New Camaldoli Hermitage
A serene Camaldolese Benedictine hermitage in Big Sur offering ocean views, silent retreats, and famous fruitcakes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more tranquility
New Camaldoli Hermitage
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more tranquility
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene Camaldolese Benedictine hermitage in Big Sur offering ocean views, silent retreats, and famous fruitcakes.
"Stunning! Anyone searching for quiet spiritual detachment from the world will Love This."
Disconnect to Reconnect
Embrace the lack of cell service and Wi-Fi for a truly restorative retreat.
Layer Up!
Big Sur weather changes rapidly. Pack warm layers, even in summer.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Oceanic Vistas
Throughout the Hermitage grounds
Breathtaking panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and rugged coastline. A perfect spot for reflection.
Chapel of Silence
Main Hermitage building
A serene space for prayer and meditation, offering a quiet sanctuary for spiritual seekers.
Monastic Artistry
Gift Shop
Discover unique artwork created by the resident monks, including beautiful prints and cards.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Silence
Pack for All Weather
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Disconnect to Reconnect
Embrace the lack of cell service and Wi-Fi for a truly restorative retreat.
Layer Up!
Big Sur weather changes rapidly. Pack warm layers, even in summer.
Bring Your Own Snacks
While meals are provided, bringing extra snacks is recommended.
Silent Retreat Etiquette
Respect the silence. Avoid unnecessary chatter, even in common areas.
Tips
from all over the internet
Disconnect to Reconnect
Embrace the lack of cell service and Wi-Fi for a truly restorative retreat.
Layer Up!
Big Sur weather changes rapidly. Pack warm layers, even in summer.
Bring Your Own Snacks
While meals are provided, bringing extra snacks is recommended.
Silent Retreat Etiquette
Respect the silence. Avoid unnecessary chatter, even in common areas.
Explore the Grounds
Wander the paths and enjoy the stunning coastal scenery.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the stunning ocean views and the profound sense of peace and quiet offered by New Camaldoli Hermitage. The opportunity to disconnect and reflect is highly valued, though some find the simple accommodations and limited meal options challenging. The monastic atmosphere is a significant draw for those seeking spiritual renewal.
"Stunning! Anyone searching for quiet spiritual detachment from the world will Love This 💕 Silence is appreciated at all times, except if you're joining in prayer at the Chapel. If you're okay with no internet and cellphone service, this retreat house will cause you to reflect on what's most important in your life. The food, support staff, and monks are wonderful! ✨💛✨"
Callapal M
"My third time on retreat at New Camaldoli and the atmosphere is unforgettable. It's as if you're in another space and time. If you come, expect no cell reception, very simple accommodations (shared showers), and one hot meal per day (lunch). No matter what your weather app says, bring warm clothes at all times of year. The weather changes daily from sun to hurricane winds, fog, and/or chill without notice.
This is a Roman Catholic Benedictine Hermitage, run by a group of "monks" who are technically hermits, meaning they don't live in a monastery with group housing, but in separate quarters for solitude (thus, the term "hermitage"). Prayers are offered on a reduced schedule (the horarium offered five common prayers in the past, now it's down to three), so it's also good to bring your own materials for reflection/prayer. They maintain silent meditation/eucharistic adoration after Vespers. The staff are very friendly and accommodating, but you'll need to catch them when they do their cleaning rounds in the midmorning. There is no front desk like a hotel, and no service line, just an emergency line to call one of the monks in case of emergencies. I also suggest bringing your own snacks, unless you can live off yogurt and toast.
I never regret coming here, but overall I had a different experience of the space this time because of an excess of noise in the chapel and in the kitchen. I struggle when my co-retreatants feel the need to chat me or anyone else up - we are asked to maintain silence even in the kitchen spaces. Don't we have enough noise in our "normal" lives? Isn't this space supposed to teach us something? Nevertheless the Deep still cries out unto Deep, and this place is a good place to listen to that voice."
Karl Gurney
"I had an amazing time here last summer. I’m forever grateful that the community offered me a scholarship, and was so hospitable . The daily mass and prayer times were nurturing to my body and soul. I stayed about 9 days, and it was life changing. I cried and smiled and even burst out singing some praise and worship songs (in my room). I even erupted in gratitude while out on a walk one day when I passed by the Crosses along the road up to the monastery. The food was generally very good, and being a nurse and registered dietitian and a passionate advocate of health and good healthy nutrition, that’s a compliment. God bless the men here trying to be faithful to the Lord and the beautiful Catholic Church (The One who has rescued me from near death.)😊✝️❤️"
Kent
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The New Camaldoli Hermitage is located in Big Sur, California, off Highway 1. It's a scenic drive, but be prepared for winding roads. Many visitors arrive by car. There is no public transportation directly to the hermitage, so having your own vehicle is highly recommended. +1
Yes, parking is available for visitors. However, during peak times, it can get busy. Arriving early is advisable.
The drive along Highway 1 to Big Sur is iconic and incredibly scenic, but it involves many curves and can be slow. Enjoy the journey and stop at viewpoints along the way.
The closest major airports are Monterey Regional Airport (MRY) and San Jose International Airport (SJC). From there, you'll need to rent a car to drive to Big Sur.
While GPS can be helpful, cell service can be spotty in Big Sur. It's a good idea to download offline maps or have clear directions before you start your journey.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, reservations are highly recommended, especially if you plan to stay for a retreat. It's advisable to book well in advance, as accommodations can fill up.
The hermitage is primarily a place for retreats, so access for casual day visitors might be limited. It's best to check their official website or contact them directly for the most current information on visiting hours and retreat availability.
There isn't typically an entrance fee for day visitors to enjoy the views, but if you plan to stay for a retreat, there will be associated costs. Check their website for retreat pricing.
The gift shop is usually open during specific hours. It's a great place to find unique items, including artwork by the monks.
Silence is a core principle here. Visitors are expected to maintain a quiet atmosphere throughout the grounds, especially in common areas and the chapel.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Accommodations are simple and designed for contemplation. Expect basic rooms, and shared bathrooms are common. It's not a luxury hotel experience, but rather a space for spiritual retreat.
No, there is very limited to no cell service or Wi-Fi available. This is intentional to encourage guests to disconnect from the outside world and focus on their retreat.
Typically, one hot meal is served daily at lunchtime. Dinners often consist of lighter fare like salads or leftovers. Bringing your own snacks is a good idea.
Yes, guests are welcome to join the monks for scheduled prayer services in the chapel. This is a central part of the monastic experience.
Yes, the grounds offer beautiful walking paths and trails with stunning ocean views, perfect for quiet contemplation and enjoying nature.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The hermitage provides meals, with a focus on simple, wholesome food. A hot lunch is usually the main meal, with lighter options for dinner. Some reviewers suggest bringing your own snacks or additional food.
New Camaldoli Hermitage is famous for its fruitcakes, often made by the monks. These are typically available for purchase in their gift shop or online.
While the hermitage itself offers meals, there are a few dining options scattered along Highway 1 in Big Sur, but they can be spread out and require driving.
Meals are served at specific times, with lunch being the primary hot meal. It's best to confirm the daily schedule upon arrival.
While they aim to provide nourishing meals, it's advisable to contact the hermitage in advance if you have specific dietary needs or restrictions to see if they can accommodate them.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire property offers incredible photo opportunities, especially the viewpoints overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The chapel and surrounding natural landscapes are also very photogenic.
Photography inside the chapel may be restricted, especially during prayer services. It's best to be discreet and respectful of the sacred space.
Sunrise and sunset offer dramatic lighting over the ocean. Midday can also be beautiful, but be mindful of harsh shadows.
Drone usage is generally restricted in monastic and protected natural areas. It's best to check local regulations and the hermitage's specific policies before flying a drone.
Many visitors capture the expansive ocean views, the unique architecture of the hermitage, and the serene atmosphere. The drive up to the hermitage also offers stunning vistas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If you do visit with children, focus on the natural beauty. The ocean views and the opportunity to explore the grounds can be engaging. Consider a shorter day visit rather than an overnight retreat to gauge your children's comfort with the quiet atmosphere. Bringing quiet activities and snacks is highly recommended.
🧘 Solo Retreat Seekers
+1Solo visitors can fully immerse themselves in the monastic schedule, enjoy the solitude of the grounds, and engage in personal prayer or meditation. The simple accommodations and nourishing meals contribute to a focused retreat experience. Many solo travelers report profound personal insights and a sense of renewal.
🚗 Road Trippers
Even if you're not staying for a retreat, consider a brief visit to the grounds to soak in the atmosphere and the panoramic vistas. Be mindful of the quiet nature of the place and respect the ongoing retreats. The drive itself along Highway 1 is a highlight for any road trip.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Essence of a Monastic Retreat
Expect simple accommodations and a schedule that includes communal prayer. The lack of internet and cell service is a deliberate feature, encouraging guests to disconnect and engage more fully with their surroundings and inner selves. This can be a challenging but ultimately rewarding experience for those seeking spiritual renewal.
+1Many guests find the experience profoundly moving, with some describing it as 'life-changing.' The combination of the stunning natural beauty of Big Sur and the contemplative environment creates a powerful setting for self-discovery and spiritual growth.
Big Sur's Dramatic Landscape
The weather in Big Sur is famously unpredictable, with conditions capable of shifting from sunny and warm to foggy and chilly within hours. Visitors are advised to pack layers and be prepared for all types of weather, from sun to strong winds and fog. This ever-changing environment adds to the wild and untamed allure of the region.
Beyond the hermitage grounds, the surrounding Big Sur area offers numerous opportunities for exploration, including hiking trails and scenic drives. The natural splendor is a significant part of the appeal for many visitors, providing a sense of awe and connection to the earth.
The Famous Fruitcake and Monastic Art
Beyond the fruitcakes, the hermitage also features a gift shop that showcases the artistic talents of the monks. You can find a variety of monastic art, including prints, cards, and other handcrafted items. These pieces often reflect the spiritual themes and natural beauty that inspire the community.
Purchasing items from the gift shop not only provides a tangible reminder of your visit but also supports the hermitage's mission and operations. It's a wonderful way to take a piece of the serene atmosphere and the monks' dedication home with you.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit