Vacation Rentals by Owner

Great Place in the Middle of Big Sur

Guest: Tom (Chicago)
Date of Stay: 03/25/12 Review Submitted: 04/09/12

This place is very well described both in the owner's listing as well as the user reviews. The location is great, the view is wonderful and the owners have provided a lot of little touches that make a big difference. We did a lot of hiking and ate at several of the nearby restaurants including Nepenthe and finished every night in the hot tub. The one thing I didn't see mentioned in other reviews is that the owner is a reiki master so you can arrange an appointment right there on the property if you wish. This place is perfect for two people to relax and really connect with the mountains and the sea and the sky.

Owner response:You are a great couple and it was a pleasure to have you. Thanks for your kind words and yes my wife is both a practicing Reiki Master and Healing Touch Practioner. She has taught her techniques to many of the local resort massage therapists, and some of our regulars like to return, just to get a "tune up" or relieve a specific pain. Thank you for mentioning it. Do bookmark us and we d love to have you back. "Connecting" with the mountains sea and sky is what we do best. Thanks for expressing it well.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

UnSURpassable

Guest: C & B
Date of Stay: 03/15/12 Review Submitted: 03/23/12

Our guests, although not blessed with the best sunshiny weather, thoroughly enjoyed the great restaurants of Big Sur, and it helps when you can walk to the best ones right from our property. Delightful couple, gracious, polite, and articulate. And even in fog and rainy weather, our view has got to be considered dramatic. You watch as the storms approach Do come back again and we ll call upon the the Big Sur muses for sunnier weather. You deserve it. Many thanks for your kind words.

Recommended for:

UnSURpassable

Guest: Chas (Gadsden, Alabama)
Date of Stay: 03/15/12 Review Submitted: 03/22/12

We found it perfect for two. We're stayed in Big Sur 3 times before. Their view surpasses them all, even when the fog descends and you must rely on memory. You can walk to our favorite places: Nepenthe restaurant, Henry Miller "Library", Deetjen's Inn. A most comfortable place & most hospitable hosts. It rivals our VRBO in Lahinch on the west coast of Ireland for the view. We can't "Sayre" enough about this rental. Otto Friedrich wrote, in his essay, "Pilgrims to Iona" [where I went in 1972], "Pilgrims, it occurs to me, are quite different from tourists.... Since the pilgrim knows his destination, however, he remains more cheerful in dark weather, indifferent to lumpy beds or cold potatoes.." Go as a pilgrim to this place. You'll find no lumpy beds there, and no cold potatoes at Nepenthe.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

wonderful getaway

Guest: mcbois (San Anselmo)
Date of Stay: 01/19/12 Review Submitted: 03/12/12

My husband and I spent a long birthday weekend at Hawk's Nest in January. Our lives had been very hectic and stressful, so we brought most groceries and cooked on site. It was a stormy weekend, and the cottage was extremely cozy and comfortable; the hot tub is a delight. The hikes down toward the beach and through the forest to Nepenthe were magical, even in a misty rain (extra nice to have the hot tub to come home to). Aside from this cottage having everything I was looking for (ocean views, hot tub, fireplace, not too far from dinner at Big Sur Bakery and Deetjen's for breakfast), the owners could not have been nicer, and were very knowledgeable of the area, helpful, respectful of privacy, and unbelievably accommodating. I was unsure of our travel plans as we had been taking care of my 94 year old mother, who was at the very end of her life. We really needed the getaway, but had to be somewhat flexible due to her failing health. Bob was incredibly accommodating, considering our situation. We had 3 restful nights, wonderful rainstorms, beautiful sunny and rainy hikes, and a gorgeous space to refuel.

Owner response:Great guests who knew Big Sur, and all we did is point the way and provide what was needed. This couple did not let a little rain discourage them. They had a wonderful time and knew what to do when presented with a great opportunity to "get away." Sounds like they recharged and rested. Would love to have them return every year. Thanks for your kind words.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

A great birthday getaway

Guest: Viajero (San Luis Obispo, CA)
Date of Stay: 11/17/11 Review Submitted: 11/21/11

My wife and I spent two nights here in November 2011. The space is very cozy and has a fantastic view. We used the hot tub a lot and it was a great place to stargaze. Probably our favorite thing was the trail that goes from the house down into a canyon with a beautiful redwood grove and a stream. Walk up the other side of the canyon and you are literally right at Nepenthe restaurant. It is only about a 15 minute walk, but hiking right out our front door on a beautiful trail to a beautiful restaurant and back made our trip memorable. Bring headlamps!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, romantic getaway.

It's all about the view!!

Guest: Jake & Judy (Columbia, MO)
Date of Stay: 10/30/11 Review Submitted: 11/21/11

The Hawk's Nest is in a spectacular setting overlooking the Big Sur coast - this is a very unique property. The guest house is well maintained and perfect for a couple seeking to get away to a relaxing and peaceful location. The views from the upper deck just outside the guesthouse and from the lower deck by the railing are spectacular. Take a hot tub at night and you will be amazed at the stars in the night sky. This is an easy spot for chilling out. There are great restaurants close by and many nice trails in the area to explore. The owner was very helpful in providing information and answering our questions. Thanks Bob!

Recommended for:Age 55+, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Can't beat waking up to this view

Guest: Joanie (Boulder, Colorado)
Date of Stay: 10/15/11 Review Submitted: 05/06/12

I can honestly say that Hawk's Nest at Coastlands was the best choice for our 2nd visit to Big Sur. Listening to Bob's stories about the area was like having our own personal historian. Throw away your guide books and just go with Bob's suggestions; he knows the hidden gems for hiking, eating and sightseeing. But the best part about spending time in Hawk's Nest is waking up to the amazing southward view down the Big Sur Coast. Just lift your head out of bed, and you'll see it! (The next best thing is sweet doggie "Darlin" who would sit with us on the deck if we called her. But she was well trained to stay only for a short time.)

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Very pleased with the Hawk's Nest in Big Sur.

Guest: Robert (United States)
Date of Stay: 09/16/11 Review Submitted: 10/11/11

We stayed at the Hawk's Nest in mid September 2011 for 5 nights and it was the right decision. Was perfect for 2 guests. Bob and his wife are nice people and very helpful with everything, esp. things pertaining to local knowledge of the area. e.g. best restaurants, best trails to see a good sunset. The rental was clean and had an awesome view looking out at the hill where Nepenthe restaurant sits with the Big Sur coast line & ocean in the background and mountains to the left. The kitchen was a bit small but manageable, no stove just a hot plate,microwave, and small grill to cook with, the coffe pot worked great. We cooked a little but mainly wanted to check out all the restaurants. There's a tv, but no cable. May want to bring a few DVD's. The Hawk's Nest is about 20-30 min south of Carmel and Monterrey. Went to Cannery Row 1 day but wanted to spend most of our time in Big Sur. Bob's place is close to everything in the center of the Big Sur coast. Andrew Molera St. Park, Pfeiffer Big Sur St. Park., Pfeiffer Beach, Nepenthe, Deetjin's, Big Sur River Inn,convenience stores & more are all just minutes from the rental. Sunsets on the beach were cool. Our only regret was when we had to leave! We would definately recommend this as a great place to stay and check out Big Sur.

Owner response:Great couple and only hope to see you back for another race. Many thanks for coming and happy to accompany you on some hikes next trip to Big Sur. Several new trails opened up.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Serene escape in Big Sur

Guest: John (Hudson, OH)
Date of Stay: 08/06/11 Review Submitted: 08/18/11

After exhaustive research, we came upon the Hawk's Nest. We saw no hawks but hummingbirds among the beautifully landscaped surroundings. A cabin sitting high above the vast of the mountains that tinged pink at sunset. This quiet escape was just what we needed for our 20th anniversary. The cabin was spacious with fridge, music, and thankfully NO TV. The shower is a decorators dream, covered with smooth stones. Bob, offered a wealth of information both historical and hospitable. Hot tub on top of the world. Enough said! We traveled onto Napa and Sonoma but this was clearly the most unique and a destination like no other. Warmest regards, John & Kathy Arther Hudson, OH P.S. Darlin the dog is a sweetie.

Owner response:It took me all of about 10 minutes to show these guests all the gadgets. the hiking maps, and the restaurtant menus. And, then, they were off and running, wanting to do everything they could in 3 days. You never know if you do not see guests hanging out around the pool whether they are happy or not. One good indicator, however, is our dog, Darlin'. If she s sitting on their doormat wagging her tail, looking thru the French doors, hoping they will come out and give her a treat, it s a good indication we have happy campers. I wish that every guest was this open to accept Big Sur for all it offers, because these folks had a great time. You could not take the smile off these two faces. Once again, Big Sur magic casted its spell, and the fact is nothing would make me happier than to welcome them back again. Quality people! Happy people! Loving people who found our place. Thank goodness, they did.

Recommended for:

reConnecting with life and ourselves in Big Sur ...

Guest: K & J (San Francisco)
Date of Stay: 07/15/11 Review Submitted: 07/31/11

The last time we traveled to this world wonder was in 1994, 17 years ago, I had never seen anything like Big Sur before in my life. I come from the Sur of Spain, quite beautiful too but the area where I am from is very desert like, so quite different. Well, to the point ... after that memorable visit we decided we were meant for each other, 16 years ago we got married and as we say in spanish: "It has rained since" ... We owed to ourselves another visit, after all these years, after the 3 cute ;) kids, and the dog. It was time to leave the kids with the in-laws and go back to Big Sur, in style. First time we rented a cabin, it was like going camping, fun but not too comfortable. We started searching and with a hawk's kind of eye ;) we spotted this gem on Vrbo. What a great property and such a good deal, nice and helpful owners, that ushered us with champagne in the fridge, perfect if combined at night with the stars and the jacuzzi :) This is the place to go if you want to have a quiet relaxing time in Big Sur and if you want to be close to everything, starting with yourself. The owners' daughter is quite a talented musician and we played her CDs in the nice stereo system the have, very soothing music. There is a telescope but I'll have to go there again as I was too busy reading ;) the property has a nice bathroom, a little mini kitchen, no stove but you wont need it. You can just walk to Nepenthe for a bite (5 minutes away) across the house through a very lush path, you'll cross this valley and one bridge and you are there. We passed a few dears, one rabbit and a running "little" creek. The main room is gigantic and has a living room area and also a table with a view. We spent most of the time out in the terrace, lounging on the 0 gravity recliners ;) very comfortable experience, indeed ... something else! Reading, listening to the seals down the beach, watching the humming birds, condors, etc. I WANNA GO BACK SOON! We wont wait another 17 years ...

Owner response:We hardly did a thing to help this great charming have a memorable experience. They just soaked in Big Sur. We would love to have them return. Not every one "gets" Big Sur. I think you have to be open and willing to let it take you. This couple "got it" Thank you and come back. Bob

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Gorgeous and Memorable!

Guest: Amanda (Eden Prairie, Minnesota)
Date of Stay: 06/25/11 Review Submitted: 07/08/11

We stayed at The Hawk's Nest the end of June. We have stayed in many VRBO properties, and The Hawk's Nest was a little more expensive than we typically spend. But after having stayed there, we'd definitely splurge again! This is the TOTAL BIG SUR EXPERIENCE! It's difficult to put into words how amazing the views are standing on the patio overlooking the cliffs. There are also private hiking paths(map provided by Bob) where you can hike through a fairy tale forest to cliffs overlooking the ocean - or to the famous Nepenthe Restauant. We did both and highly recommend exploring them. At night, take a dip in the private hot tub and take in the stars. The experience was so great that we just wanted to stay there during the day too, which is not typical for us. Don't hesitate - you will never regret staying here. This is a memory that will remain with us forever.

Owner response:It is so kind when guests offer such praise, but the real credit goes to the land. Big Sur is more than just a place; it s a state of mind. Big Sur's visual energy just sweeps you away mentally, and the nice thing about Big Sur is it is also real. It really exists and there are such things as visual energy and spiritual exhilaration, and you feel it by just being here and letting the land do it s magic. Open your eyes, and breathe deep. You will feel it and it s hard to remove the smile on your lips. Thank you Amanda and Justin for such a glowing review, and please come back to see us next year. I d love to meet you, and I am pleased our daughter Rebecca took good care of you. while we were away in Alaska.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Wow! What a gem!

Guest: D (Pacific Grove, CA)
Date of Stay: 05/26/11 Review Submitted: 06/06/11

What a delemma! If write an accurate report, this gem is less likely to be available when I next need a getaway! The interior is a beautiful, featuring esthetic delights that match the soul enspiring views. We chose to sleep with open french doors to bring in the sounds and smells that match the view. Complaints: we were so relaxed we fell asleep before there were more than 5 stars in the sky. Bob and Linda Sayre have covered every thought and need, providing a comfortable and inviting hideaway. A prior post says "Safe ,Clean and Courteuos." And I say, "Yes, yes, yes!"

Owner response:Our guests are the best guests in the world. This reviewer is a frequent visitor to Big Sur, a great hiker, having hiked the Pine Trail from Ventana to Tassajara (rated "challenging"), and also a very respected member of the Greater Monterey community, active in youth affairs. These folks know Big Sur well! Great people and we welcome them back!!

Recommended for:People with disabilities, age 55+, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Excellent view, perfect hosts!

Guest: Carolyn H. (Belmont, MA)
Date of Stay: 05/05/11 Review Submitted: 05/09/11

This rental was perfect in every way. The location is Big Sur central - near the best restaurants and loveliest views/beaches. Bob and Linda are incredibly welcoming and know everything necessary for a great, relaxing time. I would recommend this to any couple wanting a quiet, beautiful retreat. The horseback riding at Andrew Molera Beach was lovely. Also, Coastal Art Gallery & Cafe (south of Hawk's nest and near Henry Miller Library) has a great new cook providing delicious panini sandwiches and chocolate chip cookies - perfect for lunch after seeing Julia Pfeiffer park.

Owner response:Lovely guests who left the place spotless when they departed. These were the first guests to try the horseback rides to the beach at Andrew Molera. they were first also to tell us about the new chef at the Coast Gallery. We learn more from our guests than from any one else. Would love to have them back again, B

Recommended for:Age 55+, girls getaway, romantic getaway.

slice of heaven

Guest: PA traveller (Bartosiak)
Date of Stay: 05/01/11 Review Submitted: 05/10/11

Peaceful, sublime, soulful are only a few words to describe the essense of this place. Bob and Linda truly have a gift in their knowledge of running a guest house. Many B&B/innkeepers could learn a thing or two from them! I travel solo alot and have 3 criteria when it comes to staying someplace..Safe ,Clean and Courteuos. The Sayre's haven exceeded all three. Bob is a weatlh of information about the flora and the area of Big Sur. He was as helpful and friendly as I could have ever imagined. The house is a large, very clean studio with a beautiful patio and private hot tub that is perched up in the hills and overlooks the ocean. Even though the areas near the ocean can get very windy, their property is positioned so that it does not. The entire area is wonderfully maintained. They live right next door, but privacy was never an issue the way the studio is aligned. I am dreaming right now of when I can return.

Owner response:It is always a pleasure to line up activities for some one who wants to try everything. It s one thing to suggest hiking one trail in Andrew Molera State Park. When the guest comes home with a healthy glow, and you ask which trail did you take, and the guest answers, "I hiked them all," well you know you have a "Big Sur type" that loves life. Great guest, and we hope she returns real soon. We have a zillion more to try. B

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Pristine and Peaceful

Guest: The M&M Couple from LA (Los Angeles CA )
Date of Stay: 04/24/11 Review Submitted: 05/03/11

Note to the traveler no late night travels up to Big Sur. We came in just like natives from Los Angeles would and arrived at 1am in the morning at the Hawks Nest. All I have to say is thank goodness that Bob gave us wonderful directions because GPS stops at about 30 mins to arrival of Big Sur. :-) The Guesthouse is wonderful and perfect size for 2. The views and the craftsmanship are beautiful. Bob was also accommodating for us on a 7 night stay with an outdoor grill and Coleman stove. We were staying for a bit so we didn't want to depend on eating out the whole visit. I was able to grill some fantastic meat along with poaching eggs in the morning. I have to say I liked having to go outside to cook. It was relaxing too. I learned to kindle a fire and light an outdoor stove courtesy of Bob. Who was wonderful teacher. There is a trail just down from the house that shows a wonderful lay of the Forest then on to a view to the beach that is breath taking. The famous Nepenthe lives up to its reviews. Yummy. Carmel is a nice drive and there are some restaurants there too. The Day Hikes around Big Sur is a must. The Sayre's have a wonderful collection of books and are always available to help guide you to the right place you're looking for. Bob and Lynda let us have free rein on the property. They kept to themselves unless we needed them. We would rate this a 5 if you're looking for peace, pristine views and some time for reflection. We relaxed and could have really done another week. We hope you will enjoy your visit as we did. This was truly heaven on Earth.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Tranquil, Romantic Vacation

Guest: Joanne (Midlothian, VA)
Date of Stay: 03/12/11 Review Submitted: 03/23/11

Big Sur was a place I’d heard of in National Geographic, but seeing the area was an unforgettable experience. Our stay at Hawk’s Nest in Big Sur was the best part of our entire trip from San Francisco to San Diego. The view over the ocean from Hawk’s nest was spectacular! It is situated in a very private hilltop location surrounded by a beautiful redwood forest with a great hiking path in the forest; along a spring fed stream to a bluff overlooking the rugged coast. The wildlife and natural vegetation provide a rainbow of color! It is a great romantic getaway with every amenity imaginable. Mr. and Mrs. Sayre have created a haven of tranquility in a setting of natural beauty unsurpassed.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Perfect Getaway in Big Sur

Guest: Rob (San Francisco)
Date of Stay: 03/05/11 Review Submitted: 03/07/11

We recently escaped the city to head to Big Sur for a short weekend getaway and were lucky to find this cottage available on VRBO. The view is simply spectacular, especially from the private hot tub situated perfectly on the deck overlooking the ocean. Inside, the cottage has a great fireplace that heats up the room in minutes and the upkeep is superb. Bob, the owner, has all the local knowledge ranging from where to eat to where to hike, as well as the historical nature and aura of Big Sur. He even has his own trail to the village nearby. Make it happen!

Owner response:Please return Rob. So many more things to do and places to go. Thank you for your kind words. Bob

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, people with disabilities, age 55+, families with young children, romantic getaway, sightseeing.