You guys know I love a good road trip and today, I’d like to share my favorite places to see, scenic drives, and a glamping spot in California.
If you’re looking for a fun road trip, look no further than the drive from Los Angeles to Big Sur. The drive will take you approximately 5 hours, which is definitely doable in a day, although, I highly recommend dividing this journey in 2 parts. My husband and I don’t like rushing this gorgeous drive which is why we often spend the night in San Simeon, a beautiful town just south of Big Sur. It will take you about 3.5 hours to drive to San Simeon, so its not exactly a mid point but an absolutely gorgeous place to check out on the way to Big Sur. By the way, if you decide we spend the night in San Simeon, look for a hotel on the beach so you can enjoy the stunning views of the ocean. We stayed at the White Water Hotel and Cambria Beach Lodge and absolutely loved both.
The drive from San Simeon to Big Sur is breaking! The road winds along the rocky cliffs, and offers stunning views of the ocean and picturesque landscapes. Suffice to say, my husband and I have been making this drive twice a year for the past 10 years and we remain in awe after every single time.
Once you get to Big Sur, there are many amazing hotels to choose from, Post Ranch Inn or the Ventana Inn for example, both of which we absolutely love. But if you’re in Big Sur for the first time, I highly recommend glamping at Ventana Inn. The experience is absolutely unforgettable! My husband and I went about 2 years ago and loved it so much that we ended up repeating it this year.
Why we love it: the nature, the safari-style tent complete with a comfortable bed, luxurious bedding, a wood-burning fire pit, lounge chairs and a barbecue area. One of our major concerns last time we were here was staying warm, but we were perfectly comfortable under the heated blankets and of course the fire pit kept us nice and warm while we were outside. Another pleasant surprise was the Bath House. It’s definitely a lot more posh and luxe then we were expecting. Think teak-enclosed showers, marble vanities and fluffy towels. Honestly, the Bath House looks and feels like a glamorous spa, oh, power outlets and hair dryers were also a very welcome surprise!
Last suggestion! If you end up staying at Big Sur, be sure to check out Big Sur Smokehouse. If you love barbeque, you’re definitely in for a treat, the food is absolutely delicious and we also loved the relaxed, nonchalant vibe of the place.