California coast
 

Why didnt I come to Fodors first?
I want to travel south from Palo Alto in August - having only all day Sunday, Monday and head back up to San Francisco on Tuesday.
I've looked at vrbo and vacation homes. I wanted on the water around Big Sur or Carmel-By-The-Sea but don't have lots and lots of money. There are 3 adults traveling.
OR is the room that important? Any suggestions - I love the coast line..Heard drive is beautiful.

We just returned from a 3-day weekend driving to Carmel & Big Sur. Spent our nights in Carmel at the Cypress Inn (mainly because we have a dog, and the inn is dog-friendly.)

Big Sur and Carmel are very different places, so your decision about where to stay will depend upon your preferences. I loved Carmel in the "old days" when it was a bit less Disneyland-ish, but it's still very pleasant (if a bit touristy) -- and the beach is a wonderful walking beach.

I prefer the Big Sur area, but that's just me. Carmel is easier & more conventionally appealing.

What are you into?!

The first two days you will be driving along the coat on Highway 1.

The first night, I'd suggest staying in Carmel. It's not necessary to be right on the ocean. Here's one source, tripadvisor.com, where you can find something within your budget.

http://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotels-g3...ia-Hotels.html

Just slightly south of Carmel is Point Lobos. Visit it when the sun is shining and hike the easy trails.

The second night you could spend it in Cambria, and visit Hearst castle either the night before or next morning.

On Tuesday, keep going south on Highway 1 until it joins with Highway 101. Then take Highway 101 north all the way to San Francisco. Should be about a 5 hour drive.

that's "coast" not "coat" :)

La Playa is a nice property that is walking distance to the ocean and shops in Carmel. ***kim*** ((#))

Treebones Resort in Big Sur offers sea views and a unique experience.

http://www.treebonesresort.com/

I've driven through Carmel several times but actually stopped for one night a year ago. I loved it so much I changed the rest of my plans to stay there another night.

Here's a moderate option for 3 adults sharing a room -
http://www.bestwesterncalifornia.com...-bay-view-inn/

Thanks so much. I'll check out these places.