We noticed that you're using an unsupported browser. The Tripadvisor website may not display properly.We support the following browsers:
Windows: Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome. Mac: Safari.

Post Ranch Inn

47900 Highway 1, Big Sur, CA 93920-9576
Enter dates to see prices
Traveler (1302)
Room & Suite (485)
Dining (114)
What is Travelers’ Choice?
Tripadvisor gives a Travelers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travelers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.

View prices for your travel dates

Prices are the average nightly price provided by our partners and may not include all taxes and fees. Taxes and fees that are shown are estimates only. Please see our partners for more details.

About

#1 of 9 hotels in Big Sur
Location
5.0
Cleanliness
4.9
Service
4.8
Value
4.2
Travelers' Choice
GreenLeaders Platinum level

Welcome to Post Ranch Inn, your Big Sur “home away from home.” Post Ranch Inn aims to make your visit as relaxing and enjoyable as possible, which is why so many guests continue to come back year after year.

Given the close proximity to Seal Beach Scenic Overlook (2.7 mi), guests of Post Ranch Hotel can easily experience one of Big Sur's most popular landmarks.

Rooms at Post Ranch Hotel provide air conditioning, a refrigerator, and a minibar, and guests can stay connected with free wifi.

In addition, while staying at Post Ranch Inn guests have access to a concierge and room service. You can also enjoy a pool and free breakfast. Need a place to park? Free parking is available at Post Ranch Hotel.

Travelers looking to enjoy some crab can head to Sierra Mar, The Sur House, or Deetjen's Big Sur Inn Restaurant.

Looking to explore? Then look no further than Hawthorne Gallery (0.9 mi), which is a popular Big Sur attraction – and it is conveniently located within walking distance of the hotel.

Post Ranch Inn puts the best of Big Sur at your fingertips, making your stay both relaxing and enjoyable.

Read more
Suggest edits to improve what we show.Improve this listing
Property amenities
Free parking
Free High Speed Internet (WiFi)
Pool
Fitness Center with Gym / Workout Room
Free breakfast
Hiking
Spa
Concierge
Parking
Wifi
Hot tub
Pool / beach towels
Infinity pool
Outdoor pool
Heated pool
Restaurant
Breakfast buffet
Breakfast in the room
Couples massage
Non-smoking hotel
Outdoor furniture
Sun terrace
Sun umbrellas
Dry cleaning
Laundry service
Show more
Room features
Bathrobes
Air conditioning
Fireplace
Housekeeping
Private balcony
Minibar
Refrigerator
Complimentary toiletries
Room service
Safe
Seating area
Laptop safe
Show more
Room types
Ocean view
Non-smoking rooms
Suites
Good to know
HOTEL CLASS
HOTEL STYLE
Green
Charming
Languages Spoken
English, Spanish
1722Reviews33Q+A100Room tips
Traveler rating
  • 1,444
  • 137
  • 75
  • 31
  • 35
Time of year
Traveler type
Language
  • More
Selected filters
  • Filter
  • English
Popular mentions
Sort by:
Most Recent
Lagunakahuna1 wrote a review Sep 17
3 contributions2 helpful votes
Lemme start by saying i'm the managing partner of a 4 star resort that is consistently rated one of the top in California, so i have a reasonable frame of reference for greatness. This was our first visit to Post Ranch and my anticipation was a bit over the top. Which is why i was so stunned when each and every one of my unrealistically high expectations was not only met, but exceeded. The staff is authentic. Nothing is "mailed in." Each and every staff member engaged in real conversation, and each was proud to their core to be able to work in a place they regard as the finest spot on the planet. The rooms are whimsical and creative, simple and luxurious beyond belief. Each room has a distinct personality and that's the problem. Having been there once and stayed in the "Onemisio" north ocean room, I now want to "meet" the rest of the Post Ranch family of tranquility. Short of a novel, there is not enough time to describe the experience. Walking under the canopy of towering evergreens, discovering exceptional artwork randomly scattered amidst the serene natural setting, the views from the pools/rooms/restaurant.... Just no words... Do NOT miss the Falconry experience, unless you're used to birds of prey hunting you down and extreme speeds only to land softly on your extended arm and take food from your (glove wrapped) fingers. This is the first time my wife and I have ever checked into a resort and not given a thought to taking our car to a nearby restaurant, attraction, etc. We were in the moment from the instant we were greeted to the time when we sadly had to bid adieu to this magnificent sanctuary. Thanks to the staff for making our stay magical and to owner Mike Freed for envisioning something inconceivable and devoting the resources and attention to detail to actually make it happen. If you are reading this and considering the various top-tier resorts in Northern California, stop whatever you are doing and book Post Ranch. I promise you, they will blow your mind. All day, every day, and do it in a non-invasive, organic fashion making your feel like you are the only thing that matters in this world. Granted... it's not inexpensive and my wife was actually hesitant as we rarely treat ourselves to something like this. But twice during our trip she looked at me and said to the effect "this is just incredible... worth every penny.... when can we come back?"
Read more
Date of stay: September 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Traveled as a couple
Room Tip: like trying to describe the perfect sunset... there are no words!
See more room tips
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Share
Response from Tim Lee, General Manager at Post Ranch Inn
Responded 1 week ago
Dear Lagunakahuna1, We are so pleased that you took advantage of all that Post Ranch Inn has to offer. My personal favorite thing to do on the ranch, is to listen to the sound of...silence. As you have experienced, Mike Freed is a visionary far ahead of his time. Nothing is overlooked and he has a dedication and passion for sustainability because...it is the right thing to do. We look forward to your return, when your travels bring you back to our magical corner here in Big Sur! From our hearts to yours, Tim Lee General Manager Post Ranch Inn
Read more
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Jack S wrote a review Sep 16
5 contributions
We paid $2,500+ a night to stay at Post Ranch Inn via AmEx Fine Hotels and Resorts. It is by far the best location on the coast. The ocean and coastline views are incredible. My wife and I booked a Lower Coast Room. Let me be clear, Lower Coast Room means lower floor with a room above you. PRI will tell you that their rooms are “soundproof” but that is absolutely not true. Lower means 1st floor and upper means 2nd or top floor. Indoor spa tub means no tub but the ability to fill up your square stand up shower with water. It’s strange. If you are someone who desires a soaking tub, this option is not for you. There seems to be a miscommunication between housekeeping and the reception as day time housekeeping always hit the mark and knew when we were out. Turn down service never failed to interrupt us multiple times while we were getting ready for dinner-dinners that the hotel knew about in advance and made reservations for. Strange right? Sierra Mar is the only fine dining establishment in the area. Cocktails are a minimum $27 each. The nearest liquor store is in Monterey so plan accordingly. Breakfast and lunch service are fine-it’s breakfast and lunch, right? Dinner is prix fixe and while the view is stunning the price tag does not at all match the food or the service. Our bill was more than $1,000 for 4. Alcohol was not excessive. We saw our actual server twice, at least we think it was our server-can’t be sure. No beef on that menu. Cod and pork tenderloin. Yikes. But you are at their mercy as I mentioned, fine dining options in the area are limited. The Lexus car program is fantastic. Great resort cars and easy to access-either drive on your own or via the hotel shuttle. The stocked mini bar is also nice considering you do seem to be in a remote location. The pools are beautiful. I can’t tell you what to do. Book it or not. The view is amazing. The expense is insanely high. Come into it with tempered expectations and you will more than likely enjoy your trip.
Read more
Date of stay: September 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Traveled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Share
Response from Tim Lee, General Manager at Post Ranch Inn
Responded 1 week ago
Dear K6542RWjacks, Thank you for your recent stay with us. I am pleased that overall your stay was satisfactory. Many of our return guests, specifically requests for our popular Lower Coast Rooms. I am very sorry for the noise disturbance which you have experienced. We will also remind our Room Attendants, to continue to do their best by providing turndown service to as many rooms, regardless that guests are often dining at the same time. Thank you for your feedback so that we may continuously improve, Tim Lee General Manager Post Ranch Inn
Read more
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Nancy M wrote a review Sep 16
Henderson, Nevada4 contributions
Post Ranch Inn has the most scenic views. The Ross upper ocean suite is our favorite. We were married in the suite and have been back 3 times. Ross suite never disappoints. The privacy we have and restaurant within walking distance is why we love it there. They have Lexus cars for your use included if you want to go sight seeing outside of Post Ranch Inn. They have a spa and pool to enjoy.
Read more
Date of stay: September 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Traveled with family
Room Tip: Arrive early and stay at least 4 days!
See more room tips
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Share
Response from Tim Lee, General Manager at Post Ranch Inn
Responded 1 week ago
Dear V5823VBrtichardl, Thank you very much for taking the time to share your Post Ranch Inn experience with us. We were pleased to welcome you back to the ranch. Also, thank you for your loyalty with us. My warmest appreciation and gratitude, Tim Lee General Manager Post Ranch Inn
Read more
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
bethanyy23 wrote a review Sep 12
Jackson, Mississippi18 contributions8 helpful votes
This place is a true gem. We have stayed at incredible properties all over the world but this property will be hard to top! Property was unique and the perfect place to unwind and spend time away from the hustle and bustle of life. Appreciate that there are not any alarm clocks or tvs in the room too! The grounds are breathtaking with several easy/moderate trails spread out across the property to hike. The architecture is stunning and sophisticated. We had breathtaking views of the ocean from our place. Lots of complimentary activities offered like yoga, meditation, art walks and garden tours. The Mercantile boutique on property was filled with an eclectic assortment of gifts and finds from around the world. Utilized in room dining for breakfast, lunch and a couple dinners and also dined at Sierra Mar which was a treat! The smoked old fashion at Sierra Mar was incredible. Wonderful dinner with gorgeous views. We spent a day at Pfeiffer Beach and had the restaurant pack up a backpack filled with assortment of snacks and drinks to take with us for a beachside picnic. We utilized the complimentary Lexus while on property as well. Both made for a wonderful excursion off property. Staff was professional and welcoming. Lots of special touches throughout the stay that did not go unnoticed. Thank you for an incredible experience and stay! This is place is a bucket list kind of place!
Read more
Date of stay: September 2023Trip type: Traveled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Share
Response from Tim Lee, General Manager at Post Ranch Inn
Responded 1 week ago
Dear bethanyy23, We are so pleased to learn that Post Ranch Inn is now at the top of your list for best properties that you had the pleasure of staying. We are also pleased that we exceeded your expectations. Thank you very much for recognizing our professional and dedicated staff who serve with their hearts. We look forward welcoming you back soon! My warmest regards and gratitude, Tim Lee General Manager Post Ranch Inn
Read more
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
L H wrote a review Sep 12
1 contribution
The PRI is undeniably one of the most relaxing and peaceful hotel stays one could ask for. The staff are unbelievably friendly, helpful and available. The rooms, views and hotel grounds are beautiful.
Read more
Date of stay: September 2023Trip type: Traveled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Share
Response from Tim Lee, General Manager at Post Ranch Inn
Responded 1 week ago
Dear B3478XZleighh, I am so glad you had the opportunity to experience Post Ranch Inn and all that it has to offer. Our staff were very touched when I shared your feedback that they are unbelievably friendly, helpful and available. We look forward creating more memorable experiences with you on your return visit. Thank you, Tim Lee General Manager Post Ranch Inn
Read more
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Vy M wrote a review Sep 8
1 contribution
My husband and I stayed at the post ranch inn for our 10 year anniversary. From the start- Sergio was incredible and recommended some great hikes. Meg, the manager helped us when we had a few hiccups and went above and beyond to help us. 10/10 customer service. We will be back for my 40th and 11th wedding anni! Thank you Meg!
Read more
Date of stay: August 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Traveled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Share
Response from Tim Lee, General Manager at Post Ranch Inn
Responded 1 week ago
Dear 225vym, Thank you for your recent visit with us, and for taking the time to share your wonderful experience with our readers. Also, thank you for recognizing Sergio and Megan who are both wonderful ambassadors of Post Ranch Inn. Megan, Sergio and our entire team, look forward to welcoming you back for your 40th and 11th wedding anniversary! From our hearts to yours, Tim Lee General Manager Post Ranch Inn
Read more
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Harlan G wrote a review Sep 8
2 contributions
Post Ranch Inn has always been on the bucket list - and finally was fortunate to experience the magic, the perfection of Post Ranch Inn. It was everything you had heard and read about - but even better if that is possible Before we talk about the majestic beauty of the Ranch, we first have to talk about the excellence and warmth of the entire team working there. Upon check-in I was informed that just moments prior a decision was made to close the restaurant and in-room dining for a few days due to a Covid exposure. What happened next speaks volumes about the care, skill and warmth of the team. They had already had a Plan B put into place. They arranged space at local restaurants for Ranch guests so they could dine - but the excellence didn't stop there. They offered to drive you to and from the restaurants and even would pick food for you if you didn't want to leave the property. I had never experienced such excellent customer service before. The team driving were amazing - offering hints of where to eat, what to order along with a genuine sense of care. And so chill. On my second night, In Room Dining commenced - and it was exceptional. One of the best meals of my life. Fresh Orange King Salmon - exquisite. The in room dining came with adorable picnic baskets and a button to press when you needed the food collected. The fact that I could eat such a perfect meal in my own room/house was mind-blowing. This is not ordinary room service. Highly recommend Ocean House. Architecture is at another level in tandem with the view - just magical. Plenty of room to sprawl out and read a book and relax both in and outside the room with incredible privacy. Can we talk about the sound system in the room? Audio Fantasia. Crystal clear, dynamic and perfect for sitting outside and taking in one of the most amazing views we will ever get to experience. Highly recommend the spa - had fantastic bodywork. I am spacing on the the therapists' name (because I was so utterly blissed out) easily one of the best massages of all time utilizing deep tissue, stretching and some Swedish. Post Ranch Inn is magic John, Tim - the entire team from at the spa to in room dining and everywhere in between - just excellence. You folks are excellent stewards to that magical ranch.
Read more
Date of stay: September 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Traveled with friends
Room Tip: worth the splurge. save save save and enjoy
See more room tips
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Share
Chi-Chi’s Dad wrote a review Sep 4
3 contributions
My wife and I had twice before visited Big Sur and this time decided to stay at the Post Ranch Inn. This is an enchanting place. Some of the rooms are elevated on poles in a redwood forest and some of those overlooking the Pacific have curved roofs with sod and grass atop them. You might expect to see Bilbo Baggins. There are two small, heated and most comfortable infinity pools overlooking the Pacific from which we could see whales breaching. Our cabin, Little, was clean and spacious with a beautiful view of the mountains to the east. There are easy trails on the property on which you can stroll through redwood groves. You do not need to leave the resort to find one. Even in August you can have a fire in your room at night and they give you a bountiful supply of firewood. The staff is generally most attentive, We made few demands on them. The sound system in our room malfunctioned, and upon complaint an employee promptly appeared to repair it. The staff drives about in golf carts and Lexus SUVs and offers rides should you need one. Dinner was, for lack of a better term, bad news. On our first night we were told we had three choices: 1. a six course pre fixe menu that appealed to neither of us, 2. dinner for two that had to be ordered an hour in advance, or 3. we could order certain courses a la carte from the six course menu. We chose the latter with assurances the portions would be adequate. We each ordered chicken and received two slices about 1”x 3” each. The cost with broccolini - $150. I was fortunate to have half of a sandwich in the room I had for lunch - otherwise it would have been a hungry night. The second night we ordered the dinner for two and received enough food for five people. The chicken was sectioned with some vegetables on top and mediocre, at best, in taste. Not at all the quality or presentation we expected from a restaurant of this renown. At breakfast the second morning we were told we had a fourth dinner option: we could have ordered dinner in the restaurant from the room service menu. A little late. Our last night we ate cold leftover chicken in our room. Equally disturbing was that no one in a managerial position seems to care. When we explained at breakfast our second morning what had happened the previous two nights the manager did not seem to care. When we checked out and were asked about our experience and expressed our dissatisfaction with dinner - no one seemed to care. Upon our return home, my wife received a questionnaire about our stay and answered it similarly to this review - no response. My advice: if you stay at the Post Ranch Inn and have the slightest doubt about whether you will be satisfied with dinner, make reservations at Nepenthe or Deetjins or bring your own food.
Read more
Date of stay: August 2023Trip type: Traveled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Share
Response from Tim Lee, General Manager at Post Ranch Inn
Responded 2 weeks ago
Dear Guest, Our sincere apologies for not meeting your expectations with regards to your dining experience. Also, for sharing your concerns to management and our front desk personnel, which you departed with the feeling that no one cared. I have shared and discussed this with our team as we take your concerns very seriously. Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback so that we may improve. Post Ranch Inn is dedicated to providing memorial experiences but with your visit, we failed to meet your expectations. We hope you will give us another opportunity to make it right. Please do not hesitate to contact me please. Once again, my sincerest apology, Tim Lee General Manager Post Ranch Inn
Read more
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Yujin Y wrote a review Aug 2023
Los Angeles, California42 contributions3 helpful votes
+1
This review is well overdue. We stayed here in August 2022 for our 10th year anniversary. Booked through Amex Fine Hotels and Resorts and received an upgrade upon check in. Most upgrades received thru this program weren’t exactly memorable, but this time around, it blew away my mind. We were given the whole residence at the end of the road —with a big yard and a hot tub with unobstructed views off a cliff. Multiple fireplaces, beautiful furniture, full kitchen, so much outdoor space. We checked in too late to dine out anywhere nearby and ordered room service. It reminded me of a very nicely done home cooked meal (in a good way). Not overly salty or seasoned, healthy tasting yet satisfying. I would highly recommend it. Seeing the wildlife throughout our stay especially in our own backyard was such a treat. Love hiking the property trails. We really enjoyed having breakfast delivered to our backyard and taking our time. The restaurant had good food, but it was little too crowded compared to the rest of the property. The spa therapists are very talented as well. Most of all, I appreciated the high level yet down-to-earth service. I don’t know if we will be able to pull off the same kind of upgrade ever again, but we can’t wait to go back! The Post Ranch Inn ranks as our favorite romantic getaway spot along with our recent stay at the Brando in FP in a very different way.
Read more
Date of stay: October 2022Trip type: Traveled as a couple
Room Tip: Restaurants nearby close early. Book spa treatments ahead.
See more room tips
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Share
Response from Tim Lee, General Manager at Post Ranch Inn
Responded 3 weeks ago
Dear Yujin Y, Thank you so much for taking the time to write about your stay. This means so much to our team. We are delighted to hear how much you enjoyed your stay. Our staff are very touched by your thoughtful words. We value your business and we cannot wait to have you back soon. My warmest regards and gratitude, Tim Lee General Manager Post Ranch Inn
Read more
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
NantucketJoe wrote a review Aug 2023
Nantucket, Massachusetts187 contributions109 helpful votes
Aman like, only different. I know that doesn’t make sense, but the setting can’t be beat. The rooms are situated to take advantage of the stunning views. Food is outstanding, but to me the place felt a little tired. However, I’d return in a second!
Read more
Date of stay: May 2023Trip type: Traveled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Share
Response from Tim Lee, General Manager at Post Ranch Inn
Responded 4 weeks ago
Dear NantucketJoe, OK a second just past....come back! In all seriousness, a sincere thank you for your recent stay with us. We pride ourselves in welcoming all guests to our ranch, as if to the home of a very dear friend. We look forward to your return soon. My warmest regards and gratitude for your stay with us. Tim Lee General Manager Post Ranch Inn
Read more
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Previous
123456
Not the right property for you?
There are more places to choose from in the Big Sur area.
PRICE RANGE
$2,354 - $2,636 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
ALSO KNOWN AS
post ranch hotel big sur, post hotel big sur, post ranch inn, post big sur
LOCATION
United StatesCaliforniaBig Sur
NUMBER OF ROOMS
39
Is This Your Tripadvisor Listing?

Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.

Claim Your Listing

POST RANCH INN - Updated 2023 Prices & Hotel Reviews (Big Sur, CA)

Frequently Asked Questions about Post Ranch Inn
Which popular attractions are close to Post Ranch Inn?
Nearby attractions include Pfeiffer Beach (1.5 miles), Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park (1.8 miles), and Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park (1.8 miles).
What are some of the property amenities at Post Ranch Inn?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include free wifi, free breakfast, and a pool.
Which room amenities are available at Post Ranch Inn?
Top room amenities include a minibar, air conditioning, and a refrigerator.
What food & drink options are available at Post Ranch Inn?
Guests can enjoy free breakfast and an on-site restaurant during their stay.
Is parking available at Post Ranch Inn?
Yes, free parking is available to guests.
What are some restaurants close to Post Ranch Inn?
Conveniently located restaurants include Deetjen's Big Sur Inn Restaurant, Sierra Mar, and Nepenthe.
Are there opportunities to exercise at Post Ranch Inn?
Yes, guests have access to a pool and a fitness center during their stay.
Are any cleaning services offered at Post Ranch Inn?
Yes, dry cleaning and laundry service are offered to guests.
Which languages are spoken by the staff at Post Ranch Inn?
The staff speaks multiple languages, including English and Spanish.
Does Post Ranch Inn have any great views?
Yes, guests often enjoy the ocean view available here.
Is Post Ranch Inn accessible?
Yes, it offers wheelchair access and facilities for disabled guests. For specific inquiries, we recommend calling ahead to confirm.