BIG SUR RIVER INN | Cheap Hotel in Big Sur | Book & Save

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Key details

About the Hotel

46800 Highway One, Big Sur, California, United States, 93920

Near Pfeiffer Beach

Very good

7.8

/10

3.4

3.8

Loved by Big Sur River Inn guests

Clean rooms
Friendly staff
Beautiful river
Delicious food

"Really cool sitting in the wooden chairs in the Big Sur river having a drink!!"

Mark from United States

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"The Adirondack Chairs in the creek was what drew me here, but the rest of the property is also wonderful."

Jason from United States

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"You can sit in the water and enjoy a drink."

Suezbaker from United States

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Location

Big Sur River Inn sits along the banks of the Big Sur River, surrounded by towering redwoods. It is one of the few established hotels in the scenic Big Sur region, just 26 miles south of Carmel. The property provides easy access to nearby state parks and the historic Point Sur Lighthouse.

Accommodations

The hotel offers a variety of cabin-like guest rooms, including riverside suites that overlook the expansive lawn and the Big Sur River. The motel-style ridge rooms are situated across from the main lodge along historic Highway One. Accessibility options include an ADA room on the first floor with a roll-in shower and additional features for comfort.

Dining

Dining options at Big Sur River Inn include a full-service restaurant and bar that operates daily from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Guests can enjoy meals outdoors while overlooking the river or on the expansive lawn. The General Store also features a burrito bar for quick meal options and a famous ice cream bus that serves various flavors.

Weddings and Events

Big Sur River Inn serves as a venue for various events, from weddings to group retreats. The property includes indoor and outdoor spaces surrounded by nature for memorable gatherings. The event planning team collaborates with local vendors to fulfill all occasion needs.

Activities and Shopping

An array of activities can be enjoyed at the hotel, including lounging by the river in wooden chairs while enjoying the scenery. The General Store offers local merchandise and essentials for guests to take a piece of the River Inn home. The hotel is a gathering spot for community events and fundraisers throughout the year.

Highlights

Location: Nestled among towering redwoods

Accommodations: Riverside Suites with river views

Dining: Full-service restaurant with outdoor seating

Weddings: Scenic venue for unforgettable ceremonies

“I found this riverside inn a compelling mix of rustic charm and idyllic setting, a respite enhanced by the attentive staff. The murmur of the Big Sur River and the surrounding redwoods create a uniquely intimate atmosphere, perfect for peaceful getaways. It's a place where the echoes of its 1934 legacy harmonize with the call of the outdoors.”

James DavidEditor-in-Chief at Cheaphotels

Location: Great

8.8/10Review score

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Highlights from guests

DiningA Cut Above!

The restaurant exceeded expectations. Expect great food and drink in a clean, detailed setting. Breakfast is great too!

Oliver Smith from United Kingdom

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Room FeaturesRiver Views!

Our room had a lovely view of the river and redwoods. The grounds were beautiful, a real plus!

Alice Johnson from Canada

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Sports & FitnessHiking Paradise

Abundant walking and hiking trails are close to the hotel. This location is perfect for outdoor adventures!

Kenji Tanaka from Japan

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BedroomComfy All Around

The beds were super comfortable. We had a restful sleep thanks to the cozy and clean environment.

Ingrid Müller from Germany

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Select your room type

The hotel provides a selection of rooms—doubles, family rooms, and suites—with perks like free cancellation, breakfast options, and great value deals

Queen Room

2 persons

185 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Coffee machine

Heating

room details

Suite River View

2 persons

345 sq. feet

1 King-size bed and 1 Sofa bed

Coffee machine

Heating

room details

Deluxe Suite ADA

2 persons

345 sq. feet

1 King-size bed and 1 Sofa bed

Coffee machine

Heating

room details

Queen Room Two Queen Beds

2 persons

260 sq. feet

2 King Size Beds

Coffee machine

Heating

room details

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Room rates & availability calendar

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Amenities & services

Real traveler stories and honest reviews—no glossy ads, just authentic feedback to guide your booking

Facilities: Great

8.0/10Review score

General

Non-smoking rooms
Parking
No pets allowed
ATM/Cash machine
Vending machines
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers
Key access

Sports & Fitness

Hiking

Services

Housekeeping

Dining

Restaurant
Snack bar
Bar/ Lounge area

Children

Cots

Spa & Leisure

Seasonal outdoor pool
Garden area

Room features

Free Wi-Fi in rooms
Heating
Sitting area
Patio

Media

Flat-screen TV

Room decor

Carpeted floor

Dining Onsite

The Big Sur River Inn offers a delightful culinary experience that reflects the heart of American cuisine. Guests can enjoy a warm family-friendly atmosphere alongside stunning riverside views, making it an inviting spot for casual gatherings or romantic dinners.

Big Sur River Inn Restaurant

American

Ambiance

Family-friendly and romantic, with outdoor decks and lawn seating by the riverbank.

Key Offerings

Savor home-cooked favorites like huevos rancheros and banana walnut pancakes for breakfast, or indulge in expertly smoked ribs, brisket, and chicken paired with beloved sides at the riverside barbeque.

Reservation

Open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Big Sur River Inn Location

46800 Highway One, Big Sur, California, United States, 93920

Map view

46800 Highway One, Big Sur, California, United States, 93920

City landmarks

Landmark

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

1.7 mi

Landmark

Pfeiffer Falls Trail

1.8 mi

Park

Andrew Molera State Park

2.3 mi

Landmark

Pfeiffer Beach Day Use Area

2.2 mi

Landmark

Keyhole Arch at Pfeiffer Beach

2.3 mi

National Park

Pfeiffer Big Sur Campground

2.6 mi

Landmark

Pfeiffer Canyon Bridge

2.9 mi

Nearby

Big Sur

Spirit Garden

1100 ft

46840 Highway 1 Suite 6

Local Color

700 ft

Paul's Slide

1100 ft

Vicente Flat Trail

1100 ft

Kasler Point

1100 ft

Notley's Landing viewpoint

1100 ft

Restaurants

Big Sur River Inn

400 ft

46800 California 1

Big Sur Village General Store & Burrito Bar

500 ft

46842 Highway 1

Explore Big Sur

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

30 minutes' walk

Stunning redwood forests, scenic trails, and wildlife. Ideal for hiking and nature lovers, with guided tours available.

Andrew Molera State Park

40 minutes' walk

Vast landscapes with coastal views and hiking opportunities. Perfect for those seeking adventure or relaxation.

Pfeiffer Beach Day Use Area

40 minutes' drive

Unique purple sand beach known for its remarkable rock formations. A great spot for sunset photography and relaxation.

Pfeiffer Falls Trail

30 minutes' walk

A moderate hiking trail leading to a serene waterfall, offering a refreshing experience amidst nature.

Biking Along Highway One

10 minutes' drive

Biking options available for scenic views along the coastline. Rentals near the hotel for convenience.

Big Sur River Inn

2 minutes' walk

Casual dining with American fare in a relaxed setting. Signature burgers and local wines available.

Big Sur Village General Store & Burrito Bar

2 minutes' walk

Quick bites with delicious burritos and local ingredients. Great for families and on-the-go meals.

Local Color

3 minutes' walk

Art gallery and store showcasing local artists' creations. Regular events for art lovers of all ages.

Spirit Garden

4 minutes' walk

Outdoor space with live music events and local gatherings. Family-friendly atmosphere for all ages.

Getting around town

City Centre

Big Sur4 min · 1000 ft

Airports

Monterey Regional Airport (MRY)76 min · 31.1 mi

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 16:00-21:00

Check-out

until 12 pm

Guest Parking

Public parking is possible on site for free.

Internet

Wireless internet is available in the hotel rooms for free.

Children & extra beds

There are no cots provided in a room.

Pets

Pets are not allowed.

Number of rooms:

Reviews and Ratings

What past guests shared about their stay

Review score

Based on 127 verified reviews

7.5/10

Very good

75%

Recommend

Breakfast

7.5/10

Cleanliness

8.3/10

Comfort

8.3/10

Facilities

8.0/10

Free Wi-Fi

7.9/10

Location

8.8/10

Paid Wi-Fi

8.9/10

Staff

8.2/10

Value for money

6.9/10

Pros

River location

Welcoming community

Convenient store

Cozy setting

Cons

Highway noise

Overpriced rooms

Weak Wi-Fi

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FAQs

About Big Sur River Inn

How far is Big Sur River Inn from Monterey Peninsula Airport?

Big Sur River Inn is 55 km from Monterey Peninsula Airport.

What time is check-in and check-out at Big Sur River Inn?

Check-in is at 16:00 and check-out is by 12:00.

What dining options are available at Big Sur River Inn?

The on-site restaurant serves American fare and is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., 7 days a week.

Is there a seasonal pool at Big Sur River Inn?

Yes, Big Sur River Inn features a seasonal outdoor swimming pool for guest relaxation.

What room amenities can guests expect at Big Sur River Inn?

Rooms include free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, coffee makers, and free toiletries.

What are some attractions near Big Sur River Inn?

Nearby attractions include Pfeiffer Beach (approximately 4 km), Point Sur Lighthouse (approximately 12 km), and Andrew Molera State Park (approximately 8 km).

Is parking available at Big Sur River Inn?

Free public parking is available on-site at Big Sur River Inn without the need for a reservation.