Nestled on the banks of a meandering river, the historic Big Sur River Inn has welcomed visitors since 1934, and the 20-room inn has long been famous as "the place with the chairs in the river." These iconic Adirondack chairs, plunked down smack in the middle of the river are emblematic of the laid-back and rustic charms of this picturesque hotel.
Stay in one of the two-room suites, where a deck offers river views, or choose one of the motel-style rooms for a heightened feeling of privacy. No matter which you choose, there's an inviting sense of folksiness and fun about the place that's irresistible for families.
Rooms: Natural materials, hardwood paneling and stunning ocean and forest photography reflect the eco-friendly ambiance of Big Sur. Soft, organic bedding in fresh white cotton and cozy teal throws complete the rustic atmosphere of the bedrooms, which are spacious enough for a family.
Splashes: Old-fashioned charm reigns in the bathrooms with wrought-iron fixtures and lots of light. High-end bath products add a touch of luxury. There's a very kid-friendly heated pool, but most folks can't resist a chance to splash in the waters of the Big Sur River that snakes through the property. Tubing is a must here, as is sipping cocktails while listening to the rushing water or the live bands that play on weekends.
Extras: There are good eats and a full bar at the on-site restaurant that specializes in hearty and kid-friendly fare, including ginormous burgers and fondue-style s'mores. Stock up on vacation essentials, like river tubes, water shoes and sunscreen, at the quaint general store, which also offers local wine and savory burritos. There's also a super funky ice cream truck and convenient gas station.
Details: Rooms range from $150-$395. 46800 Highway 1, Big Sur; www.bigsurriverinn.com
