Big Sur, California

Visiting Big Sur on Points and Miles

Imagine escaping to the rugged beauty of Big Sur, staying at the luxurious Alila Ventana Big Sur, and experiencing one of the most scenic drives in the world—all without spending a fortune. Thanks to Hyatt points, Southwest Rapid Rewards, and credit card perks, this dream trip can become a reality.

Getting There with Southwest Rapid Rewards

The closest airport Southwest serves near Big Sur is San Jose International Airport (SJC). Once you land, renting a car is the best way to reach Ventana. The drive from San Jose to Big Sur takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes, but the journey along Highway 1 is just as spectacular as the destination.

Save Even More with the Southwest Companion Pass

If you have the Southwest Companion Pass, you can bring a companion with you for just the cost of taxes and fees, making your flight half price when traveling with someone else.

Shortcut to Earning the Companion Pass

The fastest way to earn the Companion Pass is by signing up for both a Southwest business credit card and a personal Southwest credit card. If you time it right and meet the minimum spending requirements, you can quickly rack up the 135,000 points needed to earn the pass, giving you unlimited BOGO flights for up to two years!

Southwest offers different versions of their credit cards depending on your needs:

Personal options: Southwest has three personal credit cards, each with different benefits, such as free in-flight Wi-Fi or anniversary points.
Business options: If you have a small business (including side gigs), the Southwest business cards offer larger welcome bonuses and better earning potential.

The Breathtaking Drive Along Highway 1

Carmel-by-the-Sea

This fairytale coastal town is worth a stop on your way to Big Sur. Stroll through art galleries, boutique shops, and charming cottages, or head down to the beach for stunning ocean views.

If you have time, grab a drink or a meal at one of Carmel’s excellent restaurants:

La Bicyclette – A cozy European-style bistro serving wood-fired pizzas and seasonal dishes.
Cultura Comida y Bebida – Known for its craft mezcal cocktails and modern Mexican cuisine.
Aubergine – A Michelin-starred fine dining experience featuring locally sourced ingredients and expertly paired wines.

Whether you’re in the mood for a casual drink or an elegant meal, Carmel is the perfect place to soak in the coastal charm before continuing your drive.

Bixby Bridge

One of the most iconic photo stops on the Pacific Coast Highway, Bixby Bridge is a must-see. The sweeping ocean views and towering cliffs make this an unforgettable part of the drive.

Staying at Alila Ventana Big Sur on Hyatt Points

Alila Ventana is a Category 8 Hyatt property, meaning award nights cost:

35,000 points (off-peak)
40,000 points (standard)
45,000 points (peak)

Since cash rates often exceed $2,000 per night, using Hyatt points is one of the best redemptions out there.

Mini Review: What to Expect at Alila Ventana Big Sur

This adults-only, all-inclusive resort is designed for relaxation and immersion in nature. Your stay includes:
✔ All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) at the on-site restaurant
✔ Guided hikes, yoga, and other activities
✔ Access to Japanese hot baths, infinity-edge pools, and spa facilities

Alcohol is not included, so if you’d like a glass of wine with dinner or a cocktail by the pool, you’ll need to pay out of pocket. However, the included gourmet dining and experiences make it one of the best ways to enjoy luxury on points.

Must-See Attractions in Big Sur

Pfeiffer Beach

Famous for its purple sand and the Keyhole Rock, Pfeiffer Beach is a must-visit, especially at sunset. It’s hidden down Sycamore Canyon Road, an unmarked turnoff from Highway 1.

McWay Falls

This 80-foot waterfall is located in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. It cascades onto a secluded beach. The waterfall is one of the most photographed spots in California.

Partington Cove

A short, steep trail takes you through a historic tunnel. It leads to a secluded cove with dramatic waves and rocky cliffs.

Henry Miller Memorial Library

This quirky library and event space is a cultural landmark dedicated to the legendary writer and artist Henry Miller. It is a hidden gem in Big Sur. It’s a great place to browse books, enjoy live music, or simply soak in the artistic, bohemian atmosphere.

Big Sur River Inn

For a truly relaxing experience, stop at the Big Sur River Inn. Order a drink from the bar. Then, kick back in an Adirondack chair with your feet in the river. This laid-back spot is excellent for unwinding. Enjoy the natural beauty of Big Sur before heading to your next destination.

Credit Cards to Help You Get There

Flights to San Jose

Southwest Credit Cards – Southwest offers both personal and business credit card options with welcome bonuses ranging from 50,000–80,000 points. These points can help cover your flights, and they count toward earning the Companion Pass.
Chase Sapphire Preferred® or Chase Sapphire Reserve® – These cards frequently offer 60,000–75,000 Chase Ultimate Rewards® points as a welcome bonus. You can transfer these points to Southwest Airlines at a 1:1 ratio to book your flights.
Chase Ink Business Preferred® – A fantastic option for business owners, this card often offers a huge welcome bonus (75,000–100,000 points) after meeting the minimum spend. Those points can transfer to Southwest or Hyatt, making it a versatile choice.

Stay at Alila Ventana on Points

World of Hyatt Credit Cards – Hyatt offers both personal and business versions of their credit card:
- Personal: World of Hyatt Credit Card – Typically offers a 30,000–60,000 point welcome bonus.
- Business: World of Hyatt Business Credit Card – Offers a 60,000+ point welcome bonus and extra perks for business travelers.
Chase Sapphire Preferred® or Chase Sapphire Reserve® – These cards allow you to transfer points to Hyatt at a 1:1 ratio, making it easy to book Alila Ventana on points. The welcome bonus (60,000–75,000 points) can be enough for at least one or two free nights.
Chase Ink Business ® Credit Cards – As mentioned earlier, this business card offers a large welcome bonus that can be transferred to Hyatt, helping you cover multiple nights at Alila Ventana.

Final Thoughts

With Hyatt points, Southwest Rapid Rewards, and the Companion Pass, you can experience Big Sur and Alila Ventana in luxury without breaking the bank. The scenic drive, world-class accommodations, and unforgettable natural beauty make this trip a bucket-list-worthy adventure.

Would you book Alila Ventana on points? Let me know in the comments!

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