A thousand feet above the Pacific, a series of tranquil villas—nestled between redwood groves—dangles atop the clouds. Widely regarded as one of the country’s premiere luxury lodges, there’s no denying the Post Ranch Inn exists on an entirely different level. As majestic as it is secluded, it’s no wonder this hidden gem of Big Sur beckons to both HollywoodA-listers from down south and tech titans of the north for the views—and for the cocktails.

It would be difficult for any man-made structure to compete with these cliffside views of the Pacific, or the majesty of the redwood forests; but this strange and decadent little hotel holds its own.

Dramatic views of Yankee Point and the Big Sur coastline set the laid back tone at Pacific's Edge. Located at Hyatt Carmel Highlands, the restaurants causal approach to breakfast and lunch offers visitors the option to bask in the sunshine on their outdoor deck or soak in the views from their cozy interior. If you're looking to take it up a notch, book a dinner reservation and have a front row seat to nature's most spectacular sunset show where the extensive wine menu is just the icing on the cake!

Moderate: Pepper's (Pacific Grove), Thai Bistro (Pacific Grove), Bahama Billy's (mouth of Carmel Valley), Phil's (Elkhorn Slough/Moss Landing. The best seafood restaurant I've ever eaten at, but it's paper plates so don't expect elegance), Deetjen's (Big Sur), Tommy's Wok (in an alley behind the Wells Fargo in Carmel), the indoor/outdoor restaurant at the Highlands Inn (Carmel Highlands. Don't know if they serve dinner).

Similarly, California Market at Pacific’s Edge, located at Hyatt Carmel Highlands, is a great first stop down Highway 1. In the Big Sur Village area, travelers have a variety of options for breakfast, lunch and dinner. For breakfast, try Deetjen’s Big Sur or the Big Sur Lodge Restaurant.

The timeless spot relaxes visitors with soul-stirring ocean views, a huge wine list and award-winning cuisine that can be both global and comforting. Even the simple dishes rely on French technique and the finest ingredients. 120 Highlands Drive, Carmel.

120 Highlands Dr, Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93923, United States. “We had an incredible experience at Pacific Edge!. When we made our reservation, we specifically requested a table by the window, and the staff accommodated us perfectly.

Tucked along California’s most dramatic coastline, where the Santa Lucia Mountains plunge into the Pacific, sits a rustic haven where pasta dreams come true and your taste buds might just file for permanent residency.