Picture this: You’re surrounded by towering redwoods, the ocean is crashing in the distance, and you’re lounging in a pool so serene you could hear a hummingbird breeze by. That’s the vibe at Alila Ventana Big Sur, an adults-only haven on the Northern California coast that feels like a much-needed pause button for life.
As much as I love traveling with my little guy—and I do—there’s something liberating about staying at a place where the only sounds are the rustling leaves and the occasional clink of glasses at dinner. I’ll admit, seeing other kids at resorts sometimes tugs at my heartstrings (and makes me miss my toddler even more), but here? It was just the 40th birthday break my partner and I didn’t know we needed.
Is it worth the price tag? These are my honest thoughts (as a fully paying customer):
The All-Inclusive Perks
Let’s acknowledge that Alila Ventana Big Sur is spendy. Big Sur in general is not a budget destination (nor is anywhere along the California coast, let’s be honest). Usually I feel that means we’re compromising on quality, but Ventana doesn’t feel that way. It feels classy, and when you check out, you’re unlikely to have a bill unless you order alcoholic drinks throughout your stay.
That’s because Ventana is all-inclusive, but not in the cheesy cruise ship way. Your meals, valet parking, tips, and even one alcoholic drink (or a mocktail) per evening are all covered. And let me tell you, the food is phenomenal. Dinner feels like a curated event, with fresh, locally inspired dishes at a high-end restaurant.
Breakfast goes all the way until 11am and lunch lasts until 4. You basically never have to want for anything, and there’s something magical about sipping your coffee on the outdoor terrace while the morning mist rolls in. It’s the kind of place where you don’t just eat; you linger.
I also never realized how stressful tipping can be. As a former restaurant employee, I’m always worried I’m not leaving enough, but tipflation leaves me feeling taken advantage of sometimes. At Alila Ventana, you don’t have to think about it. Tips are included in your nightly rate. Yes, even for valet parking and baggage delivery.
The Best Way to Book
Ever since discovering the wonderful world of travel agents, we travel so much better. When you book through Virtuoso, you get access to the following perks while still earning Hyatt points and free night credits:
- Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
- Daily breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom, served in the restaurant and via in-room dining (already included in property rates)
- $100 USD Hotel or Resort credit to be used during stay (you could use it for alcoholic drinks, extra meals at restaurants, or towards spa treatments!)
- Early Check-In / Late Check-Out, subject to availability
We were able to score a room upgrade to a Forest Suite as well as an early check-in. Here’s what the suite looks like:
It came complete with huge bathtub and outdoor double headed shower (in addition to an indoor shower), as well as a super cute birthday dessert, balloons, and flowers that they didn’t charge extra for:
Another option is using Hyatt points. I hold a Hyatt Business credit card. This is one of the best points redemptions out there, with rooms starting at 45,000 points per night. Note that they are easy to find in the winter, but get much tougher in summertime.
The Setting: Big Sur at Its Most Dramatic
If Big Sur were a person, it’d be the effortlessly cool and bougie friend wearing a Patagonia vest. Ventana takes that vibe and turns it into a resort. Perched on a hill overlooking the Pacific, it’s equal parts rugged and refined, with trails weaving through the redwoods and views that make you want to sit and stare for an embarrassing amount of time.
This place feels like it belongs here, blending seamlessly into the landscape with its wood-and-stone aesthetic and open-air design. It’s romantic, tranquil, and so ridiculously photogenic that I started to feel a little guilty about how often I pulled out my phone for pictures.
Personally, I love the Northern California coast in January and February. It’s my personal favorite time to visit, as this area experiences its greenest time of year. You might get unlucky and have rain, but it’s sadly rare in this part of the world, and I’ve never had a rained out trip despite visiting many times.
The Pools: So Many Options (Clothing Optional, Too)
Ventana has multiple pools and hot tubs scattered across the property, which means you’re never fighting for space. One pool is clothing optional, so if you’re feeling bold (or just want an even tan), go for it. The vibe is relaxed and respectful—no one’s judging, and everyone’s just there to soak up the peace.
Who’s It For?
We saw plenty of couples, including a few clearly basking in the glow of a babymoon, which makes sense—this place is practically made for romance. That said, it’s also perfect for anyone who just needs to unplug and recharge. It’s quiet in the best way, with a focus on mindfulness and being present.
And while I wouldn’t trade family travel for anything, there’s something refreshing about a getaway where the only thing you have to think about is whether to hit the hot tub before or after dinner.
The Takeaway: It’s Worth It
Alila Ventana Big Sur isn’t just a resort; it’s a sanctuary. It’s where you go when you want to feel like a human again—when you want to breathe deeply, eat slowly, and remember what it feels like to just be. Whether it’s for a romantic escape or a little parental reset, this place is worth every penny.
Just don’t be surprised if, like me, you find yourself quietly plotting your return before you’ve even checked out. Book it here!
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