Alila Ventana Big Sur

This place used to be absolutely fabulous and then it was attacked by being counters. The people who work there are absolutely fabulous. They have taken away many nice little tiny touches that made it special. It looks as though someone from New York came to Big Sur to make it look like New York. My invitation to the Management is get rid of the bean counters. Move the pool table back and bring back happy hour with the bubble drinks.

The entire trip, my husband and I wondered, who would pay over $2500 a night for this? Does the hotel have good views? Sure. Is the pool nice? Sure. But other than that, there is truly nothing special about this hotel - food is mediocre, service is not the best, rooms are on the smaller side. I tried to request a 30 mins late checkout on a slower Monday to accommodate a work meeting, but got denied.

Setting of the resort is spectacular. Lovely staff is courteous and considerate. Food is uneven and sometimes very disappointing. Room is immaculate, stocked with luxury toiletries, spacious and beautifully decorated. Surprising details not quite up to par such as towels and bathrobes that were frayed or torn on the edges, areas where the deck wood was splintered and worn, personal jacuzzi had seen better days. Bed was extremely comfortable. Best of all, the view of the ocean from our windows took our breath away.

Amazing experience! The property, location, overall vibe was 10/10! Everyone was so friendly. It was so relaxing and luxurious. We can’t wait to return!

Alila Ventana Big Sur is a beautiful venue. I would give this place 5 stars except for the fact that the nightly rate they charge places them in the top 1% of world class hotels. As such you would expect absolute world class service, right? The fact was that they didn't coordinate our booking properly, and we were asked to clean out our room when we still have a day left on our reservation. Also, they promised a fully stacked bar and treats in the room. We were provided a nice amenity, chocolate covered strawberries and a bottle of "Elixir" with two nice glasses to drink them from, but the glasses were removed the first morning we were there? We asked to have them brought back and for the bar to get stocked as promised but that never happened. We have stayed at some competitive hotels that deliver on their promises, but not Alila. Normally I probably wouldn't even complain about this stuff, but c'mon, wouldn't you expect better?