The Resort

Aerial view of a resort at sunrise, featuring a pool, green lawn, and outdoor seating, surrounded by lush trees and hills, with misty mountains in the background.
Location

About the Property

Nestled along California’s rugged Pacific coast, Alila Ventana Big Sur spans 160 acres of natural splendor, where 54 secluded suites overlook forests and sea. This is a sanctuary where space itself becomes the ultimate luxury.

Here, the landscape inspires reflection, creativity, and connection. Each detail, whether an ocean-view terrace or a quiet redwood path, invites you to pause, breathe, and rediscover what truly matters.

Pools & Bath Houses

Alila Ventana Big Sur has sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, but our connection to the water runs even deeper. With two outdoor pools and Japanese hot baths, guests can immerse themselves in the elements while surrounded by the natural beauty of the California coast.

A cozy wooden lodge with glowing lights is nestled among tall trees, with a backdrop of forested mountains at dusk.
Since 1975

The Story of Ventana

Originally opened in 1975 as Ventana Inn, the resort was envisioned by Hollywood producer Lawrence Spector as a retreat that would connect discerning travelers with the extraordinary beauty and spirit of Big Sur. Designed by renowned furniture designer Kipp Stewart, the property was thoughtfully crafted to harmonize with its natural surroundings, with every detail reflecting a deep appreciation for the landscape. From its inception, Ventana has offered an immersive experience rooted in nature, inspiration, and the enduring allure of this iconic stretch of California coastline.

Alila Experiences

Discover What Awaits

A beekeeper in protective gear examines a wooden frame covered with bees and honeycomb, while smoke rises nearby, used to calm the bees. Trees and greenery are visible in the background.

Dive in the Hive

Take your beekeeping experience full circle! Each class will begin in the Ocean Meadow, where you’ll suit up and go bee-hind the scenes for a closer look at these artisans in action.

Two people stand in a sunlit forest, smiling at each other. One holds a large owl with yellow eyes. Tall trees and green foliage surround them, creating a peaceful outdoor scene.

Falconry Experience

Join Master Falconer Antonio Balestreri for an exciting introduction to hawks and falcons, where you'll learn about the role of raptors in the Big Sur environment, see a flight demonstration...

A leather crafting setup with a brown leather strip, stamping tools, metal stamps, and a mallet on a marbled surface. A sign reading

Leathercrafting

Learn the benefits of upcycling through making beautiful self-made leather pieces that are not only durable for life-time usage, but also make wonderful gifts for your loved ones!

A small waterfall flows gently over mossy rocks surrounded by lush green foliage and trees in a forest setting. Sunlight filters through the trees, casting dappled light and shadows on the scene.

Coldstream Bliss

Take this exhilarating plunge into cold water for an invigorating rush that awakens your senses. This off-property experience includes a half mile hike exploring the beauty of Big Sur...

Sunlight filters through tall, dense redwood trees in a forest. A large mossy log is suspended between trunks above a shaded path, with ferns and undergrowth on the forest floor.

Reiki In The Redwoods

Experience energy work in Ventana’s Circle of Life—an open-air sanctuary embraced by towering redwoods. In this sacred space...

Two men sit on a bench outdoors, smiling and petting a black and white dog. Trees and a dirt path are in the background, creating a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

We're Dog Friendly

Many of our guests consider their pets to be family members, and we welcome dogs at Ventana Big Sur. There is a fee of $150 per dog (maximum of two dogs), which includes a dog bed and water bowl in your room.

A serene outdoor pool with clear water, lined with lounge chairs topped with towels and shaded by large umbrellas. Trees and distant hills are visible under a clear sky.
A Sanctuary for the Senses

Inclusions

Experience indulgence and enrichment with every stay. Each stay at Alila Ventana Big Sur includes:

  • Chef-driven dining experiences featuring locally sourced California ingredients.
  • Complimentary non-alcoholic beverages throughout your stay, including juices, sodas, waters, teas, and specialty coffees.
  • A complimentary in-suite minibar stocked with a curated assortment of beverages and snacks.
  • A welcome beverage celebrating the flavors and traditions of California wine country.
  • Refillable water bottles for use during your stay and while exploring the property.
  • Transformative wellbeing programming designed to inspire balance, connection, and renewal.
  • A thoughtfully curated collection of immersive experiences and bespoke itineraries that reveal the spirit, beauty, and wonder of Big Sur.
  • Exclusive amenities designed for privacy, reflection, and restoration.
  • Complimentary valet and self-parking.
  • 24-hour access to the fitness center.
A cozy hammock with pillows and a blanket is on a sunlit wooden deck, surrounded by a fence and trees, next to a wooden house. Dappled sunlight filters through the branches above.

Awards & Accolades

2026 – Michelin Guide, Two Key Resort
2026 – Forbes, Four-Star Resort
2026 – Travel & Leisure, World’s Best Award T&L 500
2026 – Food & Wine, Global Tastemakers Award, Best Culinary Hotels
2026 – Smart Meetings, Smart Star Award – Best Boutique Hotel
2026 – The Zoe Report, Best Green Hotel
2026 – Sunset Magazine, Best Outdoor Escape