california weekend trips on a budget

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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Budget Travel Buff

11 Cheapest Places to Visit in California in 2023

California is a state known for its glitz, glamour, and expensive tourist destinations. However, there are many cheap vacation spots in California that offer a great vacation without breaking the bank. From stunning beaches to scenic mountains and everything in between, California has something for everyone.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the cheapest places to visit in California, perfect for those seeking an affordable vacation without sacrificing fun and adventure.

Whether you’re a budget-conscious traveler or just looking for an affordable California destination, this article will provide you with all the information you need to plan an affordable and memorable trip . We’ll take a closer look at the top cheap vacation spots in California, including hidden gems that are often overlooked by tourists.

So, pack your bags and get ready to explore some of the most beautiful and affordable destinations in the Golden State with our guide to the cheapest places to visit in California.

• 10 Tips How to Book Cheap Flights
• How To Book Budget Hotels
• 10 Best Ways to Eat Cheap While Traveling
• Cheapest Ways to Travel in The USA

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Table of Contents

1. big bear lake.

Big Bear is just 2 hours drive away from Los Angeles  and is one of the cheapest vacation spots in California. Whether it is summer or winter, Big Bear and Big Bear Lake both are amazing places to escape into nature.

This is a popular ski destination in the USA and can get crowded in winter. Getting a cheap deal on accommodation in Big Bear can be difficult during the winter season.

But if you travel in summer, Big Bear Lake and nearby Lake Arrowhead are popular lake destinations in California and have plenty of things to offer its visitors like hiking, camping, fishing, swimming, mountain biking, and many more.

Although Big Bear has no offseason  but traveling in the shoulder season can save your budget . During spring and fall time, one can find some great deals on accommodations .

Cheap or Free Things to do in Big Bear

• Visit Big Bear Alpine Zoo , located right next to Big Bear Mountain Resort. You can see some native animals in this area such as black bears, arctic foxes, bald eagles.
• Big Bear Lake itself has a lot of water activities. Rent a kayak or take a boat ride  in the lake. If you are looking for something more interesting try your hand at fishing .
• During winter, Big Bear is popular as   a ski spot that offers ski runs for all levels.
• You can hike the San Bernadino Mountains , one of the best hikes in southern California , or can explore the place by riding on a mountain bike. Castle Rock trail  is another popular scenic hike(short) that offers a stunning panoramic view from the top. Check the hiking tours below and choose the most appropriate one:
• Go on this Family-Friendly Nature Hike around the Big Bear Valley which is fit for kids and adults. Go off the beaten path, learn all about the flora and fauna of this incredible area, taking in the landscapes, and more
• Explore Big Bear by hiking and swimming in the lake with this Private Guided Hike in Big Bear
• Escape the crowds of Big Bear on this Private Hiking Tour to Bluff Lake Reserve

Suggested Budget for Big Bear

Hotel(2 people): $55-100 Food: $15-20 Transport:  $20 Activities:  $10-15 Daily Budget: $70/person

Cheap Hotels in Big Bear Lake

• Robinhood Resort : It is an affordable hotel in Big Bear Lake that features an onsite tavern and pub for a variety of food and entertainment options. 
• Big Bear Frontier : Nestled in the San Bernardino Mountains, surrounded by tall pines this breathtaking resort expresses a chic, yet rustic charm that offers serenity and tranquility. Cabins are very cute and close to the lake.

2. MENDOCINO

Mendocino, located on California’s rugged north coast, is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and small-town charm. Last year, I visited this place with my parents and I was really surprised to see how affordable the place is.

This scenic California beach town is a fantastic choice for travellers on a tight budget. There are many low-cost or free activities to enjoy, from the scenic Mendocino Headlands State Park to the historic Point Cabrillo Light Station.

Additionally, you can find affordable accommodations such as cozy B&Bs or vacation rentals with breathtaking Pacific Ocean views. Overall, Mendocino is an excellent choice for people seeking a budget-friendly and memorable California vacation.

Cheap or Free Things to do in Mendocino

• Discover the Mendocino Headlands State Park, which features a network of hiking paths and breathtaking ocean vistas.
• Visit the Ford House Visitor Centre & Museum, which welcomes visitors and offers free admission to learn more about the fascinating history of the area.
• Explore Mendocino, a lovely town famous for its unique shops, galleries, and Victorian architecture.
• Visit the Point Cabrillo Light Station State Historic Park to take beautiful hikes along the rocky shoreline and discover the lighthouse’s past. Relax on stunning beaches including Van Damme State Park Beach and Big River Beach.
• Explore the hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic beaches in the Russian Gulch State Park.

Budget-Friendly Hotels in Mendocino

• The Mendocino Hotel and Garden – This historic hotel offers affordable rooms and suites, many of which feature ocean views or fireplaces. The hotel is located in the heart of downtown Mendocino, making it a convenient base for exploring the town and its surrounding areas.
• The Hill House Inn – This budget-friendly inn offers cozy rooms and suites with beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean. The property also features a heated outdoor pool, hot tub, and a garden area where guests can relax and take in the scenery. The Hill House Inn is located within walking distance of downtown Mendocino and is a great option for budget-conscious travelers who want to stay in a picturesque location.

Just north of Los Angeles, Ventura is an inexpensive beach town outside the hustle and bustle of city life. It is a laid-back beach town with lots of free activities, natural beauty, and reasonable accommodations.

Ventura is not all about the beach. Beyond this, it has a delightful Ventura Pier and promenade, gardens, and natural beauties.

Cheap or Free Things to do in Ventura

• Take a short stroll on the Ventura Pier  in the evening and watch the shimmering sunset. The promenade is perfect for morning or evening runs. You can rent a bike and explore the Ventura Pier.
• Ventura Botanical Gardens is a popular botanical garden in California and it is free to visit. Follow the walking trail that leads uphill and offers mesmerizing ocean vistas.
• Take a boat ride to Channel Island National Park . It opens daily and admission is free here. Learn about this island, see exhibits. You can spend a nice family time here.
• Visit The San Buenaventura Mission  which was built in 1749. This Spanish mission has experienced pirate attacks, fires, earthquake but still is in working order. The admission fee for adults is $4 and for kids just $1.
• If you love biking, don’t miss the chance to explore Paved Bike Path . The path goes to the neighboring city of Ojai which is also known as ‘ Shangri La ’ for its stunning landscapes.

Suggested Budget for Ventura

Hotel(2 people): $60-110 Food: $10-15 Transport:  $10 Activities:  $10 Daily Budget: $60/person

Cheap Hotels in Ventura

• Amanzi Hotel : If you are looking to stay near the beach, book Amanzi Hotel which is just 200 m away from the beach. It features free breakfast, a heated outdoor pool, as well as free WiFi throughout the property. All rooms are air-conditioned, spacious, and equipped with a microwave and refrigerator.
• Vagabond Inn Ventura : It is located in Downtown Ventura near the historic Oldtown and features an outdoor swimming pool, jacuzzi, free WiFi, and free parking. Ventura State Beach is just 300 m away from the hotel.

4. DEATH VALLEY NATIONAL PARK

If you are into adventure and are looking for cheap vacation ideas in California, Death Valley National Park could be the perfect weekend destination for you.

Well, the name isn’t inviting though, but trust me, Death Valley is strikingly beautiful. It is located in central California. It takes around 2.5 hours to reach Death Valley from Los Angeles by car.

What car rental service is the best to choose?

If you are looking for car rental which can be trusted, then I recommend choosing Rentalcars , an international car rental booking service that is present all over the world. So you will definitely find the most appropriate car wherever you are.

Death Valley is one of the hottest and driest places in the US. The best time to visit Death Valley is March to early May when the wildflowers bloom and the weather is comparatively pleasant.

Camping in Death Valley is very cheap if you arrive there early. There are a total of nine campgrounds and four of which are free. All of them are first come first served. The rent of chargeable campsites starts from $14 . Check out 10 Best Campsites in Southern California .

Cheap or Free Things to do in Death Valley

• Visit Badwater Basin , the lowest point in the USA. The surreal landscape features a vast salt plain that makes up a serene white concrete spanning for miles.
• Go for the Natural Bridge hike  in late fall, winter, or early spring. This is a short hike that offers stunning rock formations.
• Ubehebe Crater  must be included in your Death Valley itinerary . It is the largest of the maar volcano clusters, created by a volcanic belch about 300 years ago. To see it from a different point of view, hike the trail that leads along the giant Ubehebe Crater’s southwest rim to other older craters.
• There is a short bike path  from Furnace Creek Visitor Center to Harmony Borax Works. Explore the park’s extensive network of dirt roads with a mountain bike.

Suggested Budget for Death Valley

Camp(2 people): $14-60 Food: $10-15 Transport:  $15 Activities:  $10 Daily Budget: $42/person

Cheap Hotels in Death Valley NP

If Camping is not your thing, you can stay at Death Valley Inn & RV Park which is located 13 km away from the entry point of Death Valley National Park.

This motel offers all the modern facilities including a flat-screen TV, a refrigerator, a microwave, and a coffee machine in an air-conditioned room with free WiFi and an outdoor pool.

5. JOSHUA TREE NATIONAL PARK

There are lots of amazing National Parks in California and Joshua Tree is one of those which is located in the southeastern part of California . Whether you’re looking for a calm atmosphere, a strenuous adventure, an Old West-inspired getaway, you will find plenty of things to do in Joshua Tree National Park and its surrounding area.

Though the park is open year-round, the best time to visit Joshua Tree National Park is early spring (March to May) and October to November.

There is an entrance fee of $30 per vehicle and $25 per motorcycle. The cheap campgrounds and lots of free activities (hiking, rock climbing) made Joshua Tree National Park an affordable vacation in California.

Cheap or Free Things to do in Joshua Tree National Park

• With 8000 climbing routes, 2000 boulder problems and hundreds of natural gaps, Joshua Tree national park is a climber’s paradise. It has challenges for all ability levels. However, the routes in Echo Cove are great for first-timers.
• Located just 12 miles south of the park’s north entrance, Cholla Cactus Garden is a must-visit place in your Joshua Tree National Park itinerary . Walk through the garden of the world’s densest concentrations of the dangerous cholla cactus.
• Enjoy the shimmering sunset from the Key View , the highest point and a secret place in Joshua Tree National Park . From an elevation of 5185 feet, this viewpoint offers a breathtaking view of Coachella Valley and Palm Springs .
• There are plenty of hiking trails in Joshua Tree National Park . Indian Cove Natural Trail is highly recommended. Enjoy the park’s namesake flora. It is an easy straightforward hike. If you are lucky you can see the wildlife animals such as bighorn sheep and desert tortoises

Suggested Budget for Joshua Tree National Park

Hotel(2 people): $50-100 Food: $15-20 Transport:  $10 Activities:  $10 Daily Budget: $60/person

Cheap Hotels in Joshua Tree NP

• High Desert Motel Joshua Tree National Park : This motel is just 10 minutes drive from the National Park entry point. It offers an outdoor pool, free parking. Each room has a cable TV and microwave and coffeemaker. The staffs are really friendly and helpful.
• Safari Motor Inn – Joshua Tree : Nice and quiet despite being in a great location for the national park at an affordable price.

Oxnard is one of the cheapest cities in California located in the north of Malibu. It is a coastal town of southern California, just a few miles away from Channel Island also known as America’s Galapagos . Many people are moving to California and choosing coastal towns to spend the rest of their life. Check out the pros and cons of living in California .

From local cheap farmer’s markets to the palm tree-lined beachfront, biking trails, museum- Oxnard is packed with a lot of tourist attractions. Early spring is the ideal time to visit Oxnard when the crowd is less and the room rates are less expensive.

Cheap or Free Things to do in Oxnard

• Stroll around Channel Islands Harbor . It boasts several activities such as picnic spots, biking, and hiking trails, Channel Islands Maritime Museum,  and many more. Take some magnificent photos at sunset of the homes that line the waterway.
• If you are into culture, tour the local farmer’s market . It’s free to wander through the shops. Explore the market, buy some local treats, or grab a bite to eat and enjoy the mild breezes.
• You must visit The Murphy Auto Museum  if you are fond of vintage cars. It features cars that date back to 1903 with great classics like the 1910 Duro, the 1963 Studebaker. See the model railroad display. There is no admission fee.
• Fly kites on Mandalay beach . It is a natural pristine beach with fragile dunes and a palm tree-lined beachfront. Rent a kite for $5 from Wheel Fun Rentals and enjoy flying kites.

Suggested Budget for Oxnard

Hotel(2 people): $70-120 Food: $10-15 Transport:  $10 Activities:  $5 Daily Budget: $60/person

Cheap Hotels in Oxnard

• Crystal Lodge Motel :  This inexpensive motel offers comfortable guestrooms and suites with convenient amenities.
• Holiday Inn Express & Suites Camarillo : It is a mid-range hotel located between Santa Barbara and Malibu and offers an outdoor pool and hot tub.

Want to get European flavor while traveling in California? Visit Solvang, the Danish Capital of America , located in the scenic Santa Ynez Valley. The city is mostly known for its wineries and Danish-style unique architecture.

The city is filled with picturesque buildings in the central point where there are also plenty of options to enjoy museums, local food, and culture at a reasonable price.

You can save decent money on hotels if you stay in Buellton which is just a 5-6 minute drive from Solvang. The numerous hostels, hotels, and other types of accommodations give visitors plenty of options to find a room that fits their budgets.

Cheap or Free Things to do in Solvang

• Solvang is a small town. Walk around  the town and stop at the Visitors Center of Copenhagen Drive. It has a free travel guide. Visit the wooden windmills  throughout downtown. Take some fantastic photos of this large windmill. You can also rent a bicycle to get around the city.
• Exploring the vineyards and wineries is one of the best things to do in Solvang . Visit the Rusack Vineyards  that produce world-class wines. Go for wine tasting  and relax on the oak-shaded deck while sipping the award-winning handcrafted wines. Enjoy a homemade picnic that can be ordered on-site.
• Don’t miss Hans Christian Anderson Park , especially if you are here with kids. There is no entrance fee. The park features lots of fun activities for kids of all ages. There are a skate park, climbing wall, playground, and a music-making machine.
• Take a hike in the beautiful countryside of Solvang. The lush green hills, Santa Ynez and San Rafael mountain ranges that hug the valley provide impressive scenery. Climb to Gaviota Peak  which offers a bird’s-eye view of the Pacific coastline.

Suggested Budget for Solvang

Hotel(2 people): $50-90 Food: $15-20 Transport:  $20 Activities:  $10 Daily Budget: $70/person

Cheap Hotels in Solvang

• Hadsten House Inn : This European style hotel is located at the center of Solvang and boasts decorative fireplaces, flat-screen TVs, and lavish linens.
• Hotel Corque : It offers a restaurant on-site, an outdoor pool and free WiFi.

YOU MAY ALSO READ: 10 Most Affordable Weekend Vacation Spots in Colorado

8. SACRAMENTO

When you are planning for a cheap weekend getaway in California, how can you miss the state capital  Sacramento? Filled with rich history, culture, interesting museums, and lots of affordable dining, and sleeping options, Sacramento is a popular California road trip stop that you shouldn’t miss.

Sacramento can be traveled at any time of the year. During the spring and fall seasons, temps are mild and the sun is plentiful. Sacramento is also considered as one of the best fall destinations in the USA . Visitors can use the city’s SacRT public transit system to get around the city at a low cost.

Locating at the confluence of the Sacramento and American Rivers, Sacramento offers lots of free or cheap things for its visitors that include California State Capitol Building, historic sites, candy tours, and many more.

Cheap or Free Things to do in Sacramento

• Visit The California State Capitol Museum , the iconic Neoclassical-style building which was constructed in 1874. It is totally free to visit. Explore the splendid architecture of the building. Don’t miss free documentary films  which are shown daily at the basement theatre.
• Do you love cycling? Go for the American River Bike Trail , one of the best free things to do in Sacramento . Starting from Discovery Park in Old Sacramento to Beal’s Point, the entire 32 miles trail is full of natural beauties. If you are not into cycling, consider hiking or horseback riding.
• If you are with kids, you must take Jelly Belly Factory Tours  which offers an inside view of California’s Jelly Belly factory. Every day it offers a free walking tour that lasts about 40 minutes from 9 am to 4 pm. More than 50 types of delicious jelly beans are produced here.
• Folsom Lake  is one of the most visited places in California. This man-made reservoir sits at the base of the Sierra Nevada foothills. You will have several outdoor activities here that include hiking, biking, horseback riding, boating, and waterskiing.

Suggested Budget for Sacramento

Hotel(2 people): $45-100 Food: $15-20 Transport:  $10 Activities:  $5-10 Daily Budget: $55/person

Cheap Hotels in Sacramento:

• HI Sacramento Hostel
• Arden Star Hotel

READ NEXT: 10 Cheapest Places to Visit in Florida

9. PISMO BEACH

Probably the best destination on this list for travelers looking for a beach vacation and great deals that fit into their budget. It is a small town along the California coastline .

From a charming ocean-view to Monarch Butterfly Grove, Dinosaur Caves Park, and Pismo Pier, there are plenty of budget-friendly things to do in Pismo Beach. Visit this beach town in the spring or fall season to get a clear sky, smaller crowds, and amazing hotel deals.

Cheap or Free Things to do in Pismo Beach

• Riding on the Oceano Dunes  is the most popular activity on Pismo beach. This is the only public beach in California where you can drive your vehicle. You can rent ATVs or ride dune buggies with your friends or families.
• Take a short stroll on Pismo Beach Pier and Promenade . Take some stunning snaps at the end of the pier with the limitless and unobstructed ocean in the background.
• If you are bored with beaches, take a short drive to Central Coast Wine County . See the vineyards and go for wine tasting at Edna Valley Vineyard Tolosa winery.
• Dinosaur Caves Park  is a kid’s friendly park where kids can play on the ground. You can enjoy a laid-back stroll in this 11-acre park.

Suggested Budget for Pismo Beach

Hotel(2 people): $80-100 Food: $10-15 Transport:  $10 Activities:  $0 Daily Budget: $60/person

Cheap Hotels near Pismo Beach

• Quality Inn Pismo Beach
• Ocean Palms Motel

This charming seaport town is another cheap place to travel to in California. The city has a magnetic collection of cultural charms and boasts of outdoor activities.

With a Victorian-style Old Town , historical parks, and plenty of museums, Eureka is such a beautiful place that you cannot afford to miss. For its beautiful combination of old-fashioned charm and modern comforts, it is an ideal destination for couples looking for a budget romantic getaway in California .

Cheap or Free Things to do in Eureka

• Explore the Old Town of Eureka on foot. It is packed with ample Victorian styled architecture and historic buildings. The Old Town features an array of art galleries, antique stores, museums, restaurants, and coffee shops.
• Visit Fort Humboldt State Historic Park  which was built in 1853. It was abandoned in 1870 and now it stands as a historical museum that showcases the history of logging in Eureka, with displays of logging equipment, an authentic Native American canoe, and trains.
• Visit the Sequoia Park Zoo , the oldest zoo in California . This zoo is home to over 200 vertebrates and approx. 1700 invertebrates. It has a good collection of llamas, various bird species, mammals, and reptiles.
• Go for a scenic drive on the Redwood Highway . You will find the giant redwood trees on both sides of Highway 101 that create a magical ambiance throughout the route.

Suggested Budget for Eureka

Hotel(2 people): $60-100 Food: $15-20 Transport:  $20 Activities:  $5-10 Daily Budget: $70/person

Cheap Hotels in Eureka

• Travelodge by Wyndham Eureka
• Redwood Coast Cabins and RV Resort

11. DANA POINT

Dana Point is a charming city in Southern California and is also known as one of the best surfing areas in the USA . The city has been wooing whale and dolphin watchers and water sports lovers for generations.

From the lively Dana Point Harbor, and beautiful Nature Interpretive Center to adrenaline-pumping parasailing excursions or whale watching , there is no shortage of activities for all types of travelers.

The best time to visit Dana Point is late August to early September. Traveling in the fall season is highly recommended to get plenty of cheap hotel deals .

Cheap or Free Things to do in Dana Point

• Visit Dana Point Harbor . It is also known as the ‘ Whale Capital of the World ’. Dana Point Harbor offers specialty shopping, fishing and whale watching excursions , and a variety of restaurants.
• You shouldn’t miss the Ocean Institute , a natural attraction in Dana Point Harbor. The institute conducts different nature-focused educational programs throughout the year.
• Adventure enthusiasts must experience parasailing in Dana Point . Dana Point Parasail is a very popular and renowned company for its high-quality operations to have safe, fun, and memorable parasailing adventures along the beautiful Pacific Ocean coastline.

Suggested Budget for Dana Point

Hotel: $50-110 Food: $15 Transport:  $10 Activities:  $20(parasailing is not included here) Daily Budget: $70/person

Cheap Hotels in Dana Point

• Best Western Plus Dana Point Inn-by-the-Sea
• Best Western Plus Casablanca Inn

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Frequently Asked Questions about Cheapest Places to Visit in California

1. what are the great and cheap family vacation spots in california.

A : Carlsbad and Big Bear Lake are pretty affordable places in California and offer countless family-friendly activities.

2. Where should I go for a cheap weekend getaway in California?

A : It depends upon what you want to see. California is a large state and full of natural wonders. If you like to go for an affordable beach vacation in California, you can visit Ventura and Oxnard . You can also visit Solvang , an underrated place in California.

3. What is the cheapest National Park to Visit in California?

A: If you are looking for a cheap National Park in California, visit Death Valley NP or Joshua Tree NP . Don’t miss the Cholla Cactus Garden in Joshua Tree where you can world densest concentrations of the dangerous but beautiful cholla cactus.

4. Where is the most affordable place to visit in Southern California?

A : Oxnard is a beautiful coastal city in SoCal that offers plenty of free things to do. Walk along Channel Islands Harbor, visit The Murphy Auto Museum or fly kites in Mandalay beach – all are free activities in Oxnard.

5. What are the cheapest places to visit in California with kids?

A : You can visit Carlsbad if you have kids. Legoland California is an amazing place in Carlsbad that offers various rides and shows that keep children well entertained.

6. Where should I visit for a cheap vacation in Northern California?

A : Looking for an inexpensive place to visit in Northern California ? Sacramento can be an ideal place for you. Visit California State Capitol Museum and explore Old Sacramento State Historic Park.

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10 Comments

Great list! I really liked Ventura when I ran a marathon there. I need to visit the national parks! Fun!

This is awesome! A great list and I love how you included so many free things to do I each spot! I went to Palm Springs last year but it was during the shutdown, so I didn’t get to see Joshua Tree! Definitely going to use this list when I go back. Thanks for sharing – Danielle

hank you so much Danielle. This post is fully prepared for budget travelers. People might think that free thing is impossible in California. That’s why here is my solution to travel cheap in California.

Definitely going to bookmark this list for when we can travel again. I’ve been wanting to go to California and these seem like great locations.

Wow Nice Info, Thanks for sharing with us.

Thank you, Selan.

Thanks for the nice suggestions and some great information for solo travellers.

You’re welcome.

Where to visit in California in winter on a budget?

You can visit Palm SPrings and Death Valley NP in winter.

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15 Amazing Cheap Vacation Spots in California

Want to take a vacation in california but don’t want to spend a lot of money check out these top cheap spots in the beautiful golden state.

When it comes to taking a vacation, California is a great state to consider. Although there are expensive places to visit like Disneyland or San Francisco, you can still enjoy the Golden State on a budget if you know where to look.

Let’s jump into amazing cheap vacation spots in California!

Cheap Vacation Spots in California

Cheap vacation spots in southern california.

Southern California is a great place to take cheap vacations. The beaches are beautiful, and there are plenty of options to keep you busy. You can visit one of the many beaches, check out an island, or explore the many different coastal towns.

Here are some top cheap vacation spots in Southern California:

Ventura Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Southern California. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the sun and surf. There are also plenty of restaurants and shops nearby, so you can easily find something to do.

For a cheap way to enjoy Ventura Beach, check out the Ventura Pier . It’s a great place to take a walk, and there are also plenty of restaurants and shops nearby. Ventura Botanical Gardens is also free admission and a great place to spend an afternoon.

You can also visit the Channel Islands National Park , which is just a short drive away and free! The park consists of five different islands, and each one has its own unique features. The Channel Islands National Park is a great place to visit if you’re looking for some natural beauty.

Where to Stay in Ventura

• Crystal Lodge Motel : This motel is about 1 mile from Ventura Beach and offers great accommodations. Due to its location, you can easily walk to the beach and other attractions.
• Clocktower Inn : Even closer to the beach, the Clocktower Inn is just a half mile from the city center but doesn’t break the bank. This elegant Spanish-style house provides comfort and a great experience.

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2. Catalina Island

Catalina Island is a great place to take a cheap and affordable vacation. You can enjoy water activities like snorkeling or kayaking, visit the Catalina Island Museum, go hiking, or take a scenic tour of the island.

For more nature and outdoor experiences, there are also camping and hiking adventures to explore. The Two Harbors Trail is a great option if you’re looking for an easy hike. The trail is only three miles long, but it’s a beautiful hike with great views of the ocean.

For a cheap way to get to Catalina Island, take the Catalina Express , which is a ferry that connects the island with the mainland. This is it’s a great option to get there without spending a lot of money.

Avalon is where most of the touristy things are located, which means that everything will be a little more expensive. As an alternative, you can stay in Two Harbors instead even though there is significantly less shopping and restaurants.

Where to Stay on Catalina Island

• Catalina Island Seacrest Inn : Located in the heart of Avalon, this inn has different themed rooms to provide accommodations for travelers. Its location comes highly recommended for visitors!
• Hotel Atwater : Also located in Avalon, this 1920s-styled hotel is right off the beach and has stunning views. All the attractions are within a 15-minute walk so you’ll be sure to enjoy your stay here!
• You can also camp overnight at one of the many camping sites on Catalina Island. For more nature and beach days, check out Two Harbors Campground .

3. Big Bear Lake

For a cheap vacation spot to enjoy the outdoors, consider visiting Big Bear Lake . Big Bear Lake is a great place to go camping, fishing, or hiking. There are also plenty of cabins and campsites available for rent, so you can easily find an affordable place to stay.

If you’re looking for some fun activities, head out to the Big Bear Alpine Zoo or take a scenic tour on the Big Bear Lake Scenic Railway . For hikers, check out the San Bernadino Mountains or the Castle Rock Trail for beautiful scenic views!

Keep in mind that Big Bear and Big Bear Lake are popular destinations in the winter for skiing, so plan your trip in other seasons like Spring or Summer to get the most bang for your buck.

Where to Stay Near Big Bear Lake

• Robinhood Resort : Located in the heart of Big Bear City, Robinhood Resort is just a 5-minute walk from the marina and Big Bear lake. For evening relaxation, you can head to the tavern on-site and enjoy good food and entertainment.
• Fireside Lodge : For a more cozy and rustic vibe, head to Fireside Lodge. The rooms are decorated to make you feel like you’re staying in a large cabin. You are also within a 5-minute walk from the marina and Big Bear Lake.

4. San Luis Obispo

San Luis Obispo is a great place to take a cheap vacation. It’s beautiful, and there are plenty of activities to keep you busy. You can visit the Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, go wine tasting or explore the sand dunes!

One of the coolest things to do in San Luis Obispo is to walk down the main street for some window shopping. There are cute shops and fun restaurants to hang out in! You can also stop by the Rock Fizz candy shop to buy a piece of gum and visit the Bubble Gum Wall .

If you’re in San Luis Obispo in the fall, you can check out the butterfly grove near Pismo Beach as they migrate south in the winter! While you’re in Pismo, you can check out the Oceano Dunes which is an expansive area full of sand! This area is beautiful in the golden hours of sunset, so get your camera ready!

Where to Stay in San Luis Obispo

• Madonna Inn : This is a unique and fun option. It’s known for its pink and outrageous decor, and it’s definitely a one-of-a-kind experience.
• Apple Farm Inn : For a cute country boutique stay, this inn is within a mile of the Amtrak station for easy transportation.

Cheap Vacation Spots in Central California

Central California is a great place to take a vacation. You can visit the state capital, go wine tasting, or explore the many different coastal towns. There are also plenty of things to do for nature lovers, including hiking and camping in state parks.

5. Cayucos, Cambria, and Paso Robles

If you’re looking for small beach towns, consider checking out Cayucos, Cambria, and Paso Robles . These charming towns are located on the Central Coast of California and are known for their beautiful beaches, views of the Pacific Ocean, and friendly locals.

There are plenty of restaurants and shops to explore in Cayucos , and you can also check out the Morro Bay Aquarium, go whale watching, or explore the tidepools at Estero Bluffs .

Cambria is another great option for a small-town beach vacation just 20 minutes north of Cayucos. This town is located on Highway 1 and is known for its beautiful coastline and scenic views. From here you can visit Hearst Castle, Nit Wit Ridge (the poor man’s Hearst Castle), and even see some adorable, blubbery elephant seals !

Paso Robles is another great option for a Central California vacation. It’s located 20-30 minutes east of Cambria and is well-known for its vineyards and wine-tasting tours. You can also explore the many different hiking trails, go horseback riding, or visit one of the several museums and art galleries in town.

When coming to this coastal area, I would recommend hitting up all 3 seaside towns in one cheap California vacation as they are so close together and you can easily visit each one over the weekend.

Where to Stay in Cayucos or Cambria

• Cayucos: Cayucos Beach Inn – Located in the heart of Cayucos, you will be within walking distance of everything: Cayucos State Beach, Ocean Avenue, and all the delicious seafood. You’ll also be about 2 miles from Estero bluffs and the tidepools.
• Cambria: Cambria Pines Lodge – Also located in the city center of Cambria, you’ll be within walking distance to Moonstone Beach, Main Street, and everything you’d want to see in Cambria. You are also about a 10-minute drive from Hearst Castle.

Read Next: 18 Spectacular Things to do in Cayucos, California | 17 Charming Things to do in Cambria, California

6. Monterey, Carmel-by-the-Sea, and Big Sur

Monterey, Carmel-by-the-Sea, and Big Sur are 3 of the most beautiful places in central California and are easy to plan for a road trip itinerary. They’re known for their stunning coastal views, beaches, and amazing hiking trails.

Monterey is a great place to visit if you’re looking for some history and culture in a small town. Located near Santa Cruz, Monterey offers small-town vibes without the outrageous costs. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is a must-see, and there are also plenty of restaurants and shops in the area called Cannery Row . You will also want to check out Fisherman’s Wharf while you’re here!

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a beautiful coastal town located between Monterey and Big Sur. It’s known for its picturesque views, quaint shops, and delicious restaurants. Spend a day relaxing at Carmel Beach or take a drive along the scenic 17-mile road to see beautiful panoramic views.

Big Sur is a great place to go for some amazing hikes with incredible views and scenic drives. Some of the best places to hike in Big Sur are Point Lobos and Julia Pfeifer Burns State Park . There are also amazing beaches to see in Big Sur such as Pfeiffer Beach and Sand Dollar Beach, too!

As with Cayucos and the other small towns, I would bunch visits to Monterey, Carmel-by-the-Sea, and Big Sur into weekend getaways if possible.

Where to Stay in Monterey and Big Sur

• Monterey: Arbor Inn – Located right on the edge of Monterey, you’ll be able to easily get on the highway to head towards Carmel and Big Sur. However, you will also be within a 15-minute walk of Fisherman’s Wharf and Monterey State Beach.
• However, if you are camping in Big Sur then check out the Pfieffer Big Sur Campground .

Read Next: Monterey and Big Sur: Plan the Perfect Road Trip Itinerary

7. Sacramento

Sacramento , the capital of California is a great place to visit for a cheap vacation. The city has plenty of affordable hotels and restaurants, and there are also lots of things to do in the area. One of the best ways to enjoy Sacramento is by taking a walk or bike ride through the city.

There are also plenty of parks and gardens to explore, and you can visit the Sacramento Zoo or the California State Railroad Museum . If you are big into biking, check out the American River Parkway , also known as the Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail .

Where to Stay in Sacramento

• When visiting Sacramento, there are plenty of affordable places to stay. One great option is the Sheraton Grand Sacramento , which is located right in the heart of downtown Sacramento and offers comfortable accommodations and a variety of amenities including an outdoor pool and city views.

8. Yosemite National Park

If you’re looking for an outdoor adventure, consider visiting Yosemite National Park . This park is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in the country, and there are plenty of things to do. You can go hiking, camping, fishing, and more.

One of the best ways to experience Yosemite is by hiking all the trails the national park offers. There are many different trails to choose from, so you can find one that’s perfect for your fitness level.

Some of my favorite hikes are the Mist Trail, John Mui Trail , and the Mirror Lake trails in Yosemite Valley. You could also enter through Mariposa Grove and check out the redwoods as well!

Where to Stay Near Yosemite National Park

There are also plenty of campsites available if you want to stay overnight. If you’d rather not camp inside Yosemite, consider staying in one of the nearby towns like Mariposa or Oakhurst. These towns offer cheap accommodation and restaurant options if you’d rather not rough it in the outdoors.

• The Monarch Inn : Located right off HWY 49, the Monarch Inn is in the perfect location to explore Mariposa and be a good night’s rest for your big trip to Yosemite National Park.

9. Death Valley National Park

If you’re looking for an adventure, consider visiting Death Valley National Park . This park is home to some of the most extreme weather and landscapes in the country. It’s also home to a wide variety of wildlife, so you’re sure to see something interesting while you’re there.

One of the best ways to experience Death Valley is to go camping. There are many different campsites to choose from, and you can find one that’s perfect for your needs. Just be aware that some campgrounds, like Furnace Creek, will be closed over the summer due to extreme heat weather.

Some hikes in Death Valley to check out are the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, the Badwater Basin Salt Flats Trail, and the Golden Canyon Trail . You can also drive through the park to see some of the most beautiful landscapes in the country. Be sure to take caution and drive on paved paths.

Where to Stay Near Death Valley National Park

• Death Valley Inn & RV Park : Located just 8 miles from the entrance of Death Valley National Park, this inn is the perfect location to get some rest.

Cheap Vacation Spots in Northern California

Northern California is a great place to take a cheap vacation. From beautiful mountain-top views to city vibes, you’ll be able to find something affordable to meet your budget needs!

10. Santa Rosa

For a cheap vacation spot in Northern California, Santa Rosa is a great choice. There are plenty of affordable places to stay and activities to enjoy. From wine country tours to visits to the nearby beaches, there’s something for everyone in Santa Rosa!

You can head down to the historic square , walk around, and shop in the fun antique stores! If you’re a Peanuts fan then you’ll find characters from Charlie Brown to Snoopy around the historic square. You can also check out the Charles M. Schulz Museum for even more Peanuts.

If you’re looking for an animal adventure, consider booking a safari in Santa Rosa so you don’t have to go all the way to Africa! Some of the animals you’ll see on safari include flamingos, giraffes, deer, and more!

Remember that you’re in Sonoma County in Santa Rosa, so you can go wine tasting as well! With so many to choose from, you’ll be able to experience all that Sonoma County has to offer. One of the best places to go wine tasting is in Napa Valley, which is just a short drive away from Santa Rosa!

Where to Stay in Santa Rosa

• Hotel La Rose : Located in the downtown historic Square of Santa Rosa, you can stay right in the heart of the city. As everything is within walking distance, you can enjoy a night out and then just walk back to the hotel.
• Art House : just outside of the historic square, this hotel is a great traditional hotel stay. It’s also within 10-15 miles of everything to see in Santa Rosa.

Read Next: 17 Fun Things to do in Santa Rosa, California

11. Petaluma

If you’re looking for a quiet and charming town to visit in California, Petaluma is a great choice. This historic town is located in the heart of Sonoma County, and it’s known for its Victorian architecture, art galleries, and farmer’s markets .

You can visit the historic downtown area, walk around the farmer’s markets, or go for a hike in one of the nearby parks. You’ll also want to check out the creameries in Petaluma, as the city is known for its dairy.

From Petaluma, you can take a short trip to Point Reyes Natural Reserve , which is a great place for hiking, bird watching, and relaxing on the beach. One of the best beaches in this area is Drakes beach where you can walk on the sand and pick up sand dollars!

You can also drive a bit further north to visit Muir Woods National Monument , where you can see some of the tallest trees in the world! Or head on over to the coast and visit the famous city of the Birds, Bodega Bay.

Where to Stay in Petaluma

• Courtyard by Marriott Petaluma Sonoma County for a budget stay.
• If you have a little more room and want some pretty boat views, check out the Sheraton Sonoma Wine Country Petaluma hotel and ask for a room with a view.

Read Next: 20 Incredible Things to do in Petaluma, California

12. Mendocino

Mendocino is a beautiful coastal town located in Northern California. This town is known for its stunning views, quaint shops, and delicious restaurants.

You can go for a walk on the beach, explore the town, or go for a hike in one of the nearby parks.

One of the best parks to hike in Mendocino is the Russian Gulch State Park where you can see waterfalls, redwoods, and the coast. Hike the Fern Canyon and Falls Loop Trail to see the best of this state park.

After exploring nature, you can come back and stroll the streets of downtown Mendocino. This town is full of cute shops and delicious restaurants. Make sure to check out the Mendocino Jams and Preserves to take a sweet treat home!

If you’re looking for a place to eat, I would recommend checking out Cafe Beaujolais , which is known for its French-inspired Mendocino cuisine. Another great option is the Ledford House Restaurant , which has stunning ocean views.

Where to Stay in Mendocino

• Headlands Inn Bed & Breakfast : Located very close to the beach with some amazing views!

Another cheap vacation spot to visit in Northern California is Eureka . This is the largest coastal city between San Francisco and Portland, Oregon.

Eureka is a great place to explore on foot, and there are plenty of things to see and do. Be sure to check out the Blue Ox Millworks Historic Park which is a woodworking museum. You can also walk through the Old Town area to see Victorian-style buildings such as the Carson Mansion or check out the Humboldt Botanical Gardens .

If you’re interested in art, be sure to visit the Morris Graves Museum of Art . This museum is home to a large collection of paintings by the famous artist Morris Graves. On the other hand, if you’d like to drive your way around Eureka, you can also explore the Redwood Highway and take in some scenic views.

Where to Stay in Eureka

• Best Western Plus Humboldt Bay Inn : This hotel is located near the water and within walking distance of Old Town.

14. Redding

Redding is a city in Northern California that is home to many great attractions. From the Turtle Bay Exploration Park to the Sundial Bridge , there is something for everyone in this charming city.

There are many great things to do in Redding, California. Some of the most popular attractions include the Lassen Volcanic National Park, the Shasta Dam, and Whiskeytown National Recreation Area .

For the outdoor enthusiast, check out all that Mount Shasta has to offer. From hiking and climbing to fishing and camping, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy.

If you’re looking for a great outdoor adventure, Mount Shasta is the place to go. This mountain is located in Northern California and it is known for its stunning views, glaciers, and lava beds. From Redding to Mount Shasta, the drive is only about an hour. Check out the Spring Hill Trail for a moderate Hike.

Where to Stay in Redding

• Comfort Suites Redding Shasta Lake : This hotel is located near downtown Redding and it’s close to many of the city’s best attractions.
• Americana Modern Hotel : Another hotel with similar amenities.

15. Lake Tahoe

When looking for a breathtaking and affordable vacation spot in California, look no further than Lake Tahoe . This stunning mountain lake has something for everyone, from skiing and snowboarding in the winter to swimming and hiking in the summer.

If you’re wanting some beautiful pictures, you can drive around Lake Tahoe to the Emerald Bay Lookout . You can also hike Cascade Falls Trail or kayak in the clear blue waters!

Where to Stay Near Lake Tahoe

• Postmarc Hotel & Spa Suites : Overlooking Lake Tahoe, this hotel provides beautiful views, hot tubs, and even bikes for rent.
• Heavenly Valley Lodge : More like a cozy cabin stay, the lodge is about a 2-minute drive or a 15-minute walk to Lake Tahoe.d

Map of Cheap Vacation Spots in California

FAQs about Travel to California

1. How do I get around California?

There are many ways to get around California. You can drive, take the bus, or fly to one of the many airports in the state.

The best way to get around California is by renting a car . This way, you can drive along the Pacific Coast Highway or get from one of the airports to a National Park.

A car rental would ease your worries about ridesharing or timing everything just right to get on public transport.

🚗 When booking your car rental online, I recommend using Discover Cars . They provide the best deals for car rentals in California!

2. What is the best time of year to visit California?

The best time of year to visit California really depends on what you’re looking for in a vacation. If you’re looking to spend time outdoors, then visit in the summer or fall when the weather is warm and there are fewer crowds.

If you’re interested in skiing or snowboarding, then winter would be the best time for you to visit. And finally, if you want to avoid the crowds but still enjoy good weather, springtime would be your best bet!

3. Which airport should I fly into?

There are many airports located throughout California. The best airport to fly into really depends on your final destination within the state.

For example, if you’re looking to visit Los Angeles, then I would recommend flying into the LAX airport. However, if you’re wanting to visit the bay area, then I would suggest flying into the San Francisco Airport.

There are also other airports like San Jose, Sacramento, and Fresno for some of the cheap vacation spots in Central California.

Final Thoughts: Cheap Vacation Spots in California

California is a great place to take a vacation with some of the cheapest places to stay and activities to enjoy. From the sunny beaches of Southern California to the majestic mountains in the north, you’ll never be at a loss for things to do and have a great time!

Whether you’re looking to relax or explore, you’ll find everything you need for an unforgettable vacation in California!

What’s on your list to see next? Check out these California posts!

• Monterey and Big Sur Itinerary: Plan the Perfect Road Trip
• 17 Fun Things to do in Santa Rosa, California
• 18 Spectacular Things to do in Cayucos, California
• 17 Charming Things to do in Cambria, California
• 20 Incredible Things to do in Petaluma, California
• 17 Best Coastal Sunset Spots in Central California

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My Favorite Travel Tips + Resources

Here is a quick glance at all my go-to travel tips and resources that I use to plan every trip! For more information, check out my travel resources page .

• Booking flights: I use Google Flights to check all routes and find the best flights. Then I compare Skyscanner (for the lowest prices) before I book.
• For hotels, I go through Booking.com or book directly with Marriott (for points + rewards).
• When I travel internationally, I’ll book through Hostelworld for very budget-friendly stays.
• For vacation rentals, use Vrbo or Marriott Homes & Villas .
• Expedia also has some great bundles for hotels, flights, and car rentals altogether.
• Car Rentals: I love renting cars through Discover Cars . They have been consistent and provide the best customer service.
• Trains in Asia: Trip.com has the best options!
• Trains in Europe: Trainline or Omio .
• Visa Application: For a hassle-free process, apply for your visa from iVisa .
• Travel Credit Card: I book all my travel (flights, hotels, car rentals) through Chase Sapphire .
• Vaccines and Medications: Check the CDC website for updates on necessary vaccines to enter a country, including updates on Covid-19 and recommended places to visit. I recommend getting all the vaccines you need before you go!
• Tours + Experiences: I absolutely love my tours! Everything from eerie walking ghost tours to food tours, I’ll usually book something every trip either through Viator or GetYourGuide .
• Entertainment: Looking for entertainment like sporting events, theater shows, or concerts? Book with Ticket Squeeze !
• Tech : Keep your internet browsing safe, secure, and fast with ExpressVPN
• Language Learning: The best place to learn a new language is through Babbel as you travel to countries you don’t know the language.
• What to Pack: I almost always travel by backpack . For products I like, check out my packing guide page for all the things I take with me on different trips.

Pafoua is the author and creator of Her Wanderful World. Pafoua writes from her numerous excursions about all things travel, from fun itineraries to creating memorable experiences on the road. When she’s not traveling, Pafoua loves a fun board game night with her friends or is snuggled up reading a good book. You can find her on Instagram @herwanderfulworld.

9 Top Tips for Planning a Trip to California on a Budget

By: Author Laura

Posted on Published: 6th February 2022  - Last updated: 12th January 2024

Categories USA , Travel

If you’re trying to plan a trip to California (and are hoping to do California on a budget), you need to know these budgeting tips so you’re not caught out when you get there. Don’t plan your California travel budget until after you’ve factored these finance tips in!

The first time I visited California, I spent around two to three weeks in the cities San Francisco , Los Angeles and Palo Alto. These are some of the most expensive cities in America.

I had a loose travel budget in mind before I went and I knew it was going to cost a pretty penny if I wanted to do everything on my bucket list.

Although I was willing to be flexible with my budget to make the most of the experience (it’s a long way to fly!), I still wanted to keep costs as low as possible.

The trip ended up costing more than I envisaged and I definitely could’ve saved money with better planning and better knowledge. It’s so easy to go way over budget in a place like California and I wish I had known the below things in advance.

These are my top finance tips to bear in mind when planning a California vacation on a budget. I hope they may help you adjust your California road trip budget!

9 Tips for California on a Budget

Book flights in advance

If like me, you live in Europe, then the largest cost for a trip to California is going to be the flight. Or so I thought. 

We were planning to visit California in September and after a bit of date jiggling, we managed to get tickets for £275.

Tickets from London to California for £275!

This wasn’t via any special service either – we found these tickets on Skyscanner .

This price didn’t include baggage though so once we had added that it was around £350. Still much cheaper than I had envisaged for an 11+ hour flight.

But if you want to maximise your chances of getting cheap flights, sign up to mailing lists from Jack’s Flight Club and TravelScoop . They send out daily bulletins outlining the cheapest flights available at the moment.

Factor in tax AND tip for all food and services

This is the biggie. 

I was shocked to find that both a meal tax and a large service tip are expected when you eat out in California.

That means that the price shown is often very different from the final price owed.

In California, we were usually taxed around 9% on meals out and then asked to pay a tip of 15-25% in addition to that.

Let’s say you have a meal for $20, then you’re actually looking at spending around $26.80 for your meal instead.

As this happens at every establishment you eat at, the cost of eating out can quickly stack up.

The service tip is even expected when you’re buying something in, say, Starbucks, where your interaction with the staff has been minimal.

As someone from the UK, this surprised me quite a bit.

We also have a service charge here that is typically added to the bill for a meal but it is usually fixed at 12.5% and is almost always discretionary.

There’s also no expectation that you add service when you go to a takeaway coffee shop like Starbucks.

It’s just a very different way of tipping so it’s worth knowing about if you’ve never been to the USA before!

Remember portion sizes are huge…

Portion sizes in America are often huge compared to Europe so always consider sharing. When we first got to California, my friends and I often wasted a lot of food unintentionally because we had underestimated the portion sizes.

Now I’m the kind of person who hates to waste food. But even I was defeated by some of the meals we ordered.

Fast food, for example, I found to be quite cheap compared to the same type of food in London and the portions to be way bigger.

If in doubt, ask the waiter for a size reference or check out pictures in online reviews.

There were lots of instances where we could’ve just ordered one portion, shared between all of us, and had a very cheap meal!

Don’t bother looking on Airbnb

According to Condé Nast, both San Francisco and LA are considered two of the most expensive cities for Airbnbs in the world.

My own findings certainly corroborated this when I discovered that the average price of an Airbnb for my time in San Francisco was $300 per   night .

What’s more, it is illegal to rent out a property that isn’t your primary residence in LA . 

So skip Airbnb and head straight to Booking.com for the best deals on accommodation in California.

Book accommodation early (and factor in tax again! )

Definitely book your accommodation in advance. I didn’t book my accommodation in LA until the day before we flew there and we ended up paying £50 per person, per night for a dingy hotel in downtown LA with shared bathrooms and sketchy WiFi.

And this was the cheapest thing we could find!

The average cost of a double hotel room in California is said to be $185 .

And that probably doesn’t include the city tax so the actual cost could be a lot higher. Before booking, make sure you check all of these costs and see whether they are included in the price displayed or not.

You don’t want to get caught out upon arrival at your accommodation!

Make sure you have CASH for petrol

If you’re renting a car and going to be needing petrol, bear in mind that there are often different prices depending on whether you are paying with cash or credit.

The difference can be 10 cents per gallon or more so you definitely want to be carrying enough cash for your petrol bill if you’re driving around California.

The reason there’s such a big price difference is that gas station owners find their profits squeezed too hard by the credit card companies they use and therefore those paying with credit need to pay more.

Buy attraction tickets in advance

If you want to go to Alcatraz, BUY TICKETS IN ADVANCE, otherwise you have to buy a package deal which is much more expensive.

A normal Alcatraz night tour ticket is $56, the package I got was $150. So it can be three times the price if you don’t plan ahead!

These packaged tour tickets may include entrance to other attractions or include transportation costs such as bus passes. Whilst these can be useful, if it’s an unexpected cost or you didn’t need that bus tour ticket then it’s a massive waste of money.

By the way, the official place to buy Alcatraz tickets is here . There are lots of other resale websites but I’d recommend getting your tickets straight from this website.

RELATED: Tips To Know Before Visiting Alcatraz

Look for bundle deals for major attractions

Following on from the above, if you are going to major attractions such as Universal Studios , you can get cheaper bundle tickets from websites like GetYourGuide .

Take advantage of free things that often get thrown on top of these. For example, my Alcatraz ticket included a big bus pass for three days. This was the only option available.

Whilst I would never have thought to buy a big bus pass (they seemed really touristy!), since it was included with my ticket, I used these buses to get around the city.

They’re not normal buses, they are tour buses so they are likely to go between lots of top attractions on your California bucket list.

As interesting as San Francisco’s history is, I didn’t need to re-listen to it every time I boarded a Big Bus bus.

But it saved me a lot on transport fees around the city and I got to go to some places that I wouldn’t have added to my itinerary myself, for example, Sausalito, which is a little out of the city.

Get a Monzo card

Online banks like Revolut and Monzo are all the rage right and most young people will have one or the other. I actually own three of these types of cards, one from Revolut , Monzo and Transferwise .

These are absolutely essential for travel to any destination as you will save so much money on handling fees and exchange rates.

What’s great about these cards is that you don’t even need to convert the currency on the card before you spend it – it will convert it automatically.

Plus, these cards come with accompanying apps that break down your spending into different categories so you can see if you’re sticking to your budget.

They also have really easy functions to transfer money to friends you have saved as contacts and you can set up shared tabs for your trip to split costs.

Have you ever been to California? Do you have any budgeting tips of your own to share?

If you liked this post, check out these other posts about US travel: 50 Things to Do in San Francisco 25 Things to Do at Night in San Francisco 14 Things You Didn’t Know About San Francisco Things To Know Before Visiting Alcatraz 12 Things to Know Before Visiting Warner Bros Studio LA Magical Things to Do at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter LA

Editor of What’s Hot?

THE 10 BEST Affordable Resorts in California

Cheap Resorts in California

Property types, distance from, traveler rating, hotel class.

• Best Value Properties ranked using exclusive Tripadvisor data, including traveler ratings, confirmed availability from our partners, prices, booking popularity and location, as well as personal user preferences and recently viewed hotels.
• Traveler Ranked Highest rated hotels on Tripadvisor, based on traveler reviews.
• Distance to city center See properties located closest to the center first with confirmed availability for your dates from our partners

1. Avania Inn of Santa Barbara

2. Capri Laguna On The Beach

3. SeaCrest OceanFront Hotel

4. Santa Barbara Inn

5. Sunset Inn

6. The Pacific Inn

7. Ocean Park Inn

8. Cambria Pines Lodge

9. La Playa Hotel

10. The Ambrose Hotel

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This Rare Earth

A travel resource for the adventurous and often-solo female

10 CHEAP Weekend Getaways in Southern California

Blog , California , North America , USA / November 30, 2023 by Monica / Leave a Comment

California cities like Los Angeles regularly show up on the “Most Expensive Cities” lists for the United States. Despite this fact, there are tons of inexpensive weekend getaways in Southern California that are accessible and affordable! Whether you are looking for budget vacations near Los Angeles or are willing to drive a bit farther, it can all be found on this list.

California is well known for being pretty pricey to live in or visit. Yet, despite housing some of the most expensive cities in the USA , California offers a surprising number of cheap activities and free things to do if you know where to look.

I’ve been exploring all the hidden (and not so hidden) corners of Southern California for nearly 15 years, and have found plenty of favorites that I keep on visiting again and again.

I’ve put together this list of ten cheap weekend getaways in Southern California to help budget travelers explore SoCal smarter and cheaper. From hiking and camping, to lounging on the beach, to discovering off-beat sites, there is something on this list for everyone.

There are plenty of opportunities in SoCal to relax and make some great memories without breaking the bank. From beachfront locales to rugged parks to strikingly vast viewpoints, these 10 great weekend getaways in Southern California will provide you with just the escape you’re looking for.

Keep on reading for some inspiration!

You May Also Like:  A Pacific Coast Highway  Itinerary

Table of Contents

1. Hiking and Camping in Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree is one of my most favorite places on earth. I cannot even count the number of times I’ve visited, because Joshua Tree simply never gets old.

The incredible scenery is full of rugged mountains, unique rocks, and spiky-but-lovable-plants is so gorgeous. Not to mention, this desert park sunny blue skies almost every day of the year.

Frankly, Joshua Tree National Park is a must-see.

Inside the park, most things are free. Hiking the trails , hitting all the best photo spots , and learning more about these spindly yucca plants comes at no cost.

In fact, the only thing that will cost you money inside the park is a campsite, which will be around $25-$30 per night. You can check the reservation system here to book.

Entry into the park costs $30 per car , not per person. So theoretically, you could pile multiple people into one car and split the cost, making it super-affordable.

Or, if you frequent the national parks, consider buying the America the Beautiful Pass. It is valid for one full year and provides entry into all USA national parks.

• Entry Fees: $30 per car; valid for 7 days.
• Accommodation: Camping (both reservations and first-come-first-serve available.
• Miscellaneous: Be aware that campsites do sell out, so this is something you should arrange in advance!
• Drive: Approximately 3 hours to drive from LA to Joshua Tree .

2. A Cheap Malibu Getaway

I bet you would never expect Malibu of all places to be included on a “cheap” list! But it’s true, it is completely possible to explore Malibu on a budget.

First, it is completely free and legal to park along much of the Pacific Coast Highway and stroll down to the beach. Even at popular places like El Matador State Beach , you can avoid the paid lot and find free parking this way.

Second, entry onto the sandy beaches is completely free to the public, even the state park beaches. Enjoy sunbathing and swimming in the Pacific Ocean and enjoy watching all the sea creatures at no cost.

And, though you will see some high end restaurants around Malibu, there are also loads of budget eateries for lunches and dinners along the PCH, too.

On the land side of the PCH sit some of Southern California’s best hikes , complete with panoramic ocean views along the trail. And, camping in Leo Carrillo State Park is cheap and scenic.

Here is a detailed breakdown on how to spend a day in Malibu , from where to go, what to do, where to eat, and more. Malibu is one of my favorite neighborhoods to explore!

• Entry Fees: None.
• Accommodation: Camping at Leo Carrillo is roughly $45.
• Miscellaneous: Malibu stretches across roughly 28 miles of coastline. Drive the entire length for spectacular views!
• Drive: 30 minutes – 1 hour from LA.

3. Red Rock Canyon State Park for a Secluded Weekend

This small park is such a hidden gem! Somehow, Red Rock Canyon State Park has stayed very under the radar to locals, despite being an easy 2-ish hour drive from Los Angeles.

This park features tall desert cliffs with dramatic shapes and vivid red stripes. The hikes are beautiful, and it’s easy to feel like you’re in Arizona or Utah rather than California.

Camping is all first-come-first-serve; no online reservations can be made. That said, I’ve never seen the park fill to capacity, even on weekends.

Check out my in-depth guide on hiking and camping in Red Rock Canyon State Park for more details.

• Entry Fees: The latest info can be found here .
• Accommodation: Camping is $25 per night.
• Miscellaneous: Don’t miss the rocks near the Ricardo Campground! Those are the most stunning in my opinion.
• Drive: 2 hours from LA.

4. Anza Borrego Desert State Park for Stargazing and Hiking

Another under-the-radar park in California, Anza Borrego definitely delivers on the “cheap weekend getaways” front. Anza Borrego Desert State Park is designated BLM land, which – in terms of budget – means camping here will be free here.

You read that correctly. Free!

This is an incredibly large park to explore, with tons of wild and rugged land as far as the eye can see. I have a few favorite hikes in Anza Borrego , and I highly recommend choosing at least one to try out!

Consider hiking The Slot , a narrow canyon that is tucked down between steep cliffs. Or, visit Palm Canyon Trail to see an oasis in the desert. Note that Palm Canyon does carry a day use fee (more info in the linked article.)

Anza Borrego is also one of California’s many Dark Sky Parks, meaning the stargazing is incredible . If you are into astrophotography, this place is a treat. It’s far enough away from all the big cities to showcase the night sky uninterrupted. You have to see it at least once.

If camping is not your thing, you can find cheap lodging in the small town of Borrego Springs , which is literally surrounded by the park. It’s a cute wild west town full of charm.

• Entry Fees: Free or $10 per day for day use areas.
• Accommodation: Camping is FREE.
• Miscellaneous: Don’t miss the metal dinosaur sculptures in Galleta Meadows if you’re in the mood for some art!
• Drive: 3.25 hours from LA.

5. Fun in the Sun in Palm Springs

For anyone who is getting sick of all of the camping options, then a weekend in Palm Springs is likely for you. A sunny, bright, scenic town with purple mountains and palm trees at every turn sounds pretty great, right?

And even better are all of the incredible restaurants, sparkling blue pools, and even green stretches of grass for the golfers out there. The Moorten Botanical Garden and the Aerial Tramway are two of the best choices.

Basically, there are endless things to do for every type of traveler here.

Hikers should check out the nearby Indian Canyons for some great trails. The Andreas Canyon and Palm Canyon trails are great options for all hiking abilities.

Plenty of affordable hotels and lodging are scattered throughout Palm Springs, and I’m incredibly thankful that this area has stayed relatively affordable despite it’s popularity.

🏠 Pro Tip: I always get the best hotel prices here!

And, while I don’t typically stay at the pricier resorts, many of them offer day passes to the mineral pools which are usually worth a visit.

• Accommodation: get the best prices on accommodations right here !
• Miscellaneous: Definitely check out the Moorten Botanical Garden or the Aerial Tramway
• Drive: 2.75 hours from LA.

6. Endless Views at Death Valley National Park

Death Valley is the largest National Park in the contiguous United States. I vividly remember my first visit to the park, and how awe-inspiring the views were!

This park has so much to offer that it’s difficult to sum up. Due to the size of the park, this is the perfect choice to explore over a long weekend getaway.

Some of the highlights include Badwater Basin – the lowest point in all of North America; Artist’s Palette, a natural, colorful wash against the rugged mountains; and, the Mesquite Flats Sand Dunes, a seemingly-endless stretch of golden sand dunes that took me straight back to the Liwa Desert near Abu Dhabi .

Death Valley is truly a sight to see. Definitely don’t miss the views at Zabriskie Point in Death Valley for amazing sunrise or sunset views.

There are cabins and even a resort available to rent inside the park, but these are decidedly expensive, in my opinion. To create a budget friendly weekend getaway in SoCal, consider camping for roughly ~$30 per night here.

• Entry Fees: $25 per vehicle for 7 days.
• Accommodation: ~$30 for in-park campgrounds.
• Miscellaneous: Start your hikes early! Death Valley is one of the hottest places on earth. Make sure you’re prepared with the proper desert hiking essentials .
• Drive: 4.25 hours from LA.

7. The Quirky Trona Pinnacles

Another incredibly cheap option for a SoCal weekend getaway is a visit to the Trona Pinnacles in Inyo County, about 3.5 hours north of Los Angeles.

This place is awesome because it’s so obscure.

You’ve probably seen this location at some point on television or in the movies. The Trona Pinnacles have served as a backdrop in the film industry many times over, yet it remains relatively unheard of outside of Southern California.

Camping is also free at the Trona Pinnacles, which is a bonus you just can’t beat. This means that besides gas money, this weekend trip can be completely free!

Pro Tip: I recommend setting up your tent fairly close to the tall tufas, as the wind can get pretty crazy here overnight.

• Accommodation: Camping; Free.
• Miscellaneous: This is NOT a good place to go if the roads are muddy and you don’t have 4WD! In dry conditions, any car can make it.
• Drive: 3.5 hours from LA.

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8. Go Offbeat at Salvation Mountain

Smack dab in the middle of the dry California desert – not too far from Anza Borrego, in fact – sits the odd and unique Slab City.

Slab City is somewhat of an artist’s-haven – a city built on one man’s heartfelt belief in Christianity, personified.

Salvation Mountain is one of the highlights of this art installation – a colorful, climbable, squatter’s city in the desert. Though the founder is no longer living, his colorful creation lives on and draws curious visitors in to explore.

The bright swathes of paint against the dry desert backdrop reminds me quite a bit of Seven Magic Mountains in Nevada – both offer a colorful juxtaposition of the manmade versus the natural environment.

It’s possible to do a bit of car camping here too, if you’re up for it. Otherwise, there are plenty of hotels in nearby Niland.

• Accommodation: Car camping or nearby motels.
• Miscellaneous: If you happen to be in the area, this is worth a visit!
• Drive: Just under 4 hours from LA.

You May Also Like: Essential Tips for Planning a Road Trip Alone

9. Santa Barbara for Nature and Art

If arts and culture are more your style, then the chill Santa Barbara vibes might be exactly what you’re looking for.

Many of the highlights of Santa Barbara can be explored by foot, so it’s a great walking destination. Delicious food, stylish breweries, and eclectic art studios practically litter the streets of the popular Funk Zone. And, there is even an art museum if you want to explore your arts side further.

If you are up for some hiking, the nearby Gaviota Wind Caves hike is my top choice in the area. Or, if you’d rather lounge at the beach, Santa Barbara is right on the coast and has a long stretch of peaceful sand in front of the Pacific.

For sleeping, here is my go-to site for flexible bookings and free cancellation options. Santa Barbara is a pricey place to live but it is possible to visit on a budget.

• Entry Fees: None. Budget food/drink or museum ticket prices accordingly.
• Accommodation: ~$40 and up.
• Miscellaneous: Some of the art studios will offer demonstrations of their process, from painting to ceramics.

You May Also Like: California Themed Gift Ideas

10. The Small Town of Julian for Famous Apple Pies

Last on the list of weekend getaways on a budget is tiny little Julian, a small town with a big reputation for it’s famous apple pies.

Nestled near the Cuyamaca Mountains, Julian is near to everything from casinos, to Anza Borrego to Salvation Mountain. It’s an easy stop from nearby San Diego .

Apple pies can be found in just about every small shop and bakery in town. They are not necessarily all made equal – try to get a fresh-baked pie rather than a packaged ones. It will make a difference!

In addition to the apple pies, one thing that I appreciate about this town is that it has all four seasons – a rarity in Southern California ! Go in spring or fall for beautiful scenery.

Julian is still a small town, though quite well-known in California. You can find hotels within the $60-$70 range if you book in advance.

• Entry Fees: None. Just the cost of the pies!
• Accommodation: ~$60-$70 range for cheaper motels (get the best prices here !)
• Miscellaneous: Visit in spring or fall for a gorgeous stroll around town.

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I hope that this list gives you loads of inspiration on finding the best cheap vacations  in Southern California! There is so much to add to your Southern California bucket list , all within driving distance from LA.

Pin Me for Later!

• Cabo San Lucas vs San Jose del Cabo Travel: Which Is Better?
• Cancun vs Cabo: Which is Better, Los Cabos or Cancun?
• 10 Tips for Visiting Joshua Tree National Park
• The Ultimate Guide to Visiting El Matador Beach, Malibu
• The Perfect Day Trip to Malibu: A One Day Itinerary [2024]

About Monica

Monica has been a solo female world traveler for over 15 years. She is an expert on outdoor adventures, solo female travel, and off the beaten path destinations. She is the founder of This Rare Earth and is a firm believer that the world is not as scary as the media might have you think! Learn more about her here . Connect with her on Instagram .

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11 Tips for Traveling on a Budget in California

Remember these tips for traveling on a budget when you plan a family vacation and you won’t have to fall back on your #TravelGoals.

June 26, 2021

Some think that budget-friendly and travel are two different things—not if you know how to travel cheap . Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to break the bank trying to plan the ultimate summer vacation. Most people end up saving for months, only to spend it all in one week. On the contrary, traveling can be extraordinary without having to cost a fortune. 

We love a good bargain just like any other person, and we’re here to make sure that you don’t overspend and compromise on fun the next time you’re on the road . Remember these tips for traveling on a budget when you plan a family vacation and you won’t have to fall back on your #TravelGoals. 

How To Travel on a Budget Without Sacrificing Anything

1. Make Your Plans After Peak Tourist Season

Should we state the obvious? Yes, because oftentimes, this is the part where people splurge the most. Airline tickets skyrocket and airline companies profit greatly, especially when families travel during the holidays. The key is to plan beforehand, and by that, we mean way before. Do your research to find out which season is the best time to visit the destination of your choice, and see whether tickets are cheaper before or after the peak tourist season (most of the time it’s after). And if you’re traveling to the City of Angels or Palm Springs , the weather will never be an issue because it’s always sunny in SoCal. 

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2. Travel Light

What’s the point of packing eight different outfits for a one-week vacation? Go ahead, we’ll wait. The answer is there’s absolutely no point. If you want to travel on a budget , you have to start with saving space instead of cramming your outfits in a suitcase. The airline will probably charge you an additional fee if you have checked baggage, so do your best to stick to just a carry-on. And if you’re road tripping , you won’t have to worry about packing on the last day of your vacation. Oh, and one more thing—you’ll always have room for souvenirs. 

3. Opt For A Reasonably Priced Airbnb Instead of a Hotel Room

We don’t mind staying at an eco-friendly or desert hotel when traveling, but we’re also aware that they can get pretty pricey. Every traveler’s bible has a verse on booking Airbnbs instead of hotels, especially if you’re traveling with a group. This comes with several advantages besides the cost, and one of them is taking part in Airbnb experiences . Alternatively, you can always rent a cabin if you’re going somewhere remote—just make sure it doesn’t cost you too much and is close to the places you want to visit. 

4. Take Advantage of Public Transportation

Angelenos can’t imagine life without a car, and San Franciscans can’t imagine life without the BART. We can argue all day about the advantages and disadvantages of public transportation, but let’s face it—if you want to budget properly for a trip , you may as well embrace it. Do your research on the pricing systems and routes of trains, buses, and metros. You’ll end up saving time and money instead of spending half of your time pumping gas in your car and looking for a parking spot. If anything, you’ll get to see new places along the way when using public transportation. 

5. Try New Food, But Don’t Eat Your Cash Away

Did you really travel if you didn’t try local food? Pics or it didn’t happen. French-dip sandwiches and California burritos are iconic foods you must try in the Golden State . And while we wouldn’t mind eating away at all the best spots in San Diego or vegan restaurants in the Bay Area , we also have to think economically. People usually forget this part when they budget for a vacation , and it ends up costing them a fortune. We’re by no means saying you should refrain from dining at restaurants. However, instead of slurping Michelin-starred ramen , opt for making dinner at your Airbnb one night. 

6. Make Use of Free Museum Days

Free art galleries and museum days are one of the best things that happened to travelers and you can’t convince us otherwise. Whether it’s archeology, history, or maritime museums, you'll find something that suits every mood. Look up the ones you want to visit and see which days offer free admission. The same applies to art galleries. Any tip for traveling on a budget involves taking advantage of free things, so don’t hesitate to put that to good use. 

7. Check Out Local State and National Parks

If you’re going on a road trip on a budget but don’t want to miss out on visiting awesome places, you’ll be pleased to know that state and national parks cost little to nothing. These underrated places pack so many adventures for people of every interest . All you have to do is pick the ones close to you and drive on the highway until you reach your destination. With 300 state and nine national parks, you’ll be spoiled for choice in California.   

8. Visit Touristy Places, But Avoid Tourist Traps

Sure, you’d love to see the Cabazon Dinosaurs, they’re pretty awesome. But, do you really need to buy a $20 mug from the gift shop there? There are plenty of tourist attractions to visit and fun free things to do while vacationing in Palm Springs , Orange County , or San Francisco . So don’t worry about visiting all the fun places you see on Instagram, but don’t fall for the tourist traps when you’re there either. 

9. Explore Small Towns

Are you vacationing around Yosemite ? Consider venturing out to the nearby small towns . Planning a solo getaway to Death Valley ? You’d love to visit the interesting places in and around the national park . Most of the time, these underrated areas offer the most exciting adventures and they often go unnoticed. Believe it or not, by the end of your trip, checking out these towns will be the highlight of your vacation. 

10. Purchase Souvenirs from Small Businesses 

That souvenir shop looks hella cute on Melrose Avenue, but chances are they’re overpriced. So while you’re exploring small towns nearby, why not purchase gifts from small businesses there? Shop for eco-friendly presents that everyone will love and purchase the perfect souvenir for your personality type . And that, ladies and gentlemen, is the best tip for traveling on a budget . 

11. Ask Locals For Insight

Sometimes, you end up listening to the wrong people and find yourself relying on your credit card too much on your trip. The locals probably think you’re loaded due to all the money you’re spending, but in reality, this whole trip is just getting too expensive. What do you do? Ditch the travel itinerary that’s costing you too much and ask the locals where the cool kids are going these days without splurging. You’ll probably get to visit the most spectacular places and not spend a single dime. They’re most likely uncrowded too!

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15 budget tips for visiting Lake Tahoe

Apr 13, 2024 • 9 min read

Plan your budget visit to Lake Tahoe with our guide to daily costs and money-saving tips © Andrew Peacock / Getty Images

Sapphire blue and encircled by the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Lake Tahoe is almost mirage-like in its beauty.

Its reputation for world-class ski resorts, lake beaches and hiking trails precedes it. But in this popular alpine beauty spot, it’s all too easy to carve a canyon-sized hole in your bank account. 

Planning a budget trip to Tahoe is a balancing act. Bus travel is cheap, but being car-free can limit your ability to reach out-of-town budget hotels. On the other hand, driving gives you greater flexibility to choose budget accommodation, but you risk being stung by high fuel costs and parking charges.

However, bargains exist and there are plenty of ways to stretch your dollars. Here’s how to halve your costs so you can focus on splashing, schussing and strolling around the USA’s second-deepest lake.

Daily costs

• Hostel bed: $37
• Tent site: $25–35
• Basic room for two: $110–200
• Ski lift ticket: from $94
• Park and ride shuttles: free
• Coffee: $3–5
• Sandwich from a cafe: $10–13
• Dinner for two at a casual sit-down restaurant: $65
• Pint of craft beer: $6–8 

Average daily cost: $150 – 350

1. Travel by bus or train for big savings

Swapping car rental for bus or train travel can help you stash your cash. You can reach lively, old-timey Truckee (CA), 15 miles north of the lake, from San Francisco for $30 by booking in advance with Greyhound . There are also weekend coach services from the Bay Area through Tahoe Ski Trips (from $95) and Sports Basement (from $99).

Coming from Los Angeles ? With ample time and a high pain threshold for public transit, mixed bus-train routes to Truckee start at $62 with Amtrak . 

2. Look for carpool buddies on winter sports forums

As soon as the first snowflakes settle in the Sierra, NorCal’s skiers and snowboarders start feverishly planning their trips to Tahoe. That means plenty of potential carpool buddies! Browse forums like Snowpals to connect with drivers offering rides for gas money or passengers who could lighten your own driving costs.

One gigantic warning: if you’re trusting another driver, ask if they have winter tires or carry chains (and know how to use them). Each winter sees unprepared drivers spinning off the road because their vehicle can’t handle icy conditions; don’t be one of the statistics.

3. Fill up your tank before getting to Tahoe

Gas stations in towns like South Lake Tahoe and Tahoe City (both CA) tend to charge higher prices than elsewhere; “I should have filled up in Reno/Carson City/Placerville” is a common lament. You can also use an app like GasBuddy to identify the best-value places to pump up.

4. Plan your parking carefully 

In summer, beaches and hiking top the list of free things to do in Lake Tahoe , but parking often isn’t free – and the dollars add up if you’re hopping between multiple sights in a day. No wonder there’s a lively economy of drivers surreptitiously handing over their parking stub as they depart a state park lot.

The best strategy is picking a base for each day. Bring a picnic to Emerald Bay State Park ($5 daily parking fee) and you can easily fill a day with hiking, beach time and seeing stately Vikingsholm Castle . Likewise, Donner Memorial State Park (daily parking fee $5 winter, $10 summer) has an engrossing free museum about pioneers crossing the Sierra as well as 8 miles of hiking trails. 

You can also seek out hikes with free parking: there are shoulder-side spots along Fallen Leaf Lake Road, which leads to the stunning namesake lake.

5. Hop aboard free shuttles to Tahoe’s ski resorts

South Lake Tahoe is ideal for car-free skiers, as you can walk straight to the gondola that whisks you up to Heavenly Ski Resort . Other towns have weekend shuttles that get you to the snow for zero cents (bonus points for no parking costs and the ability to grab a couple beers on the mountain). Check schedules for the TART Park & Ride , which connects Truckee and Tahoe City to Palisades resort.

6. Sleep for cheap along Highway 50 

One of the perks of having your own vehicle is more flexibility in where you book your accommodation. The cost of South Lake Tahoe hotels rises the closer you get to either the lake shore or the ski lifts, but there are cheaper rooms (think $110 on winter weekends) dotted along Hwy 50 south of town.

7. Crash in Carson City instead

On summer weekends, you’ll be lucky to score a room in South Lake Tahoe for less than $300. Instead, you can save big by staying in Carson City (NV; 28 miles northeast of South Lake Tahoe). Nightly room rates for motels there can drop as low as $110 on summer weekends ($80 in winter) but think highway-side chain motels rather than charming alpine B&Bs. Other spots to hunt for bargain accommodation are Minden and Gardnerville (NV, 20 miles east of South Lake Tahoe).

8. Gamble on a trip in April, September or October 

The most expensive times of year to visit Tahoe are summer (June through August) and winter sports season (December through March). Outside of these times, there’s no guarantee of beach weather or good snow, but the savings are immense and there are always things to do in Lake Tahoe . 

Businesses typically roll out April deals to keep boarders and skiers interested while the powder snow dwindles. These range from discounted Lake Tahoe hotels to prix fixe menus and kids riding free on snowmobile tours; find some of the best on Visit Lake Tahoe’s deals page . 

Fall weather is unpredictable (pack shorts, and thermals, and sunscreen…) but Lake Tahoe hotels haven’t yet raised their rates to dizzy winter heights, local life is more laid-back, and hikes, such as Eagle Falls Trail and the 9.5-mile Truckee River Legacy Trail, blush scarlet and gold.

Plan the best time for your visit to Lake Tahoe with our seasonal guide

9. Stay on a Sunday night

Every Monday, Tahoe’s coffee shops fill with folks toting laptops. Many of them are weekend visitors who have capitalized on low Sunday hotel rates, and drive back to the Bay Area after clocking in remotely. The most expensive nights to stay in Tahoe are Fridays and Saturdays; for lower hotel costs, plan your weekend trip to straddle a Sunday.

10. Pick one summer activity per day

Kayaking, SUPing, cycling… the gear rental costs all add up. Choose one activity per day for maximum bang for your buck. 

When we last checked, Olympic Bike Shop offered the cheapest by-the-day rentals ($44) for you to tackle view-laden paths like the beachside Tahoe East Shore Trail and pine-forested Pope-Baldwin Bike Path. If you’re getting a kayak, doubling up can be highly economic. Two people renting a double kayak for the day costs around $120 (compare it to renting two single kayaks for $200). Rental outfits like Kayak Tahoe have multiple spots around the lake.

11. Do the math to maximize your ski pass

The cost of ski passes can bulldoze your budget, so take time to weigh up your options. If you’re on a short trip and just want a taste of Tahoe snow with views of the lake, some of the most economic resorts are Homewood and Sierra-at-Tahoe , where day passes for adults start at $104 and $94 respectively. Compare that to Palisades where a day pass begins at $167 on weekends ($142 on weekdays). 

For a few days of skiing, consider the IKON Session Pass ($449), which gets you four days of skiing at Palisades with the option to use one or more of your days at other ski resorts in North America and beyond.

More than a week of skiing is the tipping point where it makes sense to buy an entire season pass. For example, the Tahoe Local season pass is $621 with access to Tahoe resorts Heavenly, Kirkwood and Northstar, as well as other resorts in Colorado and Utah.

12. Frolic in the snow without a ski pass

Traveling with the family can get expensive, but if you just want your kids to experience the snow there’s no need to pony up for ski passes. The Tahoe area has five SNO-Parks (we especially like the forest scenery at lakeshore Blackwood Canyon SNO-Park). All you pay is a $15 permit cost then you and the family can sled, make a snowman or introduce your pup to the snow. Buy your pass online and make sure you arrive early to secure a parking spot.

13. Chow down for cheap at bars and pizzerias

Tahoe is a popular playground for the rich, and you could easily sink your cash into multicourse fine dining overlooking the lake. Fortunately for frugal travelers, there are also plenty of casual dining and mid-range spots.

In South Lake Tahoe, grab $5 burritos at Taqueria Jimenez or good-value pies and cocktails at Base Camp Pizza . Over in Tahoe City, check out Mountain Slice , where it’s $5 for a cheese-heavy pizza wedge, or the Fat Cat Bar & Grill for meatball subs or its infamous donut burger (save money by still being full come breakfast time!). There are sub-$20 dinner options in Truckee, too, like Maki Ali ’s poke bowls.

14. Dodge expensive on-mountain dining

Skiers and boarders are a captive market. Breathless from gliding through powder snow, they’re likely to pay anything for a hot meal and a coffee at Tahoe’s on-mountain restaurants. But the cost is as steep as that double-black diamond trail. 

Coming prepared with protein bars or a sandwich lunch is an easy way to avoid the inflated price tags. You can grab picnic ingredients at grocery stores at major towns around the lake, like the Safeway in Tahoe City and Raley’s in South Lake Tahoe. 

15. Hit local happy hours

Save your toasts for late afternoon, when happy hours light up Tahoe’s bars. Around South Lake Tahoe you can satisfy both hunger and thirst at Stateline Brewery with $6 draft beers and $10 pizzas (3 to 5pm Thursday to Sunday). Kalani’s does $4 beers and $8 cocktails (5 to 6pm Monday to Friday) while the Emerald Bay Bar & Grill keeps vibes high and drink prices low for three very happy hours (3 to 6pm daily); check its website for other specials, too. 

Meanwhile in Tahoe City, it’s well worth hitting family-run stalwart Jake’s on the Lake (4:30 to 6:30pm Sunday to Thursday) or Tahoe Wine Collective for $2 tasting pours (4 to 7pm), plus regular happy hours and occasional free live music.

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Southern California Day Trips on a Budget: Affordable Ways to Explore the Region

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Are you looking for an affordable way to explore Southern California? Look no further than our list of Southern California Day Trips on a Budget! With so many incredible destinations within a few hours' drive, it's easy to plan a fun and budget-friendly adventure. Whether you're a local or a tourist, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

From beach towns to desert oases, Southern California has it all. Take a scenic drive along the coast to Santa Barbara or explore the charming town of Julian in the mountains. If you're looking for outdoor activities, head to Joshua Tree National Park or hike to the Hollywood Sign. And of course, no trip to SoCal is complete without a visit to Disneyland or Universal Studios. With a little planning and creativity, you can experience all of these destinations and more without breaking the bank. So pack a picnic, grab some friends, and hit the road for a day trip adventure!

Exploring Los Angeles on a Budget

Los Angeles is known for being a glamorous and expensive city, but there are plenty of ways to explore it on a budget. We've compiled a list of affordable Southern California Day Trips that won't break the bank.

One of the best ways to explore Los Angeles is by foot. Downtown LA is a great place to start. Take a stroll through the historic core and see the iconic Bradbury Building, which has been featured in many films. You can also visit the Grand Central Market, where you can find a variety of affordable food options.

If you're looking for a great photo opportunity, head to the Hollywood Sign. While hiking to the sign can be a bit of a challenge, it's completely free and offers stunning views of the city. Alternatively, you can take a drive up Beachwood Canyon Drive for a closer look.

Another great free activity is visiting the Getty Museum. While parking can be a bit pricey, admission to the museum is completely free. The Getty offers a variety of exhibits and beautiful gardens to explore.

If you're looking for a more relaxed day, head to Main Street in Santa Monica. Here you can find a variety of affordable shops and restaurants, as well as the famous Santa Monica Pier. Take a walk on the beach or rent a bike to explore the area.

Overall, there are plenty of affordable ways to explore Los Angeles. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or just want to soak up the city's atmosphere, there's something for everyone.

Affordable Outdoor Adventures

Southern California is known for its beautiful outdoor scenery, and luckily, there are plenty of affordable ways to enjoy it. Whether you're looking for a day trip or a weekend getaway, there are plenty of outdoor adventures to be had without breaking the bank.

Hiking Trails and Parks

One of the best ways to enjoy Southern California's natural beauty is by taking advantage of the many hiking trails and parks in the area. Joshua Tree National Park, Santa Monica Mountains, and Malibu are just a few of the many options available. These parks offer a range of trails for all skill levels, from easy walks to challenging hikes. Plus, many of these parks offer free admission or low-cost parking fees.

Related Post:

• Visit Joshua Tree National Park: A Guide to the Best Hikes and Views

Beach Activities

Southern California is home to some of the best beaches in the country, and there are plenty of affordable ways to enjoy them. Laguna Beach and Santa Monica are just two of the many options available. Whether you're interested in surfing, swimming, or just lounging on the sand, there's something for everyone. Plus, many of these beaches offer free parking or low-cost parking fees.

Camping and Fishing Spots

For those looking for a more immersive outdoor experience, there are plenty of affordable camping and fishing spots in Southern California. Channel Islands and Big Bear Lake are just two of the many options available. These spots offer a range of camping options, from tent camping to RV camping, and many of them offer affordable fishing opportunities as well.

Biking and Horseback Riding

If you're looking for a more active way to enjoy Southern California's natural beauty, there are plenty of affordable biking and horseback riding options available. Santa Monica and Victoria Beach are just two of the many options available. These spots offer a range of trails for all skill levels, from easy rides to challenging treks. Plus, many of these spots offer affordable bike and horse rentals.

• Budget-Friendly Los Angeles Day Trips: Explore SoCal Without Breaking the Bank

Budget-Friendly San Diego Attractions

When it comes to exploring San Diego on a budget, there are plenty of options available. From beautiful beaches to stunning natural reserves, San Diego has something for everyone. Here are some of our favorite budget-friendly attractions in San Diego:

Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve

Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is a must-visit for nature lovers. The reserve boasts stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and is home to a variety of plants and animals. Best of all, admission to the reserve is free. We recommend packing a picnic lunch and spending the day exploring the reserve's many hiking trails.

La Jolla Cove

La Jolla Cove is one of San Diego's most beautiful beaches. With crystal clear water and soft sand, it's the perfect place to spend a day relaxing in the sun. The best part? Admission to the beach is free. We recommend bringing your own snacks and drinks to save some money.

Metal Sculptures in Downtown San Diego

Downtown San Diego is home to a number of impressive metal sculptures. These works of art are scattered throughout the city and are free to view. We recommend taking a self-guided walking tour to see them all.

While Legoland may not be the most budget-friendly attraction on this list, it's still worth a visit if you're a fan of Legos. The park offers a variety of rides and attractions for all ages, and admission prices are reasonable. We recommend visiting during the off-season to save some money.

Overall, San Diego has plenty of budget-friendly attractions to offer. Whether you're looking for natural beauty or family-friendly fun, there's something for everyone.

• Visit San Diego: Top Things to Do in America's Finest City

Discovering the Deserts

If you're looking for a unique day trip on a budget, the Southern California deserts offer a wealth of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. Two must-see destinations are the Mojave National Preserve and Anza-Borrego Desert State Park.

Mojave National Preserve

Located just a few hours from Los Angeles, the Mojave National Preserve offers stunning desert landscapes and a variety of recreational activities. The preserve encompasses over 1.6 million acres of land, including the famous Mojave Desert and several mountain ranges. Visitors can explore the park's sand dunes, Joshua tree forests, and volcanic cinder cones. The preserve is also home to a variety of wildlife, such as bighorn sheep, coyotes, and golden eagles.

One of the most popular attractions in the Mojave National Preserve is the Kelso Dunes. These towering sand dunes can reach heights of over 600 feet and are a popular spot for hiking and sandboarding. Visitors can also explore the park's historic Kelso Depot, which served as a train station in the early 1900s.

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

Located in the heart of the Colorado Desert, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is the largest state park in California. The park covers over 600,000 acres of land and offers a variety of recreational activities, such as hiking, camping, and stargazing. Visitors can explore the park's rugged canyons, towering sandstone formations, and beautiful wildflower displays.

One of the most popular attractions in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is the Sandstone Canyon. This narrow canyon features towering walls of sandstone and a seasonal waterfall. Visitors can explore the canyon on foot or by four-wheel drive vehicle. Another popular attraction is the town of Borrego Springs, which offers a variety of restaurants, shops, and galleries.

Whether you're interested in hiking, wildlife watching, or simply enjoying the natural beauty of the desert, the Mojave National Preserve and Anza-Borrego Desert State Park offer something for everyone. So pack your sunscreen and water bottles, and get ready to discover the beauty of Southern California's deserts.

Budget Day Trips in Orange County

When it comes to exploring Orange County on a budget, there are plenty of options to choose from. Whether you're interested in soaking up the sun at one of the county's beautiful beaches or learning about the area's rich history, there's something for everyone.

One great option is to visit Irvine. This city is home to the Irvine Ranch Historic Park, which offers visitors a chance to step back in time and learn about the area's agricultural heritage. The park also features hiking trails and picnic areas, making it a great spot for a day trip.

For those who love the beach, Dana Point is a must-visit destination. This coastal city boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Southern California, including Doheny State Beach and Salt Creek Beach. Both of these beaches offer free parking, making them an affordable option for a day trip.

Another great option for a budget day trip in Orange County is to visit the Citrus State Historic Park. This park is located in Riverside and offers visitors a chance to learn about the area's citrus industry. The park also features hiking trails and picnic areas, making it a great spot for a day trip with the family.

Overall, Orange County offers plenty of affordable day trip options for those looking to explore the area on a budget. Whether you're interested in history, hiking, or soaking up the sun at the beach, there's something for everyone.

Exploring Vineyards and Art Culture

When it comes to exploring vineyards and art culture in Southern California, there are two destinations that stand out: Temecula and Ojai.

Vineyards in Temecula

Located in the heart of Southern California, Temecula is a great destination for wine lovers. With over 40 wineries, it offers a wide range of experiences, from boutique vineyards to large-scale operations.

One of the most popular wineries in Temecula is Wilson Creek Winery. Known for its award-winning almond champagne, Wilson Creek offers daily tastings, tours, and a restaurant. Another great option is the South Coast Winery Resort & Spa, which has won numerous awards for its wines and offers a variety of packages for visitors.

For those on a budget, there are also several wineries that offer free tastings, such as Maurice Car'rie Winery and Doffo Winery. Additionally, many wineries offer discounts for groups or on weekdays.

Art and Culture in Ojai

Nestled in the mountains of Ventura County, Ojai is a charming town known for its art and culture scene. It's home to numerous galleries, studios, and art events throughout the year.

One of the most popular galleries in Ojai is the Beatrice Wood Center for the Arts, which showcases the work of the famed artist and ceramicist. The Ojai Art Center is another great destination, with rotating exhibits and classes for all ages.

Beyond art, Ojai also offers a variety of cultural experiences. The Ojai Music Festival is a must-visit for classical music lovers, while the Ojai Valley Museum provides a glimpse into the region's history.

Whether you're a wine connoisseur or an art enthusiast, Southern California has plenty to offer. Temecula and Ojai are just two destinations that showcase the region's diverse culture and beauty.

• Things to Do in Ojai: A Guide to the Best Activities and Attractions

Southern California Day Trips on a Budget: Affordable Accommodation Options

When planning a day trip, it's important to consider the cost of accommodation, especially if you're on a budget. Fortunately, Southern California offers a range of affordable accommodation options that won't break the bank.

Budget Hotels

For those looking for budget-friendly hotels, there are plenty of options in Southern California. Best Western Plus Stovall's Inn, located in Anaheim, offers comfortable rooms at an affordable price. The hotel is also conveniently located near Disneyland, making it a great option for families.

Another option is the Motel 6 Hollywood, which is located in the heart of Hollywood and offers basic amenities at a reasonable price. The hotel is within walking distance of many of Hollywood's most popular attractions, including the Hollywood Walk of Fame and the TCL Chinese Theatre.

Hostels are a great option for budget-conscious travelers, and Southern California has several to choose from. The USA Hostels Hollywood is a popular choice, offering clean and comfortable rooms at an affordable price. The hostel also offers a range of amenities, including free breakfast, Wi-Fi, and a fully equipped kitchen for guests to use.

Another option is the HI Los Angeles Santa Monica Hostel, which is located just a few blocks from the beach. The hostel offers a range of room options, from dormitory-style rooms to private rooms, and also has a range of amenities, including free breakfast, Wi-Fi, and a communal kitchen.

Camping is another affordable accommodation option in Southern California, and there are plenty of great campgrounds to choose from. Joshua Tree National Park is a popular option for camping, with several campgrounds offering affordable rates. The park is also a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of hiking and rock climbing opportunities.

Another option is the San Onofre State Beach campground, which offers affordable camping options right on the beach. The campground has several amenities, including showers, restrooms, and picnic tables, making it a great option for families.

Overall, there are plenty of affordable accommodation options in Southern California, whether you're looking for a budget hotel, hostel, or campground. By choosing one of these options, you can save money on accommodation and spend more on exploring all that Southern California has to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some fun day trip destinations for families in southern california.

Southern California is full of fun day trip destinations for families. Some of our favorites include Disneyland, Legoland, Knott's Berry Farm, and Universal Studios Hollywood. If you're looking for something more low-key, consider visiting the Santa Monica Pier, Venice Beach, or Balboa Island.

What are the best budget-friendly day trips in Southern California?

There are plenty of budget-friendly day trips in Southern California. Some of our favorites include hiking in the Santa Monica Mountains, visiting the Getty Center or Getty Villa, exploring the Griffith Observatory, and taking a stroll along the Hollywood Walk of Fame. You can also visit some of the many beaches in the area, such as Malibu Beach or Huntington Beach.

What are some great weekend getaways in Southern California that won't break the bank?

If you're looking for a weekend getaway that won't break the bank, consider visiting Joshua Tree National Park, Palm Springs, or San Diego. You can also take a trip to Santa Barbara, Catalina Island, or Big Bear Lake. These destinations offer plenty of outdoor activities, great food, and affordable accommodations.

What are some short day trips from Los Angeles that are worth taking?

There are plenty of short day trips from Los Angeles that are worth taking. Some of our favorites include visiting the Getty Center or Getty Villa, exploring the Griffith Observatory, hiking in the Santa Monica Mountains, and taking a stroll along the Hollywood Walk of Fame. You can also visit some of the nearby beaches, such as Malibu Beach or Huntington Beach.

What are some recommended day trips in California for families with kids?

For families with kids, we recommend visiting Disneyland, Legoland, Knott's Berry Farm, and Universal Studios Hollywood. You can also visit the Santa Monica Pier, Venice Beach, or Balboa Island. If you're looking for something more educational, consider visiting the California Science Center or the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County.

What are some interesting places to visit on a 2-day trip from Los Angeles?

If you have a couple of days to spare, consider taking a trip to Santa Barbara, Catalina Island, or Big Bear Lake. You can also visit Joshua Tree National Park or Palm Springs. These destinations offer plenty of outdoor activities, great food, and affordable accommodations.

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The Best Weekend Escapes from San Francisco

These getaways provide the perfect much-needed escape from the hustle and bustle of San Francisco.

Between the Michelin-starred restaurants, iconic architecture and historic sites such as the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island, there is no shortage of things to do in San Francisco . This city is a hub for innovation and diversity, and its unique location right on the bay makes it just as beautiful as it is busy. However, getting out of the city for a weekend allows you to take a much-needed break from the hustle and bustle of urban life. Luckily, San Francisco is surrounded by a plethora of getaway-worthy escapes.

From wine tasting in rolling vineyards to indulging in creamy clam chowder on Tomales Bay, some of California's most amazing small towns and cities are a mere two hours away from San Francisco. In addition to diverse landscapes, several destinations also boast acclaimed eateries, unique shopping scenes and luxury hotels that you can call home during your trip. Whether you’re seeking a coastal retreat in Big Sur , an adventurous stay in Lake Tahoe or a wine-filled weekend in Healdsburg, the possibilities are endless. Get ready to plan your next road trip with our guide to the best weekend escapes from San Francisco. 

1.5-hour drive

Enjoy Tomales Bay views, small-town charm and the freshest seafood when visiting West Marin. Places like Point Reyes and Marshall make West Marin a go-to spot for city locals who need a breath of fresh air, and it is without a doubt one of the most picturesque parts of NorCal. Start your day with a cheese tasting at Point Reyes Farmstead Cheese Co. before heading over to Heidrun Meadery to sip Champagne-style mead. Tony’s Seafood Restaurant is the ultimate place for clam chowder and BBQ’d oysters, but nothing beats a sunset dinner with fresh oysters and cod dip at Nick’s Cove . You’ll also want to check out the legendary Hog Island Oyster Co. while in town. 

Where to Stay:

Accommodations are extremely limited in West Marin, but the Lodge at Marconi has completely changed the game by providing 45 retro, cabin-like guest rooms for visitors. The hotel sits in the heart of Marconi State Historic Park, giving guests premium access to hiking trails and picnic areas where you can admire Tomales Bay from up high. Though there is an adorable market in the lobby where you can purchase high-end snacks and bottles of wine, the Lodge at Marconi is set to open an on-site restaurant in June 2024. 

3.5-hour drive

Lake Tahoe is a year-round destination that is home to some of California's most pristine scenery. The crystal-clear lake is surrounded by enchanting pines, which get dusted with a white blanket of snow during the winter. Whether you’re into skiing and snowboarding or hiking and paddle boarding, Lake Tahoe caters to a variety of outdoorsy adventures. There are also several breweries and lake-front restaurants where you can quench your thirst, including South Lake Brewing Company and Jimmy’s at The Landing Resort and Spa .

Located in Truckee, The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe is one of the nicest accommodations in the California side of Lake Tahoe. Open year-round, this sprawling resort is surrounded by picturesque pine trees on the side of a mountain. Edgewood Tahoe Resort is another high-end property, but just across the border near South Lake Tahoe, and the waterfront views are magical. 

Healdsburg is the ultimate destination for weekend wine tasting near San Francisco. Despite its small-town charm and low-key vibe, Healdsburg is crawling with Michelin-recognized restaurants. From three-star SingleThread to one-star Barndiva , eating well is easy in this charming slice of wine country . If you’re exploring the main town square, you can also walk from tasting room to tasting room; highlights include The Society: Healdsburg , Siduri Wine Bar and Tasting Lounge and Selby Winery . 

Those hoping to stay in the heart of downtown Healdsburg should consider booking one of the 16 intimate guest rooms at Hotel Les Mars . The French-inspired property is reminiscent of an Old World chateau, and the convenient location makes walking to each tasting room and restaurant a breeze. For a more traditional luxury resort experience, nothing beats the rolling vineyards and bungalow-style accommodations at Montage Healdsburg . 

Carmel-by-the-Sea

2-hour drive

Carmel-by-the-Sea offers a European-esque escape that is a mere two hours from San Francisco. This unique beach town is home to cozy cottage-like buildings and storybook streets that make you feel as though you’re strolling around a real-life fairytale. Enjoy an afternoon of wine tasting before sitting down for dinner at one of the 60-plus restaurants. French food definitely reigns supreme in Carmel-by-the-Sea, with standouts such as La Bicyclette Restaurant , L’Escargot and Pâtisserie Boissiere.

Also known as the “Pearl of Carmel,” La Playa Hotel has been a luxe staple of the area since 1905. The former private mansion boasts 75 recently renovated rooms, with lush gardens surrounding the grandiose building. With the beach only steps away, this is the perfect hotel for travelers seeking bespoke luxury across the board. For a more intimate and boutique experience, book a room at the new Villa Mara Carmel , which features 16 residential-style, adult-only rooms. 

3-hour drive

Big Sur is one of the best road trip destinations in the world, let alone Northern California. The dramatic and windy cliffside roads make for some of the most jaw-dropping photo opportunities all along the coast, but some can't-miss sights include Bixby Creek Bridge and McWay Falls. Since Big Sur looks like an actual screen saver, you’ll want to spend most of your time outdoors exploring, but once you’ve worked up an appetite, enjoy sweeping Pacific views at Coast Big Sur or river-side dining at the Restaurant at Big Sur River Inn . 

Situated on 160 acres of awe-inspiring land, Alila Ventana Big Sur offers guests the best of both worlds with ocean and forest views. The all-inclusive experience allows you to make the most of your weekend escape with nourishing meals and a plethora of wellness activities like meditation, foraging and bike tours. Post Ranch Inn is another luxury property that sits atop a striking hill in Big Sur. With only 40 rooms, visitors are treated to exclusive accommodations along with complimentary breakfast and activities such as yoga and guided nature walks.  

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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

Getty Images

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

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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The Best Budget-Friendly Weekend Trips in Every State

Posted: August 23, 2023 | Last updated: August 23, 2023

Weekends make for great opportunities to get your travel fix and enjoy life without overspending, which helps you  move beyond living paycheck to paycheck . 

Whether it’s boutique shopping at America’s oldest seaside resort, hiking up to the first place to view the sunrise in the U.S., or relaxing in a hot spring bathhouse, there’s no need to settle for anything less than a memorable weekend.

Following is a carefully compiled list of getaways in every state to keep your enjoyment high and your wallet intact.

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Alabama: Tuscaloosa

Originally the capital of Alabama, Tuscaloosa sits on the banks of the Black Warrior River and is a hub for education and sports. If you’re a sports fan, try and catch a Crimson Tide football game at the Bryant-Denny Stadium, the eighth-largest in the world. You can also get a behind-the-scenes look with a tour of the arena.

When the stadium is quiet, head over to the Tuscaloosa Amphitheater for live music, see the ruins of the original capital at Capitol Park, or step into one of many museums. If you’re eager to be outdoors, drive two hours north to Little River Canyon National Preserve and visit the nation’s longest mountaintop river.

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Alaska: Road trip from home base Anchorage

Wild, majestic Alaska will surely ignite your spirit of adventure with its wildlife and vast, uninhabited wilderness that overwhelms its comparatively small cities. As the state’s largest city, Anchorage is an ideal base for scenic day drives.

Rent a car and have easy access to the full Alaskan experience with a drive through fjords and glaciers. Pass between the dramatic shorelines of Turnagain Arm and the jutting peaks of the Chugach Mountains as you make your way south to Seward. Head north from Anchorage and see amazing mountain views, waterfalls, and gorgeous rivers. If you need to stretch your legs, pull over near mile 102 for a short hike to touch a glacier!

Arizona: Sedona

With its stunning red rock formations serving as a backdrop to endless outdoor adventures, festivals, and breathtaking sunrises and sunsets, Sedona is definitely worth the trip.

With a variety of lodging options — from RVs to cheap hotels to Airbnb — marvel at the famous red rocks, swim in natural swimming pools, and find your inner peace with Sedona’s gorgeous dramatic landscapes.

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Arkansas: Hot Springs National Park

Located in the majestic Ouachita Mountains, Hot Springs National Park is the oldest protected area in the National Park System and has an abundance of attractions.

Take a bath at Buckstaff Bathhouse , climb the Hot Springs Mountain Tower for its views of the Ouachita Mountains, and then reward yourself with a beer or two at Superior Bathhouse Brewery — brewed with water directly from the hot springs.

California: Eureka

Nestled against a beautiful, enclosed bay, Eureka is a small city with rich cultural charms and a variety of outdoor activities. With its affordable lodging and food, this weekend getaway is sure to impress.

Walk through Old Town Eureka, take a drive down the Redwood Highway, and be among the giant trees at the 67-acre Sequoia Park Forest & Garden, with its winding network of walking, hiking, and biking trails.

Colorado: Estes Park

The basecamp for awe-inspiring adventures in Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park is nestled at the east entrance of this behemoth 265,000-acre national park. With 355 miles of hiking trails, this trendy town is surrounded by pristine wilderness with an abundance of restaurants, spas, golf courses, shops, and entertainment venues.

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Walk through Riverwalk in the downtown area, where you’ll find a slew of shops, restaurants, and bars, then head over for a tour of The Stanley Hotel, the inspiration behind Stephen King’s best-selling novel The Shining .

Connecticut: Mystic

This 18th-century maritime settlement is known for more than being the location for the 1988 Julia Roberts' film Mystic Pizza .

The Mystic Seaport is a top attraction for the entire state, offering tours of historic ships and homes, quaint shops, and top seafood restaurants. Every August, tens of thousands of visitors gather for the Mystic Outdoor Art Festival.

Delaware: Rehoboth Beach

Still maintaining its classic vibe, this quaint seaside town attracts lots of visitors with its clear water, clean beaches, and vintage boardwalk.

Head to Cape Henlopen State Park if you want something a little more sedate. If you’re up for the short drive, grab a craft beer or two at the Dogfish Head Brewery in nearby Lewes, Delaware.

Florida: St. Augustine

Not only one of the most beautiful and culturally rich cities in Florida, St. Augustine is also the oldest continuously occupied city in the U.S.

This seaside destination has something for everyone, with its beautiful beaches, good food, and abundance of history. Get a glimpse of the past at the Castillo de San Marcos, the oldest masonry fort in the U.S., or head onto the water for a scenic cruise.

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Georgia: Centennial Olympic Park

Built as part of an infrastructure overhaul for the 1996 Summer Olympics, Centennial Olympic Park is downtown Atlanta’s gathering place for free, fun-filled entertainment.

This 21-acre park boasts a variety of things to do, from concerts and festivals to a spectacular Fourth of July Celebration. Feel free to take your time as you stroll past the sculptures, water gardens, and lavish scenery.

Hawaii: Polihale State Park

Brave a long and rutted dirt road to Polihale State Park and you’ll be rewarded with a 17-mile stretch of white sand beach and sand dunes.

Build your camp and picnic in this scenic setting as you take in remarkable sunsets and wonderful views of the high cliffs of Napali Coast. End the night under the stars.

Idaho: Coeur d’Alene

Located in the northern Idaho Panhandle, Coeur d’Alene is known for water sports on Lake Coeur d’Alene and its miles of hiking trails.

Hit the slopes during the winter months at one of the two nearby ski resorts or head to the Kootenai County Farmers’ Market for fresh fruits and vegetables. If you’re there in the summer months, make sure to catch a summer concert in Coeur d'Alene City Park.

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Illinois: Chicago

Nestled along Lake Michigan, Chicago’s eye-catching lakefront skyline is the backdrop to a lively mix of first-class eateries, vibrant arts, and a warm Midwest welcome. Like its deep-dish pizza, Chicago is jam-packed full of world-class museums, famous food, and public parks.

A walk along the lakefront is a lovely — and free — way to spend a day. If you want to splurge a bit, step onto Chicago’s First Lady for a river cruise and ultimate Chicago architecture experience. End the night on the 96th floor of the Hancock Building and enjoy a signature cocktail at The Signature Lounge while taking in the amazing view.

Indiana: Valparaiso

A foodie’s getaway, Valparaiso sits just south of Lake Michigan in Indiana Dunes Country. From locally-brewed craft beer and locally-grown wine to a plethora of delicious restaurants, Valparaiso is a booze traveler’s dream.

Head over to Four Fathers Brewing before catching a double feature at the old-timey 49’er Drive-In Theatre. If you can’t stomach any more eating or drinking, take a day trip to the Indiana Dunes State Park to experience 15,000 acres of gorgeous beaches.

Iowa: Decorah

Located in northeast Iowa’s Winneshiek County, this historic town is set along high bluffs, making it a great weekend getaway for outdoor pursuits and an escape from city living.

Canoeing, hiking, mountain biking, and cross-country skiing are some of the things you can do on its eight-mile recreational Trout Run Trail. Decorah is also home to dozens of historic restored houses and storefronts, multiple campgrounds, and a variety of bed-and-breakfasts.

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Kansas: Dodge City

The epitome of the Wild West and once a lawless town along the Santa Fe Trail, today’s Dodge City is a vibrant place whose saying is “Get the Heck Into Dodge,” instead of “Get the Heck Out of Dodge.”

Visit Boot Hill Museum and experience a Wild West gunfight, then chow down on a chuckwagon dinner. If you’re looking for entertainment, go watch an evening variety show at the Long Branch, one of the most historic saloons of the Old West.

Kentucky: Bourbon Trail

A charming Southern city and the birthplace of bourbon, Lexington is a great home base for hitting Kentucky’s bourbon trail. With more than 20 distilleries to tour — from well-known brands like Jim Beam and Maker’s Mark to smaller distilleries — you won’t run out of tasting options.

When you get tired of sipping, head over for a tour of the horse stables at Kentucky Horse Park. Visit the numerous museums and historic sites if you’re looking to learn, and if you have a sweet tooth, head over to the family-owned Old Kentucky Chocolates for some bourbon chocolates and other sweet treats.

Louisiana: New Orleans

One of the most eccentric and vibrant cities in the world, New Orleans offers way more than just partying and bead throwing and can definitely be done on a budget.

Walk the trails of the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserves or hop on a ferry to cross the Mississippi before heading to the French Market District to enjoy a beignet at Cafe Du Monde. You’ll likely find live music all over the city at all hours of the day, but you can make your way across to Jackson Square to find artists showcasing their music and art talents.

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Maine: Bar Harbor, Acadia National Park

From boutique hotels to bed-and-breakfasts to woodland camping, visitors from around the world come to visit Bar Harbor, the gateway to Acadia National Park.

With some of Maine’s best restaurants, charming stores, and a slew of outdoor activities, you can either kick back or venture out. Before you leave, make your way up Cadillac Mountain, the highest point along the North Atlantic seaboard. If you go between October 7 and March 6, you’ll be the first place to view the sunrise in the United States.

Maryland: Frederick

Situated close to Washington, D.C. and Baltimore, the city of Frederick is surrounded by mountain views, wineries, and vibrant communities.

Go from hiking the Appalachian Trail and visiting Maryland’s largest brewery to touring a Civil War battlefield all in one day.

Massachusetts: Hyannis

The former vacation destination for the iconic Kennedy family, historic Hyannis is the gateway to Cape Cod with its pleasant beaches, bustling harbor, and historic Main Street.

Tour the Cape Cod Potato Chip factory, visit the John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum, or head out onto the soft, clean Kalmus Beach where you can windsurf, swim, and picnic.

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Michigan: Mackinac Island

Covering just four square miles, visitors have been flocking to this Great Lakes landmark for centuries. Not a single car on the island, Mackinac is home to an abundance of bikes, historic sites, unique shopping, and world-famous fudge.

With a vibrant downtown that transforms from daytime carriage rides into a bustling nightlife, Mackinac is full of one-of-a-kind experiences. If you really want to save, head over the “Mighty Mac” to St. Ignace, the third-oldest continuously inhabited settlement in the United States, and set up camp in the Straits State Park.

Minnesota: Duluth

Nestled up against Lake Superior, the city of Duluth is a port city gushing with tons of fun things to do, from aquariums and theaters to plane and harbor cruises.

Overlooking the lake, Canal Park is Duluth’s hotspot for dining, entertainment, and attractions. Wake up to a view at South Pier Inn or make your way down to watch 1,000-feet ships pass under the Aerial Lift Bridge.

Mississippi: Oxford

An hour outside of Memphis and touted as the “Cultural Mecca of the South,” creativity thrives in this city with inspiration drawn from Oxford’s rich culture and history and small-town charm.

Home to the University of Mississippi, there’s plenty of things to immerse yourself in. Take in the spirit of the city with a stroll around the Town Square or hop on a bike and head for the Holly Springs National Forest. You can tour Rowan Oak, a stately home owned by Nobel Prize-winning author William Faulkner; visit museums; and enjoy all of the good food and live music Oxford has to offer.

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Missouri: Kansas City

With lots of big-city attractions and entertainment, Kansas City is surprisingly affordable. This Midwestern hub brings a lot to the table for a fraction of the price, from legendary barbecue to world-class shopping and historic jazz spots.

Stroll through the historic Union Station or pop into the free Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, where you’ll find 34,500 pieces of art from around the globe. To help you get around, hop onto the convenient and free KC Streetcar.

Montana: Bozeman

An ideal basecamp for a quick but action-packed getaway, Bozeman has something for everyone, from hiking, fly fishing, and museums to local events and a vibrant downtown.

Just 90 minutes from Yellowstone National Park, Bozeman is a gateway to a variety of mountains, lakes, canyons, and hot springs. Visiting the Museum of the Rockies is a must, featuring a full Tyrannosaurus rex and the largest T. rex skull in the world.

Nebraska: Omaha

The largest city in the state, Omaha is now home to the headquarters of several Fortune 500 companies — and, yes, Warren Buffett. Perhaps Nebraska’s most-innovative city, Omaha is a fun place to explore without having to spend a fortune.

Visit the world's largest indoor desert and North America’s largest indoor rainforest at Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, sample beer during an Omaha Craft Brewery tour, and find top-notch flavors dining in the historic Dundee neighborhood. Let your creativity shine in the Joslyn Art Museum or wander around at The Old Market, where you’ll find a variety of charming buildings, obscure shops, restaurants, and flea markets. Grab another beer, soak up the atmosphere, and listen to some of the best street musicians in the city.

Nevada: Virginia City

Situated nearly 20 miles southeast of Reno, this little nugget of history is most famous for the Comstock Lode, the first major discovery of silver ore in the U.S. Once a booming mining establishment in the mid-1800s, this historic town will take you back in time as you stroll its wooden sidewalks, ride on a steam engine, or step into one its unique saloons to quench your thirst.

Known as one of the most-haunted towns in America, Virginia City offers several haunted locations to explore. Get the full haunting experience by staying at the Silver Queen Hotel, which has had many reported accounts of paranormal activity by guests over the years.

New Hampshire: Portsmouth

Bridging New Hampshire and Maine, Portsmouth was settled in 1623 and is one of the oldest cities in the country. Today, you’ll find a pleasing combination of colonial history and contemporary culture.

This seacoast city offers waterfront views of the beautiful Piscataqua River, tax-free shopping, museums, and a ton of tasty options for any foodie. Just across the river in Maine, you’ll find the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, the country’s first naval shipyard established in 1800.

New Jersey: Cape May

Situated at the southernmost tip of New Jersey, Cape May is America’s oldest seashore resort, welcoming visitors since the mid-18th century. An entire city designated as a National Historic Landmark, this seaside gem boasts clean beaches, boutique shopping, and signature restaurants for a trip any time of the year.

Climb the stairs of the Cape May Lighthouse, stroll past an abandoned World War II bunker, or scope out the beaches from New Jersey’s last-remaining restorable WWII lookout tower. If you’re looking for a little more excitement, head 45 minutes north to Atlantic City, the seaside gaming and resort capital of the East Coast. Here you can walk the world’s first and longest boardwalk, lined with shops, bars, restaurants, and amusement park-style games.

New Mexico: Santa Fe

Known as “The City Different,” Santa Fe is the oldest capital city in the U.S. and is known for its rich history and culture, artistry, and timeless, earthy soul. With more museums and art galleries than you could possibly see in just one trip, Santa Fe makes for a great weekend getaway.

Visit in September for a month full of festivals — or come anytime to enjoy this foodie’s paradise. One thing’s for sure: You’ll leave fascinated, inspired, and ready to return.

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New York: Ithaca

Lovers of the outdoors flock to Ithaca, New York no matter the season. Its location at the base of Cayuga Lake makes this city an ideal spot for exploring the entire Finger Lakes Region.

In the warmer months, head out onto the water for a day of boating, kayaking, or fishing — if you can peel yourself away from the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail, that is. Hit the trails for a hike or climb a six-story tree house at the Cayuga Nature Center.

North Carolina: Asheville

Tucked away in western North Carolina, Asheville’s natural wonders and architectural treasures draw in visitors from all over. With easy access to the Blue Ridge Mountains, its historic landmarks, and a bustling downtown scene, Asheville makes for a wonderful weekend getaway.

Take a drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway for several scenic overlooks and hiking trails, or visit Biltmore, Asheville’s architectural jewel. With lots of farm-to-table restaurants, a proud music scene, and a mile-long River Arts District, you’ll surely create a memorable trip in this mountain escape.

North Dakota: Fargo

Sitting on the Red River Valley of the Great Plains, Fargo is North Dakota’s most-populous town and named for Wells Fargo Express Company founder William Fargo.

With numerous historic sites, parks, attractions, and museums celebrating Fargo’s culture and history, you’ll be sure to find plenty to do. Take the kids to the Red River Zoo before grabbing a bite to eat at one of the many locally-owned restaurants in the downtown area. End the night with a concert or other live event at the beautifully-restored Fargo Theatre.

Ohio: Cambridge

Just 80 miles east from Columbus, this small, unassuming town is rife with recreational activities and special events. Foodies will appreciate the growing food scene with breweries, food trucks, vineyards, and a variety of restaurants.

Travel a short ten miles out of town and you’ll find Salt Fork State Park, Ohio’s largest state park, offering beaches, a scenic golf course, and a variety of hiking trails.

Oklahoma: Medicine Park

Situated in the Wichita Mountains in southwestern Oklahoma, this picturesque resort town is packed with shopping, history, and a small-town-America feel, taking you back in time as you stroll the quaint Cobblestone Row.

With water running right through it and the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge next door, you’ll find natural beauty all around. Take a lazy stroll on scenic trails, swim, hike, shop, or just relax as you bask in the glow of the sun setting over the surrounding Wichita Mountains.

Oregon: Astoria

The oldest settlement west of the Rockies, this coastal city is surrounded by forests and situated just a stone’s throw away from the Pacific. You’ll find Victorian-era homes etched into the hills overlooking the Columbia River, forts, museums, and great local brews in this port city.

Lace up your boots and hike to the summit of Saddle Mountain, the high point of Clatsop County at 3,283 feet. On Sunday, make your way downtown to the Astoria Sunday Market, a big community block party featuring dog-friendly shopping, art, food, music, and fun.

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Pennsylvania: Knoebels Amusement Resort

Tucked away in Central PA, Knoebels Amusement Resort is a throwback to amusement parks of the past. With some of the country's top roller coasters, no admission fee, and rides starting at just $1.25, Knoebels is as fun as it is thrifty.

To save even more, stay for the weekend in the adjacent campground — either book a tent site or rent a rustic cabin. Either way, you'll fall asleep to the clicking sounds of a wooden roller coaster.

Rhode Island: Newport

Hugging the New England coastline, Newport is known for its rich sailing history and historic mansions. Founded in 1639, this city has the classic Colonial architecture you’d imagine, with breathtaking New England landscapes and waterfront views.

You can easily spend an entire day on the beach, shopping, or in Fort Adams State Park, but you’ll also want to leave time for the Cliff Walk. Here you’ll have the ocean on one side and gigantic Gilded Age mansions on the other. Good luck deciding which to look at.

South Carolina: Columbia

Between its big-city excitement, small-town charm, and natural beauty, Columbia has everything you need to satisfy that craving for an enjoyable getaway.

With a few festivals for every season, there always seems to be at least one going on. Spend your weekend taking in the city’s sights, history, museums, and great restaurants. But if that’s too hustle and bustle, stop by the river for its natural beauty and a nice breeze. Even more thrifty moves:   Paying More For Groceries? 8 Ways To Fight Inflation

South Dakota: Black Hills & Badlands

Home to many truly monumental places, spending your weekend touring the Black Hills & Badlands of South Dakota is a must. With over 244,000 acres of otherworldly works of nature, this is an outdoor lover’s dream.

See the large-scale mountain sculpture Mount Rushmore, then take a drive through Needles Highway before heading to Main Street Square in Downtown Rapid City for special events, arts, culture, and concerts.

Tennessee: Memphis

While you may think of blues music and barbecue food when you think of Memphis — yes, there’s that — there are several other reasons to visit the city as well.

Between its famous barbecue, rich cultural history, and Beale Street — the most-popular street in Memphis — you’ll be sure to stay full and engaged without feeling obligated to break the budget. You can’t leave Memphis before visiting the King, so head over to Graceland, tour Elvis Presley’s rock ‘n’ roll compound, and try and squeeze your name in on the wall outside.

Texas: Georgetown

Just north of Austin near the center of the state, Georgetown offers scenic beauty and historic charm.

Regarded as the “Most Beautiful Town Square in Texas,” Georgetown’s downtown area is filled with unique shops and restaurants housed in historic, Victorian-era buildings. You’ll find a number of festivals and events throughout the year, not to mention a plethora of outdoor recreational opportunities.

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Pack in a weekend of outdoor adventure in beautiful Moab, where you can hike through the red rocks in Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park, or go mountain biking on the Slickrock Bike Trail.

In town, you can learn about local paleontology at the Moab Museum, take in the stunning photos at the Tom Till Gallery, or cool down in the pool at Swanny City Park.

Vermont: Burlington

Overlooking Lake Champlain and the skyline of the Adirondack Mountains, this hillside city has a thriving downtown, great restaurants, and ample shopping on Church Street.

You won’t find the hustle and bustle of a big city, but you will discover a high concentration of arts and cultural attractions, as well as a 14-mile bike path along the lake and other nearby hiking spots. If you can’t resist the cravings, a 30-minute drive will land you at the doors of the Ben & Jerry’s Factory.

Virginia: Alexandria

Nestled along the Potomac, this quaint, yet centrally-located destination has everything visitors could ever want — great food, gorgeous views, and southern hospitality.

With some of the most sought-after trails, museums, and historical sites — including George Washington’s Mount Vernon estate — Alexandria is an ideal spot for seeing plenty of wonderful attractions.

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Washington: Spokane

Venture from Washington’s west coast and you’ll find a city with outdoor activities for every season, amazing restaurants, and a plethora of fun things to do for both kids and adults.

Head to Riverfront Park, Spokane’s downtown gem, which boasts a 100-acre urban park with views of upper Spokane Falls. Swing by the east end of downtown for some favorite shops and eateries before venturing to the south side of the city, where you’ll find Manito Park.

West Virginia: Fayetteville

Situated on the rim of the scenic New River Gorge, Fayetteville is an outdoor lover’s sanctuary. The city’s surrounding mountains are a must for hikers, mountain bikers, and rock climbers.

You can spend the day exploring the great outdoors before venturing back into town for a relaxing evening shopping, dining, listening to live music, or wandering the Historic District.

Wisconsin: Milwaukee

A foodie’s dream city, Milwaukee’s Historic Third Ward neighborhood boasts a massive, unique food destination with a huge variety of eateries and gourmet shops.

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When you can’t eat another bite, head to the Harley-Davidson Museum, an architectural gem and museum filled with memorabilia and antiques that span the history of the premier motorcycle brand.

Wyoming: Jackson Hole

Sitting in a 48-mile long valley, Jackson Hole is a wonderful getaway because of its ideal location near Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks. Outdoors enthusiasts can’t help but be drawn to this mountainous outdoor haven.

Whether you’re rafting, hiking, moose spotting, or zip lining, your weekend in Jackson Hole can have it all.

Bottom line

No matter the state, you don’t need to build debt to have a good time, especially if you’ve got some motivation and a top travel credit card on hand to help you get there. 

With just a handful of days at your disposal, a little creativity can go a long way in creating a fun and frugal weekend getaway.

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Crime and Public Safety | Southern California faces another weekend…

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Crime and public safety | southern california faces another weekend storm, bringing rain and cold temperatures.

Another late-season storm will push into Southern California Friday, dropping temperatures and bringing rain that could last through the weekend, the National Weather Service says.

“The cooling trend will spread throughout the interior by Friday as onshore flow strengthens ahead of another late season cold upper low dropping south along the West Coast,” according to the National Weather Service.

“Low clouds and fog will spread into the valleys Friday morning with highs dropping into the 60s to lower 70s.”

Rain is expected to begin falling along the Central Coast Friday night, reaching Los Angeles County by Saturday morning or afternoon, forecasters said.

In the Inland and Orange County area, 0.1 to 0.2 inches of rain are expected on Saturday afternoon through the evening. A couple areas will face passing showers in the area, Brian Adams, meteorologist for NWS, said.

Early predictions suggest most of Los Angeles County will receive about a quarter-inch to three-quarters-inch of rain, with as much as an inch falling in the mountains, although some models show the region receiving twice those amounts.

Winds in Riverside and San Bernardino county will range from 10 to 35 miles per hour on Saturday.

Snow levels will initially fall to about 6,000 feet, with five to 10 inches of snow anticipated. By Sunday morning, snow could fall at elevations as low as 3,500 feet, meaning a possibility of some light snow over the Grapevine stretch of the Golden State (5) Freeway, according to the NWS.

The Inland mountains, including the Wrightwood and Mount Baldy areas, will face three to 4 inches of snow above 6,000 feet. The lower mountain can expect a lower sum, Adams said.

Inland temperatures are expected to come in the lower 40s on Sunday morning after the Saturday rainfall.

The Los Angeles area faces a 10% chance of thunderstorms on Saturday.

There will also be an additional chance for more showers or possibly thunderstorms on Sunday morning, according to the NWS.

“A drying and warming trend will begin Monday and last through next week,” forecasters said. “80s are possible as soon as next Wednesday in the warmer valleys.”

City News Service contributed to the story. 

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Breaking news, john wayne bobbitt loses all his toes due to camp lejeune contaminated water 30 years after wife lorena infamously cut off his penis: report.

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He just can’t stop losing body parts.

John Wayne Bobbitt — who made headlines in 1993 when his then-wife chopped off his penis while he slept — recently opened up about the most recent appendage he has lost: his toes.

Bobbitt, a former Marine, was diagnosed with toxic peripheral polyneuropathy after being exposed to contaminated water at the Camp Lejeune military training facility in the late 1980s.

The harrowing condition causes nerve damage to the extremities and caused Bobbitt to have all of his toes amputated over the years, the last of which were removed in 2023.

The operations left Bobbitt, 57, with two raw stumps for feet, a limp and needing special prosthetic shoes, he revealed in recent interview with the US Sun.

The condition can also lead to chronic infections , ulcers and painful skin grafts.

Bobbitt says his time at Camp Lejeune left him with more than just physical scars but mental ones that he believes contributed to his volatile relationship with his ex-wife, Lorena.

“Maybe I would have made better decisions if my cognitive functioning wasn’t distorted by the chemicals,” he told the outlet at his home in Sarasota, Florida.

Lorena Bobbitt claimed her then-husband raped and beat her and in June 1993, chopped off his manhood with a kitchen knife inside their Virginia apartment. She fled to her boss’ house and tossed the member out the window as she drove.

In a nine-hour surgery, doctors reattached Bobbitt’s salvaged penis and returned it to “normal” function , Bobbitt has sworn.

He went on to launch a porn career, and in 2013 claimed he slept with 70 women since the vengeful attack. That year, he nearly lost a foot after contracting an infection from a dirty nail at a construction site.

Bobbitt’s former wife faced up to 20 years in prison for the infamous act but was found not guilty due to insanity.

Bobbitt was acquitted on charges of sexual assault in 1993.

He is among the many military members, families and staffers  believed to have been exposed to contamination at the North Carolina camp who are now fighting for compensation.

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Mayor reveals $5.65 billion budget, one-time cuts to prevent service losses

By city news service • published april 12, 2024 • updated on april 12, 2024 at 1:29 pm.

Mayor Todd Gloria Friday revealed his proposed $5.65 billion budget for fiscal year 2025, a spending plan that's focused on continuing city improvements and avoiding major service losses amid a difficult economic time.

"This proposed budget is on-time, balanced and will continue the business of moving San Diego forward," Gloria said Friday morning in a speech at the Chollas Operations Yard.

"With revenue down and costs rising, we had to make difficult choices in order to sustain funding for key priorities: addressing homelessness and building more housing; fixing roads and other critical infrastructure; and keeping you safe.

"We were able to avoid the most dire cuts by using one-time measures we cannot responsibly repeat next year, so a major part of this process will be how we reckon with our structural deficit."

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The proposed budget represents a significant increase over FY 2023's $5.12 billion budget, even as Gloria touted cuts to primarily non-personnel expenses from department budgets.

"I commend Mayor Gloria for proposing a balanced budget while continuing to invest in streets, homeless services and public safety," said City Councilman Kent Lee. "As Chair of the Budget and Government Efficiency Committee, I look forward to working with the public and the City Council to pass a fiscally responsible budget that continues to make progress on San Diego's greatest needs -- increasing the supply of affordable housing, investing in road repair and neighborhood infrastructure and keeping our communities safe."

The proposed budget increases funding to address homelessness by $26.6 million.

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Among those projects allocated for is the proposal to turn H Barracks, the city-owned former Navy land adjacent to the San Diego International Airport, into roughly 200 spaces to the city's Safe Parking Program -- nearly doubling the capacity of the program.

Another allocation is the proposed 1,000-bed shelter located at Kettner Boulevard and Vine Street in Middletown.

For infrastructure, Gloria's budget earmarks $104.6 million for street resurfacing construction and design, intended to increase the number of miles of major street resurfacing from 60 budgeted in the current fiscal year to 75 in FY 2025 and funds the design and planning needed to complete 105 miles in FY2026, a statement from the mayor's office reads.

The proposed budget also includes $85.1 million in funds for flood control and green infrastructure projects.

"This is in addition to the proactive investments the city has been making under the Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act," the statement from Gloria's office reads. "Through WIFIA, the city is using the Environmental Protection Agency's special loan program for water infrastructure projects, covering 49% of up to $733 million in stormwater upgrades, which range from pipeline replacements and pump station repairs to comprehensive watershed restoration."

The latter investments would, in part, be an attempt to prevent the flooding caused by January's heavy storms in less-affluent areas of Southeastern San Diego.

Gloria announced he would make only minimal reductions to the budgets of the San Diego Police and Fire-Rescue departments to preserve existing service levels.

However, with the expected $136.8 million shortfall San Diego is facing this year, cuts are coming to parts of city government, such as: eliminating funding for the Office of Immigrant Affairs, reabsorbing the Community Equity Fund into the general fund budget and suspending contributions to the city's reserves for one year, among other cuts.

"These reductions are difficult but necessary to preserve core services and are anticipated to be one-time adjustments," the statement from Gloria's office reads.

According to the City Charter, the mayor must announce a formal budget by April 15. Gloria will formally present his proposed budget to the City Council on April 22, followed by several weeks of department-level public hearings leading up to the release of a revised budget on May 14 that incorporates City Council and community feedback.

Final consideration by the City Council will take place in mid-June, with adoption of an appropriation ordinance due no later than June 30.

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