until like 1030 take advantage of it. The lodge comes with a continental breakfast that was quite nice served in the restaurant. The restaurant overlooks the ocean also.
I had crab cakes in the restaurant, they were very good and average price. Otherwise I did not eat there. There is a market where you can buy convenient foods, wine or sparkling wine to take to the room.

We stayed in cabin 8 for three nights over Thanksgiving weekend. Our cabin, although not luxurious, was lovely with a nice sitting area and gas fireplace. The view of the southern Big Sur coast was unforgettable. Each evening we enjoyed the sunset from the small hill behind the cabins with a bottle of wine ( brought from home- the stuff in the store is expensive). The Lucia Lodge was a great base for the hiking we did over the weekend. For dinner we ate at the Lucia Lodge one night ( good but not great). The other two nights we drove about half an hour north to Big Sur proper. One night we ate at Nepenthe's (amazing food and atmosphere) and the other we ate at the Big Sur Inn ( also excellent!) . I would recommend the Lucia Lodge if you are looking for a relaxing stay in Big Sur.