Big Sur: Ventana Inn & Spa room sale is on, but only until Friday

A great deal is always a great excuse for a Central Coast getaway, and this half-off sale on rooms at the Ventana Inn & Spa in Big Sur definitely qualifies. Take advantage of this offer for an early spring stay and enjoy wildflower hikes, whale-watching along the coast or just hanging out at the woodsy resort.

The deal: The 72-Hour Sale comes from online discounter Travel-Ticker and represents up to 50% off a guestroom at the inn. Sale prices start at $250 a night, plus tax and a $25 per night resort fee. That’s still not super-cheap, as hotels go, but consider this: The hallmark of this inn is its amazing natural setting: 243 forested acres perched more than 1,000 feet above the Pacific Ocean. Each room has a king-sized bed and a private deck that faces the ocean or the forest, and your rate includes some nice extras.

When: The offer is good for stays through March 31, but you must book by 11:59 p.m. PST Friday. Note too that some blackout dates apply.

Tested: Using the link from Travel-Ticker, I found the $250 per night rate for a weekend stay Nov. 18 to 20. I immediately went to the hotel’s website and checked the regular rates, where I found the same room offered at double the price. So you’re definitely saving money with the sale. To book the deal online, go to Travel-Ticker and click on “Get this deal.” When reserving by phone, mention Travel-Ticker.

The rate includes free breakfast; a daily guided walk and yoga class; afternoon wine-and-cheese hour; and access to two swimming pools (one clothing optional), two Japanese hot baths and a sauna. Of course, you could spend some of your savings on wraps and herbal massages at the inn’s spa.

Contact: Ventana Inn & Spa, (831) 667-2331