fun quick trips in california

Weekend Getaways in California: 34 Trips You Can Take

If you want to take a weekend trip in California, this guide includes more than three dozen places you can go for a quick getaway, from beautiful beaches and stunning forests to film locations and wine tastings.

If you're interested in finding things to do or planning a weekend getaway that might be closer to your home, you can skip on over to browse weekend getaways in Northern California or find out what the best things to do are in Southern California.

Beverly Hills

Who isn't familiar with Beverly Hills after the iconic drama 90210? Popular with art lovers and shoppers, this city is for anyone looking to enjoy a day of luxury or enjoy the most elite nightlife. Roam around and check out the million-dollar mansions, top designer showrooms, or art and film museums in the area.

California's Big Sur coast is the place most people think of when they say "California coast highway," a landscape of mountains diving into the sea, with a ribbon of road clinging to the cliffs. In Big Sur, the stars are brighter, and there's plenty of undeveloped landscape and some fantastic beaches.

Big Sur is popular for romantic getaways, outdoor recreation, driving tours, and hiking. It has some extraordinary beaches, too.

The northernmost town in Napa Valley is beautiful enough to take your breath away. Calistoga is the spa capital of Napa Valley, a charming small town with less pretense than some of its southern neighbors. You'll find some interesting things in the area besides its visitor-friendly wineries, making it an excellent place to enjoy a "wine country" scenery but with different things to do while you look at it. It's great for family outings, romantic getaways, and wine tasting.

Cambria is a longtime favorite of visitors to California's central coast, and with good reason. It's far enough from the ocean to be sunny even when the beach is shrouded in summer fog and a cute little downtown to stroll and browse through. The lodgings along Moonstone Beach below town represent possibly the greatest concentration of nice places to stay in the state, and the area is filled with a lot of nice bed and breakfast inns. Cambria is a good place to base a visit to Morro Bay or Hearst Castle as well.

Catalina Island

Catalina Island is only 26 miles from bustling Los Angeles but a world apart. Preserved in a conservancy, the island has only one town of any size, where residents often drive golf carts instead of automobiles. It's a place of extraordinary natural beauty and one of the best places to de-stress in the state.

Catalina is popular for romantic getaways, active weekends (especially diving), and family fun. It's a good place to get away from it all, rest and relax, or enjoy a romantic interlude.

Crescent City

Crescent City is on the northern California coast, just off U.S. Highway 101 and only 20 miles from the California-Oregon state line. It's the home of a port for a commercial fishing fleet and offers a variety of things to see in do for both locals and visitors. It's famous for the nearby redwood forests and whale watching, and finding agate rocks on the beach has become a touristy thing to do as well.

Death Valley National Park

TripSavvy / Amanda Capritto

In Death Valley, the earth sheds its mantle of green and gives way to fantastic geologic formations with fanciful names like Devil's Golf Course and Badwater Basin. It's the lowest (and hottest) place in the United States, yet its historic National Park lodge, the Inn at Death Valley (formerly the Furnace Creek Inn), offers pamper-me luxury and finer service than you might expect in the middle of the desert.

Death Valley is perfect for outdoor recreation and driving tours. Many visitors also enjoy the nearby ghost towns, and it's a photographers' favorite.

 Kevin Nguyen-Tu / Flickr / CC BY ​2.0

There's enough to do at Disneyland and California Adventure to keep people busy for days, but you can have a fabulous visit in just a couple of days if you use a few of our secrets. Ride the rides, try all of the delicious foods, and create those magical memories that'll last a lifetime.

Eureka is a good base location if you're interested in exploring Humboldt County and the redwood forests of Northern California. Or maybe you'd rather go looking for Bigfoot — the mythical creature has supposedly been sighted more here than in almost any part of California.

It's a great destination for hiking and outdoor recreation, or for just enjoying the beautiful Victorian architecture.

Hearst Castle

othree / CC BY 2.0 / Flickr

Built by newspaper tycoon William Randolph Hearst, the Hearst Castle is a fascinating look into the lifestyle of one of early 20th-century America's richest men. It sits atop a hill overlooking the Pacific Ocean, with the bigger-than-life main house surrounded by guest quarters bigger than most visitors' homes. The castle is especially fun during an evening tour (summer only) or when it's decorated for the holidays.

Hearst Castle is perfect for family outings. Architecture-lovers may be interested in its designer Julia Morgan, and history buffs may enjoy the summer night tours, which showcase the Castle as it was in Hearst's day.

Hearst Castle is within 200 miles of Bakersfield, Fresno, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Jose.

It's been decades since Hollywood gained its reputation as the center of American filmmaking, and today's Hollywood sometimes fails to live up to visitors' ideas of it. Nevertheless, it's fun to visit for the people who enjoy more touristy attractions, such as the Walk of Fame. It's also the home of the Hollywood Bowl, the Dolby Theatre where the Academy Awards are held, and more.

Laguna Beach

Laguna Beach is perhaps Orange County's least-overdeveloped beach town and one of its prettiest. Created as an artist's getaway, Laguna Beach still feels artsy, with excellent art galleries and some fun summer arts festivals.

Head to Laguna Beach for beach play, shopping, art galleries, and festivals — its seaside location also creates the perfect mood for romance.

Lake County

Lake County lies north of Napa Valley, its southernmost town just up the hill from Calistoga. It's home to the largest natural freshwater lake named Clear Lake. It's completely within California's borders and about 100 miles in circumference. It's one of California's nicest hidden gems and is a must-visit for those interested in fishing, boating, and small wineries.

A clear lake in a natural bowl formed by the granite mountains around it, Lake Tahoe is a favorite of Northern Californians year-round. Although it's famous for winter skiing, it's even busier in summer when there are more things to do and a perfect place to escape the summer heat.

Lake Tahoe is great for family outings, outdoor recreation, skiing, driving tours, hiking, fishing, boating, and doing nothing. If you're interested in gambling, you can stay on the Nevada side of the lake.

Lassen National Park

TripSavvy / Ana Alarcon

In 1915, decades before Mt. St. Helens blew its top, Mount Lassen erupted, raining volcanic ash for 200 miles. The blast created an other-worldly landscape of boiling mud pots, steaming ground, roaring fumaroles, and escaping sulfurous gasses, giving rise to place names like Bumpass Hell and Fart Gulch. Lassen National Park offers great experiences for family outings and outdoor recreation, and it has some beautiful driving tours. The thermal features draw photographers who try to capture their beauty. This lightly-visited national park deserves a lot more attention than it gets, so go now before everyone else discovers it.

Often overlooked as a tourist destination, Long Beach offers a central location for exploring other parts of the Los Angeles area, close to major freeways and with some fun attractions of its own, such as a gondola ride or an art walk in the East Village Art District.

Long Beach is great for family getaways and with night owls who enjoy music and dancing. It's also one of the country's most dog-friendly cities.

Los Angeles

Los Angeles is the biggest and most famous city in California, and there are more than just a few things to do and see.

Lining the Santa Monica Bay north of the Los Angeles Airport, the towns of Venice Beach and Marina Del Rey offer a wide variety of things to do and a range of environments from funky Venice Beach to the high-end hotels lining the marina. These beach towns offer beach play, shopping, water sports, and amusement rides.

The three main beach towns south of LAX—Manhattan Beach, Redondo Beach, and Hermosa Beach provide some of the best places for a visitor to get a look at the real California beach life. You'll find places for long walks beside the ocean, volleyball games on the sand, surfers, and scenic piers where you can watch them.

If you're interested in the cultural and artistic side of L.A., you can explore more than 200 professional theaters and 300 museums, more than any other U.S. city. As long as you enjoy the arts, you'll find something in Los Angeles that fits your particular taste, whether it's cutting-edge or ultra-traditional.

It's hard to talk about Los Angeles without including movies and films. Many big films premiere in L.A., and the downtown area is full of beautiful, old movie palaces. It's the perfect destination for film buffs of all kinds, from those who enjoy classic silent films to cutting-edge indies.

The Malibu coast on the north edge of Los Angeles has a reputation bigger than its geographic area. If you're planning a trip to California and are looking forward to a beach day, Malibu is probably one of the first locations you'll think of, and for good reason. There are almost two dozen beaches in Malibu, and they all have their own unique characteristics. Outside of the beaches, you'll find some excellent wineries in the mountains just inland.

Mendocino Coast

California's Mendocino coast boasts some of its wildest and most spectacular coastal scenery. The area seems almost littered with cute little bed and breakfast inns, and few can resist the sight of the town of Mendocino and its New England-style architecture. The forests are filled with blooming rhododendrons in spring, and the Mendocino Botanical Garden always has something in bloom. It's a good place to settle into comfortable lodgings and do nothing at all.

Mono County

The area east of the Sierras is little visited, but one of California's most fascinating places. Its high desert landscape features dormant volcanoes, unique rock formations, a lake so salty that little can live in it, steaming geothermal features, and some of the country's best snow skiing.

If you're looking for a location great for family outings, outdoor recreation, driving tours, hiking fishing, and photography, Mono County is the destination for you. It's also affordable, with moderate hotel prices and many free attractions.

 Taylor McIntyre / © TripSavvy

Of the three towns on the Monterey Peninsula (the others are Pacific Grove and Carmel), Monterey is the most traditional, staying close to its roots as a cannery town. Today, carefully tended sea creatures find a home at the Monterey Bay Aquarium (a former sardine cannery) and Fisherman's Wharf is home to more whale-watching boats than fishing trawlers, but Monterey is still a favorite place for many visitors. Maybe it's those gorgeous ocean views.

Napa Valley

The long, narrow valley anchored by the town of Napa on the south and Calistoga on the north makes a perfect place for a weekend escape. Besides the obvious wine and food-related activities, you can have fun getting muddy during a spa day at the area's famous mud baths.

Newport Beach

Many Southern California residents don't even know about the charming part of Newport Beach, Balboa Peninsula, and the islands that cuddle inside the marina. This part of Orange County seems like it came from a different era and it's sure to charm you. Take a leisurely stroll on the pier, take a harbor cruise, or rent a Duffy boat.

Perhaps best known for its annual New Year's Day parade and as the home of Cal Tech University, Pasadena carries an air of early 20th-century elegance and is home to some of the best Arts and Crafts-style architecture you'll find anywhere. Check out the many fun museums the city has to offer, like the Kidspace Children's Museum .

Pasadena is good for architecture, art, and public gardens.

Palm Springs

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre

In the 1950s, Palm Springs was Hollywood's playground, the site of many big-name movie stars' second homes. After a period of decline, the city is once again glamorous, with many of its "mid-century modern" (designer-speak for the 1950s) properties being restored to their former glory. Tour companies can take you to visit Indian Canyons, through the desert in a Hummer, for a drive along the San Andreas Fault, or to see the electricity-generating windmills up close.

Palm Springs is great for driving tours, shopping, casinos, golf, and simply laying around a swimming pool.

Pebble Beach

Pebble Beach is a collection of luxury hotels and challenging golf links, strung along the legendary 17-Mile Drive south of Carmel. Its natural beauty is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy the outdoors, whether you're soaking up the sun or hitting the green of the many golf courses.

Pebble Beach is popular for golfing, outdoor recreation, excellent lodging, and dining—and its luscious scenery and top-notch restaurants make it ideal for romantic escapes.

Pismo Beach

Pismo Beach calls itself "classic California," and with good reason. A five-minute drive from busy Highway 101 takes you to the quintessential California beach town, with a bustling fishing pier, surfers in the water, amazing saltwater taffy, and clam chowder for sale nearby. Just around the edge of the bay, you'll find Oceano Dunes, a large sand dune park where you can play all day.

Head to Pismo Beach for family outings, outdoor recreation, driving off-road vehicles on the sand dunes, beach camping, fishing, and beach play.

Russian River

The Russian River runs southward from northern California, turning west through Sonoma County toward the sea. The small towns on and near the Russian River are some of the cutest in this part of California—and each has a distinct personality. Swimming, kayaking, and canoeing are all welcome on the beautiful water, or if you prefer to stay on land, you can walk around the redwoods instead.

San Diego is California's sunniest coastal city and offers lots of water-oriented activities. It's also home to animal-based attractions and a fun theme park based on LEGO toys. San Diego's tourist scene changes slowly, but if you've never been or haven't been there in a long time, give it a try.

San Diego also boasts historic sights that include the state's first Spanish mission (1769), Old Town (and the new Gaslamp Quarter that replaced it), and a monument to the first European to explore the California coastline.

San Francisco

This tasty mix of tourist attractions and the real city behind the tourist facade will have you planning a return trip lickety-split.

Known for the Golden Gate Bridge, the iconic cable car, and the home of everyone's favorite family, the Tanner's (from the television show Full House), San Francisco is a diverse enough city that it has a little something for everyone.

If movies are your thing, San Francisco is an oft-repeated backdrop for films of all kinds. Francis Ford Coppola's American Zoetrope Studios are here (in the oddly-shaped building at Kearny and Columbus), as is Lucasfilm (in the Presidio). The city is also known for its multitude of film festivals.

Santa Cruz sits at the north end of the Monterey Bay and is home to the largest surviving oceanfront amusement park in California. It's a cozy town with a lively music scene, extraordinary natural beauty, and a laid-back ambiance that makes it easy to relax. On summer weekends, Highway 17 going toward Santa Cruz is choked with cars heading for the beach, but the rest of the year, it's less crowded and more fun.

Santa Cruz is popular for family outings, outdoor recreation, surfing, boating, and shopping. In the winter, monarch butterflies congregate on the trees near Natural Bridge.

Santa Monica

It's technically a part of Los Angeles, but as L.A.'s most famous beach area it's worthy as a destination of its own. With a beautiful stretch of sand, a lavish oceanfront path, and a seaside amusement pier, it's easy to see why this is one of L.A.'s best attractions. If you're looking for a spot for a beach day or a place to spend all your money in shops, Santa Monica is a great choice.

Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park and adjacent Kings Canyon are a great alternative to Yosemite. It's less visited, has bigger trees (it's home to General Sherman, the largest living thing on Earth), and features a glacier-carved granite valley that's beautiful. While the two are separate national parks, admission to one gets you admission to them. both.

Sequoia National Park is perfect for family outings, outdoor recreation, driving tours, and hiking. It's also a good place to get away from it all.

Yosemite is one of the country's oldest national parks and one of the most popular. Unfortunately, the park's beauty threatens to be its downfall, with the valley overcrowded in summer and the campgrounds so packed that you may feel like you're in the middle of a freeway at rush hour. Go to the valley off-season or head for locales outside the valley any time, and you'll have a lot more room.

Yosemite is iconic for its outdoor recreation, driving tours, hiking, fishing, wine, and cuisine. Off-season, it's a good place to get away from it all.

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• Last Updated On
• June 25, 2023

39 Best Weekend Getaways in California — Quick Trips!

Have you been itching to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life?

California is the ideal location for your next weekend break.

The Golden State has everything—from gorgeous natural surroundings to endless activities.

You can never go wrong with sunbathing in Southern California or exploring the Sierra Nevada.

But with 163,696 square miles of travel-worthy destinations, where should you go first?

As a parent who’s done this countless times, let me help.

Below, you’ll see what I picked as the best hotels for that well-deserved weekend trip.

I ranked them based on their accommodations, location, family-friendliness, and affordability. 

Of course, they must be interesting and cozy as a staycation destination.

Are you ready to take a trip to the third-largest state in America?

Pack your bags and prepare to experience some of the best weekend getaways in California.

Best Weekend Getaways In California Compared

From luxurious hotels to elegant resorts, California is brimming with the best accommodations.

Here’s a quick guide to my top three favorites, with their benefits and drawbacks highlighted.

Editor’s Choice

The Beverly Hills Hotel – Dorchester Collection

The Beverly Hills Hotel is unrivaled in terms of luxury and splendor. It is located in the heart of Beverly Hills and provides a variety of unique experiences. 

• Room Variety: 5/5
• Comfort and Cleanliness: 5/5
• Location: 5/5
• Affordability: 3/5
• Family-Friendliness: 4/5

#2nd Best Choice

Calamigos Guest Ranch and Beach Club 

Calamigos Guest Ranch and Beach Club is a relaxing and adventurous refuge. It’s located amid the scenic scenery of Malibu, a celebrity hotspot.

• Location: 4/5
• Affordability: 4/5

#3rd Best Choice

Montage Laguna Beach  

Montage Laguna Beach is well-known for its location on a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

Here are the top 39 weekend getaways in California.

1. The Beverly Hills Hotel – Dorchester Collection (Editor’s Choice)

9641 Sunset Blvd Beverly Hills, CA 90210 (310) 276-2251 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Ratings Criteria

• Glamorous ambiance
• Great location in Beverly Hills
• Limited availability

The Beverly Hills Hotel is unrivaled in terms of luxury and splendor.

It is located in the heart of Beverly Hills and provides a variety of unique experiences. 

For starters, it is well-known for its lavish poolside atmosphere. 

Sip cocktails on a soft sunbed and take in the California sunshine in luxury. 

Its magnificent gardens are another exciting focal point.

Take a moment to admire the beautiful flowers, huge palm trees, and lovely paths.

Finally, it provides a cozy and intimate movie night at the outdoor theater.

Snuggle up on comfortable blankets with buckets of popcorn and enjoy the magic of Hollywood.

This hotel has it all, whether you’re looking for tranquility or a taste of the celebrity lifestyle. 

2. Calamigos Guest Ranch and Beach Club 

327 Latigo Canyon Rd Malibu, CA 90265 (818) 575-4400 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Private beach access
• Diverse outdoor activities
• Limited dining options nearby

Calamigos Guest Ranch and Beach Club is a relaxing and adventurous refuge.

It’s located amid the scenic scenery of Malibu, a celebrity hotspot.

Do you want to know why this resort is so popular?

It’s primarily due to its unequaled seaside bliss.

It gives you immediate access to the beautiful shoreline, where you can sunbathe or stroll.

Walk along its gorgeous sands or cool off in the ocean on a hot day.

It also has a diverse range of outdoor activities to satisfy every interest.

Try your hand at archery or a round of miniature golf for some friendly competition. 

Immerse yourself in the natural splendor of Malibu while soaking in exquisite luxuries. 

3. Montage Laguna Beach 

30801 Coast Hwy Laguna Beach, CA 92651 (866) 271-6953 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Stunning ocean views
• Extensive spa treatments
• Limited on-site restaurants

Because of this, it has become a popular coastal hideaway with stunning views to match.

But that’s not all; it’s also famous for its wide range of fun and relaxing activities.

For example, it has its own private beach.

Soak up the sun, feel the sand between your toes, and enjoy the relaxing scenery.

You can even admire the ocean vistas from its restaurants, providing a great dining experience. 

Plus, there are a variety of indoor activities available, ranging from water sports to live music.

It usually holds live music performances and entertainment events for a bit of nightlife.

Overall, it provides a delightful and luxurious respite from everyday life.

It’s the ultimate retreat for those seeking the most relaxing holiday.

4. The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara 

8301 Hollister Ave Santa Barbara, CA 93117 (805) 968-0100 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Ritz-Carlton Bacara is famed for being nestled along Santa Barbara’s lovely coastline.

It’s undeniably gorgeous, with stunning views, a private beach, and access to downtown.

Plus, it provides a beautiful and magical refuge with amenities to pamper you in no time.

First and foremost, its world-class spa provides a variety of rejuvenating treatments.

The professional therapists will ensure you feel invigorated with massages and body wraps.

It also has several restaurants and pubs, each with its own distinct gastronomic delights. 

There’s sophisticated dining with breathtaking ocean views and casual al fresco dining.

Finally, use the resort’s proximity to the lively city of Santa Barbara.

Explore the downtown area, the Santa Barbara Mission, or stroll down State Street.

This hotel is a retreat in itself, offering a combination of luxury, leisure, and outdoor excursions.

5. Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara, CA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

When we talk about California, there are parts that are famous for their palm tree linings and Santa Barbara is one such destination.

It is near the Santa Ynez Mountains and the coastline called the American Riviera is known for a Mediterranean atmosphere and a chill vibe that is so quintessentially Californian.

Santa Barbara is actually a Spanish Mission that is home to a lot of architecture that reflects its rich heritage.

You will also come across many art galleries, trendy restaurants and boutiques for those who like those things.

And if you just want to sit back and enjoy the evening, there are many spots that will give you a peek into romantic sunsets over the waves of the Pacific Ocean.

That’s why Santa Barbara features in all lists of romantic getaways in California.

Those of you who want some outdoor adventures will also find plenty of sailing, hiking and biking trails.

So, this is actually one of those places that has a little something for everyone.

Recommended Hotel: Hotel Californian

Related: Best Day Trips From Santa Barbara

Related: Family Resorts in California

6. Palm Springs

Palm Springs, CA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Back in the day, Palm Springs used to be where all the movie stars would have a second home.

That’s probably because it is only about a couple of hours away from Los Angeles.

And even though that might not be the case today, it still has many mid-century modern properties that have brought back the glory days.

You can hop on a tour and take a trip to Indian Canyons.

It’s a desert but you will have the chance to check out the San Andreas Fault.

You might even have the opportunity to see windmills that generate electricity.

And if that kind of exploration is not what you are looking for, there are a lot of hiking trails that give you a beautiful view.

You can also play a round of golf or a game of tennis as there are plenty of courts.

And while you’re here, you cannot skip the Palm Springs Tramway which will take you 8,500 feet above ground in a matter of minutes.

You can visit it any time of the year but November to May is the perfect time slot.

If you plan a trip in January and can score tickets, you might even be able to attend the Palm Springs International Film Festival.

And in February, there is Modernism Week which is all about celebrating the mid-century modern style of architecture.

Recommended Hotel: La Maison Hotel

Related: Day Trips From Palm Springs

7. Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe, CA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If you are closer to the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Lake Tahoe is one of those quick trips you will absolutely love.

It is over 6,000 feet above the ground and the view from the top is totally worth the trip.

You can feel the crispness of the air which is rejuvenating and the view of the blue water is picturesque without a doubt.

Lake Tahoe is the perfect mix of an outdoor adventure with a serene vibe.

And it gets better.

The place is surrounded by mountain peaks which make for a great view and also has ski lodges and skiing trails in the winter.

You can also go biking or hiking, among other exciting outdoor activities.

But there are also rustic inns and modern resorts.

Foodies will be spoiled for choice because the place has the choicest fine dining restaurants.

Recommended Hotel: Sunnyside Resort and Lodge

Related: Best Day Trips From Fresno

8. Pasadena

Pasadena, CA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

This might be best known for its parade on New Year’s day but there is more to Pasadena.

If you’re a Big Bang Theory fan, you know that this is where the guys live and it is home to their workplace, Caltech.

But it is also well-known for maintaining the elegance of 20th-century arts and crafts in the form of architecture.

Kidspace Children’s Museum is just one of the many museums in the city that will bring the fun fact enthusiast in you to life.

And those who like to take a stroll in the sun will also have a list of gardens they can visit.

Recommended Hotel: The Langham Huntington, Pasadena

Related: Best Day Trips From Lake Tahoe

9. Monterey

Monterey, CA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Those of you who’ve watched Pretty Little Lies , you know this name quite well.

The visual vibe of this place is actually captured quite beautifully on the show but that’s pretty much where the similarities end.

Monterey is actually part of a peninsula of the same name which has three towns.

The others are Carmel and Pacific Grove.

While they are perfectly good places to visit, those who want to experience the cannery town should check out Monterey.

The Monterey Bay Aquarium actually used to be a sardine cannery.

But today, you will find a lot of sea creatures making their way here.

And if you are more into whale watching, you should check out Fisherman’s Wharf with a few fishing trawlers sprinkled around.

Then again, a lot of people like visiting it because it offers a terrific ocean view.

Recommended Hotel: Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa

Related: Family Beaches in California

Related: Best Places to Visit Near Sacramento

10. Napa Valley

Napa Valley, CA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

As the name suggests, this is a valley that is south of a town called Napa and north of Calistoga.

It is best known for its wines and for being one of the best weekend trips in California.

There are also a ton of places where you can devour great food but if you want to stay indoors and look just a bit deeper, you will find that a spa day here is a great idea.

The place is very well known for the mud baths that the spas offer.

But what is often neglected is the town’s love for arts and music.

You will also find a whole lot of places that excel at making gourmet food.

The town of Yountville, which is northwest of Napa Valley, is known for its many luxury restaurants where you will get a taste of more than just wine.

Then there is the Napa Valley Wine Train, where you can enjoy the perks of a traveling restaurant that goes all along the valley.

And it’s vintage too.

Recommended Hotel: Andaz Napa – a concept by Hyatt

Related: Restaurants in Napa, CA

11. Los Angeles

Los Angeles, CA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

No list of the must-see weekend getaways in CA is complete without Los Angeles .

It is possibly the most famous place in California and the number of things you can do here are endless.

You can check out Venice Beach (not the Lana Del Rey song) which is on Santa Monica Bay and is busy with outdoor activities.

There’s also the town of Marina Del Rey where there are some truly luxurious hotels.

Whether you are looking for amusement rides, water sports or shopping centers, you will find them all in these two towns.

That’s north of the LA airport.

If you go south, you will find Hermosa Beach, Redondo Beach and Manhattan Beach.

This is a glimpse into that Californian life filled with long walks on the beach, surfing, volleyball games and sandy shores.

But if you are more into cultural exploration, there are literally hundreds of theaters and museums here.

And of course, this is the world of movies which means premiers, retro movie palaces that show all sorts of films from silent ones to indie gems.

And best of all, none of it is overrated.

Recommended Hotel: Hotel Figueroa, Unbound Collection by Hyatt

Related: Best Day Trips From Los Angeles

12. San Diego

San Diego, CA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

San Diego is one of the sunniest cities in California and is the perfect place for those who like water sports.

But there are many theme parks too that feature LEGOs which attract a lot of children and adults.

You will also find animal attractions like the San Diego Zoo along with historic places considering it is the first Spanish Mission in California.

There is the Old Town and the Gaslamp Quarter which is relatively new.

You will find luxury hotels that will make your stay like a dream come true.

Recommended Hotel: Pendry San Diego

Related: Day Trips From San Diego

13. San Francisco

San Francisco, CA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If you are looking for tourist attractions in California, you cannot miss San Francisco .

There are so many things to do and places to go to that you will want to come back for more than a weekend.

You can start with the famous Golden Gate Bridge and check out the much-talked-about cable car.

If you get hungry, head to Tanner’s (featured in Full House ).

Movie buffs will love spotting all the places in the city that Hollywood has been talking up for decades.

The American Zoetrope Studios founded by Francis Coppola is another attraction for film lovers.

Don’t forget to note the interesting shape of the building itself.

And if you plan your visit right, you might even be able to get into a film festival of the season.

Recommended Hotel: Palace Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel, San Francisco

Related: Best Day Trips From San Francisco

Related: Weekend Getaways Near Sacramento

14. Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz, CA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If you are a big fan of ocean fronts, you will find the largest surviving one yet in Santa Cruz.

This city is located north of Monterey Bay and has a very popular amusement park too.

It is known for its lively music and natural beauty.

So, whether you want fun that is carefully organized by man or a little magic of nature, you won’t be disappointed.

The vibe is laid back which makes it a great weekend getaway.

In the summer, you will find plenty of traffic on Highway 17 which will take you to Santa Cruz.

That’s a discomfort, no doubt.

But it also gives you a peek into how coveted it is as a holiday destination.

The fun is the same during the rest of the year too.

So, plan your trip wisely.

In fact, winter is a great time to visit Natural Bridge because you will see a whole congregation of monarch butterflies here.

Other than that, there are a lot of places for families to plan outings and lots of outdoor activities like boating, surfing and shopping.

Recommended Hotel: Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection

Related: Best Day Trips From San Jose

15. Santa Monica

Santa Monica, CA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

This is actually in LA but it deserves a special mention because of its beautiful beaches.

You can easily lose track of time on the stretches of sand here and the ocean front is quite the view.

And, of course, there’s the world-famous pier which is one of the best things not just about Santa Monica but all of Los Angeles.

The Pier also has an amusement park that feels like a carnival from the moment you enter.

Santa Monica is a small place but it has lots of lovely dining options after you get tired from a day of deluxe shopping.

You might even spot a movie star or two because Montana Avenue or the Santa Monica Place are two places where they go for their retail needs.

And all of this is quite close to the beaches we were just talking about.

If you are looking for a bit more privacy, check out Topanga Canyon.

You won’t regret it.

Recommended Hotel: Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel

Related: Family Vacations in California

16. Catalina Island

Catalina Island, CA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles and 26 miles doesn’t seem like a long way to go, Catalina Island is the one to pick.

You can catch a jet catamaran and reach the island in about 90 minutes.

It is actually known to be a romantic getaway for those who want to keep the weekend active.

There is snorkeling, scuba diving and charter boat fishing along with regular fun that’s to be had on any beach.

You can stay at one of the many lovely bed and breakfasts or small hotels they have here to complete your experience.

But your options are not limited just because you are on an island.

There are tons of shops, restaurants and art galleries, depending on how you want to spend your time here.

There’s one town on the island and it is a preserved area which means there is a lot of natural beauty to soak in.

And because they are so eco-friendly you will be able to move around town in golf carts.

Recommended Hotel: Pavilion Hotel

17. Calistoga

Calistoga, CA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

This is a town in Napa Valley and it is known to have extremely gorgeous views.

It is called the spa capital of wine country without the pretentiousness of its neighbors, which has to be good news.

There are a lot of wineries here that are quite visitor-friendly, which makes checking out the picturesque views with a lovely glass in hand all the more relaxing.

So, whether you want to do wine tasting, plan a romantic getaway or an outing for the whole family, Calistoga is a good choice.

Recommended Hotel: Calistoga Motor Lodge and Spa

Related: Things to Do in California

18. Laguna Beach

Laguna Beach, CA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Laguna Beach is in Orange County and, as the name indicates, it is known for its beaches.

This place is actually popular because it is not as overdeveloped as the other beach towns but is just as pretty if not more.

The Main Beach area is huge and you will see volleyball and basketball courts along with bike paths that stretch for miles.

The beaches are curved, the ocean is blue and the sky is always sunny.

That is bound to inspire artists of all kinds, doesn’t it?

That is probably why it is kind of an artist’s retreat and is filled with a ton of art galleries that are known to spark inspiration.

But it is a beach town after all so you will have a lot of seaside choices to pick from.

The place also has a good deal of shopping centers and plenty of art festivals take place too.

For instance, June is a great time if you want to catch the Festival of the Arts or the Pageant of the Masters.

The second one is a festival where real people are used to recreate works of art.

It is quite fascinating and if you want to hang around for more than a day, there are enough and more hotels no matter your budget.

It’s just perfect.

Food lovers will also have a great time because Laguna Beach has a lot of restaurants with different cuisines.

Recommended Hotel: Montage Laguna Beach

Related: Best Day Trips From Orange County

Related: Best Weekend Getaways From Orange County

19. Long Beach

Long Beach, CA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Another tourist destination in California, Long Beach is centrally located in Los Angeles.

This makes it easier to check out other places too because it is close to the East Village Art District and other places that have fun gondola rides.

It’s easy to get to all of them because it is well-connected with freeways.

This is typically a choice for families that are planning weekend getaways.

If you are a night owl with a taste for music and a little dancing, you will find a lot of hangouts.

If you are looking for ocean-side views with a mix of art, check out the Long Beach Museum of Art.

There is also the Aquarium of the Pacific which will give you an insight into marine life as well as a view.

Dining and shopping options are also abundant in Long Beach.

For that, you will have to walk down Shoreline Village or Pine Avenue.

Recommended Hotel: The Westin Long Beach

20. Yosemite

Yosemite, CA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

This is yet another popular name that anyone with an inclination to check out national parks will know.

During summers, you will find a ton of crowd here which is the thing to watch out for.

So, camping during this time of the year is not the greatest plan because it will definitely be packed.

But if you go there off-season, you should check out the surroundings of the valley for privacy and fun.

Yosemite is known for outdoor activities like fishing, hiking and driving tours.

You can also experience some lovely food and wine while you’re here.

That’s what makes it one of the best California vacation ideas.

Recommended Hotel: Yosemite Valley Lodge

21. Crescent City

Crescent City, CA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

This is on the northern side of California.

If you get on Highway 101, you will be in Crescent City in no time.

It’s about 20 miles from the California and Oregon state border and is known for commercial fishing.

So, what will you do here?

It might be a port city but it has some lovely redwood forests nearby.

You can also enjoy whale watching if that’s your thing.

Or have a quiet day at the beach checking out agate rocks.

In fact, the last one has become something of a tourist activity in Crescent City.

Recommended Hotel: Travelodge by Wyndham Crescent City

Related: Things To Do With Kids In California

Eureka, CA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Speaking of redwood forests, here’s another destination that is known for the same and this one is also in northern California.

Eureka is typically a base camp place for those who want to explore Humboldt County.

If the name sounds familiar but you can’t quite place it, it’s possible that you heard of it when reading about Bigfoot.

A lot of people go on explorations to find this particular mythical creature because there have been one too many reports of Bigfoot sightings here.

Definitely more than any other place in the state of California.

But apart from that, there are a lot of hiking trails if you want to stay active on your getaway.

The place is also known for its Victorian architecture which is a treat to the eyes.

Recommended Hotel: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Eureka, an IHG Hotel

23. Death Valley National Park

Death Valley, CA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The name Death Valley is not an indicator of what you will find here.

The national park is just as pleasant as any other in the country except the earth here has a green mantle which makes it exciting.

You will find some interesting geological formations here like the Badwater Basin and the Devil’s Golf Course.

Despite being a desert and the hottest place in the country, it does come with excellent accommodations for visitors.

Those who want to spend their time here with fine dining should check out the National Park lodge which used to be called the Furnace Creek Inn .

There are a lot of driving tours for visitors along with outdoor recreational activities.

You can also check out the ghost towns in the vicinity which make for excellent subjects if you want to take pictures.

In fact, for that reason alone, Death Valley National Park is actually quite popular among shutterbugs.

Recommended Hotel: The Inn at Death Valley

24. Mendocino County

Mendocino County, CA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Another win for those looking to explore redwood forests is Mendocino County.

You will also find an enticing coastline and plenty of wildlife along with the tree cover.

It is also in northern California and is known to have a serene vibe.

The nature hotspots are not too crowded and the view of the ocean is quite scenic.

It must be clear to you by now that this is a romantic getaway.

People like to come here for its hidden beaches and fresh air.

So, there is a lot of hiking, camping, canoeing and kayaking here.

All that happens on the Big River Estuary.

You can also go for a swim or try fishing or boating at Lake Mendocino.

That is actually a protected reserve of over 700 acres.

Mendocino County is remote but has plenty of bed and breakfasts and luxury hotels.

The town has a Victorian touch with nice little boutiques and art galleries.

If you like seafood, you should head to the nearby Fort Bragg which has the best collection because it is also a functioning fishing harbor.

Recommended Hotel: Heritage House Resort & Spa

Malibu, CA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Its reputation precedes it and in a good way.

Malibu isn’t a name too many people haven’t heard of.

It’s on the coastline and a great place for movie stars who like having a beach house.

And they can afford it so the SoCal community keeps growing.

Malibu is on the northern side of Los Angeles and has more than 20 beaches on the coast.

What’s stunning is that each of these beaches is unique and most of them have some fantastic wineries lined up on the outside.

It is near Santa Monica and the coastline extends 21 miles.

But it also has inland canyons and mountains that are great spots for mountain biking and hiking.

The scenic coastline alone is 21 miles long which makes it a good choice for a romantic getaway.

While you’re here you must check out The Getty Villa and Adamson House.

The former is a replica of a Pompeiian villa and has some of the coolest collections of Roman and Greek artifacts.

And the latter is actually the home of the family that founded Malibu.

That should give you an insight into the place you’re visiting.

Recommended Hotel: Calamigos Guest Ranch and Beach Club

Related: Family Hotels in California

26. Mono County

Mono County, CA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

This is not a very well-known name, but it’s actually a fascinating destination in California.

Mono County is not hounded by tourists all the time, which gives you all the privacy you need.

It’s a desert region that has interesting rock formations, dormant volcanoes and other steaming geothermal activity.

You will also notice that there’s an extremely salty lake here where almost nothing lives because of its composition.

But if you are looking for outdoor activity, there’s a lot of snow skiing to be done here.

Mono County is a good place for outdoor activities other than snow skiing too.

There are fishing expeditions, hiking trails and driving tours here, which makes it a great place for families.

And the hotels here are moderately priced, which makes it an affordable choice too.

Recommended Hotel: Yosemite Gateway Motel

27. Pismo Beach

Pismo Beach, CA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

This is just about five minutes off Highway 101 and is known for its Californian flavor.

Pismo Beach is, unsurprisingly, a beach town with a busy fishing pier and lots of surfing.

It also has a great saltwater taffy and you can buy as much clam chowder as you want.

There’s also Oceano Dunes located near the bay’s edge.

It is essentially a park of sand dunes where people like to spend all day enjoying a little desert vibe.

And that’s why you will have the opportunity to test drive some off-road vehicles.

There is also beach play because, after all, it is a beach town with an abundance of beach camping spots.

It’s a good choice for all kinds of family outings.

Recommended Hotel: Inn at the Pier

28. Pebble Beach

Pebble Beach, CA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If golf links, luxury stay and outdoor activity are what you want, Pebble Beach is a place where you can have it all.

This is along the 17-Mile Drive road which is known for its great views and cypress trees.

Pebble Beach is a great place for all those who have fun outdoors.

If it’s sun and sand you want, you will get that.

And if it’s a little golf and greens, well, you will have that too.

Few places can give you these particular choices that are considered polar opposites.

The dining situation is impressive because of the variety of options and it can be quite romantic too.

If you absolutely love outdoor adventures, good lodging, golfing, and great food, Pebble Beach is the place to be!

The amazing scenic views and restaurants to die for make it the perfect romantic escape.

Recommended Hotel: Tradewinds Carmel

29. Newport Beach

Newport Beach, CA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Another name that a lot of people even in Southern California don’t know because of its remoteness.

It’s not super secluded like a name in horror movies but it is relatively unknown as a tourist destination.

It is in Orange County and is known for being a very charming Californian attraction because it feels like you have traveled through time to a different era.

The marina is known to be nestled with islands that are up for exploration.

There is a harbor cruise and plenty of Duffy boats to rent.

Or you could just take a walk along the pier.

It’s a place for those who enjoy a little peace and quiet so that they can be alone with their thoughts.

Recommended Hotel: Balboa Bay Resort

Related: Waterpark Hotels in California

30. Lake County

Lake County, CA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Looking for unique and underrated places to visit in California ?

Do yourself a favor, and put this place at the top of your list of must-visit California weekend getaways.

Not only is it home to the state’s largest natural freshwater lake, but it also features lovely and impressive wineries.

What’s more, this county offers ample opportunities for exciting water-based activities, like boating and fishing.

And, did we mention that it features dramatic natural wonders and the cleanest air in California?

Recommended Hotel: WorldMark Clear Lake

31. Lassen National Park

Highway Mineral, CA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

This is an incredible geographical wonder to visit thanks to the eruption of Mount Lassen and decades later, Mount Helens did the same.

The volcanic ash spread across 200 miles and created some incredible steaming grounds, mud pots, and fumaroles.

So, it has some fascinating sites like Fart Gulch and Bumpass Hell.

Yes, the folks here had quite the sense of humor while naming the places.

It’s a great place for families who love outdoor recreational activities thanks to some of the driving tours.

Lassen National Park is also a favorite among photographers for obvious reasons.

Recommended Hotel: Village at Childs Meadow

32. Paso Robles

Paso Robles, CA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

This is about 30 miles from San Luis Obispo and is located among vine-y hills.

Paso Robles is rich in history and views with a pleasant ambiance.

The streets are lined up with restaurants and trees which make all the available outdoor dining options a delight.

It’s also home to many spa retreats which is why it is popular in the wellness community.

Recommended Hotel: The Oaks Hotel & Suites, Ascend Hotel Collection

33. Sonoma County

Sonoma County, CA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Sonoma County is about an hour from San Francisco.

This one also has hills covered in vines and is popular among couples looking for a romantic retreat.

There are plenty of outdoorsy things like hot air balloon rides and mountain biking to do.

You can also dive into gourmet food at any of the restaurants that cook with ingredients that are farm fresh.

Recommended Hotel: MacArthur Place Inn & Spa

34. The Russian River

Russian River, CA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Speaking of outdoorsy, there is also The Russian River which makes for a great getaway destination if you want to hike, swim or sunbathe on a beach.

There’s also fishing, kayaking and canoeing here if you want to move your arms around.

And if you just want to get in contact with the river, get a tube and float around.

There are lots of charming places to stay at in this tiny hamlet.

If you take a stroll down the road, you will get to admire its signature Victorian architecture as well.

Recommended Hotel: Comfort Inn & Suites Ukiah Mendocino County

35. Ferndale Village

Ferndale, CA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If you are in Humboldt County, this is a village you shouldn’t skip.

The Pacific Ocean is just five miles away and this sleepy village is the perfect place to experience old-school America.

Main Street is also home to hundreds of buildings that are restored in the Victorian style which makes for a great view (and pictures).

Apart from that, there’s also horseback riding, biking and hiking to do.

Recommended Hotel: Comfort Inn & Suites Redwood Country

36. Half Moon Bay

Half Moon Bay, CA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The place is as interesting as the name.

Half Moon Bay is a chilled-out coastal place with hills, woodlands and small farms all over.

So it’s no surprise that there are great-looking hiking trails here.

But there are also some great beaches for those who enjoy powerful waves and fresh ocean air.

Whether you want a picnic during the day or a picturesque sunset, you can easily make it happen.

Recommended Hotel: The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay

37. Avila Beach

Avila Beach, CA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Avila Beach is about 10 miles from San Luis Obispo on the central California coast.

It is surrounded by rolling hillsides and has a lot of beach resorts .

The boardwalk is filled with palm trees and the sandy shoreline is great for walks and sunsets.

The beach resorts often have terrace access where guests can plan romantic or serene dinners while enjoying the gorgeous view.

Recommended Hotel: San Luis Bay Inn

38. Solvang

Solvang, CA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If you want a touch of the European in the US, Solvang is the destination for you.

That’s because it was founded by immigrants from Denmark in the 20th century.

It is in Santa Ynez Valley and has a lot of places with thatched roofs made of timber.

There is also a functioning windmill here that you can visit.

Apart from that, you will find a lot of souvenir places, Danish bakeries which have kringle coffee cakes, butter cookies and whatnot!

Recommended Hotel: Hotel Corque

39. Carmel-By-the Sea Resort

Carmel-By-the Sea, CA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

This is a seaside resort for those who want luxury.

Furthermore, it’s one of the best weekend getaways in California.

The Carmel-by-the-sea resort is one that has hidden passageways, unique boutiques, cottages and more.

It’s a charming place with a great ambiance that is recommended for a romantic holiday.

Of course, the food here is amazing.

But you will also find a lot of cultural events lined up in the vicinity.

Quiet beaches, some of the prettiest in north California, are just 10 minutes away and the surroundings are adorned by cypress trees.

There are plenty of hiking trails to explore too.

It’s a great place to enjoy a little luxury while connecting with nature.

Recommended Hotel: The Getaway

Related: Weekend Trips From San Jose

Getaway Guide 

Comparing destinations: which one is right for you.

When comparing destinations, a lot of consideration goes into the process.

They must be family-friendly, relaxing, interesting, and affordable.

However, understanding its disadvantages is equally necessary in order to avoid surprises.

The Beverly Hills Hotel, for example, is one of California’s most opulent hotels.

During my stay at The Beverly Hills Hotel, I embraced every moment. 

My kids were over the moon, splashing in the iconic pool while I lounged, cocktail in hand. 

The Polo Lounge served up culinary magic and the neighboring boutiques were a shopper’s paradise.

But as a result of its popularity, accommodation availability is frequently limited.

In contrast, Calamigos Guest Ranch and Beach Club is a tropical paradise.

It’s also stylish and sophisticated; however, there are few eateries around.

You must either drive to your desired location or eat at one of its on-site restaurants.

Lastly, Montage Laguna Beach is the complete opposite, with lots of dining options nearby.

The sole disadvantage is that there are only three on-site restaurants. 

If you’re looking for an alternative, consider The Ritz-Carlton Bacara.

It is located further up the California coast, unlike the other three hotels.

This provides different coastal scenery as well as access to attractions.

Furthermore, it best depicts the natural splendor of the Santa Barbara region.

How I Picked The Destinations 

Being a travel writer has granted me access to visit these four fabulous hotels.

For an in-depth review, my family and I experienced its pros and cons firsthand.

I also researched each destination and gathered insights and opinions from other travelers.

Our Property Rating Method 

I rate these properties based on the following criteria:

• Room Variety: I use this to rate the room options offered by every property. What room types are available? Can it accommodate different budgets, group sizes, and preferences? I ask myself these questions when evaluating the property’s room variety. 
• Comfort and Cleanliness: This measures the overall cleanliness and comfort of the accommodations. Does it have comfortable beds? Are the rooms spotless and dust-free? These are important factors I consider when rating comfort and cleanliness. 
• Location: This is used to evaluate how convenient and accessible the property is. How close is it to the attractions? Are there good public transportation options near the location? Is it easily accessible for families? These questions are important when I rate the location of every accommodation. 
• Affordability: I use this to evaluate the property’s affordability. Are the room rates reasonable? Does the property have any additional fees? Does the property offer discounts or packages? I ask myself this in order to rate affordability. 
• Family-Friendliness: This evaluates the family-friendliness of each property. Does it offer babysitting services and children’s activities? Does it have connecting rooms for families? I use these questions to rate the family-friendliness of the property. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

What are some popular coastal weekend getaway destinations iin california.

Some popular coastal weekend getaway destinations in California include Santa Barbara, Monterey, and Santa Cruz.

What Are The Best Weekend Getaways In California For Families?

The best weekend getaways in California for families include San Diego, Palm Springs, and Santa Barbara.

These are, for us, the best weekend getaways in California.

Some are luxurious and fun and offer the perfect retreat from the everyday routine.

During our visits, we did plenty of activities for a memorable staycation.

First, the private beach at Calamigos Guest Ranch and Beach Club is unparalleled.

It’s the best area to soak up the rays while admiring Malibu’s natural beauty.

Our stay at Calamigos Ranch was an adventure-packed weekend, with archery lessons and beach trips that created memories to last a lifetime.

We also enjoyed horseback riding and relaxing at the on-site spa.

Next, we spent time at Montage Laguna Beach’s private beach and enjoyed water activities.

As we strolled through the gardens of Montage Laguna Beach, the breathtaking ocean views left us speechless.

Finally, we loved The Ritz-Carlton Bacara’s elegant wine-tasting experience.

The opulence of The Ritz-Carlton Bacara was beyond anything we’d imagined, with rejuvenating spa treatments that left us feeling like we were on cloud nine. 

Because Santa Barbara is known as a wine country, several wine tours are nearby.

But what made The Beverly Hills Hotel our top pick was its luxurious experience.

At The Beverly Hills Hotel, my family and I felt like we’d stepped into a golden-era Hollywood movie. 

We sipped poolside cocktails, nestled in plush sunbeds, while our kids frolicked in the iconic pool.

The Polo Lounge and Wolfgang Puck are both world-famous, and they’re on-site.

The surrounding Beverly Hills area’s luxury shopping and dining are just the icing on the cake.

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The Best Weekend Getaways in California

By Carey Jones

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Even as borders begin to open and international travel becomes ever-more feasible, many travelers would still rather stay closer to home. So it’s an ideal summer for a road trip. And with coronavirus restrictions across California lifted as of June 15, the state’s scenic roadways have never looked more appealing—making it ideal territory for day trips and more. Here are nine California weekend getaways within just a few hours’ drive of San Francisco , Los Angeles , or San Diego .

All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you book something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission. This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

The pool at Solage Resort and Spa

Napa Valley

There’s no way around it: It’s been a rough few years for Napa Valley. The pandemic’s toll on tourism was compounded by devastating wildfires that damaged some iconic hotels, took out others entirely, and wreaked havoc on winemakers during the all-important harvest season. But California is famously resilient, and Napa in particular is ready for your return. Up in Calistoga, Solage Resort and Spa, Auberge Resorts Collection, has just completed a $30 million redesign featuring restyled suites and studios, appealing pool cabanas, and a new poolside restaurant, Picobar, with modern takes on Mexico City -style street food. Don’t miss the natural mineral pools and mud baths down the road at Dr. Wilkinson's Backyard Resort & Mineral Springs , which date back to 1952 and recently emerged from a full renovation that leans hard into its mid-century roots as a wellness destination.

There’s plenty new to visit down the valley, too. A few miles south, in St. Helena, taste your way through luscious Cabs at the striking new Faust Haus—you can’t miss the jet-black restored 1878 Victorian perched on a hillside above the valley. For an entirely different tasting experience, wine geeks can book an intimate tasting at Lang & Reed’s new St. Helena salon that specializes in Cabernet Franc and Chenin Blanc, varietals rarely given the spotlight in this region. And take a break from wine at the California Brandy House; grape brandy has a rich history in the state, and well-priced flights in the stylish downtown Napa space include gems like the Germain-Robin XO. Grab dinner a few steps away at industry favorite Compline. ( About 1-1.5 hours from San Francisco )

Healdsburg, California

While each of Sonoma County’s small towns has its own appeal, there’s something especially charming about Healdsburg—and plenty of recent developments that merit a visit. Montage Healdsburg, stretching over 258 acres of oak forests and vineyards, is the county’s most impressive opening in years. Designed to highlight the region’s rustic beauty, its 130 rooms and suites all but disappear into the Sonoma landscape. As for wineries, you’ve got access to world-class wine regions of the Russian River, Dry Creek, and Alexander Valley. Must-visits include the House of Flowers, where you’ll sip estate vineyard Pinot Noir under sleek cabanas; and the swank new tasting room at the Aperture Estate, specializing in cool-climate Bordeaux varietals, with spectacular views out onto the Russian River Valley.

Always a dining destination, Healdsburg’s newer culinary hits include bakery hotspot Quail & Condor, the impressive Asahi Sushi & Kitchen, and the phenomenal Hazel Hill up the road at the Montage; worth a drive even if you’re not booked in at the resort. Keep an eye out for more restaurant openings later this summer: long-anticipated tri-level The Matheson, from local talent Dustin Valette, and vegetarian restaurant Little Saint, from the team behind triple Michelin-starred SingleThread . (About 1.5 hours from San Francisco)

The views from Marin

Marin and Sonoma Coast

If you had a cozy waterfront cabin on tranquil Tomales Bay, you’d probably want to stay all summer. And if not? There’s Nick’s Cove . As remote as you can feel within an hour’s drive of San Francisco, the hotel's dozen beautifully appointed cottages (all with views, many set right over the bay) each feel like an independent retreat, with private entrances and outdoor spaces. Five minutes down the road, eternally popular Hog Island Oyster Co. is a mandatory stop for its outdoor bay-front oyster bar; if you can’t score a reservation, grab a bushel of bivalves and a shucking knife to go and throw your own picnic back at the cottage. Further north on Highway 1, the Bodega Bay Lodge , in the seaside town where Alfred Hitchcock set The Birds, is an equally peaceful sanctuary—ideal for coastal bluff walks, cruising on the resort’s complimentary bikes, or simply enjoying the bay views by the fire pits of onsite restaurant Drakes Fireside Lounge, with glass of wine in hand. City life couldn’t be farther away. (About 1 hour from San Francisco)

CNT Editors

Blane Bachelor

Kyler Alvord

Catching a glimpse of Half Dome

While visiting Yosemite might require a bit more planning this year, the park’s major sites—Hetch Hetchy, Half Dome, Mariposa Grove—are as breathtakingly majestic as ever. Even a drive-through trip requires advance reservations; every vehicle entering the park needs to book a pass , and day passes disappear quickly. But if you do manage to snag one—or book a room at the iconic Ahwahnee Hotel , the rustic Yosemite Valley Lodge, the tents at Curry Village, or any of the now-reopened campgrounds—the park is yours to explore, with shuttle services temporarily suspended but all roads open, all trails open, and fewer crowds than ever. (About 3-4 hours from San Francisco, 4.5-5.5 hours from Los Angeles )

The picturesque PCH at Big Sur

If redwood groves, endless stargazing, and the vast expanse of the Pacific factor into your idea of a California getaway, Big Sur is waiting. Reaching the cliff-hugging town isn’t the easiest trip; whether you’re coming from Northern or Southern California, you’ll arrive by the infamous twists and turns of Highway 1, also known as the Pacific Coast Highway (or the PCH), which winter rains have a tendency to shut down for months on end. But there’s nowhere better to appreciate California’s wild, dramatic coast, and road repairs completed in April have the town newly accessible by either route. The Post Ranch Inn sets the gold standard for understated-rustic luxury and pure escapism, perched 1200 feet above the ocean. Just across the road, Ventana Big Sur is similarly idyllic. Don’t expect much in the way of shopping or nightlife, but there’s really no need; you’re here for the stunning landscape of the Pacific coast, truly up there with any in the world. (About 3 hours from San Francisco, 6 hours from Los Angeles)

Paso's vineyards should not be overlooked for the better known wine countries up north.

Paso Robles

While Northern California has the state’s best-known wine regions of Napa and Sonoma, Paso Robles, near the Central Coast, has just as much to offer—one part scenic, rolling-hill vineyards, one part laid-back horse country. Joining Condé Nast Traveler Readers' Choice Award winners Allegretto Vineyard Resort and the more intimate Hotel Cheval on the town square are newer lodgings including the Stables Inn , from the same team as the stately Cheval but with a more laid-back vibe.

Paso’s dining scene is as vibrant as ever; don’t miss The Hatch Rotisserie & Bar , with wood-fired cuisine and local wines on tap, or a stellar French meal (and equally compelling wine list) at Les Petites Canailles. And with reservation-only policies limiting the crowds, it’s an ideal time to visit wineries including Epoch , DAOU Vineyards , and Booker . (About 3.5-4 hours from Los Angeles or San Francisco)

The Ojai Valley Inn

No matter where you go in the area, a trip to Ojai is like a wellness retreat; it’s nearly impossible to visit and not be inspired to get out into nature. The nearly 100-year-old Spanish-revival Ojai Valley Inn is an ideal jumping-off point to appreciate the landscape, whether your idea of getting outside is a round of golf or tennis, or horseback riding, hiking, and a leisurely bike ride under the ridge of the Topa Topa Mountains. Stop for a meal at one of Ojai’s famously health-conscious restaurants, including Farmer and the Cook , a café, bakery, and smoothie bar supplied by the owner’s twelve-acre organic farm. The entire region’s scenic vistas—especially scenic during the “pink moment,” when sunset illuminates the mountains and valley in a spectrum of pink hues—are worth every moment of the drive. (About 1.5 hours from Los Angeles, 3.5 from San Diego)

Downtown Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara

With palm trees, beaches, and blue skies overhead: Santa Barbara’s appeal is obvious. But there’s more to do in this vibrant community than bask in the abundant sunshine. Opened just this spring, the 24-room Palihouse Santa Barbara immediately established itself as one of the city’s best boutique hotels. Nearby, the Santa Barbara Museum of Art is anticipating an August 15 debut for its new multi-floor wing of contemporary art and photography. The downtown main drag has been reborn as the car-free State Street Promenade, a now-permanent walking zone with bars and restaurants spilling out onto the street. (If a car-free weekend sounds appealing, the city’s new electric-bike fleet, Santa Barbara BCycle, has visitor-friendly passes.) Sample a few natural wines at the 60s-inspired Venus in Furs before venturing around the corner to La Paloma Café. La Paloma has a history stretching back to the 1940s and recently reopened with a menu that links the culinary legacies of California and Mexico. (About 2 hours from Los Angeles, 3.5 from San Diego, 5 from San Francisco)

Desert golf in Palm Springs

Palm Springs

Sure, you’ll want to find some shade from the midday desert sun. But even in peak summer, Palm Springs, with its vibrant art scene, top-notch dining, and mid-century glamour, is a worthy destination. Just schedule any hikes, like the two-mile loop to the Tahquitz Falls, early in the morning. While art and design are inescapable here (mid-century everywhere you look), the recently-reopened Palm Springs Art Museum is of particular note, with an extensive collection of modernist photography and art; book your timed ticket in advance. Check in at Casa Cody —the oldest operating hotel in Palm Springs—recently revamped by new owners the Casetta Group, with 30 refreshed rooms and a prime downtown location. You’re just a short stroll from any number of stellar restaurants: sushi and cocktails at Sandfish, pizza at Birba, modern Vietnamese at Rooster and the Pig . And as virtually all of Palm Springs is designed for indoor-outdoor living, those who still prefer patio dining are spoiled for choice. (About 2-3 hours from Los Angeles or San Diego)

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15 Best Weekend Getaways in California

By: Author Susan Moore

Posted on Last updated: December 10, 2023

Looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of your busy life? California is a hot destination for locals and visitors from all over the world.

Quaint beach towns , unrivaled nature, plentiful vineyards, luxurious resorts, and world-class dining— you can find it all here. There’s truly something for everyone. The hardest part is choosing just one destination.

Plan your next memorable solo sojourn, family vacation, romantic getaway, or friend’s weekend at any one of these amazing California getaway destinations . They’re easy to get to and you can plan a trip suitable to work within your budget.

Here is our list of the best weekend getaways in California .

Best Weekend Getaways in California

1.   santa barbara.

From its lively beaches , ideal for catching the perfect wave or a stunning sunset, to the picturesque backdrop of the Santa Ynez Mountains , it’s easy to see how the chill beach town vibes of Santa Barbara draw people in.

After a full day of surfing, kayaking, or being a beach bum, take some time to explore the trendy streets full of boutique shops, indulge in a wine tasting, or learn about the area’s diverse history. Read our full list of things to do in Santa Barbara .

For wonderful views, murals, painted tiles, gorgeous gardens, and amazing architecture head over to the Santa Barbara County Courthouse . That’s right, this courthouse is a work of art!

Explore the sights in Santa Barbara for a relaxing West Coast weekend getaway

2.   San Francisco

San Francisco is a world of its own.

It’s home to tons of famous attractions, events, and a unique subculture you won’t soon forget.

Fill your weekend with some of the top sights like Fisherman’s Wharf , Golden Gate Park , Alcatraz Island , and the Golden Gate Bridge .

When your feet get tired from all that walking, hop on the cable car to get a glimpse of historic landmarks before catching a Giants game or splurging on a 5-star meal and checking out the vibrant nightlife.

Spend a weekend in San Francisco and discover why it’s one of the most visited places in the US

3.   Palm Springs

Made famous for its lavish resorts and spas, natural hot springs, and impressive golf courses, Palm Springs is the place to be for a luxurious and relaxing weekend getaway in California.

Spend your mornings teeing off early, hiking the palm canyon, or getting in a few laps before relaxing poolside.

In the afternoon, enjoy a well-deserved spa treatment or a soak in the hot springs. Come here to de-stress, pamper yourself, and revitalize your soul.

Staying more than a few days? Check out the best day trips from Palm Springs . And be sure to read our list of the Best Boutique Hotels in Palm Springs .

A Palm Springs weekend adventure offers many options from hiking, golfing, thrift shops, spas, and hot springs to name a few

4.   San Diego

With nearly perfect weather all year round and sandy beaches that stretch for miles, this coastal city brings in visitors every season.

But it’s more than just another Cali beach town. San Diego has a rich military history, fantastic foodie scene, and thriving cultural element that sets it apart from other cities.

After all, there’s a reason it’s called “America’s Finest City.” There’s something here for city lovers, beach dwellers, and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Read our list of best things to do in San Diego and explore the top day trips from San Diego .

San Diego is a great choice for a weekend trip in California – beaches, museums, and gorgeous weather await!

5.   Marin County

Marin County is known for its natural beauty. From stunning coastlines to rolling verdant hills, to towering redwood forests, it’s a paradise for those who appreciate a quiet hike in nature or more privacy at the beach.

If your schedule allows, book a ferry to Sausalito , a small waterfront town with Mediterranean vibes, hundreds of houseboats dating back decades, and charming character.

To cover more ground, rent a bike to take with you. It’s the perfect way to explore this quaint area.

From Muir Woods to Point Reyes National Seashore there’s tons of stuff to do in Marin County – and especially fun for outdoorsy folks.

I stayed in Corte Madera for a week but a weekend gives you enough time to explore a lot of Marin County from beaches to small towns and scenic drives.

Escape for a weekend to Marin County for beaches, nature walks, wildlife viewing on the California coast

6.   Napa Valley

Welcome to wine country, host of some of the best weekend getaways in California.

The region has earned its prominence through its world-class wine and hospitality.

The striking hillside vineyards, Napa Valley Wine Train , and Michelin star restaurants attract nearly 4 million visitors a year.

For non-wine-related activities, take a trip to the Bothe-Napa Valley State Park , book a hot air balloon ride , stroll through the lively downtown area, and be sure to check out Oxbow Public Market .

Just say YES to a wine country weekend in Napa Valley

7.   Catalina Island

Just 22 miles off California’s southern coast lies the scenic Catalina Island.

Once you’ve arrived by ferry there’s no shortage of exhilarating activities to enjoy from ziplining to helicopter rides over the island to scuba diving .

Of course, a trip to the botanical garden , a stroll through the vibrant downtown areas, and casual lounging on the beach are all favorite activities as well.

While you will certainly find spectacular accommodations on the island, Catalina offers some of the best camping in California.

So, whether you come here to unleash the adventurer in you or relax, your trip is destined to be a weekend for the books!

Take a weekend escape to Catalina Island and you’ll feel world’s away on this California getaway

8.   Carpinteria

Perhaps it’s the title of “ The World’s Safest Beach ,” that brings swimmers and surfers to Carpinteria.

The absence of riptides makes this destination a safe oasis for water sports. Or perhaps it’s the welcoming small-town feel, cute cafes, and seal pups that draw people in.

It’s easy to spend the day walking on the beach , checking out the tide pools, looking for sea glass, or simply enjoying a beach day.

Close out the day with a sunset beach walk and then dinner at Zookers Restaurant or Teddy’s by The Sea .

Carpinteria an exceptional choice for a family getaway, romantic weekend, or a solo sojourn. Read our complete list of stuff to do in Carp and find out why it’s such a beloved small beach town in California.

A weekend in Carpinteria is the perfect place for beach lovers

9.   Big Sur

Here is your chance to reconnect with nature.

Begin your trip on the winding roads of Highway 101 which offers sweeping vistas of rugged coastlines as the salty ocean breeze fills your car.

There are tons of surrounding state parks, nature reserves, beaches, and hiking trails to check out.

This is the perfect place to spend a few days hiking, biking, swimming, or fishing and disconnecting from city life.

Check out our suggestions for 30 Pacific Coast Highway stops on an LA to San Francisco road trip .

A weekend in Big Sur is an experience you will remember forever

10.   Paso Robles

If you’ve already done Napa Valley, mix things up and take a visit to Paso Robles laid-back wine and olive region.

While there are plenty of wineries and breweries to choose from, you can also trade in those wine glasses and pints for spoons as you sample different olive oils at a tasting.

The vibrant downtown area is great for taking an evening stroll, fueling up at an award-winning restaurant, and be sure to grab a sweet treat from the Paso Market Walk .

11.   Yosemite National Park

Famous for being home to towering sequoia trees, beautiful waterfalls, and granite giants El Capitan and Half Dome , Yosemite is one of America’s most visited national parks.

It is a haven for hiking, climbing, biking, and wildlife sightings.

If it’s your first visit, be sure to check out all the famous landmarks, or take the path less traveled and set out to find the hidden gems of the park.

A weekend in Yosemite is a great escape to nature with scenic drives and outstanding hiking opportunities

12.   Lake Tahoe

Located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains , this pristine freshwater lake attracts visitors all year round.

In summer, the crystal-clear aquamarine waters and evergreen forests invite nature lovers, and in winter, the lake provides a picturesque backdrop for skiing and snowboarding.

The scenic drive along the lake alone is enough to warrant a visit.

So, if you’re looking for a stunning place for a fun weekend getaway in California, let Lake Tahoe be your outdoor playground.

13.   Sequoia National Park

Prepare to be humbled by the awe-inspiring sequoia forests.

Gaze up as you stand next to these magnificent giants and see first-hand just how incredibly tall they are!

Of course, these are the main draw to the park, but there’s so many things to do at Sequoia.

Visitors can also snap a photo of the famous tunnel log, hop on any of the hiking trails, or for some of the best views, climb the 400 steps to the top of Moro Rock and breathe in the vistas.

For an epic outdoor weekend getaway in California, start planning your trip to Sequoia National Park.

14.   Redwood National/State Park

Come for the 300 feet redwoods, stay for the stunning scenery, incredible hikes, and awesome wildlife.

Hike through the massive redwoods or take in the views from the many outlooks sprinkled throughout the park.

Whether you choose to hike your way through the park or drive along the coastline, there’s a ton of nature to be enjoyed and savored.

People from all over the world travel to marvel at the redwoods, but it can easily be made into a short, magical weekend away.

15.   Joshua Tree National Park

Come explore where the Mojave Desert meets the Colorado Desert, and the landscapes are otherworldly.

An incredible park to explore, visitors can plan their trip around hiking, climbing, and day or nighttime photography.

Sunsets are divine at Joshua Tree.

Hidden Valley offers beautiful views unlike anything you’ve seen before, and you can take a short hike suitable for all levels of hikers.

Explore the unique geology of the area and catch a glimpse of the notorious San Andreas Fault Line or hit the Cholla Cactus Garden to get up close and personal with the flora in the park. Just don’t make the mistake of touching the cactus!

Read more about visiting Joshua Tree National Park .

You’ll enjoy spectacular sunrises and sunsets with a Joshua Tree National Park weekend getaway

Final Thoughts on California Weekend Trips

With the Pacific coast, mountains, vineyards, and incredible national parks California has some of the best weekend trips in the US. Whether you want to relax or test your endurance out on the trails Cali will surprise you with abundant choices. This list of weekend trips in California is your starting point, now pick your trip and start packing!

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25 Amazing Weekend Getaways in Northern California

The upper half of the state is a diverse place, which means there are plenty of great weekend getaways in Northern California to get excited about. From coastal escapes to wine country towns, forested hamlets, and cosmopolitan cities, there is really something for everyone.

Some of these weekend destinations might be on your radar, but my guess is that several of them aren’t. There are quite a few small towns that have really come into their own in recent years which definitely deserve a weekend stay. Here are 25 terrific weekend getaways in Northern California to enjoy.

Headed south? Read our guide to the best weekend getaways in Southern California .

25 Weekend Getaways in Northern California

Healdsburg, located in Sonoma County wine country, is one of our favorite weekend getaways in Northern California. There are over 30 tasting rooms located in downtown Healdsburg, as well as many wineries in the surrounding countryside.

Williamson Wines is a family-owned winery which offers a tasting experience that includes food pairings with each wine. The tasting room is located in a beautiful courtyard setting and features an extensive selection of wines. Stephen & Walker Winery also has a tasting room downtown. They specialize in Cabernet Sauvignon and other Bordeaux varietals.

Outside of town, follow Dry Creek Road and discover several amazing wineries along the way like the breathtaking Ferrari-Carano Vineyards and Winery, known for its magical scenery and delicate  chardonnays, cabernet sauvignon and sauvignon blancs.

Of course, no wine experience in Healdsburg is complete without a visit to The Francis Ford Coppola Winery and Movie Museum just north of town in Geyserville. In addition to great wines, there is also an extensive movie memorabilia collection, poolside cabanas to enjoy, and a great restaurant.

Beyond wine, Healdsburg is surrounded by beautiful countryside and offers many outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and kayaking, floating, or swimming in the Russian River .

Hungry? Healdsburg is known for its fantastic farm-to-table dining scene, with many restaurants featuring locally sourced ingredients and seasonal menus. The town is also home to several acclaimed restaurants, including SingleThread , a three-Michelin-starred restaurant celebrating the Japanese concept of omotenashi, and Valette , a restaurant focused modern American cuisine with a French twist and plenty of locally-sourced ingredients.

Where to stay on your Northern California weekend getaway: Glamping in Healdsburg is a luxurious way to experience the natural beauty of the region. We love Wildhaven Sonoma which has heated glamping tents steps fom the Russian River.

Fort Bragg is located on the ruggedly beautiful Mendocino Coast and offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, rocky cliffs, and towering redwoods.

It is home to several unique natural attractions, including the Glass Beach , where visitors can see colorful glass stones that have been worn smooth by the ocean.

Jug Handle State Natural Reserve is located just north of Fort Bragg and features a unique “Ecological Staircase” that showcases the area’s diverse ecosystems, including a beach, a coastal prairie, and a pygmy forest.

The Skunk Train , another popular attraction, is a historic railroad line that runs from Fort Bragg in Mendocino County to Willits in inland Mendocino County, California. It is named after the “skunk-like” smell that the train used to emit from its gas-powered engines in the early 20th century.

Today, the Skunk Train offers scenic train rides through the dramatic redwood forests dominating the region. The most popular route from Fort Bragg is the Pudding Creek Express, a 75-minute round trip from Fort Bragg to Glen Blair Junction. The trip includes views of the Pudding Creek Estuary and plenty of redwoods. There are also rail bikes available which are electric-powered and an incredible way to enjoy the lush, forest scenery.

There are several great festivals held in the region throughout the year. Held every July, the Mendocino Music Festival is a two-week event that features a variety of musical performances, including classical, jazz, and world music. The festival takes place in a beautiful outdoor venue overlooking the ocean.

The Whale Festival in March includes whale watching, nature walks, arts and crafts, and a chowder cook-off. In September, Winesong is a weekend-long event that features wine tastings, gourmet food, live music, and a charity auction.

Held every first Friday of the month, the Art Walk is a self-guided tour of galleries and artist studios in downtown Fort Bragg. Visitors can meet local artists and view their work, which includes painting, sculpture, photography, and more.

Where to stay on your Northern California weekend getaway: The Noyo Harbor Inn is an elegant inn featuring rooms with ocean views, as well as a restaurant and bar overlooking the Noyo River.

Lassen Volcanic National Park

Lassen Volcanic National Park is one of the lesser-visited national parks in Northern California, but it is truly a fantastic place to visit. The park protects the lands around Mount Lassen, an active volcano that last erupted about 100 years ago.

The volcano is still very much alive and the best place to experience volcanic activity is on the Bumpass Hell Trail three-mile, round-trip hike takes visitors to the Bumpass Hell geothermal area. A boardwalk leads you through an area filled with bubbling mud pots and steaming vents.

The park also has several alpine lakes which are just lovely. My favorite is Manzanita Lake which is located near the park’s visitor center. There is an easy, 1.8-mile loop trail takes visitors around Manzanita Lake , and there are places where you can see Lassen Peak reflecting off the lake, making for amazing pictures.

Lake Helen near the Bumpass Hell trailhead is another simply grogeous lake. It is crystal clear (and freezing) and often has snow and ice through mid-summer.

Another great hike inside the park is the 2.6-mile round-trip hike which leads to Kings Creek Falls, a picturesque waterfall that cascades over a 30-foot drop.

Kings Creek Falls is one of our favorite waterfalls in Northern California . See what other special spots made the list.

Peak baggers will want to make the climb to the top of Lassen Peak . This strenuous five-mile, round-trip hike offers wonderful views of the surrounding landscape and requires some scrambling near the top.

Where to stay on your Northern California weekend getaway: The Manzanita Lake Camping Cabins are a nice glamping option within the park. They have beds, a propane heater, and their own fire rings and picnic tables. Shower and bathrooms are in another building.

If you want more traditional lodging, head to the gateway town of Chester and stay at the Best Western Rose Quartz Inn which serves up a complimentary hot breakfast in the morning and coffee and cookies all day!

When I first moved up to Northern California about 25 years ago, Winters was nothing more than a sleepy farm town known for its snow cone stand on the way to Lake Berryessa and steak dinner splurges at The Buckhorn. My how things have changed.

It seems as though the snow cone stand is long gone (thankfully you can still get a great meal at Buckhorn Steakhouse ) but in its place wineries, breweries, and even a craft distillery has popped up.

Some of the area wineries include Turkovich Family Wines which is located in downtown Winters and offers a range of wines made from grapes grown on the family’s nearby vineyards that are available for tasting.

Berryessa Gap Vineyards is another family-owned winery located just a few miles from Winters on Highway 128 and offers a range of wines made from grapes grown in the surrounding hills. Visitors can taste wines at the winery’s tasting room and enjoy views of the nearby vineyards and hills. Wine tours are offered on Saturday and Sunday at 12:30pm and 2:30pm and tastings can be reserved at both the winery and the downtown tasting room.

If you prefer beer, check out Berryessa Brewing Company , which offers a farm-to-table food menu featuring ingredients sourced from local farms as well as great brews. Patio 29 is the only craft distillery in the region and they make a variety of whiskeys, vodka, gin, rum, and even grappa. Their tasting room is open Friday through Sunday.

If you are looking for outdoor fun, head to nearby Lake Berryessa whre you can swim, boat, and fish. Fishing can also be found along Putah Creek as it heads out of town.

A unique outdoor experience can be found at Park Winters where you can pay $25 and pick your own bouquet from a wide selection of flowers including cosmos, marigolds, zinnias, dahlia, poppies, snap dragons,ranunculus, and sunflowers.

Where to stay on your Northern California weekend getaway: The Abbey House Inn is a charming bed and breakfast built in 1905 that offers a farm-to-table breakfast experience. The innkeepers source many of their ingredients from their own garden and nearby farms, and their breakfast menu features a range of sweet and savory dishes made with fresh and seasonal ingredients.

San Francisco

San Francisco has long been one of the best weekend getaways in Northern California. Its distinctive neighborhoods, natural beauty, cultural diversity, and endless activity dining options keep us coming back again and again.

San Francisco is home to some of the most famous landmarks in the world, including the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and the cable cars.

Many of us NorCal folks have never actually tried the touristy stuff but truth be told, there is a reason these attractions are so popular. If you haven’t visited Alacatraz, you should! If you haven’t taken the time to walk across the bridge, what are you waiting for? I recommend starting on the Marin side and walking towards the city to enjoy those epic bay views.

Enjoy the natural beauty of the city by heading to the Presidio, Golden Gate Park, or taking a boat cruise to view this special place from the water.

Experience some of the best museums in the state, including including the de Young Museum , the Exploratorium , California Academy of Sciences , and the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art.

Eat your way through San Francisco’s iconic neighborhoods- grab a carnitas burrito from La Taqueria in the Mission District, dim sum at Wing Sing in Chinatown, incredible Burmese food at Burma Superstar in the Richmond District, and pizza worth writing home about at Tony’s Pizza Napoletana in Little Italy.

There are more festivals taking place throughout the city than we can count, so you are always sure to stumble upon something special. A few highlights include the Chinese New Year Parade, Bay to Breakers, Outside Lands , and Oktoberfest by the Bay.

Where to stay on your Northern California weekend getaway:  The Stanyan Park Hotel in the Haigh-Ashbury borders Golden Gate Park and has plenty of luxurious Victorian charm and budget-friendly rates. In addition to an included contintental breakfast, they also offer a complimentary manager’s reception with wine and cheese on weekday evenings and a tea service every evening.

Sacramento has had a bit of a “glow up” this century. It has long sat in the shadow of the Bay Area but these days, there is definitely more of a food and night life scene, making it a great spot for a weekend getaway.

The Midtown and Downtown areas of Sacramento are known for their lively food and bar scenes. The Waterboy is an upscale, farm-to-table restaurant that offers a seasonally inspired menu with a focus on Mediterranean and Northern Italian cuisine.

If you’re in the mood for German food, LowBrau is a popular spot. They specialize in gourmet sausages, including vegan and vegetarian options, along with a variety of craft beers on tap. Mikuni is our favorite sushi spot in the area and their Incredible Roll can’t be missed!

Of course, Sacamento is is rich in history, from the California Gold Rush to the state’s role in the Civil War. Visitors can explore historic sites like Sutter’s Fort and the California State Capitol , and learn about the city’s fascinating past.

Old Sacramento is also a fun place to explore because it feels like you have stepping back in time thanks to the restored buildings and wooden walkways akin to the Gold Rush days. It is filled with interesting shops (we love Evangelines and the candy shops), lots of dining options, and the California Railroad Museum.

Old Sacramento was built on top of the original street level, which is now underground. You can take a cool guided tour via the Sacramento History Museum to explore the hidden underground tunnels and learn about the history of the city.

You can also board a riverboat and cruise the Sacramento River. The dinner cruise is highly recommended.

The rivers also provides great recreational opportunities. Bring your bikes and explore the American River Parkway, a 23-mile stretch of parkland along the American River. Or rent a boat and cruise the Sacramento River for the day.

Sacramento has a thriving craft beer scene, with many excellent breweries and taprooms to choose from. Urban Roots Brewing & Smokehouse is a popular brewery in downtown Sacramento is known for its high-quality craft beers and delicious smoked meats. The taproom has a spacious outdoor patio, perfect for enjoying a cold beer on a sunny day.

Track 7 Brewing Company is a well-known name in the Sacramento craft beer scene, and for good reason. Their flagship beer, Panic IPA, is a favorite among locals, and their two taprooms (in the Curtis Park and Natomas neighborhoods) is a great spot to hang out and enjoy a pint.

Where to stay on your Northern California weekend getaway: I love the location of the Embassy Suites Sacramento Riverfront Promenade. It is within walking distance of Old Sacramento and the Sacramento Rivercats’ stadium, an awesome place to catch a minor league baseball game.

Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park

Located north of Eureka is  Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park , one of the four state parks that help make up the Redwood National and State Parks complex. It is a great place to spend the weekend because there is plenty to do outdoors and the scenery is spectacular.

Prairie Creek Redwoods made our list of the 30 best California State Parks.

The park is home to some of the tallest and oldest trees on earth, including the famous “Big Tree,” a massive redwood tree that is over 1,500 years old. Many of the redwoods in this park reach dizzying heights of over 300 feet and nine of the trees are over 350 feet tall!

Prairie Creek is a special park not only for its towering trees, but also for its resident population of  Roosevelt elk . In 1925, there were as few as 15 of these elk left in the California redwoods. Today, the population has rebounded to 1,000 and they are most often seen at Elk Prairie, along Davidson Road west of Highway 101, and on Gold Bluffs Beach.

Golds Bluff Beach is a special place beyond being a place to spot wild elk on the sand. It is also near the entrance to Fern Canyon , one of the most beautiful places in the state. It is lush and shady, with a creek running through and an easy one mile trail helping you explore this 50-foot fortress of walls, covered in ferns.

The road to Gold Bluff’s Beach is unpaved and there are a couple stream crossings, but it is usually quite easy to manage in the summer and fall, or when there haven’t been any recent rains.

If you are looking for a longer hike that takes you to all of the park’s highlights, check out ther 12-mile route that take you from the visitor center to Fern Canyon via the James Irvine Trail. The trail takes hikers through some of the most impressive old growth forest in the park.

CTL Tip: This secret is out about this spot and the park now  requires Day Use Permits to access Gold Bluffs Beach and Fern Canyon  from May 1st – September 30th.  Permits  for the 2023 season can be reserved by the public beginning April 15th.

Where to stay on your Northern California weekend getaway: Gold Bluffs Beach Campground is a popular spot for tent and rv camping, and sites book up well in advance. There are several neat VRBOs in the area including a vintage farmhouse and homes with waterfront views. The Holiday Inn Express Klamath is highly rated and only eight miles from the park entrance.

Mount Shasta

The small town of Mount Shasta is a wonderful weekend getaway in Northern California. It acts as gateway to the Shasta-Trinity National Forest and is a great destination for enjoying some of the outdoor adventures throughout the area. Mount Shasta is one of our favorite mountain towns in California .

It is home to the headwaters of the Sacramento River which are located in Mount Shasta City Park at Headwaters Spring .

Downtown Mt. Shasta is a charming and walkable area with a few different shops and restaurants. The region is known as a spitirtual destination and there are a few different new age shops selling crystals as well as Berryvale Grocery, a natural foods store with great options for pre-made food to take on a picnic while exploring.

Lake Siskiyou is a popular spot for fishing, swimming, and walking or cycling the seven-mile Lake Siskiyou Trail which circumnavigates the lake. In the summer there is a beach with roped-off swim area, hourly SUP board and kayak rentals, and a Splash Zone with inflatable toys to play on in the lake. 

Outside of town, the  McCloud River   Recreation Area has a set of three waterfalls (Lower, Middle, and Upper McCloud Falls) interconnected by a four-mile trail. They are especially popular to visit in the summer when the pools below these waterfalls are fun places to swim.

Castle Lake  is another great destination nearby. This lake is filled with pure water and has been studied by UC Davis for decades. I suggest taking the two-mile  hike from Castle Lake up to Heart Lake , and enjoying the great views of Mount Shasta.

Finally, just north of town in Dunsmuir is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the state. Mosbrae Falls  is a lush and elegant waterfall formed when pure spring water pours out of the moss-covered cliffside into the Sacramento River. You have to walk along train tracks to access them, so be safe!

Where to stay on your Northern California weekend getaway: Mount Shasta Resort  is a great year-round destination set on over 125 acres at the base of Mount Shasta. There are one-and-two-bedroom chalets and some are lakeside. There is also a golf course and spa on property.

Mammoth Lakes

Many people in Northern California have never ventured over to the eastern side of the Sierras and that is a shame became the eastern side is actually my favorite side! I love that it is less crowded than places like Lake Tahoe, equally as beautiful, and has some of the best hiking and skiing around.

Mammoth Lakes is the big destination town in the eastern Sierra. It is home to Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort which often has the longest ski season in the country. This year they have so much snow that it has been extended well into July!

When the snow melts, mountain bikers flock to the resort to take the gondola up to the 11,000-foot summit and ride some of the 80+ miles worth of trails that traverse the mountain. Those newer to the sport will enjoy the Discovery Zone which has easier trails, a skills park, and a lift that is suitable for beginners. A wide range of bike rentals are available, including e-bikes.

If you aren’t a biker you can still take the scenic gondola ride up to the top of the mountain and enjoy the views. Or, try a different type of adventure- via ferrata . It is basically a safer, easier version of rock climbing with safety cables and iron rungs to help you along the way. 

One of the main attractions near Mammoth is Devils Postpile National Monument . During the summer, visitors must take a  shuttle  from the Mammoth Mountain Adventure Center to access the monument. The road down to the monument is only open seasonally due to snow pack, so check the park website for opening dates.

From the shuttle stop, it is an easy 1/2 mile hike to Devil’s Postpile. Head two miles further down the trail to 100-foot  Rainbow Falls where on sunny days, the mist reflects two rainbows near the base of the falls.

Of course, you can’t visit Mammoth Lakes without spending time at one of the areas many lakes. Twin Lakes, Lake Mary, Lake George, Lake Mamie, and Horseshoe Lake are all connected via a paved bike path.

f you are looking for a workout with plenty of views of Mammoth Lakes along the way, take the 1.6-mile trail (gaining 800 feet in elevation) up to  Crystal Lake . Or hike see seven lakes in one day on one of my favorite hikes in the state, the eight-mile Little Lakes Trail south of Mammoth Lakes.

Here are all of our favorite Mammoth hikes .

In town, there is still plenty of fun to be had, no matter the season. We love grabbing a drink at Mammoth Brewing Company. Devil’s Creek Distillery makes their own bourbons and rye whiskeys and they are open for tasting Friday and Saturday from 3-6pm. Shelter Distilling in Mammoth Village serves up housemade sprits and beers as well as a great food menu.

If you want to try something different check out Skadi , a Scandinavian-inspired fine dining restaurant that serves creative seasonal dishes like duck breast with lingonberries.

Where to stay on your Northern California weekend getaway: We usually rent a VRBO vacation home when we visit Mammoth. There are dozens of options.

Read why Mammoth Lakes is one of our favorite California mountain towns and see what other special spots made the list!

Most people know that Lake Tahoe is one of the best weekend getaways in Northern California no matter the season. Those of us who have lived along the Interstate 80 corrider are certainly aware of the Friday night traffic jam created by the masses headed in that direction.

It is no secret that Lake Tahoe is a beautiful destination, with crystal-clear blue waters, breathtaking mountain views, and an abundance of wildlife. In the winter, visitors can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and other winter sports. In the summer, there’s boating, fishing, swimming, and hiking.

Thanks to its location on the California/Nevada border, Lake Tahoe is also a big gambling destination with plenty of nightlife in the casinos.

Visiting  Emerald Bay State Park , skiing at  Heavenly Mountain Resort , picnicking at  Fallen Leaf Lake , having Rum Runners at Camp Richardson’s Beacon Bar & Grill, and a day cruising on the lake are among our favorite things to do in South Lake Tahoe.

On the north side, popular activities include floating down the Truckee River, beach days at the lake, hiking on trails such as the Tahoe Rim Trail, and rides aboard the Tahoe Gal , a ship that cruises Lake Tahoe from Tahoe City. 

There are also a few different ski resorts on this side of the lake. Palisades Tahoe ,  Alpine Meadows , and  Northstar all have varied terrain and offer some of the best sking in the country.

There are special events that take place throughout the year as well. Fourth of July is always a huge deal with fireworks going off from various points on the lake. Known as the “Super Bowl of celebrity golf,” the American Century Championship brings together top celebrity athletes and entertainers for a competitive golf tournament.

In the autumn, North Lake Tahoe hosts the three-day Lake Tahoe Autumn Food & Wine Festival This culinary event celebrates the region’s food and wine scene. It features cooking demonstrations, wine tastings, gourmet dinners, and other food-related activities.

Where to stay on your Northern California weekend getaway:   Granlibakken Tahoe  is situated on 74 acres in Tahoe City and is filled with onsite activities no matter the season.  Mourelatos Lakeshore Resort  has a 275-foot private beachfront and each room features a lake view and a full kitchen over in the Tahoe Vista area. On the south side of the lake,  Camp Richardson  is a beloved historic resort just outside of town with a beach, marina, camping, and lodging. 

There is a decent chance you have never heard of Clarksburg. This tiny Yolo County town is off the radar of most, but it is one of the best under-the-radar wine destinations in the state. Clarksburg is located in the California Delta, known for its hot summer days and cool nights, perfect for growing 35 varietals including the Chenin Blancs and Petite Sirahs the region is known for.

You will definitely want to visit the  Old Sugar Mill , a renovated sugar beet refinery built in 1934 which has tasting rooms for 14 different wineries. On weekends there are also food trucks which offer a variety of tasty dishes to pair with your wine. You will also want to try Husick’s Taphouse , a local favorite that offers a great selection of craft beers on tap along with a menu of tasty pub food and they often have live music.

One of the best experiences in Clarksburg is Sacramento River Cruise ‘s private wine and cheese boating cruises. These two-hour boat cruises feature flights of local wine, craft beer, as well as cheese and charcuterie plates. Private boats can accomodate up to six people so grab some friends and go! There is also an option to upgrade to premium wines on your cruise.

Where to stay on your Northern California weekend getaway: Why not stay on a houseboat on the river? This VRBO option comes with a slide and amazing delta views.

Santa Cruz has been a classic Northern California weekend getaway for generations thanks to its beautiful beaches and beloved boardwalk. There’s a thriving surf culture as well as a definite focus on being environmentally conscious and loving Mother Earth.

The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is a historic California landmark filled with classic amusement park attractions and a large variety of fried foods served on a stick. It was a place to escape the heat of summer inland, enjoy time playing the beach, and attempt to eat half your body weight in hot dogs and funnel cake.

There are over 40 rides and attractions on the Boardwalk, including midway games, an indoor mini-golf course, laser tag, and arcades. We also love the bowling alley nearby which has karaoke and beer- a great Saturday night combo!

If you love to shop, head to Pacific Avenue. You can shop for unique gifts and souvenirs at a variety of little shops. Make time to visit Bookshop Santa Cruz , a large independent bookstore with a 50-year history as well as Comicopolis  which has the finest selection of comics around.

Getting outside is an important part of any Santa Cruz getaway and the scenic three-mile walking and biking path on West Cliff Drive has plenty of incredible ocean views to enjoy.

The  Santa Cruz Harbor  is a popular departure point for exploring Monterey Bay to spot California sea otters , whales, and other marine life. Whether you rent from Kayak Connection, hit up the SUP Shack, or set sail with Chardonnay Sailing Charters , you are sure to have an incredible day.

Santa Cruz is also located near several state parks that feature giant redwood trees, including Big Basin Redwoods State Park , Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park , and Portola Redwoods State Park . Big Basin was hit by a major fire and will take generations to recover, but it is still interesting to witness the forest’s rebirth. Henry Cowell and Portola both have thousands of acres of lush forest and plenty of trails to get you out among the tall trees.

See which Santa Cruz area parks made our list of the best California State Parks .

One of the best ways to explore the Santa Cruz Mountains via the  Roaring Camp and Big Trees Railroad has two routes to choose from. One heads into Santa Cruz, dropping passengers off at the Boardwalk, and the other travels deeper into the mountains.

If you are looking for something more adventurous to do in the Santa Cruz mountains, Redwood Canopy Tour at Mt. Hermon  offers two-hour guided eco-adventures that include six zip lines and two sky bridges at heights of up to 150 feet.

Santa Cruz is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the state. Natural Bridges State Beach is the seasonal home to migrating monarch butterflies and well-known for its heavily photographed sea arch. A half-sunken concrete freighter is visible from the shore at Seacliff State Beach . And Wilder Ranch State Park is a historic ranch along a rugged coastline with some nice tide pools.

Where to stay on your Northern California weekend getaway: Located on legendary Cowell Beach, the  Dream Inn Santa Cruz  is a short walk from the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and great dining on the Santa Cruz Wharf. You can enjoy your own beach house with all of the amenities of a four-star accommodation at the  Seascape Resort .

Monterey has long been one of my favorite Northern California weekend getaways for those who love wildlife. It is well-known for being home to the Monterey Bay Aquarium which houses over 35,000 creatures, including sea otters, penguins, and sharks.

But, there is plenty of wildlife to enjoy beyond that marvelous facility. Monterey Bay is a marine sanctuary, and there are many opportunities to view wildlife such as sea otters, sea lions, and whales. Taking a whale watching tour or scenic cruise of the bay almost a requirement, especially for first timer visitors.

Elkhorn Slough is my favorite place to spot sea otters, seals, and sea lions, and it is especially wonderful in the spring when they babies are everywhere! While kayakers are welcome to venture out on their own, I recommend a guided tour with  Monterey Bay Kayaks . Passionate and friendly guides educate tourgoers about the animals that call the slough home as well as the history and ecology of this critical environment.

After your paddle, grab a bite to eat at  The Haute Enchilada , a funky eatery in nearby Moss Landing. This eclectic café serves up Latin American dishes and has onsite galleries which feature local artists’ work.

The rocky coastline of Monterey affords numerous opportunities to enjoy expansive overlooks on jutting bluffs as well as fantastic rocky tide pools for exploring sea life and ocean critters.

Monterey happens to be one of California’s oldest cities, with Spanish settlement beginning in the early 1600s and the state’s oldest standing public building, the Custom House, built in 1814.

It is also home to many other historic sites such as Cannery Row , which was made famous by John Steinbeck’s novel of the same name, and the historic Old Fisherman’s Wharf . Speaking of Fisherman’s Wharf, no leave without grabbing a bread bowl filled with clam chowder!

If you want to get active on land, take a stroll or bike ride on the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail . This 18-mile scenic trail takes you along the coast of Monterey Bay and offers stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding landscape.

Where to stay on your Northern California weekend getaway: Monterey’s romantic coastline features dozens of bed and breakfasts, as well as exclusive boutiques for lovers, but if you are looking for lodging overlooking Fisherman’s Wharf in the heart of the action, look no further than  Portola Hotel & Spa . Make time to enjoy the rooftop lounge with panoramic views of the bay.

Carmel-by-the-Sea

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a great weekend getaway filled with incredible natural beauty. The town is situated along a scenic coastline with beautiful beaches and hiking trails, and it is surrounded by the dramatic coastal hills of the Monterey Peninsula.

It is a charming and picturesque coastal town known for its unique architecture and rich artistic heritage. The town is home to numerous galleries, studios, and museums, as well as historic landmarks like the Tor House and the Carmel Mission.

Carmel-by-the-Sea offers excellent dining and shopping opportunities, with a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and specialty shops. La Bicyclette is a charming French bistro that serves delicious wood-fired pizzas and rustic French cuisine.

Dametra Cafe is popular Mediterranean restaurant that features live music and dancing, along with delicious mezze plates, kebabs, and other Mediterranean dishes. Those looking for a little romance should try Casanova Restaurant , a cozy Italian restaurant with a beautiful garden patio.

Get outside at Point Lobos State Marine Reserve which is just south of town. Deemed “the greatest meeting of land and water in the world” by Australian landscape artist Francis McComas, Point Lobos is a meeting of turquoise waters, craggy cliffs, and sculptural cypress trees.

Bluefin Cove and Whalers Cove are prime spots for viewing baby seals laying on the tiny beaches below. A hike south to China Cove is a fun option for beachfront rock scrambling and admiration of the aquamarine waters.

You will also want to make time to take a scenic drive on 17-Mile Drive which takes you along the scenic coast of the Monterey Peninsula and offering views of the Pacific Ocean and famous landmarks such as The Lone Cypress and Pebble Beach Golf Course.

Where to stay on your Northern California weekend getaway: One of my most favorite resort views in all of California is at the Hyatt Carmel Highlands . If you can’t afford the splurge to stay there, at least make time to enjoy a cocktail in their lounge with floor to ceiling windows.

Grass Valley and Nevada City

Grass Valley and Nevada City are neighboring towns located in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains with rich histories dating back to the Gold Rush era. Both Grass Valley and Nevada City have charming downtown areas with unique shops, restaurants, and cafes, perfect for strolling and exploring.

Much of Nevada City’s downtown area has been deemed a historic district, with several buildings deemed California Historical Landmarks or on the National Register of Historic Places. It is home to Nevada Theater , California’s oldest theater, as well as the National Hotel which is one of the oldest continuously operating hotels in the West.

Nevada City also happens to be the headquarters for the  Tahoe National Forest , and there are several great hiking trails in the forest as well as around town. The  Independence Trail , a five-mile round-trip trail, is the nation’s first handicapped-accessible wilderness trail which was created by transforming a historic gold mine ditch!

The downtown area of Grass Valley has streets lined with well-preserved historic buildings, many which were built in the mid-1800s, reflecting the town’s boom during the California Gold Rush era. There are a variety of locally-owned shops, boutiques, antique stores, art galleries, and specialty shops. The Grass Valley Museum, located in the old Firehouse No. 1, offers exhibits detailing the town’s history and heritage.

Grass Valley is also home to Empire Mine which was once one of the largest and most prosperous gold mines in California, operating from 1850 to 1956. Today it is a state park and guided tours are available. Visitors can explore the blacksmith shop, the machine shop, and the mine yard, which houses an impressive collection of vintage mining equipment.

In December, both towns come alive with holiday spirit. At Nevada City’s  Victorian Christmas  celebration you can enjoy wandering carolers dressed in Victorian attire, over 100 artisan vendors, visits with Father Christmas, and fresh roasted chestnuts.

Cornish Christmas is an annual holiday event held in downtown Grass Valley when the area is transformed into a winter wonderland with streets lined with vendors, twinkling lights, and a festive atmosphere. Local merchants and artisans set up booths along the streets, offering a wide array of crafts, handmade goods, art, clothing, jewelry, and holiday treats. There are plenty of holiday-themed activities, and even horse-drawn carriage rides.

Where to stay on your Northern California weekend getaway: In Nevada City, stay at the  National Exchange , a historic hotel built in 1856 which has been recently renovated. In Grass Valley, The Gold Miners Inn is a nice option.

Point Reyes

Point Reyes is a great weekend getaway destination if you are looking for a spot with rugged scenery, cool ocean air, and the opportunity to enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, kayaking, and wildlife spotting.

Head to the Elephant Seal Overlook from late December to mid-March to see the always-entertaining seals during the breeding and pupping season.

Drakes Beach is a great place to spot harbor seals and the occasional sea lion. Chimney Rock is the place to spot migrating gray whales from mid-January to mid-May. You may also see seals, sea lions, and a variety of bird species, including pelicans, cormorants, and gulls.

If you are looking to enjoy a wildlife hike, take the Tomales Point Trail which leads you along the coast and offers spectacular views of the ocean and the chance to spot Tule Elk, which are only found in California.

Tomales Bay is an excellent place to enjoy kayaking, and there are even bioluminescence tours which take place during the evening.

In addition to its natural beauty, Point Reyes is also home to several historic sites, including the Point Reyes Lighthouse, which provides a glimpse into the area’s maritime history. Stop by the  Point Reyes Farmstead Cheese Company  to taste cheese made locally, including the famed Point Reyes blue cheese.

For a unique experience, visit Heidrun Meadery . This unique winery produces sparkling mead using sustainably sourced honey from Northern California.

Where to stay on your Northern California weekend getaway: Nick’s Cove is a historic property is located on Tomales Bay that offers waterfront cottages with fireplaces, a restaurant, and a bar.

Half Moon Bay

Half Moon Bay is a beautiful coastal town just south of San Francisco but its small town charm makes it feel a world away. This is a great destination if you are looking to be outside but it also has an artsy flair and plenty of great culinary pursuits.

Surfing and fishing are the primary attractions near Half Moon Bay’s Pillar Point Harbor. The fish markets are frequented by locals and the best surfers from around the world make an annual pilgrimage to ride the massive waves at the  Mavericks Invitational .

The harbor has several little shops and eateries, and if you would like to get out on those harbor waters yourself, it is easy to rent a kayak at  Half Moon Bay Kayak Co .

The tide pools at the  Fitzgerald Marine Preserve  are a great place for checking out all sorts of critters that call these ecosystems home like clams, starfish, and crabs.

Dreaming about a horseback ride on the beach? Sea Horse Ranch  offers a ride through meadows filled with colorful patches of wildflowers, a small gorge with water flowing through it, and a slope opening onto a picture-perfect beach.

Head to the California Coastal Trail and check out Devil’s Slide, a once treacherous section of Highway 1, that was plagued by accidents and road closures until a landslide closed the road for good in 1995. There are dedicated lanes for cyclists and pedestrians now to enjoy the views safely.

Half Moon Bay hosts a famous  annual pumpkin festival , making it an especially great weekend destination in the autumn. This community produces more than 3,000 tons of pumpkins each year , earning the town the title, “Pumpkin Capital of the World.”

Lemos Farm is popular destination for pumpkin patchers, and there are train rides, hayrides, and plenty of other attractions to enjoy. If you visit outside of pumpkin season than you may want to head to Lemos Farm for some goat yoga!

Half Moon Bay is also home to several world-class golf courses, including the Half Moon Bay Golf Links , which offers incredible ocean views and challenging holes.

When you get hungry, check out It’s Italia for special occassion dining, Sam’s Chowder House for (you guessed it) chowder or their famed lobster rolls, and  The Barn for grass-fed burgers and shakes.

Where to stay on your Northern California weekend getaway: Affectionately referred to as the “castle on the coast,” the  Ritz Carlton Half Moon Bay  is the ultimate place to stay in town if you are craving luxury. Just steps from Half Moon Bay’s Pillar Point Harbor, the  Oceano Hotel and Spa is a centrally located, casual, and comfortable place to stay as well.

Napa is one of the most famous Northern California weekend getaways thanks to its world famous wineries. Napa is home to some of the world’s best wineries and many of them offer unique tasting experiences.

Taking a tour which visits several wineries is a great way to explore the area and there are various tour options in all sorts of modes of transportation. The Napa Valley Wine Train is a unique and luxurious way to explore the vineyards of Napa. You’ll board a beautifully restored vintage train and travel through the valley while sipping on local wines and dining on gourmet food.

For a more active experience, you can bike through Napa’s vineyards with a guided tour with Napa Valley Bike Tours . You’ll stop at multiple wineries along the way and enjoy tastings.

Platypus Tours offers small group tours of Napa’s best wineries, with knowledgeable guides and comfortable transportation. Tours include visits to three different wineries (whch rotate daily) and a picnic lunch.

Beyond wine, offers a wide variety of outdoor adventures including hot air balloon rides, hiking, cycling, and golfing. The region is also home to several art galleries, museums, and cultural events throughout the year.

One of my favorites is the annual Mustard Celebration which takes place January through March. This is a celebration of art, wine, and the wild mustard that covers the hillsides in the spring. There are lots of booths and food options to enjoy (including plenty of types of mustard).

If you visit outside of the festival season make time to visit the Jessel Gallery which features many of the artists who produce the gorgeous posters and artwork for the fest each year.

Food is a big part of the Napa Valley experience and Thomas Keller is the most famed chef in the area. His most renowed (and expensive) restaurant is French Laundry , but he also has Ad Hoc and Bouchon Bistro which are also fabulous.

La Toque by chef Ken Frank is known for its dynamic menu highlighting seasonal and locally sourced ingredients to make inventive dishes. Oenotri celebrates the flavors of Southern Italy and sources many of its ingredients from its garden to create wood-fired pizzas, house-made pastas, and authentic Italian dishes. If you want sushi you will never forget, Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto’s Morimoto Napa has several innovative sushi, sashimi, and robata grill dishes.

Where to stay on your Northern California weekend getaway: The Setting Inn Napa Valley is a 100-year- old bed and breakfast situated in between Napa and Yountville. The one-acre property features fruit trees, an old English rose garden and herb garden. Rooms are spacious and contemporary and many have balcony views of the surrounding vineyards.

Bodega Bay is located along the rugged Sonoma Coast, a scenic and relaxing destination. This is a place to enjoy hiking, beachcombing, and kayaking in the harbor. Bodega Bay is known for its fresh seafood, including Dungeness crab and oysters, which are harvested locally and can be enjoyed at many of the town’s restaurants.

The Bodega Head Trail is a popular coastal hike that offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and Bodega Bay. The trail is relatively easy and is a fantastic spot for whale watching during the migration season.

Sonoma Coast State Park has a network of hiking trails that wind through rugged coastline, including the Kortum Trail which is well known for its ocean vistas. Also in the park, Bodega Dunes Trail takes you through coastal dunes and lush forested areas.

Bodega Bay is also known for being the filming location of Alfred Hitchcock’s The Birds . The Bodega Bay Visitor Center has a display showcasing the making of the film, and visitors can take a self-guided tour to see the sites where the movie was filmed.

If you are hungry, head to a waterfront restaurant like The Boat House , which is a great spot for Dungeness crab, clam chowder, and fish and chips. The Tides Wharf & Restaurant also offers seafood dishes and waterfront views. Spud Point Crab Company is a family-owned establishment is known for its award-winning clam chowder and fresh crab sandwiches.

Where to stay on your Northern California weekend getaway: The Inn at the Tides is known for its rustic elegance and quiet serenity. The location is primo and you get a free bottle of wine upon check in. Bodega Harbor Inn has cottages along the bay that are surrounded by nature as well as classic inn rooms. Their lawn chairs are perfect for watching the sun set while sipping on wine.

Sonora and Jamestown

Sonora is a historic Gold Rush town in the Sierra Nevada foothills that has a charming and well-preserved downtown area with Victorian architecture, unique shops, and plenty of restaurants and cafes. Not too far from Yosemite, the surrounding area has plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and exploring nearby parks and forests.

The Columbia State Historic Park is a living museum that recreates a Gold Rush town. Visitors can take a guided tour or explore on their own, and can even try their hand at gold panning. Between the 1850s and 1870s over one billion dollars in gold was mined around Columbia and at that time it was the second largest city in California!

Nearby Jamestown is another great place to visit during your wekeend in the Sonora area. It is home to Railtown 1897 State Historic Park , which features a historic railroad roundhouse and steam train rides. Visitors can take a train ride through the scenic foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains and learn about the history of railroads in California.

One of my favorite places to visit when staying in Sonora during the summer is Lake Don Pedro . It is a reservoir that is a fun place to enjoy boating and other watersports like jetskiing waterskiing. In the winter, head up to Dodge Ridge , a small ski resort that is perfect for beginners.

Where to stay on your Northern California weekend getaway: The Sonora Inn is a historic hotel in downtown Sonora which was built in 1896 with nice accommodations.

Located in Humboldt County, Ferndale is known for its charming Victorian architecture and small-town atmosphere. As a matter of fact, it is one of the best-preserved Victorian towns in California, with many of its buildings dating back to the late 1800s.

There are several state parks and forests located near Ferndale, including Humboldt Redwoods State Park , Grizzly Creek Redwoods State Park , and Avenue of the Giants . These parks offer hiking, camping, fishing, and other outdoor activities surrounded by the tallest trees on the planet.

The Lost Coast is a remote, rugged coastline located north of Ferndale. It is a truly wild place, a far cry from the masses in the Bay Area. It is a good place to go hiking and wildlife viewing.

Ferndale hosts several festivals and events throughout the year. The Kinetic Grand Championship is held in Ferndale every year and it is basically a triathlon of art. Kinetic Sculptures, which are basically all-terrain human-powered art vehicles, race over road, water, mud and sand over 50 miles. It is a crazy spectacle you won’t want to miss!

Where to stay on your Northern California weekend getaway: Stay in one of the Victorian bed and breakfasts like Gingerbread Mansion where buttermilk waffles, savory sausage quiche and stuffed French toast await.

Mariposa serves as a gateway to Yosemite National Park, but it is also a charming historic town with lots of interesting architecture and cultural attractions, including museums, art galleries, and theaters. Getting outside to hike and explore are some of the best reasons to visit.

Mariposa Grove, a grove of giant sequoias inside Yosemite not far from town, has some great hiking trails featuring the massive trees including the Grizzly Giant Loop and the Mariposa Grove Trail.

Yosemite Valley is only an hour away and features some of the most famous hikes and landmarks in the world, including Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, and El Capitan. Here is our guide to the best easy hikes in Yosemite .

Finally, the surrounding countryside is gorgeous, with rolling hills, lush forests, and winding rivers offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and horseback riding.

The Merced River Trail outside of town is a four-mile trail that follows the Merced River and offers beautiful views of the surrounding hills and the river itself. It is a nice place to picnic alongside the river.

Back in town, the Mariposa Museum & History Center is small but wonderful museum with exhibits concentrating on the Gold Rush and late 19th century. There are exhibits recreating rooms from that era, showcasing mining equipment, and even blacksmithing.

There are several fun little shops in town that sell antiques, crystals, souvenirs, and even a haberdashery where men can experience an old-time shave.

If you are hungry head to 1850 Restaurant and Brewery which is located in the historic courthouse to enjoy local brews and a variety of creative burger options. High Country Health Foods & Cafe is a good place to pack up some vegetarian and gluten free options to take on your daily explorations.

Where to stay on your Northern California weekend getaway: Mariposa Lodge is located in the heart of downtown Mariposa and offers comfortable rooms with rustic decor. There is also a lovely garden area where you can relax.

Sutter Creek

Sutter Creek is known as the “Jewel of the Motherlode” and one of the most popular detinations in Gold Country. Main Street is lined with 19th-century buildings and boutique shops which are fun to explore, but the surrounding Sierra foothills lined with vineyards are the main draw.

There are several wineries and tasting rooms in and around Sutter Creek. Bella Grace Vineyards,Baiocchi Wines, Le Mulet Rouge, Miller Wine Works, Uphill Vineyards, and Scott Harvey Winery all have tasting rooms on Main Street.  

  Black Chasm Cavern National Natural Landmark  is located nearby in tiny Volcano, California. This cave gained its “National Natural Landmark” status from the National Park Service due, in part, to its  large display of rare helictite formations. You can take 50-minute, guided walking tours which visit three different chambers of the cave and as you descend about 100 feet. 

Read about more amazing caves in California .

Roaring Camp was a former gold mining camp during the oroginal gold rush which was very difficult to reach, so most of the gold still remains. Today, visitors can see our operating gold mine as well as pan for their own gold in the Mokelumne River Canyon. It is also a great place for fishing and swimming in brilliantly clear waters.

Where to stay on your Northern California weekend getaway: The Hanford House Inn is an elegant and historic inn features nine guest rooms and suites, each with a unique decor and charm. Hotel Sutter is another historic hotel features 21 rooms and suites, each with modern amenities and classic decor.

Placerville

Placerville is a Gold Rush town east of Sacramento that serves as a gateway to the Tahoe wilderness, El Dorado Wine Country, as well as Gold Country. It was once known as Hang Town due to the fact that five men were once hung on the same day from the same tree.

Historic dowtown Placerville is home to the  Fountain-Tallman Museum,  where you can learn more about the town’s Wild West history. You will also want to stop in Placerville Hardware Store, “the oldest hardware store west of the Mississippi” as well as the towns many antique shops. If you plan well, you can even take advantage of the  free stagecoach rides  offered once a month.

If you want to dive deeper into the town’s mining history, head to  Gold Bug Park and Mine  which offers tours and has a museum, historic stamp mill, blacksmith shop, and gem panning trough.

During the fall and holiday seasons, head up Highway 50 a few miles to  Apple Hill , a community of farmers that grow Christmas trees, pumpkins, and plenty of apples. During this time of year the region is bustling with tourists visit the farms to enjoy festivals, food, apple picking, and plenty of fun.

Where to stay on your Northern California weekend getaway: Embrace Placerville’s history by staying at the  Historic Cary House Hotel . The property has plenty of antiques, some dating back to the 1850s, and is a short walk to all that Placerville’s Main Street has to offer.

Crescent City

Tucked up in to the northwestern corner of the state is Crescent City, a coastal town with plenty of history which serves as an excellent home base for exploring the redwoods.

One of my favorite parks in the area is  Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park , located just nine miles east of town. It is home to a lush rainforest and the crystal clear Smith River, the longest major free-flowing river in California. Some of the trees have been growing in this park for over 1,000 years!

Crescent City is located on the Pacific Ocean, providing visitors with stunning views of rugged coastlines, sea stacks, and beaches. On March 27, 1964 a tsunami triggered by the Great Alaska Earthquake (amginitude 9.2!) hit the town, damaging the harbor area, destroying buildings, and resulted in the loss of several lives. In all 30 city blocks were destroyed but thankfully the town rebuilt and has today been deemed “tsunami ready”.

The Battery Point Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse located on a small island just off the coast of Crescent City. You can actually walk across to the lighthouse during low tide when the water receeds which is pretty fun to do! Visitors can take a tour and learn about the history of the lighthouse and the area.

Crescent City is a great whale watching destination from December through April, during the gray whale migration. You can try to spot whales from the Battery Point Lighthouse, Pebble Beach, and Point St. George but your best bet is to book a whale watching excursion out of Crescent City Harbor.

If you are looking for a more active experience out on the water, Redwood Rides  offer guided sea kayaking trips where you paddle a 1/2 mile out to Castle Rock, a protected National Wildlife Refuge.

Crescent City has a variety of dining options to choose from. Some of the best places to eat in Crescent City include:

Where to stay on your Northern California weekend getaway: Oceanview Inn and Suites is just steps from the beach and a short drive to Redwood National Park. Cheerful model sailboats line the lobby and breakfast is included.

20 Top-Rated Weekend Getaways in Southern California

Written by Freddy Sherman Updated May 11, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Freddy Sherman moved to Southern California 30 years ago to escape the cold Philadelphia winters and hasn't looked back since.

If you're looking for places to visit and getaway ideas, Southern California has plenty of options. Whether it's beaches like Santa Monica, Venice, or Malibu or the parades of Disneyland, there really is something here for everyone. Families may want to visit a specific city like Palm Springs, which offers a range of things to see and do. Couples may prefer a getaway to a specific location or romantic hotel, like The Inn at Death Valley, so they can just enjoy the time together.

Southern California is also one of the few places where your weekend getaway can include skiing and surfing, even done in the same day, if you want. It's possible to spend your morning skiing the slopes in Big Bear and then have an afternoon surf session in Huntington Beach (or vice-versa).

The region's mostly warm and sunny weather also means most of its getaway destinations are good to visit all year-round. Plan your travels with our list of the top weekend getaways in Southern California.

1. Palm Springs

2. joshua tree national park, 3. santa barbara, 5. big bear, 6. lake arrowhead, 7. catalina island, 8. san diego, 9. pacific beach, 10. long beach, 11. idyllwild, 12. santa monica, 14. dtla: downtown los angeles, 15. ventura, 16. solvang, 17. death valley, 18. laguna beach, 19. tijuana, 20. rosarito, map of weekend getaways in southern california, best time to visit southern california.

Highlights: Warm weather in the winter months, hiking trails, 100s of golf courses, great food and culture

The desert oasis of Palm Springs is 100 miles east of Los Angeles, and the drive takes about two hours. The city and the surrounding desert cities are great places to visit and offer a wide range of activities. Golf and tennis are popular here, as is hiking on the local mountain trails.

No visit is complete without a trip on the Palm Springs Tramway , which whisks you from the desert floor to an elevation of 8,500 feet in minutes. Palm Springs is a hot destination; the best time to visit is between November and May. The city hosts the internationally recognized Palm Springs International Film Festival in January and celebrates its mid-century modern architecture with Modernism Week each February.

• Read More: Best Tourist Attractions in Palm Springs, California

Highlights: Huge national park with multiple eco-systems, great for camping or day-trip drive-throughs

This getaway is east of Los Angeles and about a two-hour drive, not far from Palm Springs . The focus on a getaway here is the vast, 800,000-acre Joshua Tree National Park. It's where two desert ecosystems, the Colorado Desert and the Mojave Desert, come together. It's a spectacular place to hike , take photos, or just drive through the park and admire the scenery. It also has some fantastic campgrounds .

There are many small motels near the park's north entrance in the town of Twentynine Palms and the town of Joshua Tree, and the area is also filled with home rentals. You can also camp overnight in the park. Some campsites can be reserved online in advance, and others are first-come, first-served. It's also legal to camp on BLM land outside the park boundaries.

The best time to visit is between October and May, as the desert temperatures soar well above 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius) in the summertime.

• Read More: Fun Things to Do in Joshua Tree National Park: Hikes, Sights & Activities

Highlights: Year-round sun and almost-perfect weather combined with culture and a great food scene

About 90 miles north of Los Angeles , this quaint seaside city has miles of beautiful beaches , several excellent museums, and a vibrant foodie scene. Popular things to do in Santa Barbara include taking whale watching cruises, hanging out on the beach, and shopping in the compact downtown area.

Santa Barbara is also the perfect place to see (and maybe buy) art. Aside from all the art galleries in the downtown area, there are two excellent art museums. The Santa Barbara Museum of Art and the Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara both have impressive collections with an emphasis on California artists. There's also a fascinating (and free) Art, Design, and Architecture Museum on the UC Santa Barbara campus.

Consistently ranked as one of the nation's best small zoos , the Santa Barbara Zoo is a fun place to visit for an afternoon. Their popular Walkabout immersive exhibit features the land, animals, and cultural traditions of Australia.

Be sure to visit the city's Funk Zone , an area of former warehouses now occupied by restaurants, entertainment venues, and art galleries.

Highlights: Mainly known for Disneyland, also home to Knott's Berry Farm, Angel Stadium, and the Honda Center for sports and concerts

Another great place to visit in Southern California for a weekend is Anaheim. It's perfect for a local weekend getaway, as it's less than an hour from most parts of LA. Anaheim is home to Disneyland Park , the original theme park, as well as the newer Disney California Adventure . There's also Downtown Disney, a shopping and dining district for which no park ticket is required.

Baseball fans may want to take in a Los Angeles Angels game at nearby Angel Stadium, and NHL fans can catch an Anaheim Ducks game at the Honda Center. And although technically it's in Buena Park, not Anaheim, the Knott's Berry Farm theme park (and water park) is only 10 minutes away.

A hidden gem for families is Adventure City, located a few minutes away in Stanton. The compact amusement park feels like a state fair and offers free parking and unlimited rides for its low $24.95 per person admission price.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Anaheim

Highlights: Compact mountain resort with the best Southern California skiing in winter and great hiking and boating in summer

Big Bear is a beautiful mountain resort that offers year-round fun and is an easy, mostly-freeway drive from LA. You really can be on the slopes skiing within about two hours of leaving most parts of LA.

This vacation spot is great all year-round. In the winter, it's one of California's most popular ski resorts outside of Lake Tahoe, and in the summer, these mountains offer miles of hiking and mountain biking, along with great fishing. The ski resorts are open and use some of their chairlifts to carry hikers and mountain bikers to higher elevations.

And since the summer is off-season, it can also be a cheap weekend getaway, as accommodations are much less expensive than in the winter.

In addition to the outdoor and winter sports, Big Bear has a small downtown area with shops, restaurants, and even a few live music venues.

Highlights: Summer mountain lake resort with swimming, boating, fishing, and hiking along with quaint shopping and dining

This quaint lake resort town in the San Bernardino mountains is a great getaway destination no matter what time of year. The little town, located alongside a picturesque lake, has a small-town feel and is less commercial than Big Bear, its mountain neighbor about 45 minutes away.

Lake Arrowhead is the ultimate Southern California summer getaway destination since the temperature is normally cooler than the Southland, located 5,000 feet lower in elevation. There are beaches, and the lake is popular for swimming, water skiing, kayaking, and other water sports.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do at Lake Arrowhead, CA

Highlights: Island resort with beaches, boating, fishing, and diving, only 90 minutes from LA

Part of California, this formerly private island resort is 26 miles off the coast of Los Angeles. It's easily reachable via the Catalina Express jet catamaran, and the trip takes about 90 minutes (ports are Long Beach, San Pedro, and Dana Point). Catalina Island's main city is Avalon, and most accommodations are here.

Aside from beach fun, there is SCUBA diving and snorkeling in the lush kelp forests, along with charter boat fishing. The plethora of quaint bed-and-breakfasts and small hotels makes it perfect for romantic getaways. The town is filled with art galleries, shops, and a lot of different restaurants.

Highlights: Perfect weather, with many beaches and a thriving downtown area with multiple entertainment zones

This Southern California city is perfect for LA getaways. It's about three hours by car (you can also hop on the Amtrak train). It may be best to focus on a few areas, such as the revitalized downtown Gaslamp Quarter and Little Italy areas, the tide pools of La Jolla , and a beach suburb like Mission Bay .

Two great attractions are the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park , one of the world's largest, and the USS Midway Museum, a museum aboard the preserved aircraft carrier.

Highlights: Casual, dog-friendly city with an iconic beach and boardwalk, along with a vibrant nightlife scene

This hip beach neighborhood, a part of the city of San Diego, is a popular choice for mini vacations. It combines reasonably priced oceanfront accommodations; a fun boardwalk on the sand; and a wide range of food, from street food to fine dining. This is an active town, with people always out running, biking, skateboarding, and playing on the beach. It's a popular surfing spot and there are several surf schools, which offer lessons for beginners.

Pacific Beach is also a dog-friendly neighborhood, with dogs allowed on the beach and boardwalk during certain times of the day. For a more upscale experience, La Jolla is right next door and has luxury shopping and dining (along with an outpost of the legendary Comedy Store comedy club).

Highlights: A beach city with several shopping and entertainment zones, especially popular in April for the annual IndyCar race

This Southern California city offers miles of wide beaches; a thriving restaurant scene; and a wide range of cultural activities, attractions , and museums.

Visits should include a stop at the Aquarium of the Pacific and the Long Beach Museum of Art , which overlooks the ocean. For great shopping and dining, take a stroll down Pine Avenue or visit Shoreline Village, the seafront entertainment district.

Visitors have many hotel options to choose from in all price ranges.

Highlights: A quaint mountain community, with fun shopping and dining; perfect for weekend getaways

For an authentic mountain getaway, Idyllwild delivers blue skies, fresh air, and giant pine trees. Located high in the San Jacinto Mountains, midway between San Diego and Palm Springs, the town is reached via a curving, 50-mile-long road that rises over 6,000 feet in elevation. The road is called the Palms to Pines Scenic Byway, as it connects the palm trees of Palm Desert to the pine trees of Idyllwild.

Accommodations include many home rentals, as well as several small inns. Camping is also popular, with options from primitive campsites in national and state parks to private campgrounds with amenities.

In the little town of Idyllwild, you'll find all kinds of little locally owned shops, galleries, artist studios, restaurants, bakeries, and the beginning of endless miles of hiking trails. The area's hiking trails connect to many popular regional trails including the Pacific Crest Trail.

Highlights: Massive beaches and outdoor recreation areas with world-class shopping and dining

This beach destination is surrounded by Los Angeles but is an ideal vacation spot and LA getaway . The city has some seriously wide beaches and some of the region's best restaurants. There is a wide selection of hotels, from beachfront bungalows to five-star resorts.

Santa Monica is relatively compact, with most of the shopping and dining focused on an area within a few blocks of the beach. The city also boasts the Santa Monica Pier , an old-school ocean pier home to a carnival-like atmosphere and an amusement park.

For some cool, but expensive shopping, go where the movie stars shop: the city's Montana Avenue retail area or the high-end Santa Monica Place outdoor mall.

Venture a bit south of Santa Monica to explore Venice Beach and its always-interesting beach boardwalk. Venture a bit north to visit some more remote (less crowded) beaches like those near Topanga Canyon.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Santa Monica

Highlights: Beautiful, unspoiled beaches; celebrity beach homes; the Getty Villa art museum and upscale dining

There's a reason this SoCal community is home to so many movie stars. This oceanside city, just north of Santa Monica, includes 21 miles of coastline, but also acres of mountains and inland canyons (great for hiking and mountain biking). There are a few hotels in the city, some on the sand.

Two Malibu must-sees are Adamson House and The Getty Villa , part of the Getty LA. The Getty Villa is an exact recreation of an ancient Pompeiian villa, which houses one of the world's greatest collections of Ancient Greek and Roman art and artifacts. The Adamson House is the home of the founding family of Malibu, which was once mainly ranch land. The family also founded the famous Malibu Potteries and the house's interior has the world's largest Malibu tile installations

Read More: Best Beaches in Malibu

Highlights: Packed with museums, also boasts eclectic shopping and foodie dining options like the Grand Central Market

DTLA, short for downtown Los Angeles, has been so transformed and revitalized, it now counts as its own getaway destination. What was once a ghost town after offices closed at 5pm is now the hippest and coolest area of the city to live and go out in.

What were once early 20 th -century bank and office buildings have been transformed into luxury lofts, hip hotels, and trendy restaurants. The influx of new residents has brought all kinds of other businesses and retail shops. Many of these former bank and office buildings have also been transformed into luxury and boutique hotels, and the city is also seeing a building boom of new hotels and luxury apartment buildings.

The area is also home to the Crypto.com Arena (formerly the Staples Center) , where the NBA's Lakers and NHL's Kings play (along with a packed schedule of musical concerts), and the LA Live entertainment zone. LA Live is a fun place to visit; it has multiple restaurants, music performance venues, and things to do like movies and bowling.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Los Angeles

Highlights: Retains a small beach city vibe with uncrowded beaches and reasonable prices, popular for sportfishing and whale watching

This getaway destination is just over an hour from Los Angeles and has clean, uncrowded beaches. There are a few reasonably priced oceanfront mini resorts, and Ventura's beachfront area has a long wooden pier extending into the sea.

Visitors should take a boat cruise to the nearby Channel Islands National Park , which will certainly include seeing a sea lion and maybe even whale sightings.

Ventura has a refreshingly old-school 1920s-era downtown area, with many locally-owned shops and small restaurants. The city was on the Camino Real, the trail of California missions established by the Spanish in the 18th century, extending throughout the state. Ventura's Mission Santa Buenaventura and its church from 1809 are on Main Street and can be visited.

• Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Ventura

Highlights: A small piece of Copenhagen in California filled with Danish things to do, see, eat, and buy

Located just north of Santa Barbara in the beautiful Santa Ynez Valley, Solvang really is a little bit of Denmark in Southern California. It's filled with Danish people, Danish shops, and Danish food. Even the buildings look Danish, with a lot of windmills and European designs. The city was founded by Danish immigrants in the early 20th century looking to escape the Midwestern cold.

Don't miss the Solvang Vintage Motorcycle Museum or the Hans Christian Anderson Museum , both interesting and fun places to visit for both kids and adults. The Elverhof Museum of History and Art is the only museum outside Denmark dedicated to both Danish and Danish-American culture. The Old Mission Santa Inez, built in 1804, is another must-see spot.

For an overview of the town, take a ride on the Solvang Trolley , an antique horse-drawn street car that travels in the downtown area.

Surrounded by agricultural areas, Solvang is also a good destination for foodies, as there are a lot of restaurants that feature farm-to-table cuisine.

Highlights: One of the lowest, driest, and hottest places on Earth; Zabriskie Point has great views; Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes is an amazing photo background

Why not get away to one of the lowest and driest places on Earth? Death Valley National Park is all about extremes. It's the lowest, driest, and hottest of all our national parks. The park is 3.4 million acres, so it's hard to explore the whole area on a single visit. Aside from the low parts, some of the park's mountains rise 11,000 feet above sea level.

The Inn at Death Valley is a unique luxury desert resort, which first opened in 1927. It recently underwent a total renovation and is a very luxurious place to stay in what is such a barren environment. The area is about a four-hour drive from LA.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Death Valley

Highlights: Idyllic beach city focused on the arts and artists filled with art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants

Laguna Beach getaways are all about art. The town is filled with art studios and art galleries and hosts several big art festivals. The beauty of the curving beach, blue ocean, and consistently sunny sky also make it a popular subject for artists.

Like many SoCal beach towns, life is lived outside, so there is a range of fun things to do . The beachfront public park area has a big beach (called Main Beach), basketball and volleyball courts, and miles of bike paths.

Laguna Beach also has a good range of hotels, including several five-star beachfront luxury resorts. The food scene is also excellent with many restaurants serving all different types of food at all price levels.

July is festival month here, with the Festival of the Arts city-wide art show and the Pageant of the Masters. The Pageant of the Masters is a long-running festival, where works of art are recreated as life-size scenes using real people in make-up and costumes.

Highlights: Exotic, easily accessible international destination with cheap and delicious food and lodging

Although it's not actually in Southern California, this Mexican border town is less than an hour from downtown San Diego . It's a great destination for a day or a weekend trip from San Diego. There are large parking lots on the American side of the border, and most people park their car, walk across the border bridge, and then take a taxi (or Uber) into downtown Tijuana. It's a fun tourist town filled with interesting shops, artisans, and, of course, delicious Mexican food.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Tijuana

Highlights: Low-cost beach resort an hour from San Diego known for great street food and seafood

A Mexican beach resort within easy reach of the California border, Rosarito is about an hour south of downtown San Diego and is great for cheap weekend getaways . There are many places to stay, and it's a chance to experience real Mexican beach culture.

The food scene is great, from nice sit-down places to excellent street food like fish tacos. There are all kinds of things to do in Rosarito , both on the beach and in the water, (surfing, wakeboarding, and body boarding are very popular) along with a lot of fishing options.

The best time to visit Southern California is during April, May, and June, which offer the best weather. That said, coastal areas can be foggy in June. Average temperatures are in the high 70s during the day and low 60s Fahrenheit at night. The weather can get hot during June, July, and August, but usually, cooler temperatures return in September, making October and November also great times to visit.

Southern California usually doesn't see much rain, with storms typically coming in December and January and sometimes in March and April.

Temperature can also vary greatly between Southern California's coastal and desert areas, sometimes as much as 30 to 40 degrees. Coastal Santa Monica might be 60 degrees Fahrenheit in May, while the desert city of Palm Springs might hit 100 degrees Fahrenheit the same day.

More on California

8 Incredible Weekend Getaways in Southern California for Every Traveler

I’m riding 130 feet in the air at the top of the world’s only solar-powered Ferris wheel. From my vantage point, above the Santa Monica Pier at Pacific Park, I have a panoramic view of the surrounding Southern California coastline. Straight ahead, the majestic snow-capped Mount Baldy, the highest peak in California , rises in the distance while blue waves roll onto the sandy shore below me. After sunset, the Ferris wheel is aglow, illuminated with changing colors in a spectacular light show visible for miles.

Variety is the spice of life in SoCal where you can be building sandcastles at the seashore in the morning, and in less than two hours, trekking through rugged mountain trails or lounging by the pool in a desert oasis by afternoon.

Sample a taste of the region’s diversity with one of these Southern California weekend getaways .

Anza-Borrego: Visit the State's Largest State Park on this Weekend Getaway in Southern California

For a desert experience completely different from Palm Springs, visit Anza-Borrego, home to California’s largest state park. It’s spectacular from mid-March through April during the SuperBloom when the desert wildflowers and cactus flowers blanket the area in vibrant color. After dark, the sky glitters with light in Anza-Borrego, one of California’s prime stargazing spots with Borrego Springs named the state’s first (and only) International Dark Sky Community.

Hotels & Vacation Rentals - Borrego Springs

Where to stay near anza-borrego.

Stay in one of the casitas with a private outdoor hot tub at La Casa del Zorro , a luxurious desert oasis restored to its original 1937-style adjacent to Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. Head into the nondescript town of Borrego Springs for margaritas and Mexican fare at Carmelita’s Mexican Grill. On the way, keep an eye out in the open areas for some of the 130 full-sized metal sculptures of prehistoric mammals, historical characters and a 350-foot-long fanciful serpent created by Perris, California-based artist/welder Ricardo Breceda.

La Casa Del Zorro

Laguna beach: a southern california weekend getaway in an informal artist colony.

An elegant and informal artist colony, the seaside town of Laguna Beach is a seven-mile stretch of coastline punctuated by scenic coves, curvy canyons, and small streets lined with shops, galleries, and restaurants.

Visitors flock to Laguna in the summer, not just for the beach, but for the annual Festival of Arts Pageant of the Masters, a 90-minute narrated performance of tableaux vivants (living pictures), set on a stage in an outdoor amphitheater with actors posing in hyper-realistic, recreated works of classical and contemporary art that will fool your eyes. Also make time for a visit to the Sawdust Festival where over 200 Laguna Beach artists exhibit their works, including painting, jewelry, ceramics, clothing and textiles, wood and metal sculpture, hand-blown and fused glass, photography, and even scrimshaw.

Hotels & Vacation Rentals - Laguna Beach

Where to stay in laguna beach.

Settle in at Montage Laguna Beach , 30 acres of pure luxury on the coastal bluff above the Pacific. No need to ever leave the property as it has four gourmet restaurants, two pools, and the 20,000-square-foot Spa Montage. But you’ll want to pop into Laguna Village to shop, gallery hop, and catch the sunset outdoors while dining on coastal-American cuisine at one of the beachfront restaurants such as The Cliff or Splashes.

The sun will be beating against your skin no matter where you end up on your weekend getaway in Southern California. Enjoy your time exploring the left coast!

Montage Laguna Beach

Los angeles: a weekend getaway in the city of angels.

Los Angeles is a sprawling city full of distinct, eclectic neighborhoods, like East Los Angeles, West Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, Koreatown, and the list goes on. You could spend a month, indeed a lifetime there, and still not see it all. But you can do your best by starting in the heart of the city where you can avoid the region’s notoriously heinous traffic and make use of the city’s updated Metro Rail network.

Hotels & Vacation Rentals - Los Angeles

Where to stay in los angeles.

For a central, walkable location in one of L.A.’s most glamorous neighborhoods, consider a stay at Mr. C Beverly Hills . Neither hip, ultra-modern, nor stuffy traditional, the hotel is a blend of stylish contemporary and classic European. Guests can relax at the rooftop pool overlooking Beverly Hills and beyond while dining poolside on classic Italian fare prepared by the fourth generation of Ciprianis.

Cameo Beverly Hills

Malibu: a celebrity weekend getaway in southern california.

Known as “the ‘Bu” by locals and surfers, Malibu is a 21-mile stretch historically known as an enclave for Hollywood celebrities and other affluent entertainment industry residents. The beach lines one side of the Pacific Coast Highway while narrow canyon roads emerge from the other, some leading to great hiking trails in the Santa Monica Mountains, such as Solstice Canyon, where hikers can trek to a perennial waterfall.

In the heart of the city, the Malibu Country Mart is a popular destination whose high-end retail and dining establishments attract many famous locals. Nobu is a celebrity dining favorite, but if you want to tap into a real holdover from the bohemian and hippy era, head up to nearby Topanga Canyon. The romantic Inn of the Seventh Ray is so New Age that it almost seems satirical. An extension of their personal health-focused lifestyle, owners Dr. Ralph and Lucile Yaney opened the restaurant in the early 70s when the locavore and organic food movements were not as ubiquitous as they are today. Their prescient farm-to-table vision lives on, albeit not as “alternative” as it seemed back then. The menu features seasonal organic ingredients that are in many cases sourced from known local farms. Even the water is chemical-free, treated by reverse osmosis, then alkalinized. (Don’t ask me what that means.)

After decades, the Yaney’s spiritual beliefs remain the undercurrent of everything in and out of the kitchen. During my dinner, our server greeted us with “for your first course, may I serve you a bit of philosophy?” The Inn invites guests to “partake of the angelic vibrations” while dining on chemical and artificial additive-free cuisine they say is “charged with the vibration of the violet flame of the Seventh Ray.” They hope all of this will be their guests’ “personal transportation to a higher plane.”

Although the experience was more esoteric than spiritual for me, the sound of water flowing in the creek was a soothing accompaniment to a delicious meal. Can you dig it?

Hotels & Vacation Rentals - Malibu

Where to stay in malibu.

Its private beach isn’t the only draw of the Malibu Beach Inn . All guest rooms have balconies with unobstructed sea views where you can keep an eye out for the dolphins. If all the touring has left you tired, there’s no need to leave the property for dinner. Savor some coastal cuisine and local regional wines at the Inn’s Carbon Beach Club where you can dine al fresco on the terrace.

Malibu Beach Inn

Ojai: a charming valley town near los angeles.

A charming valley town, 90 minutes northwest of Los Angeles , Ojai is a center for the arts, culture, spirituality, self-improvement, and environmental consciousness. (It even has a vegetarian boarding school.)

From the 50s to the 70s, Ojai was a hub of the Boho (or Bohemian) craft movement that rejected social traditions in favor of more unconventional artistic, literary, and spiritual pursuits. The town retains an updated Bohemian vibe and is host to seasonal arts festivals including the Ojai Valley Music Festival, Ojai Valley Film Festival, and Ojai Shakespeare Festival.

Its Mediterranean microclimate is perfect for olive growing, making the Ojai Valley area a destination for olive oil lovers. Visit some olive groves to sample the superb artisan small-batch olive oils. Regalo Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Ojai Olive Oil are both family-owned presses dating back to the mid-1800s era of the Spanish missions when the valley had a communal olive press. Just outside of the town, the Topa Mountain Winery opens onto the Ojai Valley Bike Trail, so pack your picnic lunch and cycle over for a tasting outdoors in the shadows of the Topa Mountain Range. Check the winery’s schedule as there’s live music every Saturday and Sunday with other events woven in like Macramé and Wine, and Comedy Night.

Hotels & Vacation Rentals - Ojai

Where to stay in ojai.

For a regimented wellness program, a stay at the all-inclusive Oaks At Ojai Health Resort will leave you rejuvenated, possibly a few pounds lighter, and on the path to a healthy lifestyle you can bring home.

Oaks At Ojai Health Resort

Palm springs: a southern california weekend getaway in hipster headquarters.

Once a winter playground for wealthy retirees and Hollywood celebrities, like Frank Sinatra and the Gabor sisters, Palm Springs is now more hipster headquarters than senior center. It’s become the coolest hot spot in the Sonoran Desert.

Just outside of central Palm Springs is the shopper’s haven of El Paseo. This street tends to remind people of Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills with its many upscale shops that blend the flavors and ambiance of the past with the present. The Palm Springs dining spots of yesteryear — including Las Casuelas, Elmer’s for German pancakes, Melvyn’s for retro food that really is retro like Steak Diane, wilted spinach salad, and cherries jubilee — still thrive alongside their cooler new siblings, like Workshop Kitchen + Bar for dinner, and for a cheesy retro experience, King’s Highway for breakfast in a former Denny’s located in the Ace Hotel .

Take the 10-minute trip on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, the world’s largest rotating tramcar, for the two-and-one-half mile long ride along the cliffs of Chino Canyon to Mt. San Jacinto State Park. You’ll be at 8,516 feet elevation when you arrive at Mountain Station where you’ll find over 50 miles of hiking trails, two restaurants, observation decks, and a natural history museum.

The springs are in nearby Desert Hot Springs. I’ve stayed at Two Bunch Palms, which reputedly originated as Al Capone’s “Fortress West.” For its warm spring-fed mineral pools and extraordinary spa treatments, the unpretentious resort attracts well-known people who don’t want attention and, like all the guests, can lunch in their bathrobes straight from the spa. Try the Desert Abhyanga followed by a Scalp Oil Massage to experience total bliss.

Hotels & Vacation Rentals - Palm Springs

Where to stay in palm springs.

The Kimpton Rowan Hotel , a newcomer adopting the retro-chic mid-century style, is the first newly built downtown hotel in decades and has Palm Springs’ only rooftop pool. Lounging by the pool with a cold drink is heavenly, but there are also 54 miles of hiking trails in the area, most notably Joshua Tree National Park and Painted Desert, named for the variety of rock colors.

Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs

Paso robles: a southern california weekend getaway for agri-experiences.

The town where Marilyn Monroe and Joe DiMaggio spent the first night of their honeymoon has become a viticulture and culinary mecca for its acclaimed vineyards and olive groves. Popularized in Italy, agritourism has grown globally, and with California’s agricultural heritage, Paso Robles is a great fit for agri-experiences .

Venture out to one of several wineries where you can sip a chilled glass while picnicking against the backdrop of lush hills blanketed in grapevines. Make it a day of “vineyard sports” visiting some of the various wineries offering outdoor games. Find a spot on the deck of the 38-acre Eberle Vineyard with views of the Santa Lucia Mountains on the horizon where a glass of wine is a nice foray into a match of bocce ball or a game of Cornhole. Head to Castoro’s Whale Rock Vineyard, where in view of the rolling hills and oak trees, you’ll tour a scenic two-mile loop through the vineyard, after which you can try your hand at some disc golf, crisscrossing in and out of the vines on their 18-hole course.

Absorb it all on two wheels. With such striking scenery at your feet, rent a bike for a ride through the rural countryside. Sulfur springs flow through Paso Robles, three of which are open to the public — a nice way to cap off the day with a soak in the warm soothing mineral waters.

Hotels & Vacation Rentals - Paso Robles

Where to stay in paso robles.

For a genuine local wine country experience, spend a night or two at one of the region’s picturesque wineries. Like the wines, these accommodations vary by taste but are equally elegant and refined. Blending contemporary farmhouse and vintage styles, the SummerWood Inn’s four luxury bedrooms overlook the property’s gardens where guests can enjoy a farm-fresh, cooked-to-order breakfast outdoors. Then in the afternoon, indulge in appetizers paired with SummerWood wines.

Summerwood Inn

Santa monica/venice: a classic weekend getaway in southern california.

These neighboring beach towns are synonymous with popular images of SoCal. Many will recognize Santa Monica and Venice from films, photos, and Beach Boys songs.

No visit to the area is complete without a stop at the Santa Monica Pier where the iconic Route 66 ends at the Pacific Ocean. There’s plenty to do in between your hot dog on a stick and a chocolate-dipped frozen banana. The amusement park’s roller coaster and other rides, the plethora of games in the arcade, and the street performers make it a perfect California family outing for kids and grownups alike. Be sure to visit The Great Zoltar, a vintage coin-operated fortune teller who speaks and moves as he dispenses his prophecy on a card through a slot in the machine. And if you’ve always dreamed of running away with the circus, take a class at the trapeze school.

Walk, jog, cycle, or skate your way along the Santa Monica bike path to the mile-long Venice Boardwalk where hundreds of street vendors hawking cheap souvenirs and tee shirts intermingle with mimes and contortionists, break dancers, and a guy who walks on broken glass. You may catch the chainsaw juggler or the gospel singer with two snakes wrapped around his neck. Get a real or temporary tattoo, a piercing, or have your name written on a grain of rice.

Hotels & Vacation Rentals - Santa Monica

Where to stay in santa monica.

For a relaxing stay that’s walking distance to everything, including the Third Street Promenade’s shopping and dining, check in to the contemporary Oceana Santa Monica . Cross the street for a scenic stroll along Palisades Park at the top of the sandstone bluffs with its infinite views of the Pacific Ocean coastline. As SoCal locals frequently say, “on a clear day, you can see Catalina,” referring to a small island 26 miles across the sea.

Oceana Santa Monica, LXR Hotels & Resorts

Feature image by  Roberto Nickson ,  Unsplash .

11 Easy Weekend Getaways From San Francisco

Get away from the city with one of these easy, drivable weekend getaways..

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The Tule Elk Preserve is one of many places to visit during a weekend in Inverness and Tomales Bay.

Photo by Jessie Beck

San Francisco is an amazing city in its own right , but one of the best parts of living here is that you can be at a world-class vineyard, on a beach, or up a mountain within a short drive. There are the North Bay’s oyster farms and vineyards, the (sometimes) snowy Sierras to the east, the quiet of Tomales Bay. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or a change of scene, consider one of these 11 easy weekend getaways from the San Francisco Bay Area.

Healdsburg, California, is more than wine: Redwood forests and stretches of the Russian River to kayak are also accessible from this small town.

Photos by Jessie Beck

1. Healdsburg and Sonoma wine country

• Distance : 90 minutes north of San Francisco
• Best for : a low-key wine and food getaway

It’s hard to see all of Sonoma wine county in a single weekend—it’s larger and more spread out than neighboring Napa Valley. Instead, make the northern town of Healdsburg, which is experiencing something of a revival, your home base for the weekend. In the past two years, a long list of exciting new hotels, restaurants, and tasting rooms have joined the area—giving the historic town a burst of new energy.

What to do in Healdsburg

Yes, of course, you could spend an entire day tasting wine (it is Sonoma County, after all), but you’ll also want to explore the area’s natural beauty. To do so, join a cycling tour at Russian River Adventures to explore the area on two wheels with a knowledgeable guide, or combine your ride with a kayak adventure on Getaway Adventures ’ pedal-paddle tour.

Healdsburg’s food scene is also a big reason to visit: It’s home to three- Michelin-starred restaurant SingleThread (and awardee of a Michelin Green Star ), and the team’s newly opened vegan café, bar, and restaurant, Little Saint. (Pro move: You can also try their dips while sampling pinot noirs at the beautifully designed, downtown tasting room for Marine Layer.) For a more casual lunch or dinner, grab a pizza on the rooftop at the Matheson , or settle down for cocktails and fried chicken at Lo+Behold . The town also has an excellent farmers’ market on Saturdays.

Where to stay in Healdsburg

For a truly luxurious retreat, book one of the tree houses at the Montage Healdsburg , a 258-acre property that officially opened its doors in 2020, making it the first major resort property in the Healdsburg area. Or head over to the Madrona, a historic property originally built in 1881 as a private residence that is now a beautiful, maximalist boutique hotel designed by Jay Jeffers. Prefer something within walking distance of Healdsburg’s square? Then check into eco-friendly Harmon Guest House, a peaceful yet centrally located hotel only a block away from dozens of fantastic restaurants, tasting rooms, and bars. Coming in the summer? Rest assured: All three options have swimming pools.

Read More: Your Perfect Weekend Getaway in Sonoma Wine Country

Fill your weekend exploring tide pools on the beach and exploring small towns along the Mendocino Coast.

Photo by The Life in Pics/Shutterstock

2. Mendocino coast

• Distance: three hours north of San Francisco
• Best for: a remote drive along Highway 1

The Mendocino coast is no secret weekend getaway spot. While most visitors will focus on exploring the coastal town of Mendocino and its surrounds, there’s much to be discovered along the 90+ miles of Mendocino’s coastline. That said, if it’s your first time in the area, go ahead and base yourself in the small town of Mendocino—beaten path or not, its proximity to trails, beaches, restaurants, and small locally run shops make it a must on any California getaway list. Or explore a new stretch of the coast, like the small town of Elk and nearby Salt Point State Park to the south of Mendocino.

What to do on the Mendocino coast

You could easily fill your weekend exploring tide pools on the beach and hiking trails with dramatic ocean views, but part of the Mendocino coast’s charms are in the small towns near the highway. Save plenty of time for pit stops from Guala to Fort Bragg; shop the variety store Matson Mercantile in Elk; enjoy vegetarian fare and wine at the hip and colorful Fog Eater Cafe in Mendocino; or sample fresh local seafood at Wild Fish .

Where to stay on the Mendocino coast

For classic Mendocino coast, book a stay in the town of Mendocino. Right in the heart of downtown is JD House , a six-room bed-and-breakfast with ocean views and decor that lands somewhere between ship captain’s home and modern hygge. Or immerse yourself in nature at Mendocino Grove , where you can stay in safari tents complete with beds, rugs, and firepits. The new for summer 2023 sauna and espresso bar make it an extra dreamy glamping experience. For a more removed but no less beautiful home base, head 15 miles south to the small coastal town of Elk and reserve a room at the Harbor House Inn , a hotel and Michelin-starred restaurant perched on a cliff above a private, pebbled beach.

Read More: Local Getaways: Escape to the Mendocino Coast

Turn off your phone and head to Wylder Hotel for a remote mountain getaway.

Courtesy of Wylder Hotel

3. Hope Valley

• Distance: four hours east of San Francisco
• Best for: a less-crowded escape to the Sierra Nevadas

A short drive south from Lake Tahoe , Hope Valley has all the beauty of a Sierra Nevada mountain getaway—minus the crowds. It’s an ideal weekend destination to retreat to the woods for a few days of digital detox amid alpine lakes and pine forests.

What to do in Hope Valley

Like much of the Sierras and Tahoe, Hope Valley is known as an outdoor destination. In warmer months, grab your hiking shoes or mountain bike to explore miles of trails in the nearby wilderness, like the range of trails around scenic Echo Lake or Snowshoe Thompson’s Cave, which is “a short 1.15-mile hike filled with lore,” says AFAR travel news editor Michelle Baran .

In the winter, opt for a snow-filled adventure snow-mobiling or snowshoeing on one of the trails at Hope Valley Sno-Park then warm up in the natural hot springs at nearby Grover Hot Springs State Park .

Where to stay in Hope Valley

Wylder Hotel , which has rustic but refurbished log cabins, yurts, and budget-friendly campsites, is an ideal homebase in Hope Valley.

Read More: Local Getaways: A Beautiful Mountain Escape in Northern California

Yoga among the redwoods is one of many activities at Canyon Ranch Woodside.

Courtesy of Canyon Ranch

4. Santa Cruz Mountains

• Distance: one hour south of San Francisco
• Best for: wine, hikes, and mountain bikes

Bay Area residents often come to the Santa Cruz Mountains for day trips and brief weekend adventures. But if you plan to stay longer, you won’t be bored—there’s enough winery hopping and hiking among the redwoods to fill an entire weekend.

What to do in the Santa Cruz Mountains

Outdoor activities like hiking, mountain biking, road cycling, and rock climbing are the main draw for visitors to the Santa Cruz Mountains. After you’ve worked up an appetite on the trails, visit one of the area’s wineries, like award-winning, family-run Mindego Ridge , or the many ranches and farms—an afternoon picnic and visit with the goats at Harley Farms Goat Dairy is a local favorite—to relax and refuel.

Where to stay in the Santa Cruz Mountains

Book yourself into a luxurious tree house at Canyon Ranch’s Woodside Retreat , which includes a full schedule of activities, like hikes and yoga sessions, and three healthy, locally sourced meals each day.

Read More: Local Getaways: The Santa Cruz Mountains Offer a Much-Needed Escape to Nature

Glamp in a classic Airstream or safari tent at Autocamp Russian River.

Courtesy of Autocamp

5. Guerneville

• Distance: one hour, 45 minutes north of San Francisco
• Best for: summer fun and food by the Russian River

Although scenic year-round, Guerneville’s location alongside the Russian River makes it an especially popular weekend destination in the summer, when you can float, kayak, or canoe in the water. Off the river, this tiny town is also home to a surprising number of delicious places to eat—with even more restaurants, breweries, and wineries a short drive away.

What to do in Guerneville

In the summer months, pack a floatie and a cooler full of snacks to spend the day lazing around on the Russian River. Visitors can also rent a canoe from Burke’s Canoes . Afterwards, this Sonoma County town is an excellent homebase for food and wine lovers—biscuits at Big Bottom Market , winetasting at Hartford Family Winery , beers at Stumptown Brewery , and ice cream at Nimble & Finn’s are a few of the area’s tasty highlights.

Where to stay in Guerneville

For classic Guerneville, you can’t go wrong renting a house by the river or booking a romantic retreat at the adults-only Boon Hotel + Spa , an intimate, LGBTQ-friendly boutique hotel with a pool, spa, and breakfast delivered to your room each morning. Prefer to glamp? Head to Autocamp and stay in a tricked-out Airstream trailer for the weekend.

Or, consider one of the newer hotels to the area: including the luxurious, 21-room boutique hotel, Stravrand (opened in 2021) located on a former orchard, and Dawn Ranch (opened in 2022), a collection of stylish cabins nestled in the redwoods, complete with restaurant and spa. Read More:

• A Weekend Getaway Guide to Guerneville
• Where to Eat on the Russian River

The Lodge at Bodega Bay is set on a quiet, scenic stretch of California coast—and has no shortage of scenic views.

6. Bodega Bay

• Best for : escaping the summer heat, kayaking, and relaxing in a newly renovated lodge

If you’ve spent any time exploring Northern California, you’ve likely passed by Bodega—the Highway 1 goes through this small blip of a town, located between Tomales Bay and Jenner on the Sonoma coast. Although it’s close enough to San Francisco for a day trip, the newly renovated rooms at the Lodge at Bodega Bay are reason enough for locals, out-of-towners, and north-bound road-trippers to turn their visit into a full-fledged weekend getaway.

Pro tip: Although San Francisco residents rarely have any summer heat to escape from, folks elsewhere in the Bay Area should take note. Bodega can be as much 20 degrees cooler than inland areas, making it an ideal summer retreat for anyone who wants respite from high temps.

What to do in Bodega Bay

Although you might be tempted to spend the entire weekend with a book and a beverage while enjoying the coastal views (and we won’t judge you if do), the natural beauty of the area will likely convince you otherwise. If you’re so inclined, start your morning by kayaking along the coast ( Bodega Bay Surf is a friendly spot for rentals) or hike on the scenic Bodega Head Trail. The area also happens to be an excellent spot for bird-watching, especially along the Birdwalk Coastal Access Trail in Doran Regional Park . In the mood for a beach day? Grab your blanket and head to Doran Beach or Campbell Cove.

After a day of adventuring, refuel with calamari at the Tides , fish and chips at Fishetarian Fish Market , or a cocktail and crudo at Drakes Fireside Lounge .

Where to stay

Book a room at the sprawling Lodge at Bodega Bay , a few minutes south of town. Each of the spacious 83 rooms features comfortable beds, plush robes, and westward-facing balconies with unobstructed views of the marsh and ocean. The area can get chilly at night and the lodge offers plenty of ways to warm up: in-room fireplaces, hot tub, sauna, or with a cocktail at its on-site bar and restaurant.

Big Sur has something for varied adventures and budgets, from basic campsites to five-star luxury.

Photo by Pete Niesen/Shutterstock

• Distance: three hours south of San Francisco
• Best for: a classic California coastal getaway

With its dramatic coastlines, waterfalls plunging into the ocean, and expansive, rugged redwood forests, Big Sur is one of those quintessential California destinations—and also a fortunately easy weekend getaway destination from the Bay Area.

What to do in Big Sur

“Nature is one of the region’s biggest draws, but there’s plenty of exploration to do beyond the trees,” says AFAR senior editor Aislyn Greene. Places like Tassajara Zen Mountain Center , Hearst Castle , a California condor tour with Ventana Wildlife Society , and a tour of the Point Sur lighthouse , as well as shopping for local art at Hawthorne Gallery or Coast Big Sur are all excellent things to do while in Big Sur.

Where to stay in Big Sur

Accommodation in Big Sur ranges from basic campsites , like those at Pfeiffer State Park, to five-star luxury. Some of our favorite Big Sur hotels include the spectacular, all-inclusive Ventana Big Sur resort, which gives guests the option to choose between staying in one of its luxurious suites or getting in touch with nature in its safari-style tents, as well as the creative rooms at Post Ranch Inn —weekend retreat in a tree house , anyone?

Read More: Embrace the Slow Life—and Maybe a Few Trees—in Big Sur

Carmel Valley (not to be confused with nearby Carmel-by-the-Sea) is less than three hours from San Francisco by car.

Courtesy of Carmel Valley Ranch

8. Carmel Valley

• Distance: two hours, 30 minutes from San Francisco
• Best for: a wine country escape to the south

Napa Valley and Sonoma County aren’t the only places to go for a weekend of winetasting and sunshine (though you’ll rarely see us turn down a trip there). Carmel Valley (not to be confused with nearby Carmel-by-the-Sea) to San Francisco’s south is an equally fantastic, but often overlooked, destination for wine and food adventures.

What to do in Carmel Valley

Plan your weekend around winetasting at the area’s vineyards, like western-style Cowgirl Winery or Joyce , which specializes in wine from sustainability-minded vineyards. Then, decompress with an afternoon of hot and cool outdoor pools and a massage at Refuge Spa or a stroll through the shops at Carmel Valley Village.

Where to stay in Carmel Valley

Relax with a room at family-friendly Carmel Valley Ranch . Or for a more Tuscan-esque experience, stay at Bernardus Lodge & Spa , a wine country escape with rooms that overlook its 28-acre vineyard.

Read More: Why Carmel Valley Is the Wine Country Escape You Need

This 15-mile stretch of watery inlet is home to many dairy and oyster farms, as well as excellent natural vistas.

Photo by Jules Fairley/Shutterstock

9. Tomales Bay

• Distance: one hour, 30 minutes north of San Francisco
• Best for: oysters, cheese, and kayaking in the sea

If a weekend of eating fresh seafood, sampling locally made cheese, and kayaking in a tranquil bay sounds like your kind of getaway, then head to Tomales Bay. This area, just north of the Point Reyes National Seashore, refers to the 15-mile stretch of watery inlet separating Point Reyes Peninsula from mainland Marin County. It also happens to be home to many dairy and oyster farms, as well as scenic parks and natural vistas.

What to do in Tomales Bay

Start off your weekend in Tomales Bay with an outdoor activity or two, like watching elk in the Tule Elk Preserve , hiking to the Point Reyes Lighthouse, or kayaking in Tomales Bay. ( Blue Waters Kayaking in Marshall is a great place to rent from.)

After you’ve worked up an appetite, eat your way through the area’s specialties, oysters and cheese, with a stop at Point Reyes Farmstead Cheese Company just north of Point Reyes Station, oysters at Hog Island or Tony’s Seafood in Marshall, and a locavore dinner at Saltwater Oyster Depot in Inverness. Locals know: For oysters to go, no-frills Tomales Bay Oyster Co. is the best in the bay.

Where to stay in Tomales Bay

Point Reyes Station is where all the action is, but we prefer to cozy up in a bay-side Airbnb, like Enchanting Garden Getaway in the tranquil town of Inverness on the west side of Tomales Bay.

Take a leisurely walk along the Pacific Ocean while relaxing in Cambria.

Photo by Mada_Cris, Shutterstock.

10. Cambria

• Distance: four hours south of San Francisco
• Best for: whale watching, wine, and relaxing on the beach

Equidistant from San Francisco and Los Angeles, the coastal town of Cambria is further than most of the other weekend getaways on this list, but it offers a blissfully relaxing break for those who brave the extra miles. Known as where the pines meet the sea, this low-key town is full of opportunities to get outside and hike, explore tidepools, or hang out on the beach—then fill up on delicious seafood and wine while admiring views of the sunset.

What to do in Cambria

Lean into Cambria’s laid-back charm and while away your day with walks along Moonstone Beach or hike the bluffs at Fiscalini Ranch . Come sundown, enjoy a glass of wine and bite to eat at one of several locally owned eateries, like seaside Sea Chest Oyster Bar or Madeline’s , which sits along the just-lively-enough Main Street. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a drive to explore nearby sights like the tiny town of San Simeon and Big Sur to the north, Morro Bay State Park for hikes or beach hangs to the south, or Paso Robles wine country to the east.

Where to stay in Cambria

At the north end of Moonstone Beach, family-friendly Oceanpoint Ranch has comfortable rooms (many of which have wood-burning fireplaces), plenty of activities (shuffleboard, croquet, horseshoes), and an onsite restaurant that serves to-go breakfasts and hearty suppers. For a more woodsy experience, Cambria Pines Lodge is a cozy, forest retreat complete with a lounge perfect for enjoying a glass of local pinot by a warm fire.

Read more: Why Cambria Is Central California’s Most Relaxing Weekend Break

Instead of wine, taste brandy, at the new California Brandy House in Napa.

Courtsey of California Brandy House

11. Napa Valley

• Distance: one hour to 90 minutes northeast from San Francisco
• Best for: wine, of course, but also so much more

Napa Valley may feel like an obvious choice for a Bay Area getaway (it is undeniably easy), but that doesn’t mean your itinerary has to be predictable. With an exciting array of new restaurant and hotel openings in the past two years, as well as lesser-known tours, activities, and tastings (and we don’t just mean wine), it’s easy to go beyond the most well-known attractions. If you’re feeling especially adventurous, you could even turn your Napa getaway into a mini road trip from Napa Valley to Mendocino along the scenic Highway 128.

What to do in Napa Valley

Napa is about more than wine (though winetasting is certainly a top thing to do here). To see a different side, spend the day cycling its back roads with Napa Valley Bike Tours , hang out with a (very cute) crew of rescue animals at Oasis by Hoopes , or taste brandy at California Brandy House . Once you’ve worked up an appetite, head to Empress M , the vision of entrepreneur Margaret Wong that features gourmet Chinese dishes like shrimp dumplings, Sichuan calamari, and roast duck; Lucy Restaurant at Bardessono , a tranquil restaurant with seasonally inspired dishes like asparagus en cocotte; or North Block , whose menu by Momofuku alum chef Nick Tamburo revolves around a wood-fired oven and features such items as sourdough pizzas and cured trout with almond milk and trout roe.

Where to stay in Napa Valley

There’s no shortage of incredible hotels and resorts throughout Napa Valley, but there are several new and noteworthy places to consider checking in to. The George in downtown Napa is a nine-room inn in a historic, recently restored, 19th-century home where guests are treated to plush towels, comfortable beds, and fresh English muffins from nearby Model Bakery .

Further north in Calistoga, the iconic Dr. Wilkinson’s Backyard Resort & Mineral Springs has been transformed with its chic, fully renovated, midcentury modern–inspired rooms, an on-site eatery, House of Better , that serves Southwestern-style fare, a new outdoor spa, and several new room concepts, like a stand-alone one-bedroom bungalow.

Read more: Napa’s in Bloom: How to Plan the Perfect Spring Weekend

This article originally appeared online in 2020; it was most recently updated on June 22, 2023, to include current information.

Discover more travel inspiration with these videos by AFAR.

Seven energizing SoCal day trips you can take, even during coronavirus

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One day you will be ready to roam again — really roam across borders, oceans and continents. But for now, let’s start small.

Here, as a mostly homebound school year resumes and we enter our seventh month of pandemic-altered existence, are seven day-trip ideas within a several-hour drive of Los Angeles, some with overnight options, a few with beaches.

Just because they’re open now doesn’t mean you have to visit today. In fact, state officials still urge Californians to avoid nonessential trips. But when you’re ready, these places are too.

No matter where you go, health experts urge you to wear a mask unless you’re eating or in the water. And keep a distance from strangers.

At Torrey Pines State Beach, swim, fish, walk the sand or sunbathe. The beach is 4½ miles long, between northern La Jolla and southern Del Mar, and lined by red-dirt cliffs and Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve (still closed). For a memorable overview of nearby beach, cliffs and sea, park at the Torrey Pines Gliderport, watch paragliders take off, get a sandwich at the Cliffhanger Cafe and sit at one of the outdoor picnic tables.

Plenty of art and architecture await just east of the glider port on the 1,200-acre UC San Diego campus. You can take a self-guided tour among the works of art at the Stuart Collection and and check out the striking academic architecture, including the otherworldly Geisel Library (interior closed) and the crooked little house atop the engineering building.

In La Jolla, you can stroll past the shops, galleries and restaurants on Prospect Street and Girard Avenue. Or go tide-pooling or picnicking along Coast Boulevard near Children’s Pool Beach. There’s also pleasant strolling along the Coast Walk Trail near Cave Street.

Or you could kayak around La Jolla Shores or the cliffs and caves near La Jolla Cove. Co-owner Michael Luscomb said La Jolla Kayak ([858] 459-1114, lajollakayak.com ) resumed rentals in late May, tours in early June. “We’re very strong on weekends,” he said.

For coffee or a snack, head to Pannikin (outdoor seating) at 7467 Girard Avenue. For a fancy dinner, you might try George’s at the Cove, a longtime Prospect Street mainstay whose Level 2 and Ocean Terrace dining areas are open.

Info: sandiego.org

Laguna Beach

Laguna Beach, with its gorgeous stretch of sand, cliffs and rockscapes, once was an artists colony. Now it’s more of a gallerists colony but undeniably pleasant to visit.

Beyond Main Beach (and its landmark blue-and-white lifeguard tower) in downtown Laguna, a path leads from Treasure Island Park (just south of the Montage Laguna Beach resort) to Treasure Island Beach (good for families, tide-pooling and snorkeling). You might not be ready to spend $1,000 for a night at the Montage, but you might consider breakfast, lunch or dinner on the patio at the resort’s Mosaic Bar & Grill . Downtown, there’s plenty of window-shopping among the galleries and shops. And there are three state parks in the area.

Crystal Cove State Park, which stretches from Laguna Beach to Newport Beach, has 3.2 miles of beach, a campground, the Beachcomber Cafe (where you’re invited to order by phone rather than touching a menu) and the Crystal Cove Shake Shack at 7703 East Coast Highway (which, believe it or not, has no website). Before visiting, check the beach website at crystalcovestatepark.org for updates.

Info: VisitLagunaBeach.com

South Bay beaches

Wake up early, bring your bike or rent one and ride the Strand, a paved 22-mile beachfront route that spans Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach and Redondo Beach.

Officially, it’s the Marvin Braude Bike Trail, 14 feet wide and shared by cyclists, skaters, pedestrians and wheelchair users. It can take you far north of the South Bay, through Venice Beach and Santa Monica to Will Rogers State Beach in Pacific Palisades. The southern endpoint is Torrance County Beach. It’s always busy, so it’s best to try this early in the day, preferably a weekday.

Bike-rental options include Hermosa Cyclery ([310] 374-7816, hermosacyclery.com ) in Hermosa Beach and Marina Bike Rentals ([310] 318-2453, marinabikerentals.com ) in Redondo Beach.

An alternative is to pick one or two piers — Manhattan, Hermosa and Redondo each have one — and build a walk. If you’re new to the South Bay, Manhattan Beach is the priciest of these places, Hermosa is more casual and rowdy, and the Redondo Pier and King Harbor Marina are often more diverse.

Need a cool snack? The Manhattan Beach Creamery at 1120 Manhattan Beach Avenue has been a favorite for years.

Info: DowntownManhattanBeach.com , HermosaBeach.gov , Redondo.org

Palos Verdes Peninsula

Start in Redondo Beach and follow Palos Verdes Drive as it loops around the dramatic peninsula to San Pedro. Stop at the Point Vicente Interpretive Center. Its interior was closed as of Sept. 15, but the grounds are accessible and you can walk along the bluffs. About 2½ miles east, past Terranea Resort (which reopened in June) and across the street from Wayfarers Chapel (visitor center closed), you can walk the pebbly shores and bluffs of Abalone Cove Park in Rancho Palos Verdes (parts of the beach are closed).

End in San Pedro, where you can walk to the Korean Friendship Bell in Angels Gate Park, with wraparound views on a clear day. Or walk the coastal side of the road ( Point Fermin Park ) to see the vintage lighthouse and rocky cliffs. Keep a lookout for brown pelicans, which often fly at eye level. There are pullouts throughout the drive where you can pause to enjoy the view.

For a bite, try Nelson’s, the scenic patio restaurant, at Terranea (walk-in customers are OK).

Info: rpvca.gov , pvestates.org , spcvb.com

Malibu and Topanga

Head up Pacific Coast Highway, enjoy some beach time, then head back through Topanga Canyon. Or vice versa. On this itinerary, you’ll see all sorts of beach scenery and canyon greenery. You might want to linger on the Malibu Pier, where the Malibu Farm restaurant and cafe serve breakfast, lunch and dinner alfresco. The restaurant takes reservations and also serves early dinner; the cafe is first come, first served. You might hike in Malibu Creek State Park (parking is limited; Rock Pool and Century Lake are closed). Or you could enjoy a lazy lunch and swim at Paradise Cove, a selfie-ready nook on the sand that humbly calls itself “the best beach in the world.”

In Topanga Canyon, follow winding two-lane Topanga Canyon Boulevard through country scenes, passing quirky homes, businesses and landmarks with hippie overtones. About 4 miles up Old Topanga Road from the boulevard you’ll find the Los Angeles Horseback Riding ranch ( losangeleshorsebackriding.com ; $100 for an hour).

Info: visitcalifornia.com/experience/malibu

Santa Barbara and Carpinteria

Start at Santa Barbara’s Stearns Wharf and get some sea breeze in your hair. Then peruse lower State Street’s shops and restaurants, especially the stretch from Haley to Sola streets, where local leaders recently banned cars to create an eight-block promenade.

Old Mission Santa Barbara tours and museum are still closed, but the nearby Santa Barbara Botanic Garden is open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. The Santa Barbara Zoo is open; advance reservations are required.

South of town, take lovely, two-lane Foothill Road (California 192) between Santa Barbara and Carpinteria. There you can stop and meander Linden Avenue, which ends at a beach with lots of sand and gentle waves. Get breakfast or lunch on the patio at Esau’s Café (507 Linden Ave.; [805] 684-1070, esauscafe.com ; call to check days and hours), where the surfer vibes are thick. Or grab a burger at the Spot (389 Linden Ave.; [805] 684-6311), which has a rustic patio and food to go.

Info: santabarbaraca.com

Coachella Valley

It will be about a thousand degrees here, which explains why you’ll find lots of room. At dawn or dusk, hike in one of the Indian Canyons — Palm Canyon is the most popular — or dawdle in the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens in Palm Desert, with admission by timed ticket. Prowl Palm Canyon Drive, the main drag through Palm Springs, and consider a meal at festive Las Casuelas Terraza (222 S. Palm Canyon Drive; [760] 325-2794), which dates to 1958.

To get the flavor of the valley, you might need a date shake. If so, consider Hadley Fruit Orchards in Cabazon or Shields Date Garden in Indio, which is surrounded by date palms. The Shields shop and restaurant are open (patio dining only). The bad news is that its theater, which has been screening “The Romance & Sex Life of the Date” since 1953, is now closed. The good news is that the film, all 17 minutes of it, is now viewable on the Shields website and YouTube .

Info: visitgreaterpalmsprings.com

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Born and raised in California, Christopher Reynolds has written about travel, the outdoors, arts and culture for the Los Angeles Times since 1990.

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21 top romantic getaways in california.

From the seaside to the vineyards, these charming spots are perfect for couples.

Romantic Getaways in California

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With consistently nice weather, scenic landscapes, incredible hotels and excellent food scenes, many destinations in California make for excellent romantic getaways.

From the nation's largest wine-producing region to spectacular desert landscapes to miles upon miles of beaches , California boasts incredible geographical diversity. The endless choices of what to do and see make the Golden State a wonderful getaway destination for traveling twosomes.

To help you and your partner plan your next dream vacation, U.S. News searched far and wide to determine the state's most romantic escapes. From luxurious oceanfront resorts and cities to small towns and beach communities, these are the top romantic getaways in California.

The Most Romantic Getaways in California

San francisco, carmel-by-the-sea and monterey, napa valley.

• Post Ranch Inn
• The Sanctuary Beach Resort

Point Reyes National Seashore

• Farmhouse Inn

Catalina Island

Yosemite national park, santa barbara, paso robles, san luis obispo.

• The Inn Above Tide

Laguna Beach

• Ojai Valley Inn

Palm Springs

There's no shortage of romantic things for couples to do in the "City by the Bay." Elevate your visit with a stay in the Financial District at the ultra-romantic, world-class Palace Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel, San Francisco . Established in 1875, this property is laden with history and intricate details, from its grand atrium to the Austrian crystal chandeliers. Jump on a historic street car to the landmark restaurant John's Grill to admire the walls lined with photos of its famous patrons, or enjoy a view of San Francisco Bay and its famous sea lions at Pier 39's Fog Harbor Fish House, which offers fresh local seafood. Cap off your day in San Francisco with a toast as you sail beneath the Golden Gate Bridge on a cocktail cruise with City Cruises.

The San Francisco Explorer Pass offered by Go City provides savings and easy, fast-tracked access into many city attractions , such as museums and adventure cruises. You can also use it for discounts on transportation, including hop-op, hop-off bus tours across the city, as well as cable car, streetcar and bus passes.

Don't miss the view from atop Coit Tower – where lovebirds can admire 360-degree city vistas – or the chance to walk or bike across the Golden Gate Bridge. Take the ferry from the city's Ferry Building across the bay to Oakland for a stroll around Jack London Square and a memorable meal at Scott's Seafood with sweeping bay views.

See more of San Francisco:  Tours  | Hotels

About 120 miles south of San Francisco sits the sleepy ocean village of Carmel-by-the-Sea . With quaint bed-and-breakfasts and charming boutique hotels like Hotel Carmel, you can snuggle up in a room with a fireplace. On your romantic weekend, explore the area's many shops, check out high-end eateries and admire spectacular sea views.

The historic La Playa Carmel hotel, which has hosted visitors for more than 100 years, is another cozy spot to curl up among the flower-filled courtyards, tuck into a hearty breakfast overlooking the misty ocean and pull up a barstool for a classic cocktail at Bud's. Guests of the hotel can explore the village and the picturesque Scenic Road, which runs along the coast. Carve out time to visit Tor House, the seaside home of 20th-century American poet Robinson Jeffers. He built a stone tower by hand from local granite rocks, which offers striking ocean views.

From Carmel, cruise along part of the scenic 17-Mile Drive to nearby Monterey , which is home to Cannery Row. It's also a lovely spot to spend a night or two at the waterfront InterContinental The Clement Monterey . For a luxurious, all-inclusive getaway on the Pacific Coast, head about 30 miles south to Alila Ventana Big Sur .

The heart of California wine country is about 60 miles north of San Francisco, where traveling twosomes will find rolling hills filled with vineyards, top-tier wineries and farm-to-table cuisine. For a striking overview of the countryside, fly high with Napa Valley Balloons. After landing, delight in alfresco brunch at the adults-only Auberge du Soleil with gorgeous vineyard views. You may opt to see Napa Valley by bike on a day tour with Getaway Adventures that includes wine tastings and a picnic lunch along the way.

While it's hard to find a winery in California devoid of a romantic atmosphere, top choices for couples craving quality wines include the family-owned Chimney Rock and Rutherford Hill, where you can tour a wine cave and picnic in the gardens amid Cape Dutch-style architecture. Chateau Montelena Winery, established in 1882, offers pristine grounds that include a garden with Chinese-style pagodas and even swans.

For dinner, try Johnny's in Calistoga – set inside the historic Mount View Hotel where Hollywood's elite once vacationed – or The Grove at Copia in Napa, which serves up Mediterranean-style cuisine. When you're ready to call it a day, the Andaz Napa in downtown Napa offers a contemporary and funky place to lay your head – complete with a sizable tub.

See more of Napa Valley: Things to Do | Hotels

Post Ranch Inn: Big Sur

Kodiak Greenwood | Courtesy of Post Ranch Inn

This adults-only hotel boasts one of the most spectacular addresses in all of California. Post Ranch Inn is located at the edge of Big Sur 's famous towering cliffs, affording guests unobstructed, panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean – a favorite feature of recent guests. In addition to its unmatched location, Post Ranch Inn offers architecturally stunning guest rooms (including one shaped like a butterfly), private houses and several treehouse-style accommodations , should you and your partner prefer waking up to forest vistas.

Amenities available in rooms and houses include wood-burning fireplaces, binoculars, walking sticks for hiking, heated floors, daily complimentary breakfast, hot tubs and private decks. Plus, the hotel offers an array of included activities, such as morning yoga, guided nature walks, guided meditation, stargazing and use of the property's Lexus cars. The inn also houses a fitness center, a spa, a restaurant and a pool that faces the ocean.

Recent travelers staying here said they appreciated the sustainability initiatives at Post Ranch Inn. What's more, the property is right next to Pfeiffer Beach and Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, as well as a short drive away from other top attractions like Andrew Molera State Park.

Address: 47900 state Route 1, Big Sur, CA 93920

Read: The Top Ecolodges Around the World

Just north of the hustle and bustle of downtown San Diego sits the charming town of La Jolla, which is framed by its iconic rocky cliffs. Full of quaint shops and eateries, La Jolla has plenty of places to stroll hand in hand, including down into a sea cave accessible from inside a local store.

For some outdoor activity, enjoy kayaking at La Jolla Cove with reputable outfitter Everyday California; you can navigate in and out of the area's famous sea caves and keep an eye out for small leopard sharks and lots of sea lions. For a beautiful coastal hike, visit Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, next to the Torrey Pines Golf Course. As for accommodations, the Mediterranean-inspired La Valencia Hotel is an elegant resting place with impressive ocean views.

Situated about 200 miles northwest of Sacramento , Mendocino is perfect for duos looking to take a pause surrounded by majestic coastal redwoods and expansive beaches – truly spoiling couples for choice when it comes to outdoor exploration. Start with a hike along the bluffs at Mendocino Headlands State Park or sink your toes in the sand at Big River Beach, both of which boast incredible scenery.

As for where to stay, the Blue Door Inn and Headlands Inn Bed & Breakfast are located in town, while the Brewery Gulch Inn & Spa can be found a few miles south on the other side of Big River. If you prefer being one with nature, try glamping at Mendocino Grove. You'll be treated to luxurious tents, fire pits and picnic tables in addition to beds with down comforters and wool blankets – perfect for getting cozy with your sweetheart. Enjoy morning yoga, bocce ball and complimentary coffee. You can also purchase a s'mores kit to indulge in around the campfire.

Read: The Top Glamping Resorts in the U.S.

The Sanctuary Beach Resort: Marina

This romantic central California resort gives couples the unique opportunity to bed down on the beach without having to camp or glamp. The Sanctuary Beach Resort, about 10 miles north of Monterey in Marina, can be found sitting in the dips of the dunes that line the area's coast.

From each room and suite, you are just steps away from the beach. You may even be lulled to sleep by the sound of the waves. There are several accommodation options available at this beach resort, but to really soak up the scenery, consider booking a room category that offers unobstructed ocean views and direct access to the sand. Previous guests were enchanted by the oceanfront location and found the excellent customer service to be a nice extra touch.

Standard in-room amenities include private patios or decks, binoculars, gas fireplaces and minibars. The resort also features a seafood restaurant, beach bonfires, nightly wine and cheese tastings, complimentary bike and helmet rentals, and morning beach yoga on the weekends. This stretch of shoreline in Monterey County truly goes as far as the eye can see – and because it's not as well known to Monterey visitors, it's easy to find a quiet spot in the sand to savor the scenery with your one and only.

Address: 3295 Dunes Drive, Marina, CA 93933

If you're looking for a remote vacation full of peace and quiet amid truly unbelievable landscapes, take your loved one to Point Reyes National Seashore. In this destination about 35 miles northwest of San Francisco, you'll discover waterfalls that cascade down directly onto the beach, scenic overlooks that reveal miles of rugged coastline, and trails that meander through quiet meadows and dense forest. Point Reyes is also home to more than 50 threatened, rare or endangered species of animals, including several types of mammals, birds and reptiles.

Hiking trails range from a gentle stroll to an all-day hike; be sure to pay attention to trail descriptions before embarking on your trek. Also keep in mind that lodging options in Point Reyes are minimal, but you will find backcountry campgrounds, including boat-in camping in Tomales Bay. There are other types of campsites nearby, as well as inns, B&Bs and private rentals in nearby towns such as Olema, Point Reyes Station and Inverness.

Olema House Point Reyes is perhaps the closest you'll get to a luxury hotel experience here. Cuddle with your sweetheart on a private patio or by your in-room fireplace before enjoying a picnic overlooking picturesque Olema Creek. Shop for snacks at the property's tavern and market, which serve California cuisine featuring local, seasonal ingredients.

The Farmhouse Inn: Forestville

Courtesy of Farmhouse Inn

This country-style hotel situated in Northern California will be a welcome reprieve for couples looking to take in the splendor of Sonoma County. The Farmhouse Inn manages to provide exceptionally comfortable accommodations while maintaining a pristine level of rustic elegance throughout. Rooms come equipped with amenities ranging from gas fireplaces and bath products to jetted tubs and steam showers. Fresh flowers and nightly turndown service with cookies and milk are also nice perks. Recent guests sang praises for just about every aspect of their time at the inn, from the luxurious rooms to the exceptional customer service.

For a memorable experience with your partner, book a couples massage or a spa experience based on your love languages. Spend your days together lounging at the outdoor pool and hot tub, hiking through the redwoods, taking a drive along the coast, or going on a sommelier-led wine tour. At night, have an amorous ranch-to-table dinner made from local ingredients. You'll find the Farmhouse Inn in Forestville, about 30 miles northwest of Sonoma .

Address: 7871 River Road, Forestville, CA 95436

For a remote romantic getaway, set your sights on Catalina Island , which is accessible by the Catalina Express ferry or helicopter. The full-service Catalina Canyon Inn, set between the beach and mountains, boasts a pool, a restaurant and a fitness center. Couples can rent golf carts or take advantage of the resort's free shuttle to explore the scenic island.

Visitors will also discover hiking trails and water sports like kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. Take a land, ocean or helicopter tour, such as a zip line tour over Descanso Beach Club. In the evenings, enjoy the 1929 art deco Catalina Casino, equipped with a movie theater; Avalon Grille, which offers oceanfront dining; or the Harbor Reef Saloon and Patio Bar, for an evening brew in Two Harbors.

For weekend escapes in the mountains, Yosemite National Park sets a beautiful scene. Book a canvas tent or wooden cabin, or upgrade to the stunning Ahwahnee hotel. Floor-to-ceiling windows in its Dining Room afford an impressive view of the wilderness. Spend the days hiking to picturesque waterfalls, wandering through fields of flowers, climbing granite walls or swimming in a pristine river.

In Yosemite Village, you can grab provisions at the general store, including fixings for picnics. Culinary options range from fast-casual pizza in Curry Village to fine dining at The Ahwahnee. After the sun goes down, attend a stargazing or fireside storytelling presentation. If you and your sweetheart share a love of photography, be inspired by the natural landscape and join a guided photography walk, sign up for a photography class or visit The Ansel Adams Gallery.

See more of Yosemite: Things to Do | Hotels

With 70-plus miles of shoreline, Lake Tahoe makes it easy to find a place to kick back and relax with your favorite person on or in the water. Located in Northern California, the lake is so big that it pours across the border into Nevada. Tahoe, one of the clearest lakes in the world, is surrounded by stately, forested mountains, which makes the area a perfect place for couples who want to get swept up in nature.

Any and all outdoor adventure activities can be had here, including paddleboarding, hiking, skiing and sailing . You can even take a hot air balloon ride or book a helicopter tour for a more unforgettable ride. What's more, the accommodation options are just as diverse as the activities . Popular properties include T he Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe ; Edgewood Tahoe Resort; and The Landing Resort & Spa . If you and your significant other want to test Lady Luck, stay at Harrah's Lake Tahoe or Harveys Lake Tahoe .

Read:  The Top Lakes in California

Courtesy of the Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara

Step into the timeless romance of Spanish architecture and abundant red tiles in this Southern California gem. Meander through town and admire the endless plazas before climbing to the top of the Santa Barbara County Courthouse clock tower for excellent views. As the sun goes down, take a sunset walk along Santa Barbara Harbor with the Santa Ynez Mountains as a backdrop, followed by harborside dinner at the Breakwater Restaurant.

Are you and your better half wine aficionados? Sample vintages along the Urban Wine Trail in downtown's Funk Zone at wineries like Whitcraft Winery. Or, explore the vineyards and tastings spread across Santa Barbara's wine country in areas like Santa Ynez Valley, Santa Maria Valley, Los Olivos and more. If you're feeling adventurous, hike to Knapp's Castle, the ruins of a 1900s estate overlooking Santa Ynez River canyon.

The lovely Simpson House Inn is just steps from downtown, with picture-perfect grounds and gardens. Take advantage of the full in-room breakfast to up the romance factor. For a hip, modern stay in Santa Barbara , book a room at Drift Santa Barbara, complete with complimentary surfboards, bikes and yoga equipment. If you would rather retreat to a classic and historic grand hotel, choose The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara to take advantage of its ocean views, three pools and full-service spa.

See more of Santa Barbara: Things to Do | Hotels

This seaside community about 35 miles west of Los Angeles is well known as a hot spot for the rich and famous. While you'll no doubt find plenty of palatial homes situated high atop the mountains or steps away from the ocean, Malibu isn't just for its glitzy residents. Its 21 miles of beautiful beaches draw locals and travelers alike. Not only that, but this little town sits within driving distance of some incredible state parks, including Topanga State Park, Malibu Creek State Park and Point Mugu State Park.

With so many different stretches of shore, it's easy for couples to find a secluded slice of the coastline to call their own. During your visit, make sure to explore the pocket beaches of Robert H. Meyer Memorial State Beach – including El Matador State Beach – as well as Zuma Beach and Point Dume State Beach, especially at sunset. Another popular means of taking in the coastal landscape is hiking. For panoramic ocean views, trek the Paseo Miramar Trail or through Solstice Canyon or Sycamore Canyon.

As for where to stay, know that because Malibu is so small, there are few hotels to choose from. Check out the newly opened Hotel June Malibu for a retro vibe (though guests have warned that highway traffic can be loud). The Surfrider Malibu and the Malibu Beach Inn are located on the coast, while Calamigos Guest Ranch and Beach Club can be found in the adjacent mountains. For more hotel options, consider the lodging available in nearby Santa Monica , which is located less than 20 miles east of Malibu.

Located off U.S. Route 101, about halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco, lies the charming town of Paso Robles. It is situated about 30 miles inland from the coast and in the heart of wine country, with more than 200 wineries in the area.

Treat your better half to award-winning and sustainable wines at J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines' Paso Robles location. You can also visit Croad Vineyards for dry-farmed varietals with sweeping views of wine country or stop by Tin City, a collection of industrial buildings turned into tasting rooms. You can even do a wine tour via a helicopter through Paso Air Tours. For a romantic overnighter, stay at the Inn at Croad Vineyards.

The 16-room boutique Hotel Cheval is conveniently located just off the town square. After checking in, couples can take a stroll to see the shops, restaurants and wine tasting rooms, but first head to Franklin Hot Springs for a dip in the mineral water. If you're looking for an impressive date night, have dinner at the top of a castle at Tooth & Nail Wine Company, then check out the one-of-a-kind Field of Light at Sensorio, a high-tech art installation featuring more than 100,000 solar-powered lights.

San Luis Obispo (nicknamed SLO) is a central California town best known for Cal Poly University . U.S. Route 101 cuts through the area and leads travelers past the iconic Madonna Inn, with unique themed rooms such as the Romance suite. On Higuera Street, the main strip of this hip college town, couples can browse boutique stores and dine at a variety of restaurants, bars and coffee shops. Then, visit museums, art galleries or the historic Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa.

Don't miss out on the Thursday night farmers market for fresh, local produce – perfect for a picnic. For outdoor recreation, hit the beach or one of the hiking and biking trails in the area. Don't leave without taking a couple's selfie at quirky Bubblegum Alley.

The Inn Above Tide: Sausalito

Courtesy of The Inn Above Tide

Few hotels in the Bay Area afford a location as spectacular as T he Inn Above Tide . This modest, 33-room hotel is located just across the bay from San Francisco in Sausalito, and as its name suggests, it literally sits above the tide. This feeling of sleeping on the water is quite a unique experience. And if that's not enough, you'll wake up and fall asleep to incredible panoramic views of the bay and the San Francisco skyline, which is a favorite feature of many past guests.

Book a room with a private balcony and fireplace to dial up the romance and get the most out of the inn's location. Many travelers who've stayed here were pleasantly surprised that rooms come equipped with binoculars. The inn also provides daily complimentary breakfast and an evening wine and cheese reception.

Take the time to explore Sausalito and beyond. The Inn Above Tide is located right along Sausalito's main drag, putting couples within walking distance of numerous shops, restaurants and waterfront parks. For a delicious date night, consider Scoma's Sausalito, an Italian seafood restaurant on the water, or Barrel House Tavern, another waterfront spot that specializes in California cuisine. Plus, the inn is also a stone's throw from the Golden Gate Bridge , as well as the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, which features access to beautiful beaches and plenty of spectacular hiking trails.

Address: 30 El Portal, Sausalito, CA 94965

Read:  The Best Day Trips From San Francisco

This small town is one of Southern California's greatest jewels, especially for a romantic getaway. Laguna Beach , which sits between San Diego and Los Angeles, stuns thanks to its incredible geography. Hills dotted with mega mansions cascade down the east side of Pacific Coast Highway 1, which runs through the entirety of the town, while the west side lives on the edges of a stunning stretch of coastal cliffs. In between these cliffs you'll find 30 small coves and beaches. Pack a picnic for two and venture to Heisler Park or Crescent Bay Point Park, both of which offer incredible views of the coast. If you two are wanting to get out on the water, book a kayak tour or take a surfing lesson .

For five-star accommodation, book a room at Montage Laguna Beach , which can be found just a few miles south of the town center. This sumptuous resort sits right at the edge of the ocean and features three restaurants, an award-winning spa, on-site boutiques, a salon and a fitness center. If you don't need all the bells and whistles, Hotel Joaquin will do the trick. With just 22 rooms, this adults-only boutique hotel embodies a more secluded and intimate atmosphere compared to its neighbors. Twosomes looking for a serene canyon environment should opt for The Ranch at Laguna Beach , with a nine-hole golf course, a pool with a bar, a spa and a garden-to-table restaurant.

See more of Laguna Beach: Things to Do | Hotels

Ojai Valley Inn: Ojai

Ojai is well known for being a respite for tired Angelenos looking to unwind, luxuriate and take a break in nature. The Ojai Valley Inn offers all of that and more. Located about 80 miles northwest of LA, the five-star Ojai Valley Inn can be found right in the middle of the valley, meaning you and your better half will be treated to towering mountain views from just about every spot on the property grounds.

Delve further into the spirit of the destination – early members of the Indigenous Chumash tribe believed the valley possessed a peaceful energy and mystical powers – and take advantage of the wellness offerings available. Focus on fitness as a couple, through complimentary yoga, fitness walks and meditation. Or, pay extra for a spiritual journey together.

Inspired by Spanish haciendas, the guest rooms and suites offer modern accommodations with luxury amenities. To up the romance, book a room with views of the Topatopa Mountains. With the array of on-property dining venues, many past guests rave about the delicious food. There are plenty of activities to make memories together, from tennis to golf to shopping. Explore the Ojai area by hiking at nearby Los Padres National Forest, heading to town to visit the world's largest outdoor bookstore (Bart's Books), stopping for a breather atop Meditation Mount or indulging in a wine tasting at downtown's Casa Barranca Tasting Room.

Address: 905 Country Club Road, Ojai, CA 93023

Read: The Top Weekend Getaways From Los Angeles

There's no better California getaway than a trip to the desert. Palm Springs is so revered because it offers the best of both worlds: access to a sprawling desert landscape and a city equipped with plenty of amenities, including an impressive array of hotels that cater to relaxation-seeking visitors.

While many travelers tend to flock to the expansive resorts available here, couples may desire something more intimate to get away from any and all noise. That's where Korakia Pensione comes in. Offering an enchanting blend of Mediterranean- and Moroccan-style architecture and decor (think: white-washed walls, arched entryways and fountains throughout), this boutique resort feels like a hidden oasis in the heart of Palm Springs.

Past guests appreciate that Korakia Pensione sits in walking distance to downtown, but some did feel that the rooms could use an upgrade. The resort really turns romantic after dark, with hundreds of flickering candles and lanterns. While in Palm Springs, twosomes can visit the Elvis Honeymoon Hideaway, take a scenic tram ride, check out the Palm Springs Art Museum or do a bike tour of midcentury modern homes.

Read:  The Best Restaurants in Palm Springs

San Diego is for lovers – from sunset strolls on the beach and lively concerts to wine tasting and romantic hotels. Whether you want some relaxation and uninterrupted time with your loved one or an active vacation to remember, you'll find it all in this SoCal destination. With 70 miles of beaches and bays in San Diego , there are plenty of opportunities for some fun in the sun and on the ocean. If you and your partner are more land lovers, hit the hiking trails at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, play a round of golf at one of 90-plus courses or wander through one of the breathtaking gardens in Balboa Park.

For an oceanfront overnight stay, the Hotel del Coronado is a classic retreat. Established in 1888, it has a long history as an elegant vacation destination, which is one thing recent guests loved about staying there. Book a private pool cabana just for the two of you or treat yourselves to a spa day; then, you can catch up over an elegant dinner with mesmerizing ocean views and end with making s'mores over a beach bonfire.

For an enchanting canyon stay, the 400-acre Fairmont Grand Del Mar offers five-star luxury in a serene environment. Couples can have the time of their lives dining at San Diego's first three-star Michelin restaurant, going for an adventurous horseback ride or soaking in one of the four heated pools.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Sharael Kolberg is a U.S. News & World Report contributor and native Californian. She and her native Californian husband got engaged in Sonoma and married in Tiburon. Having been married since 2000, they've embarked on lots of romantic escapes throughout the state. Some favorite spots include the Big Sur coast, Yosemite and Catalina Island. Kolberg used her firsthand knowledge and research skills to curate this list of the most romantic getaways in California.

You might also be interested in:

• The Most Romantic Weekend Getaways in the U.S.
• The Best National Parks in California
• The Top Weekend Getaways in California
• Beautiful Small Towns in California
• The Top Things to Do in California

Tags: Travel , Vacations , California , Hotels and Resorts , California Vacations , U.S. West Vacations , US Vacations , Couples Vacations

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California Road Trip Ideas For Scenic One-Day Drives

When you just need to get away from it all—but can’t go too far—it’s time to head out on one of the best California road trips near you.

August 21, 2020

Home to ancient redwoods, majestic snow-capped mountains, pristine sandy beaches, and Joshua tree–dotted deserts, the Golden State has it all. With so many things to do and terrains to admire here, there’s no better way to see it than by going on a California road trip. While it can be easy to stay on the well-beaten path, such as the I-5 or Highway 101, there are plenty of rewards to be gained by visiting the more remote regions of California . 

The twists and turns of the road greet you with unparalleled ocean views, two-lane highways present little-seen treasures you’d otherwise never know were there, and old vines line the road to happiness. Endless possibilities lie within our borders, leaving you with a countless number of California trip ideas to add to your to-do list. 

While daydreaming about your next long-distance vacation can satisfy a bit of wanderlust, nothing beats the feeling of hitting the road for a new adventure. So, forget your existing weekend plans, and discover something new on these one-day driving routes.

California Road Trip Ideas for Quick Getaways

When you just need to get away from it all—but can’t go too far—it’s time to head out on one of the best California road trips near you. These short staycations allow you to unwind and relax as you watch the open road ahead. 

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Lombard Street: The Urban Road Trip

California Road Trip Itinerary: Bodega Bay to Lombard Street, San Francisco

Round-trip driving time: 4 hours.

Did you even take a driving tour of California if you didn’t stop by one of the most famous winding streets in the world? While this San Francisco landmark can get incredibly busy, its eight hairpin turns, manicured lawns, and elegant mansions are worth every bit of stop-and-go traffic. 

Drive along the rugged bluffs of Bodega Bay on Highway 1 to appreciate the Golden State’s intense natural beauty. Stop by Tomales Bay and Point Reyes Station to admire the views and stretch your legs before continuing south. Take note of Stinson Beach, Muir Woods, and Sausalito as you drive past, making plans for future trips. 

Before you know it, you’ll be crossing San Francisco’s iconic Golden Gate Bridge , passing through the Presidio, and turning onto the 101 (which also happens to be the straight portion of Lombard Street). Continue driving on Lombard Street after the 101 ends and glide down the switchbacks—which look terribly dangerous but were actually put in place to increase safety—of this one-way street. 

Make sure to enjoy the San Francisco Bay views from the top before making your descent, and take a picture once you reach the bottom to show off the curves of the “Crookedest Street in the World.” Afterward, head to nearby Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39 to check out some of the top S.F. attractions .

Route 152: The Rural Road Trip

California Road Trip Itinerary: Gustine to Santa Cruz

Round-trip driving time: 3 hours.

This stretch of highway is located east of Monterey Bay, between San Jose and Carmel-by-the-Sea. While the coastal towns get a lot of attention, the Central Valley is an agricultural haven worth spending time in, too. Cruise through Gilroy—the “Garlic Capital of the World”—and meet up with the famous Highway 1 in Watsonville, and make your way up to Santa Cruz for a road trip you won’t soon forget. 

The drive along Route 152 is not the most harrowing journey, but the winding roads that take you past strawberry fields, ranches, and grapevines provide a much-needed reprieve from the straight and boring freeways typically found in the rest of the state. (You can even stock up on the local garlic and fresh fruits you find along the way.) 

Since the gorgeous drive also gives you the opportunity to jump on the Pacific Coast Highway—another popular route where you can savor the region’s incredible seafood and scenery—this California road trip has something for everyone. 

Route 128: The Forested Road Trip

California Road Trip Itinerary: Winters to Albion

Round-trip driving time: 5 hours, 40 minutes.

Though California is largely famous for its surf culture , sweeping coastal bluffs, and ocean views, the redwoods in the northern end of the state are just as unique. The ancient, giant trees are somewhat harder to get to, but they are very much worth the excursion. Whether you are flying into the San Francisco Bay Area for the first time or exploring your own backyard, the drive from Winters to Albion will delight your senses. 

Watching the green canopies loom in the distance is both stunning and ominous; rows of grapevines are replaced by gargantuan tree trunks that soar hundreds of feet into the sky, warm breezes give way to crisp air, and a fresh scent of pine needles envelops it all. Emerge from the wonderland of redwoods to see the town of Albion, which overlooks the cresting waves of the Pacific Ocean. 

If the fresh ocean breeze captivates your senses, extend your day trip and turn it into a weekend glamping vacation in Mendocino . This side trip only adds 20 minutes to your drive each way and is very much worth experiencing, if you have the time.

Route 74: The Desert Road Trip

California Road Trip Itinerary: Dana Point to Palm Springs

Round-trip driving time: 7 hours.

As you stare out at the ocean in Dana Point, you may find it hard to believe that a desert oasis lies just over 100 miles away, but you can see it for yourself by taking a short drive to the neighboring town of San Juan Capistrano and hopping on the 74. 

Drive through Rancho Mission Viejo and into the northern portion of the Cleveland National Forest. Then, take a quick break to see Ortega Falls before you continue through the residential towns of Southern California, head across the San Bernardino National Forest, and curve north past Palm Desert to complete Route 74. 

Finish the journey by jumping on the 111 and cruising into the arid terrain of Palm Springs. The scenery changes dramatically on this route, so the drive is an excellent way to see—and appreciate—the various elements that make the Golden State unique. 

With so many drives to add to your California road trip itinerary, you should have enough adventures to fill the season—but if you’re still searching for staycations, check out the best mountain escapes near the Bay Area and the best getaways from Los Angeles .

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Angela is the staff writer for Only in Your State - Southern California.

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Looking for an excuse to get out of the house this weekend and hit the road on a fun SoCal adventure? Look no further than these 10 quick road trips in Southern California that will take you to some of our favorite places in SoCal. No need to spend hours and hours in the car to get to these spots as they are an easy drive from most parts of SoCal. So which road trip will you be doing this weekend?

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So where are you headed this weekend? We hope one of these SoCal road trips will be at the top of your list! Do you have any quick road trips in Southern California you’d like to share? Let us know in the comments! If you love exploring new parts of Southern California while eating great food, you may also enjoy taking this Taco Trail road trip that will lead you to the very best tacos in all of Southern California.

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Quick road trips in southern california.

What are some amazing places to visit in Southern California?  

Southern California is outrageous beautiful – much more so than many people seem to give it credit for. Most obviously, it’s home to splendid beaches, but there’s so much more to SoCal than just that. There’s Sequoia National Park, in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, a park that is nothing short of hypnotically beautiful. In Antelope Valley, there’s an outstanding and vibrant poppy field that attracts revelers and photographers alike year in and year out. The best colors of the year can be spotted from mid-February through May, so make sure to plan accordingly if you decide to visit. Joshua Tree National park is absolutely incredible, and home to some of the strangest trees – the fabled Joshua Trees – you'll ever see.   

What kind of day trips in Southern California are there to take?   

If you can dream it, you can probably plan it! Southern California is a huge area of land, and with so much space comes plenty of ideas for epic day trips. There are the more obvious choices, like making an entire day (or longer) out of SoCal’s breathtaking state and national parks, but then you can get more creative, too. We’ve covered plenty of ideas for day trips in Southern California ; take a drive through some of SoCal’s most incredible fields of wildflowers, such as the poppies in the spring. If you’re more of an urban exploration fan, no worries – there are plenty of ghost towns and/or abandoned places day trips you could plan, too. Foodies might want to consider a trip to some of the best ice cream shops in the region, or maybe the best wine tastings. The possibilities are only as limited as your imagination.  

What are some fun things to do in Southern California?  

Southern California is known for its sunny, sandy beaches, good vibes, and relaxed atmosphere. Of course, you could always do the usual stuff – hiking, camping, or fishing come to mind, and all are very popular with locals and visitors alike. However, you can always put a uniquely Southern California twist on those things; find places to camp on the beach. If you’ve never experienced beach camping... you have no idea what you’re missing. You’ve GOT to do it. You could also visit our national parks, of which there are nine to choose from. Go kayaking or canoeing, or if you’re more adventurous, explore some caves. City slickers will love the beauty of places like Los Angeles, where there’s never any shortage of fun things to do and see.   

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Wealth of Geeks

24 Fun Things To Do in Northern California

Posted: December 31, 2023 | Last updated: December 31, 2023

The Golden State is home to long sandy beaches, busy boardwalks, big cities, and dramatic cliffside views. The state’s northern section is particularly beautiful, and its varied landscapes provide the perfect backdrop to so many fun and unique things to do in Northern California.

The Best Things To Do in Northern California

From hiking and surfing to wine tasting, riding roller coasters, and even panning for gold—Northern California is bursting with opportunities to explore, learn, and play. As a native Californian who is completely in love with her state, here’s my list of 25 things to do in Northern California. Have fun!

1. Travel the 17-Mile Drive

Over 1.5 million visitors traverse the 17-mile Drive in Pebble Beach every year, and no wonder why. It’s stunning. Follow the red-dashed line along this spectacular coastal road. About halfway through the route, a single Lone Cypress stands on a rocky outlet overlooking the water. At 250 years old, it’s one of the most photographed trees in the world.

The 17-Mile Drive costs $11.75 per vehicle. However, that fee can be reimbursed if you spend $35 at one of the Pebble Beach Resort restaurants. I recommend the burgers!

2. Stroll Down Charming Ocean Avenue

One of the most charming things to do in Northern California, exploring Ocean Avenue in Carmel-by-the-Sea is a true treat for the eyes. Stroll downhill as you pass cute cottages, colorful courtyards, boutique shops, beautiful restaurants, art galleries, and wine-tasting rooms. The end of the avenue meets Carmel Beach, a beautiful dog-friendly one-mile stretch of sand that’s the perfect place to watch a sunset.

3. Climb to the Top of Mount Tamalpais

At over 2,500 feet tall, Mount Tam in Marin County is quite the trek, but the view from its summit is glorious. There is a 13.7-mile loop that starts near Mill Valley and meanders its way to the top. It takes about 6.5 hours to complete. On a clear day, expect to see San Francisco and its beautiful bay, the East Bay, Mount Diablo, and even the Farallon Islands, approximately 25 miles from land.

4. Step Into History at Bodie State Historic Park

In the 1800s, Bodie was a gold-mining town home to approximately 10,000 people. Now, it’s abandoned, but a small portion of the town is standing and still well-preserved. In fact, it’s considered a ghost town. There are no commercial facilities, but it’s an authentic way to peek at life in California during the Gold Rush.

5. Pan for Gold at Marshall Gold Discovery Park

The gold rush began in 1848. Here, at Marshall Gold Discovery Park, visitors can step back in time and try their luck at panning for gold in the American River. There are also nearby hiking trails and many historic buildings, including a mining exhibit.

6. Visit the Point Cabrillo Light Station

This picturesque setting on the California coast is worth a visit. On the grounds, visitors will find three lightkeeper houses, one of which is a period museum so guests can see what a lightkeeper’s house might have looked like in the 1930s. The other two are available for vacation cottages. Open 365 days per year, there is also a Lighthouse Museum and a Marine Science Exhibit, which includes a 240-gallon aquarium.

7. Sip and Savor in Napa

Napa has world-class wineries and gorgeous vineyard scenery. With over 400 wineries, spend the weekend and try more than one! A few favorites include Domaine Carneros, Stags’ Leap Winery, and Sterling Vineyards.

8. Learn Something New at the Monterey Aquarium

Fun for the entire family, the Monterey Aquarium is a world-class marine experience. Home to 80,000 plants and animals, expect to see sea otters, sharks, and penguins. Plus, the museum is situated in an excellent location, right on the scenic and historic Cannery Row.

9. Explore the Great Outdoors in Lake Tahoe

Visiting Lake Tahoe is one of the best things to do in Northern California. No matter what time of year, the scenery is beautiful, and there are so many ways to spend time in the great outdoors. From swimming in the lake, exploring the water via boat or kayak, hitting the many miles of hiking trails, skiing, snowshoeing, and so much more — visitors will love adventurous days and relaxing evenings with a little help from a cozy firepit. 

10. Take a Trip to the State Capital

Spend the morning admiring fine art at the Crocker Art Museum ($15 per person). The museum offers diverse exhibits, including activities for kids, lectures, and classes. Then, stroll through the Old Sacramento Waterfront. The historic district is a unique spot to shop and grab a bite to eat. Try Steamers Bakery & Café for a quick bite.

11. Watch the Waves in Half Moon Bay

There are so many things to do in Northern California, but admiring the (sometimes) 80-foot Mavericks in Half Moon Bay is one of the most unique. Surfers from all over the world crave these waves, which are considered the biggest in the world and can be found just outside Pillar Point Harbor. The bravest surfers will compete in winter during Half Moon Bay’s Maverick Big Wave Invitational.

12. Play at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

Spending a day in the sun, surf, and sand at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is one of the most fun things to do in Northern California. Entertaining visitors since 1907, the beach and boardwalk are iconic. Don’t miss the Giant Dipper roller coaster or the Looff Carousel. Both are National Historic Landmarks. 

13. Do Anything and Everything in San Francisco

In San Francisco, the world is your oyster. From famous museums (like the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art and the de Young Museum) to historic theaters, shopping, dining, and drinking, the City by the Bay offers so many amazing things to do in Northern California. Spend time exploring San Francisco’s diverse neighborhoods. Favorites include the Mission District, Chinatown, North Beach, and Haight-Ashbury, to name a few! Also, don’t miss Golden Gate Park.

14. Take in the Sights at Yosemite National Park

At almost 750,000 acres, there’s never a shortage of things to experience in Yosemite. From camping to hiking, biking, birdwatching, fishing, rock climbing, and fishing, there are so many things to do in this Northern California natural gem. Known for its gorgeous waterfalls, granite cliffs, and clear creaks, Yosemite National Park is a fantastic destination any time of year. June and September offer the best temperatures without the summer crowds.

15. Relax in Sonoma Plaza

Sonoma, like Napa, is known for its stunning wine country. One fun place to sip and savor while also visiting historical buildings (like the Mission San Francisco Solano) is Sonoma Plaza—Sonoma’s town square. After an afternoon of wine tasting, sightseeing, and shopping, grab lunch to-go at the Sonoma Cheese Factory. Stock up on sandwiches, snacks, and drinks, and enjoy a picnic in the square’s grassy center. If you prefer to dine indoors, try the girl & the fig . Their seasonal cuisine is fresh and delicious.

16. Marvel at Nature in Muir Woods

There’s a reason why Muir Woods is often crowded—the redwoods are simply stunning. Some are close to 1,000 years old and 250 feet tall. Visitors must reserve parking online ($9.50) before arriving. Upon arrival, there’s a separate $15.00 park entrance fee per adult. The official Muir Woods National Monument consists of 6 miles of trails, so plan to stay the day and hit the trails. 

17. Spend the Day at Stinson Beach

Stinson Beach is a 3.5-mile stretch of beautiful white sand in the small town of Stinson Beach in Marin County. While it only has a population of 526 residents, it received more than 3 million visitors from 2017 to 2021. Many of these visitors, like myself, will fall in love with the beautiful scenery and likely return time and time again to stroll the sand, splash in the water, and explore the shops and restaurants of the quaint beachside town.

18. Soak up the Views in Sausalito

Just a quick 10-minute drive from San Francisco, the seaside city of Sausalito offers beautiful bay views. Stroll the Sausalito’s Bridgeway Promenade for the best sights across the water to San Francisco, Angel Island, and Alcatraz. Dine on the water at Scoma’s, peruse art galleries (like the Scrimshaw Gallery), or pick up souvenirs from one of many gift shops. It’s easy to spend the day wandering around Sausalito.

19. Take a Dip in the Russian River

Explore the water via kayak, tubes, rafts, or canoes. Fishing is also popular, as is hiking and biking on the trails along the river. Monte Rio Community Beach is excellent for families as the water is calm, there’s a concession stand, and boat rentals are available.

20. Spend the Weekend in Mendocino

Mendocino is a small town with a big personality. With plenty of shops, restaurants, museums, beaches, and hiking, there is so much to do in this charming Northern California town. Highlights include Glass Beach (full of colorful sea glass), the oceanfront Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens, and the Skunk Train that travels through gorgeous redwood groves.

21. Discover the Vast Beauty of Point Reyes National Seashore

The Point Reyes National Seashore is comprised of 80 miles of shoreline. Some bits are rocky, while others offer soft sand, perfect for strolling. If this is your first time here, stop by one of the Visitor’s Centers. There are three at Point Reyes National Seashore (Bear Valley Visitor Center, Point Reyes Lighthouse Visitors Center, and Kenneth C. Patrick Visitor Center).

If this is a quick stop, visit the Bear Valley Visitor Center. It’s the main one and introduces the area, including the roads, trails, and natural history. Visitors can also pick up gifts, books, as well as food and drinks here. The Point Reyes National Seashore is ideal for hiking, relaxing on the beach, and kayaking. Also, check out Chimney Rock to spot elephant seals. You’re most likely to spot them from December through March.

22. Rent a Houseboat on Shasta Lake

A mere ten miles from Redding, Shasta Lake is the largest reservoir in California. It’s the ideal location to jet ski, fish, and float around on an inner tube, but for those looking for one of the most unique things to do in Northern California—rent a houseboat. Rental accommodations range from small and basic to big and fancy and everything in between. All floating vacation homes offer a fun way to explore beautiful Shasta Lake and stunning views of snow-capped Mount Shasta.

23. Ski at Mammoth Mountain

While Mammoth Mountain, located in Mammoth Lakes, is known as a prime winter destination to snowboard and ski, it’s also ideal in spring as there’s likely still plenty of snow. At lower elevations in spring, mountain biking, fishing, and hiking are also on the table. Mammoth Mountain is typically open for skiing from November to July.

24. Visit a Famous Filming Location

Bodega Bay is a waterside town in Sonoma County. Bodega is four miles inland. Both are famous filming locations from the classic film The Birds . A stroll around the small village will introduce you to buildings used in the movie, such as the Potter Schoolhouse, and the bay offers extraordinary water views. Fancy seeing some birds yourself? Check out the Bird Walk Coastal Access Trail .

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