The Monterey, Carmel, and Big Sur region is one of my favorite California getaways. These three places are also some of the best stops on the Pacific Coast Highway. So I’ve rounded up the top Monterey, Carmel & Big Sur vacation home rentals.

My top activity recommendations for this area are the 17-Mile Drive, Monterey Bay Aquarium, River Road Wine Trail, Carmel Beach, Ocean Avenue, and the Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park Waterfall Overlook Trail to McWay Falls.

Pro Tip: booking vacation homes is one of my top ways to save money on a California trip.

Here are the best Monterey, Carmel, and Big Sur Vacation Home Rentals!

Monterey

2 guests · 1 bedroom · 1 bed · 1 bath

John Steinbeck – author of novels such as Of Mice and Men, The Grapes of Wrath, and Cannery Row – used this cute cottage as his writing studio in the 1940s. So if you’re a literature buff or love historic homes, then this property is for you.

Cute Bungalow

Monterey

 4 guests · 2 bedrooms · 2 beds · 1 bath

This Insta-perfect coastal bungalow has tons of character – from the blue exterior to the colorful furnishings to the wooden ceilings. There’s also a private fenced-in yard, grill, patio, and outdoor fire pit.

Monterey

13 guests · 6 bedrooms · 8 beds · 4 baths

With spectacular ocean views from almost every room, you’ll fall in love with this home. This property is a short drive from Carmel, Cannery Row, and Pebble Beach. Plus, you’ll love the hot tub, antique pinball machine, and chef’s kitchen.

Romantic Cottage

Big Sur

2 guests · 1 bedroom · 1 bed · 1 bath

If you’re looking for a romantic getaway that’s close to wineries, beaches, hikes, and the famous Refuge Spa, then this home is for you. You’ll love the outdoor fireplace and seating area, pergola, and coastal decor.

Coastal Retreat

Big Sur

6 guests · 2 bedrooms · 4 beds · 2 baths

Located between Carmel and Big Sur, this stunning property is the perfect home base for exploring the area. You’ll have incredible ocean views from almost every room in the house, and whale and dolphin sightings are common!

Fairytale Cottage

Carmel

5 guests · 2 bedrooms · 2 beds · 1 bath

This charming home looks like it’s straight from a magazine cover or a fairytale. The exquisite gardens will make you feel like you’re in the countryside, but you’re right downtown. You’ll have a stone fireplace, chef’s kitchen, breakfast nook, and a massive property with an outdoor ping pong table, multiple sitting and dining areas, a grill, and two fire pits.

Big Sur Dream Home

Big Sur

2 guests · 2 bedrooms · 2 beds · 1 bath

If you want a quirky and one-of-a-kind vacation home, then this house is for you. You’ll be on top of a hill with 360-degree views of the surrounding forest, and the hot tub is perfect for stargazing.

Wine Country Retreat

Carmel

6 guests · 3 bedrooms · 5 beds · 2 baths

This secluded home is perched on a hill in the heart of Carmel’s Wine Country. While it feels completely secluded, you’re close to wineries, restaurants, and cafes. You’ll be hard-pressed to beat the views from this house!

Recommended Tours in Monterey, Carmel & Big Sur

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What are your favorite Monterey, Carmel & Big Sur vacation home rentals? Share with us in the comments!

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This article about Monterey, Carmel & Big Sur vacation home rentals is not a sponsored post, and the thoughts and opinions expressed in this post are entirely my own. Some of the links in this post about Monterey, Carmel & Big Sur vacation home rentals are affiliate links, and, at no cost to you, I may earn a small commission.