Big Sur’s coastline has long been the inspiration for artists, writers and visionaries from all over the world. Consisting of a few hotels, restaurants, and art galleries, the village of Big Sur, California, is surrounded by vast redwood-filled state parks.

Giant elephant seals bask on the sandy shores, and gray whales migrate past in the deep indigo waters twice a year, while this untouched terrain remains as wild and exhilarating as always.

Where to Stay: Rooms and suites at Ventana Big Sur have wood-burning fireplaces and outdoor decks with forest and ocean views.

Where to Eat: Sierra Mar at the Post Ranch Inn is the ultimate spot for a special celebration. Set high above the cliffs with floor-to-ceiling windows, the restaurant seems to float above the ocean. Post Ranch Inn Video

Don't Miss: Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park has a beautiful sandy beach for sunbathing in the summer, and offers great whale watching in December and January.

Big Sur, California Ellensburg, Washington Healdsburg, California Hood River, Oregon Walla Walla, Washington San Luis Obispo, California Seabrook, Washington Astoria, Oregon Coronado, California The Dalles, Oregon McMinnville, Oregon La Jolla, California Cannon Beach, Oregon Palm Springs, California Ventura, California Santa Barbara, California Fort Bragg, California Nevada City, California Sausalito, California Truckee, California Two Harbors, Catalina Island, California Carmel-by-the-Sea, California Langley on Whidbey Island, Washington

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