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Big Sur · Monterey · Carmel · Big Sur

Alila Ventana Big Sur

Also known asVentana Big Sur
Resort · Redwoods · Cliffs · Adults-Only

Adults-only cliffside resort in Big Sur with a redwood-flanked meadow and an ocean overlook deck. Private and quiet.

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You may see a few photos from nearby locations here. Many shoots span multiple spots in the same session.

What it costs
$950 – $1,950
Typical range for a session at Alila Ventana Big Sur

Where you land comes down to the session you choose. A shorter weekday session sits at the low end; a weekend session with more time and more edited photos sits at the top. There's no deposit, and you pay after the shoot, not before.

Ready when you are

Alila Ventana Big Sur

Not sure yet? Start with a free 10-minute call. Otherwise, jump straight to booking.

Get engaged here →10-min call →
From the photographer
Chris Schmauch
by Chris Schmauch, owner of GoodEye Photography

Adults-only cliffside resort in Big Sur with a redwood-flanked meadow and an ocean overlook deck.

Adults-only cliffside resort in Big Sur with a redwood-flanked meadow and an ocean overlook deck. Private and quiet. The full property is available for elopement bookings — they handle the venue side of the logistics.

What to expect

The lay of the land

Footwear
Anything works. Paved paths, lawns, and indoor-adjacent locations throughout. Heels are fine; expect to walk between spots.
Best Time of Day
Late afternoon through golden hour for the warmest light. Many resort settings have indoor and outdoor options — we can pivot if weather shifts.
Best Season
Year-round. Indoor options as backup means we shoot in any weather. Spring and fall give the cleanest outdoor light.
Weather
Multiple indoor/outdoor options means weather rarely blocks us. Plan around heat in summer (75–95°F midday).
Privacy
On-property use, often coordinated with the venue. Expect other guests in shared areas but most sessions find quiet pockets easily.
Drive times

Getting here

Carmel-by-the-Sea10 min
Monterey15 min
Big Sur35 min
San Jose1 hr 15 min
San Francisco2 hr
Approximate, off-peak driving.
Worth knowing

A few things about Alila Ventana Big Sur

  • Parking is on-property and close to the photo locations.

  • West-facing — chase the last hour of sun through blue hour, especially clear winter evenings.

  • Exposed — wind picks up in the afternoon. Bring layers + a hair-tie if it's a coast cliff.

Also known as

Alila Ventana Big Sur also appears as Ventana Big Sur.