A coastal landscape with turquoise waters, rocky cliffs, and a waterfall.

Find Cheap Hotels in Big Sur, CA from CA $158

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Check availability on Big Sur Cheap Hotels

This weekend
Jul 10 - Jul 12
Next weekend
Jul 17 - Jul 19

Our top choices for Big Sur cheap hotels

Post House | Living area

Post Ranch Inn

Post Ranch Inn
5.0 star property
Posts
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (41 reviews)
"This property is amazing for the views, peace & tranquility,"
United States
Stacey
The price is CA $3,232
CA $3,589 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 28 - Jul 29
Post Ranch Inn
Exterior

Lucia Lodge

Lucia Lodge
2.5 star property
Lucia
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (179 reviews)
"The location is absolutely outstanding. The rooms and breakfast is very basic."
United States
Mohammad
The price is CA $521
CA $579 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 20 - Jul 21
Lucia Lodge
Exterior

Big Sur Lodge

Big Sur Lodge
3.0 star property
Big Sur
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,002 reviews)
"The cabin was spacious underneath redwood trees. it was nice and quiet."
United States
Irene
The price is CA $439
CA $493 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 19 - Jul 20
Big Sur Lodge
Exterior

Alila Ventana Big Sur

Alila Ventana Big Sur
4.5 star property
Posts
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (343 reviews)
"Yes it was excellent"
United States
Pedro
The price is CA $3,267
CA $3,777 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 5 - Aug 6
Alila Ventana Big Sur
Free daily buffet breakfast

Quality Inn near Hearst Castle

Quality Inn near Hearst Castle
2.5 star property
San Simeon
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,336 reviews)
"Great stay, helpful friendly staff, nice pool area, good breakfast"
United States
Krista
The price is CA $197
CA $222 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 9 - Jul 10
Quality Inn near Hearst Castle
Breakfast, lunch and dinner served

Ragged Point Inn and Resort

Ragged Point Inn and Resort
3.0 star property
San Simeon
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,000 reviews)
"Nice stay."
Australia
Katrina
The price is CA $339
CA $382 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 5 - Aug 6
Ragged Point Inn and Resort
Beach nearby

Castle Inn

Castle Inn
3.0 star property
Cambria
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,142 reviews)
"Wonderful place and accommodation are great ! Clean facilities!"
United States
MAY
The price is CA $283
CA $319 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 12 - Jul 13
Castle Inn
View from room

Sand Pebbles Inn

Sand Pebbles Inn
3.0 star property
Cambria
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,134 reviews)
"Great Stay and perfect location !"
United States
Rahul
The price is CA $325
CA $366 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 12 - Jul 13
Sand Pebbles Inn
Property grounds

Sea Breeze Inn

Sea Breeze Inn
2.0 star property
San Simeon
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,012 reviews)
"Nice very clean Motel for a stopover 👍 would srop there anytime again 🙏🍀"
Switzerland
Daniel
The price is CA $141
CA $158 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 5 - Aug 6
Sea Breeze Inn
Beach nearby

The Morgan San Simeon - Cambria by Hearst Castle

The Morgan San Simeon - Cambria by Hearst Castle
3.5 star property
San Simeon
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,244 reviews)
"The place was very clean and quiet"
United States
Rhonda
The price is CA $206
CA $232 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 8 - Jul 9
The Morgan San Simeon - Cambria by Hearst Castle
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
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Find out more about Big Sur

Discover cheap things to do in Big Sur

For budget-conscious travellers seeking a memorable experience in Big Sur, there are several attractions that won’t break the bank. Start your adventure at Pfeiffer Beach, famous for its stunning purple sand and dramatic rock formations; it’s a perfect spot for a family picnic or a leisurely stroll along the shore, and parking is affordable. Next, visit the iconic McWay Falls in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the waterfall cascading into the ocean – the entrance fee is modest, and the hike is short and family-friendly. Don't miss the Big Sur River Park, where you can swim in the river or simply lounge under the trees for a peaceful day out – entry is quite reasonable. For a taste of local culture, explore the art at the Henry Miller Memorial Library, which often hosts free events and showcases local artists. When it comes to dining, consider grabbing a bite at the Big Sur Deli, offering hearty sandwiches at budget-friendly prices. For accommodation, look towards the areas near the Big Sur River; several budget hotels and motels here provide convenient access to these attractions while offering a rustic, relaxed atmosphere. Staying here allows you to unwind in nature while enjoying easy access to exploration and adventure.

Find the best cheap hotels in Big Sur

For travellers seeking budget-friendly options in the stunning Big Sur, these hotels offer comfort and essential amenities without breaking the bank.

Lucia Lodge

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Lucia Lodge offers an excellent budget option for travellers seeking a scenic retreat, reflected in its impressive guest review rating of 9.0. Guests will appreciate the complimentary continental breakfast and free self-parking, making their stay both economical and convenient. The lodge features rooms with partial or ocean views, enhancing the overall experience of staying in this beautiful location.
  • Other amenities: In addition to the breakfast offerings, the lodge provides electric car charging stations for eco-conscious guests. Early check-in is available, allowing visitors to maximise their time in the area. With both mountain and ocean views, Lucia Lodge is a perfect haven for those looking to enjoy the natural splendours of the Big Sur coastline.
  • Nearby attractions: Limekiln State Wilderness - 11 km, New Camaldoli Hermitage - 13.3 km, Limekiln State Park - 14.2 km

Big Sur Lodge

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: For budget-savvy travellers looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Big Sur, Big Sur Lodge is an ideal choice, an excellent guest review rating of 8.4. Guests will enjoy complimentary toiletries, free self-parking, and WiFi, ensuring a straightforward stay. The lodge features spacious rooms equipped with kitchen amenities, allowing for convenient meal preparation while enjoying the serene surroundings.
  • Other amenities: Additional highlights include onsite hiking and biking opportunities, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts eager to explore the breathtaking landscapes. Guests can unwind in the comfort of their rooms with features like a full-size refrigerator and a cozy fireplace. The nearby beach offers a delightful escape, while the lodge's deck or patio provides a perfect spot to relax and soak in the fresh air.
  • Nearby attractions: Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park - 0 km, Los Padres National Forest - 0.7 km, Big Sur Station - 1.2 km

Top Big Sur Hotel Reviews

Sand Castle Inn

Sand Castle Inn

10/10 Excellent
"Clean, comfortable, always accommodating. Our go to stay when we’re in town"
Jailene 2-night trip
Posted less than an hour ago
Sand Castle Inn

Frequently asked questions

Which are the best hotels to stay in Big Sur as a budget traveller?
For budget travellers seeking great value in Big Sur, excellent choices include Lucia Lodge and the Big Sur Lodge.

Lucia Lodge offers fantastic value with a 9.0 review rating. Guests frequently mention the cozy, clean rooms and the beautiful location with ocean views. Key amenities that enhance your stay include complimentary breakfast, free self-parking, and free WiFi.

The 3-star Big Sur Lodge, rated 8.4, provides a comfortable stay amidst mountain scenery. Reviewers often highlight the nice, clean rooms and the friendly, amazing staff. This lodge offers practical amenities such as free toiletries, free self-parking, and even bike parking, making it convenient for exploring the area.
How much does a budget hotel in Big Sur cost?
Budget hotel prices in Big Sur vary, but you can find a great deal from CA $158 on Expedia. To find the cheapest budget hotels, be flexible with your dates—typically, off-peak and mid-week stays are cheaper. Stretch your budget further by looking for hotels with free breakfast, free parking or free airport shuttles. Sort your search results by "Price: low to high" to see our lowest rates.
Which area of Big Sur is best to stay in for cheap hotels?
Finding cheap hotels in Big Sur can be quite challenging due to its remote nature and the prevalence of upscale accommodations; however, focusing on areas just outside the core scenic drive or exploring alternative lodging can offer better value.

For solo travellers, consider looking at the northern and southern fringes of Big Sur, such as the towns of Carmel-by-the-Sea or Monterey to the north, or San Simeon and Cambria to the south. These towns offer a wider range of accommodation types, including motels and guesthouses, which are typically more budget-friendly than the lodges directly along the Big Sur coast. From these locations, you can embark on day trips into Big Sur, enjoying the scenic beauty without the premium accommodation costs.

Another practical option for budget-conscious solo travellers is to explore camping or glamping opportunities within Big Sur itself. State parks like Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park or Andrew Molera State Park offer campsites that are significantly cheaper than hotels, providing a unique way to experience the area's natural beauty up close.
What are the top-rated cheap hotels for families in Big Sur?
For families seeking affordable and much-loved accommodation in Big Sur, Big Sur Lodge is an excellent choice.

The 3-star Big Sur Lodge, with an 8.4 rating, offers a welcoming environment for families. Guests often praise its nice and clean rooms, and its location is frequently described as both affordable and great. The staff consistently receives praise for being friendly and amazing. Practical amenities for families include free toiletries, complimentary self-parking, and a kitchen in some accommodations, which can be very convenient for preparing meals. The lodge also provides bike parking, and there's a coffee shop on-site that guests rate highly.
What cheap hotels in Big Sur offer complimentary breakfast?
For travellers seeking affordable accommodation in Big Sur that includes complimentary breakfast, Lucia Lodge is a highly-rated option.

Lucia Lodge, with an impressive 9.0 review rating, offers a fantastic start to your day with free continental breakfast. Guests frequently comment on the cosy and clean rooms, the beautiful location, and the super friendly staff. Additionally, this lodge provides free self-parking and free WiFi, adding to its excellent value.
What are the best cheap hotels in Big Sur with a pool?
For a budget-friendly hotel in Big Sur with a pool, Big Sur Lodge is an excellent choice.

The 3-star Big Sur Lodge, rated 8.4, features a seasonal outdoor pool, great for relaxing after exploring the stunning surroundings. Guests often highlight the nice, clean rooms and the friendly, amazing staff. The lodge also offers practical amenities such as free toiletries and free self-parking, adding to its value.
Which cheap hotels in Big Sur have good reviews for customer service?
For budget-friendly hotels in Big Sur with excellent customer service, travellers often praise Lucia Lodge and Big Sur Lodge.

Lucia Lodge, with a 9.0 rating, consistently receives high remarks from customers who describe the staff as super friendly. This lodge also offers great value with free breakfast, including a continental option, free self-parking, and free WiFi. Many rooms also boast partial or full ocean views.

The 3-star Big Sur Lodge, rated 8.4, is another excellent option, with reviewers frequently mentioning the great service and amazing, friendly front desk staff. Guests benefit from free toiletries, free self-parking, and some rooms even include a kitchen, which is superb for self-catering.
How can I save on a budget hotel in Big Sur with Expedia?
There are plenty of ways to save on a budget hotel in Big Sur. Unlock our lowest prices by joining One Key™, Expedia's travel rewards program. It's free and easy to sign up, and you can access member perks too. Typically, booking in advance will help you save on your hotel booking. If you're feeling spontaneous, be sure to check for last-minute deals.
What free activities should we do in Big Sur?
Big Sur offers a wealth of stunning free activities, primarily centred around its breathtaking natural beauty and scenic drives. Most of the region's magic is found outdoors, making it ideal for budget-conscious solo travellers looking to immerse themselves in nature.

The iconic Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) itself is a free attraction; driving south from Carmel or north from San Simeon provides endless panoramic ocean views, dramatic cliffs, and redwood forests. Solo travellers can pull over at numerous turnouts to simply admire the scenery, take photographs, and breathe in the fresh sea air.

Hiking is another fantastic free activity. The Andrew Molera State Park offers several trails, including a scenic bluff trail with ocean vistas and a river trail that winds through meadows. While parking usually incurs a small fee, many visitors opt to park along Highway 1 outside the park entrance and walk in, saving on costs. Further south, the Salmon Creek Falls trail is a short, pleasant walk to a beautiful waterfall, easily accessible directly from the highway with free roadside parking.

Exploring the various beaches and coves is also completely free. Pfeiffer Beach, famous for its purple sand and Keyhole Arch, usually has a day-use fee for parking, but other quieter spots like Garrapata State Park offer free access to its picturesque coves and trails.
Is it cheaper to book flights and a hotel in Big Sur as a package?
Booking a hotel and flight package on Expedia can be cheaper than booking flights and hotels separately. Bundling can lead to significant savings, especially for international travel or when booking well in advance. However, savings vary depending on factors like destination, travel dates, and availability, so it's wise to compare options. With access to over 300,000 hotels worldwide, Expedia makes it easy to build the perfect travel package.
Can I cancel my budget hotel reservation on Expedia?
Many Expedia hotel reservations are refundable, provided that you cancel before the hotel's cancellation deadline. This is often within 24-48 hours of your scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. For maximum flexibility, use Expedia's "Fully refundable property" filter during your search to find the right budget hotel in Big Sur for you.

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