We stayed in a partial view cabin at USD188. The only two things that weren't disappointing, was the partial view and the fact it was very clean.
There is a big difference between rustic and basic.
No hairdryer, coffee making,no heater in the bathroom, no hanging space at all.Unless you pay another USD 100 there is nowhere to sit out and enjoy the view because the lodges 1-6 overlook the carpark.
I guess the fact they have no competition means they can charge what they want.
We we really disappointed and felt we had been rather ripped off

Can't say enough how much my wife and I loved Lucia Lodge.

If not having a tv or phone is your idea of a con, this place perhaps isn't for you. If relaxing, enjoying nature, and getting away is your thing, Lucia is perfect.

The room is simple, with a small bathroom and no phone or tv. The best is wonderfully comfortable. We stayed in cabin 10 and the thermostat controlled gas stove is more than adequate to warm the cabin, despite temperatures into the low 40's overnight.

From the cliff roomside we saw otters frolicking in the kelp, a mother was feeding her baby. Saw seals on the rock in the same area. We were treated to a very special view on our first night, a school of dolphins swam by, about 12, putting on a little show for us. This was followed moments later by a group of grey whales who entertained us for about a half hour. Lovely views and excellent nature watching opportunities. Up th road the next day we were able to see 3 condors roadside, #'s 86, 94 and one other we couldn't read for those who track.

The dinner in the lodge was good, not great, which is typical for this area. Nothing at all to complain about. The continental breakfast in the morning is well above average with lots of fresh fruit, hard boiled eggs, and tons of pastry and breads bagels etc.

Loved the Lucia, look for it on your travels, but book early, cabins 7-10 all book up early. We were lucky to squeeze a night in here.

Enjoy!

We stayed at the Lucia Lodge as part of a 2 1/2 week trip along the California coast. It was the most unique and spectacular experience of all the places we stayed.
First, as others have advised, definitely stay in Rooms 7-10 if they are available. Although you may question the expense, once you see the location of the various rooms, you will understand that 7-10 are worth the additional cost.
We stayed in Room #8 and it was excellent. Two large windows (and the door) offer unique views of the cliffs south along the coast. You just won't get views like this anywhere else along the coast for this price. Our cabin was roughly 14' X 20', with a 4' X 8' bathroom. It is rustic, but not primitive, and the gas lit stove provides both heat and a beautiful fire.
So, here is why you should choose Cabins 7-10 versus Cabins 1-6. Cabins 7, 8 and 9 are all similar -- separate cabins that provide privacy, serenity and spectacular views. Cabin 10 is the end cabin on the ocean side with an addition window view of the ocean (and the added privacy of an end unit). Cabins 5 and 6 are the least attractive. They do not have a direct view of the ocean, they do not have high pitched roofs like the other cabins (hence low ceilings). And they face the parking lot and are adjacent to a pay telephone. They should be your last choice. Cabins 1-4 are closest to the highway, and their view of the ocean is across a parking lot. This isn't the worst thing in the world, but if you can afford the cabins (7-10) with nothing between you and the ocean, you should get one. We were there during a major rainstorm, and it was amazing to watch it all from our cabin (and no leaking roof).
Regarding food, it is expensive. However, we had good dinners (lemon chicken and a halibut special) while we were there, and the fish and chips were also excellent. So, although others complained about the quality, our meals were very good. Also, the continental breakfasts were good -- plenty of good pastries, bagels, fruit, yogurt, coffee, tea, and juice. And as others have noted, the restaurant is only open for lodge guests at breakfast.
Lucia Lodge is very different from the other Big Sur lodges that are situated in the redwood forests. You may want to try a night (or two) at each location, but you definitely don't want to miss this spectacular experience.

Don't stay in the motel section. Book a cabin and get ready to check your head out of the daily grind. My husband and I spent one enchanted evening here. It was raining. My cellphone had no reception, there is no TV in the room, no radio. We opened the door, drank wine, watched the rain and the waves. Later, another guest carried a load of firewood in her arms, saw us in our doorway and invited us to her cabin (last one at the end of the row) where she had a firepit. More wine, crashing waves and a fire. Absolute peace. If you are looking for high-end, cushy accommodations - this is not it. If you're OK with charmingly rustic rooms (very clean but old), this is an outstanding retreat. I don't know about the motel section but it looked disappointing. Great continental breakfast (included) in the old restaurant in neighboring building.