You have two types of non-camping accommodations in Big Sur: VERY expensive or VERY rustic. Reasonably priced? Hard to come by in August during the peak of travel season along the coast. Factor in the massive wildfire that shut the town off for the better part of two weeks from residents and travelers alike, I expect prices will be higher than normal in order for the local businesses to recover.

Your best options are Fernwood, Ripplewood, Glen Oaks or Deetjens. Can't comment on the cleanliness of any of these options, especially with ash, etc. from the after affects of the fire. You might have better luck finding accommodations that meet your needs in Carmel or Monterey.

thankyou or your response, i am having difficulty finding openings in big sur,,,,,is monterey close??? any recommendations for monterey lodgings???

also wonder if you would recommend a place to stay overnight and visit in between sandiego and monterey,,,there are so many choices it is overwhelming thanks again

forgot to ask is there any town closer to big sur from the south other than monterey and carmel????

traveling from sandiego,,,,,do not want to spend alot of time driving back and forth

thanks in advance

The largest town south of Big Sur is Cambria, which is a good 1 1/2 or 2 hours from Big Sur. Carmel or Monterey would be better options, as they're 45 minutes to 1 hour away, respectively. You may have trouble finding accommodations there, too, though. August is a heavy travel time along the coast.

I'll try to give you a few options, but you'll have to check out the reviews here on TA, as I will have no personal experience.

Carmel:

Wayfarer Inn

Colonial Terrace Inn

Cypress Inn

Monterey:

Sand Dollar Inn

Colton Inn

Monterey Beach Resort

Clarion Hotel

Pacific Grove (located between Carmel/Monterey):

Asilomar Conference Grounds

Andril Fireplace Cottages

Bide-a-Wee Inn