Big Sur River Inn

Our recent California Coast Road Trip first centered around Big Sur which we had always wanted to visit, but also included Santa Barbara, Morro Bay and Carmel. We mistakenly thought that Highway #1 had reopened recently but found out the hard way that it is still closed so we back tracked a little to take the long way around back to #101 and up thru Monterey and then down #1 to Big Sur (with any luck the road repairs should be completed soon). The marine fog in Monterey & Carmel cooled the air and we wondered what the weather would be at our hotel? As we drove along it magically started to clear and by the time we arrived at The River's Inn it was bright and sunny to our great surprise, as we learned that is the norm as the mountain ridge generally blocks the incoming coastal fog. Our upstairs room in this rustic building with it's rocking adirondack love seat on the balcony looking directly out at the Big Sur River made for a most welcoming touch as we settled in. Our room, bed and bath were most comfortable with extra warm seating blankets if needed. Just to look out at the giant shade trees lining the gently flowing river's edge was like a looking at a beautiful painting that you can't imagine until you see it. We used the hotel as a hub for our daily adventures of hiking to Pfeiffer and McWay Falls, and stopping at some of the local shops and art galleries. In our outings we looked for a likely dinner restaurant and luckily decided to dine right at the hotel's own restaurant for which we enjoyed one of the best Harris Ranch ribeye steaks that we've ever had, which included a small hotel discount. In the early morning and late afternoon we went down to sit in the wooden chairs as the river flowed around us, a peace and serenity that you can seldom find anywhere. We will always look back on this very special place with the most fond memories, and make a strong recommendation to experience it for yourselves. C & C, Huntington Beach

Thank you for sharing your experience at the Big Sur River Inn General Store! Let’s break it down: Food Pricing: Food is expensive and already cooked. Smoothie Quality: It’s great that the smoothie was fresh, cold, and tasty. Novelty Items: The store selling novelty items like key chains, t-shirts and sweatshirts adds to the charm. Wine Collection: An extensive wine collection is a plus for wine enthusiasts. Friendly Atmosphere: Unfortunately, it seems the friendliness factor fell short in the store. I asked for directions in the manager's office and he was glad to draw an accurate map. He was friendly. I'd look elsewhere for a bite to eat.