Big Sur is the kind of place that ruins other coastlines for you. Seventy miles of cliffs, ancient redwoods, sea otters, and humpback whales — it's basically nature showing off.
But actually finding a place to sleep there? That's the catch.
Strict short-term rental rules mean almost no Airbnbs exist within Big Sur itself. Condé Nast Traveler tracked down 11 properties within a 40-minute drive that still deliver the goods.
A few things to keep in mind. Highway 1 is pretty much your only way in, and winter storms can trigger landslides that close it without warning.