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Activities in Big Sur

ALILA EXPERIENCES

An Invitation to Inspiration

For centuries, the stunning beauty and powerful geography of Big Sur have beckoned artists, authors, musicians, thinkers and spiritual leaders seeking creative inspiration, personal transformation and inner well-being. Now, the Alila Experience Program extends a similar invitation to you, with workshops and activities designed to help you develop a deeper connection to yourself, your partner and the natural world.

We invite you to explore the following menu of workshops and discover which experiences most resonate with you. All workshops are focused on couples, but can be adapted to group and/or single participants. 

Please note that Alila Experiences are private experiences that must be purchased separately and are not inclusive of your stay. The following is a sample list—for the most current available experiences, and to book in advance, please contact guest relations at 800.628.6500 or email guestrelations@ventanabigsur.com. For a listing of Signature Activities included in your stay, please click here.

Create & Cultivate

The inspiring and exciting Create & Cultivate series, part of our Alila Experiences, features a variety of workshops and activities for couples and individuals alike—because there’s no place like Big Sur to unlock your inner creative spirit.

STAR BATHING

There is nothing like the night sky in Big Sur, where you feel as though you can touch the stars. Join us for a night hike in the beautiful Big Sur wilderness, the stars and moon shining brightly above. We will end the hike with mycelium extract cocktails and special snacks, including Artisanal Charcuterie and local cheese, trail mix and seasonal fruit.

Glass House Gallery Dinners

The exquisite Glass House Gallery and its breathtaking ocean views create a private dinner experience like no other. Perched on the edge of the continent, your party will enjoy a prix-fixe menu (modifications available by request) and memories to last a lifetime.

Duration: 3 hours

MIXOLOGY ON THE SKY TERRACE

Drinks, anyone? Learn to become a mixology master and the secrets to craft cocktails. Then savor your creations looking out over the Pacific from the majestic Sky Terrace.

Duration: 2 hours

Daily Group Hike

Big Sur Guides and Hiking offers an off-property group hike to all Ventana Big Sur guests, beginning at 11:20 a.m. daily at Social House. Explore coastal redwood trails, cascading rivers and streams, and the rugged Pacific coastline. Guides point out local flora and fauna, and Native American history. Inquire at Social House for details.

Duration: 3 hours

Falconry Experience

Join Master Falconer Antonio Balestreri for an exciting introduction to hawks and falcons, where you'll learn about the role of raptors in the Big Sur environment, see a flight demonstration, have a meet-and-greet with the birds, enjoy photo opportunities and more. Private and group experiences include a "hawk walk," a short hike where you'll be accompanied by a special flying guest.

Duration: 90 minutes

Sip Like a Sommelier

Learn about wine – and the special stories of this rich and fertile region – with Ventana Big Sur's resident wine expert. We'll focus on the Santa Lucia Highlands (SLH), a neighbor to us and one of the state’s premier winemaking districts, featuring exceptional (and highly rated) pinot noirs and chardonnays. Paired with delicacies from the delicious coastal cuisine of Executive Chef Keith Potter, this truly is a food and wine experience to remember. By reservation only. 

Duration: 1.5 hours

Organic Garden Tour

Join our gardener at the Organic Garden on Sunday mornings to harvest the week's bounty! You'll learn about soil, planting and growing practices – and get some tips and tricks to use in your own garden, too.

Duration: 1 hour

Circle of Life Meditation Experience

Join one of our Meditation Facilitators and Big Sur residents on this inspiring journey for the spirit, body and mind. You'll experience nature's wisdom and the deep power of inner and outer peace as you gather for a centering practice and guided walking meditation. The Circle of Life is a natural ring of 100-year-old redwoods, a place that awakens awareness and revitalizes your connection with yourself and your surroundings. (The trail is a mild to moderate 10-minute walk. Please bring water and wear supportive hiking shoes.)

Duration: 1 hour

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Select travel Dates: -
Field Selections
Reasons to Book
Why Book With Us
  • Best Rates Guaranteed
  • Exclusive Packages
  • More Availability
Modify / Cancel My booking