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The Best Weekend Getaways in California

By Carey Jones

Paso Robles wine country in Central California United States

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.

Image may contain Resort Hotel Building Pool Water and Summer

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)

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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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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.

39 Best Weekend Getaways in California — Quick Trips!

Weekend Getaways
Romantic Trips
Last Minute

25 Best California Weekend Getaways

Last Updated By VacationIdea Staff on March 11, 2024

Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa

California vacations: Southern California , Northern California , Lake Tahoe , From Los Angeles , From San Francisco , From San Diego

Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa

Ideas by Occasion: Relax at a spa , Girls weekend , Birthday , Family , Honeymoon Weekend , All-Inclusive

Allegretto Vineyard Resort, Paso Robles

Weekend Inspiration: NC Getaways , Small Town Getaways , From Toronto , Oklahoma , From Jackson , From Louisville , For Couples

Langham Huntington Hotel - 20 minutes from LA

West Coast Vacations: Oregon , From Seattle , Washington

California Weekend at THE US GRANT

Weekend Trips: Southwest Weekend Getaways , Arkansas , Idaho , Montana

MacCallum House Inn

Where to travel next: New England Getaways , Wisconsin , Kentucky , Illinois , NJ , From NJ

Hotel Cheval

More ideas: Day Trips in Southern California

Pismo Beach - Inn at the Pier

Florida vacations: From Miami , Florida Weekend Getaways , Romantic Getaways , Florida Islands , Romantic Getaways in St. Augustine , Honeymoon

Venice Beach - Hotel Erwin

1697 Pacific Ave, Venice , CA 90291, Phone: 310-452-1111, Video

Solvang - The Landsby

1576 Mission Dr, Solvang, CA 93463, Phone: 805-688-3121, ( website link )

Casa Del Mar - 20 minutes from Los Angeles

1910 Ocean Way, Santa Monica, CA 90405, Phone: (310) 581-5533

The Spa at CordeValle - 1 hour from San Francisco

More ideas: Hot Springs in California

Del Mar - 2 hours from Los Angeles

Once you are done relaxing, explore the charming Del Mar Village which offers a diverse selection of shops, galleries and cafes. Browse places to visit in Southern California and trips to take in Northern California .

Sonoma Coast Villa

More Honeymoon Weekend Getaways

Wine Valley Inn in Solvang for Couples

More California destinations: Weekend getaways from San Francisco .

Hotel Pacific in Monterey

300 Pacific St, Monterey, CA 93940, 831-373-5700

Ledson Hotel in Sonoma

480 1st St E, Sonoma, CA 95476, 707-996-9779

Vintners Inn, Santa Rosa Weekend Trip for Couples

4350 Barnes Rd, Santa Rosa, CA 95403, Phone: 707575-7350

Pampering and Rejuvenation in Beverly Hills

465 La Cienega Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90048, 310-247-0400

Hotel del Coronado, a California Weekend Getaway

1500 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA 92118, 619-435-6611, website , Video

Laguna Beach - Surf and Sand Resort

Guests enjoy access to the casual café Pacific Perks, the upscale restaurant/bar Splashes overlooking the ocean, a trendy cocktail lounge with an outdoor terrace with fire pits, a full service spa with eight treatment rooms, a pool, and a gym. Things to Do in Laguna Beach 1555 S Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach, CA 92651, Phone: 888-579-8544

Sonoma Valley - 1 hour 10 minutes from SF

100 Boyes Blvd, Sonoma, CA 95476, 707-938-9000

El Dorado Hotel & Kitchen in Sonoma - 1 hour from San Francisco

More ideas: Things to Do in Carlsbad

Senza Hotel in Napa - 1 hour 10 minutes from San Francisco

4066 Howard Ln, Napa, CA 94558, 707-253-0337

Swami’s Surf Beach is the most popular among surfers, and the park on the cliffs above the beach is perfect for watching the show. On top of the cliff above the beach is Self-Realization Fellowship Hermitage & Meditation Gardens Retreat, open to visitors and curious minds as well as those interested in spending some time meditating. San Diego Botanic Garden will amaze you with the diversity of plant collections that represent different California ecosystems.

Santa Monica

Bakersfield, beverly hills.

1. Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa
2. Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa
3. Allegretto Vineyard Resort, Paso Robles
4. Langham Huntington Hotel - 20 minutes from LA
5. California Weekend at THE US GRANT
6. MacCallum House Inn
7. Hotel Cheval
8. Pismo Beach - Inn at the Pier
9. Venice Beach - Hotel Erwin
10. Solvang - The Landsby
11. Casa Del Mar - 20 minutes from Los Angeles
12. The Spa at CordeValle - 1 hour from San Francisco
13. Del Mar - 2 hours from Los Angeles
14. Sonoma Coast Villa
15. Wine Valley Inn in Solvang for Couples
16. Hotel Pacific in Monterey
17. Ledson Hotel in Sonoma
18. Vintners Inn, Santa Rosa Weekend Trip for Couples
19. Pampering and Rejuvenation in Beverly Hills
20. Hotel del Coronado, a California Weekend Getaway
21. Laguna Beach - Surf and Sand Resort
22. Sonoma Valley - 1 hour 10 minutes from SF
23. El Dorado Hotel & Kitchen in Sonoma - 1 hour from San Francisco
24. Senza Hotel in Napa - 1 hour 10 minutes from San Francisco
25. Encinitas

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20 Top-Rated Weekend Getaways in Southern California

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

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

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

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

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

1. Palm Springs

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

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

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

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

Read More: Best Tourist Attractions in Palm Springs, California

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Palm trees reflected in a building in Anaheim

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More on California

20 Weekend Getaways in Southern California

There are so many wonderful weekend getaways in Southern California! The region is incredibly diverse with mountain, desert, beach, and wine getaways just a short drive away.

Here are 20 great places to spend the weekend in California in 2023. Whether it is adventure or relaxation you crave, we’ve got you covered.

Headed north? Then you will definitely want to check our guide to the best Northern California weekend getaways.

Southern California Weekend Getaways

1. big bear.

Big Bear has been one of the most popular weekend getaways in Southern California for generations. My great grandfather built a cabin up near Big Bear Lake nearly 100 years ago and since then, word has definitely gotten out about this special place!

If SoCal residents want to enjoy snow, droves of them head up towards Big Bear after a winter storm. If you want to avoid a traffic jam, try to time your visit for mid-week.

We love skiing at Bear Mountain or Snow Summit, enjoy snow tubing at Magic Mountain, and joining snowshoeing tours with the folks at Big Bear Discovery Center.

When the snow is gone, Big Bear is still an ideal weekend getaway for those who want to enjoy some cool mountain air and walk among the pines. There are several hiking trails in the area.

The centerpiece of Big Bear is Big Bear Lake, and the summer is the perfect time to enjoy it. You can fish, rent a pontoon boat , coast around on a Wave Runner, or even paddle a stand-up paddleboard.

Big Bear made our list of the best California mountain towns . See what other spots made the list!

Best Time to Visit : Winter for skiing and snow play. Summer for hiking and boating.

Don’t Miss: Strolling through Big Bear Lake Village. This charming little downtown district is filled with cute little shops and fun restaurants. You can even take a horse-drawn carriage ride through town!

Stay Here: Big Bear is a great place to enjoy some time with family in a cabin. Big Bear Vacations has a great inventory of cabins at various size and price points.

2. Santa Barbara

Big Bear is a great Southern California Weekend Getaway

Heading up the coast to Santa Barbara is definitely one of my favorite weekend getaways in Southern California. Why? The scenery, weather, and wine scene are hard to beat!

It is no surprise that celebrities like Oprah and Prince Harry call the region home. Known as the American Riviera , Santa Barbara is a simply gorgeous place where the mountains meet the sea and the Mediterranean architecture reflects the region’s Spanish colonial roots.

Your visit to Santa Barbara should include some time at the beach , and East Beach is the city’s hub of activity. It is a popular spot for biking, sunbathing, kite flying, and water play.

It is also located adjacent to downtown as well as Stearns Wharf, a fun place to enjoy a drink and appetizers while taking in the waterfront.

Leadbetter Beach is a good spot to visit if you want to surf or boogieboard. Hendry’s Beach (aka: Arroyo Burro Beach) is the place to go if you want bring your dog along with you. Summerland Beach is a nice locale to relax and enjoy your own piece of paradise.

Downtown, you won’t want to miss Santa Barbara’s Urban Wine Trail which has more than two dozen tasting rooms with wines from the area’s celebrated wine region.

You also won’t want to miss strolling the grounds of Mission Santa Barbara , known as the Queen of the Missions . It was founded in 1786 and the inspiration behind the city’s red-roofed architecture.

If shopping and window watching are your thing, spend time strolling down State Street and through Paseo Nuevo , admiring the shops along palm-lined streets. There is a free shopping trolley that will help you around the area.

The Santa Barbara Zoo is a great destination for animal lovers. It is small but beautiful and feeding giraffes with beach views can’t be beat!

Best Time to Visit: Anytime, but summer and early fall are best if you want to get in the water.

Don’t Miss: Renting a surrey and biking along East Beach. It is a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the scenery.

Stay Here : Four Seasons Resort the Biltmore Santa Barbara is worth the splurge. It is one of my all-time favorite resorts because of it’s stunning beauty and ideal location, across from Butterfly Beach. It is also popular with the rich and famous.

3. Laguna Beach

Laguna Beach is a favorite weekend destination in Orange County

Laguna Beach is a dream destination for those that love art and the ocean . It is the home of the famed Pageant of the Masters as well as several art festivals and galleries.

Laguna’s beaches are some of the most beautiful in the state. Some of my favorites include Treasure Island Beach (in front of the ritzy Montage Resort), Victoria Beach with its famed tower, and Crystal Cove State Park which straddles the border of Laguna Beach and Corona del Mar.

Main Beach is located on the edge of downtown and the most popular beach with tourists. Take in the views and then walk across the street to stroll quaint streets filled with charming shops, great restaurants, and several art galleries.

If you enjoy hiking, don’t miss the trails at Laguna Coast Wilderness Park (I love the Serrano Ridge/Little Sycamore Canyon loop) or the Morro Canyon portions of Crystal Cove State Park . Both are exceptionally beautiful in the spring when the hillsides are lush and sprinkled with wildflowers.

If you want to get out on the water, consider taking a whale watching cruise out of nearby Dana Point. December through March is prime gray whale watching season while during the summer you may catch a glimpse of the blue whale, the largest animal on earth.

Best Time to Visit: Laguna is a year-round destination but if you love art, come during the summer to enjoy the Sawdust Festival and Pageant of the Masters.

Don’t Miss: Pageant of the Masters where locals dress up as characters from famed works of art and pose to recreate the paintings and sculptures. It is incredibly realistic and truly has to be seen to be believed!

Stay Here : Surf and Sand Resort is a beachfront resort with a great location. How close is to the surf? Close enough that ear plugs are offered to guests if they don’t want to listen to the waves crashing!

The resort is just a 15-minute walk from the heart of downtown (or take the free trolley) and nearly all the rooms have ocean views. The resort’s Splashes Restaurant is a great spot for a special meal overlooking the water.

4. Coronado Island

Hotel Del Coronado is one of the most famous landmarks in California

Coronado Island is just a short, 15-minute ferry ride from Downtown San Diego but in many ways, it feels like it is a world away. The island has a small town atmosphere and one of the best beaches in the country.

During the summer months, there is live music playing at the Coronado Ferry landing every weekend from 2-5PM.

My favorite way to explore Coronado Island is by bike. The island is flat and easy to navigate. There are several places to rent bikes and they all include maps.

The most famous spot in all of Coronado is the Hotel Del Coronado. This red-roofed landmark has been drawing dignitaries, Hollywood celebrities, and families from all over the country for over 100 years.

Discover why Hotel Del Coronado made our list of the 75 California Landmarks You Must See Before You Die .

It sits on Coronado Beach which is often included on lists highlighting the best beaches in America. During the winter months, the resort plays host to an outdoor ice rink, and there is nothing better than ice skating with ocean views!

Orange Avenue is the island’s main drag. It is a great spot to shop in one-of-a-kind stores, eat, and just taken in the overall vibe of the area. If you are craving something bubbly, make sure to stop by Coronado Brewing Company .

Best Time to Visit: The winter if you want to check “ice skate by the ocean” off your bucket list. But truthfully, Coronado is an all-season destination.

Don’t Miss: The Sandcastle Man . He is known for creating epic sandcastles in front of the Hotel Del and he even offers lessons !

Stay Here : Obviously the Hotel Del Coronado is the most well known choice, but we also love Loews Coronado Bay Resort which sits near Silver Strand State Beach. Jet skis, powerboats, kayaks, and stand-up paddle boards are available for rent from the resort.

5. Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a popular Southern California weekend getaway

Palm Springs has been a Southern California weekend getaway since the Golden Age of Hollywood. It is the land of palm trees, golf courses, and swimming pools.

While the Coachella Valley is most definitely a desert, the Palm Springs region is an oasis. It sits on the 4th largest aquifer on the planet – that’s how they keep all those golf courses so green!

On the edge of town, Indian Canyons are lush, palm-filled canyons fed by the shallow aquifer. For a small fee, guests can gain access to these canyons which are great for hikes and picnics. Don’t miss Murray Canyon which has a 3.9-mile trail leading to the Seven Sacred Sisters Waterfall.

One of most unique experiences in Palm Springs is taking the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway up to the Mountain Station which sits at 8,500 foot in elevation on Mount San Jacinto.

Temperatures are typically 30-40 degrees cooler than they are on the valley floor, and there is often snow during the winter months! Where else can you trade sun-kissed palm trees for snow-blanketed white firs in just 10 minutes?

Best Time to Visit: Late fall through early spring is you are looking for ideal golf and hiking weather. Summer if you want to snag hotel deals and spend most of your time in the pool.

Don’t Miss: Palm Springs Villagefest , the weekly street fair that takes places every Thursday night and features lots of great booths, music, and food.

Stay Here : If you have kids, the waterpark at Omni Rancho Las Palmas will be sure to keep smiles on their faces. The La Quinta Resort is known for its dozens of pools, world-class golf courses and tennis program, and being dog friendly.

6. Joshua Tree National Park

With its towering boulders, diverse desert life, and iconic namesake trees, Joshua Tree National Park is a one of the best weekend getaways in Southern California for folks who love to be outside.

Joshua Tree National Park is a place where the high desert (Mojave) and low desert (Colorado) meet. This allows visitors to see two unique desert environments, but the high desert with its unusual-looking Joshua trees is the main attraction.

Climbing massive boulders is one of the most popular things to do inside the park. You will see plenty of professional climbers with crash pads, but amateurs will have just as much fun scrambling around in popular spots like Jumbo Rocks and Hidden Valley .

If you are looking for a nice hike, try the 1.1-mile loop to Barker Dam . There are boulders to climbs on along the way and prehistoric rock art to admire. Arrive at dusk or dawn and you may even see Bighorn sheep!

The Ryan Mountain trail is a great hike if you want a good workout. The trail gains 1,000 feet in just 1.5 miles before reaching the 5,461′ summit. Once at the top you will have a 360-degree view of Joshua Tree National Park.

I also recommend signing up to take the Keys Ranch tour. Long before Joshua Tree became a national park, it was the home of exceptionally hearty people with colorful stories.

This tour takes takes visitors to the former homestead of Bill and Frances Keys, which includes a ranch house, schoolhouse, and store, along with lots of great tales of pioneering desert life. You can only buy tour tickets at the Oasis Visitor Center, beginning at 8:30am each day.

Ready to visit the desert? Don’t miss our epic Joshua Tree Day Trip Itinerary .

Best Time to Visit: During the spring wildflower bloom when the desert becomes a riot of color.

Don’t Miss: Star gazing. These desert skies are far from the light pollution of the LA Basin and the Milky Way is sure to dazzle.

Stay Here : If you want to stay inside the park, bring a tent because campgrounds are the only lodging available. If you crave four walls, head to the small community of Joshua Tree which plays host to a couple charming small inns and B&Bs. Try the Joshua Tree Inn or bring a group and rent out El Coyote , a residence on five acres with views of the park.

7. Catalina

Catalina is one of the most popular weekend getaways in Southern California

Catalina is one of those weekend getaways in Southern California that is close by but feels like a world away. You can take a helicopter to Catalina Island, but most folks take the 40-minute ferry ride from Long Beach or Dana Point.

The most popular destination on Catalina is the charming town of Avalon, where golf carts are the main mode of transportation.

One of my favorite things to do in Avalon is take the zip line eco-tour. Tour guides offer up info about the unique flora and fauna of the island in between zips across a canyon with sweeping ocean views.

Your zip line tour ends at Descanso Beach Club , a great place to rent a cabana and enjoy a day of lounging, food, and drinks. The island’s signature drink is the Buffalo Milk which is made with creme de cacao, creme de banana, Kahlua, half & half, and plenty of vodka.

The waters off Catalina are filled with life. Many folks bring their wet suits and snorkeling gear to check out the fish living the kelp beds. If you would rather stay dry, try a glass bottom boat or submarine tour.

Back on land, you might want to spend your days four-wheeling on a back country tour in search of the island’s resident buffalo herd, playing mini-golf at one of the nicest courses I have ever seen, or admiring the Wrigley Botanic Gardens.

Best Time to Visit: Summer if you want to get in the water. Otherwise, Catalina is a great destination anytime of year.

Don’t Miss: Two Harbors , Catalina’s tiny hamlet with one hotel, one restaurant, one general store, and even a one-room schoolhouse. It is a great place to hike, spend time at the beach, and camp.

Stay Here : Hotel Vista Del Mar is located on the beach, overlooking Avalon Bay. It has incredible views, evening milk and cookies, complimentary beach chairs, and one of the best locations in all of Avalon.

The Millennium Falcon inside Disneyland's Star Wars-themed Land

Anaheim is the home of Disneyland, and us Disney fans think it is a fabulous place to enjoy the weekend. If you haven’t been to Disneyland for a few years, you will be surprised by how much has changed.

Disney California Adventure (DCA), Disneyland’s sister park, has had a full makeover. Highlights include Cars Land, Pixar Pier, and the food festivals that occur throughout the year.

Over at Disneyland, the newest land is Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge . It is basically paradise for Star Wars fans where you can pilot the Millennium Falcon, build your own lightsaber, and have a cocktail like the Fuzzy Ttauntaun or Jedi Mind Trick at Oga’s Cantina.

If you are a foodie, definitely head over to the Anaheim Packing District where craft beers and creative eateries are housed in the Anaheim Packing House, a former citrus packing warehouse.

Anaheim was founded by German immigrants back in 1857 and has been in the beer brewing business ever since. It is home to over 15 breweries , and I think a great goal is to try them all!

Anaheim is also home to the Angels, so make sure to visit during baseball season so you can catch a game.

Best Time to Visit: The first two weeks in December are great if you want to experience Disney at Christmastime with out the massive crowds. Spring and summer are ideal if you wan to see the Angels play.

Don’t Miss: The Disney California Adventure Food and Wine Festival . There are 13 different marketplaces serving creative dishes and regional beverages that reflect the bounty of California. Purchase a Sip & Savor Pass, a mimosa flight, and taste the day away in between rides.

Stay Here : There are so many great hotels in Anaheim but I want to give a nod to the OG of Disney lodging, the Disneyland Hotel . The hotel has undergone extensive renovations and the pool area is really fun. Plus, the drinks at Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar are legit!

9. La Jolla

La Jolla is a great beach town and weekend destination

La Jolla is another one of my favorite Southern California weekend getaways because it a great place to enjoy a weekend at the beach!

La Jolla Shores is my favorite beach in La Jolla. It is a long strand of beach that is perfect for water play and sunbathing, and there are plenty of shops and restaurants nearby.

One of my favorite active things to do is kayak to the Seven Caves near La Jolla Shores. There are several companies that offer guided tours and it is the perfect “beginner” sea kayak experience.

Here are 25 caves in California you will defintiely want to visit.

On the way, you will paddle over the La Jolla Underwater Park which is home to sea lions, harmless leopard sharks and bright orange garibaldi.

I like kayaking with Everyday California , and can never resist picking up merchandise with their cool surfing bear logo.

If you are looking for a great spot to take pictures, head over to Scripps Pier . It is small enough to get the full pier in your shot and snag those classic “California pier” shots .

La Jolla Cove is another beautiful beach. It is a small cove that is picture perfect, and just north of the ever-popular seals at Children’s Pool. George’s at the Cove is a great place to enjoys drinks, apps, and sunsets.

Another spot you won’t want to miss is the Torrey Pines Gliderport . This is one of our favorite places to bring a picnic and then enjoy watching hang gliders launching off cliffs to soar above the waves crashing below.

Speaking of Torrey Pines, you should definitely head over to the Torrey Pines State Reserve and talk a walk along the beautiful cliffside trails.

The Torrey Pines are the rarest pine trees in the country, and only grow in La Jolla and on Santa Rosa Island off the coast of Santa Barbara.

Best Time to Visit: La Jolla is an ideal destination any time of year.

Don’t Miss: If you visit during the late summer, definitely don’t miss snorkeling with the leopard sharks. Everyday California offers snorkeling gear rentals as well as snorkeling tours. The leopard sharks are harmless but you get the bragging rights of having checked “snorkeled with sharks” off your bucket list!

Stay Here : La Jolla Beach and Tennis Club is a private club that also has beachfront rooms for non-member guests. When guests stay in these rooms they have access to club amenities. In addition to beach umbrella and chair service, they also offer beachfront tables, chairs, and barbeques to rent to have a sunset dinner with your toes in the sand.

10. Long Beach

Long Beach is an up and coming Southern California Destination

Long Beach has had a bit of a renaissance in the 21st Century. It went from being gritty and a bit sketchy to being filled with hip, revitalized neighborhoods and world-class attractions.

Long Beach’s Naples neighborhood is trendy area filled with shops, restaurants, and beautiful homes lining the area’s canals and waterways. It is a great place to kayak, paddleboard, or take a chartered gondola ride at sunset.

While in Long Beach, you definitely don’t want to miss the Aquarium of the the Pacific , the largest aquarium in Southern California. Book a behind-the-scenes tour to get up close and personal with seals, sea lions, penguins, and sea otters.

You can also book whale and dolphin watching cruises as well as harbor tours via the Aquarium. The waters off Long Beach are great places to see gray whales in the winter and blue whales in the summer.

Across the street from the Aquarium is The Pike, an outdoor outlet mall filled with brand name shops and dining. Shoreline Village is also nearby and features fun little shops in Easter egg-colored buildings.

Long Beach’s most iconic attraction is the Queen Mary . Today, the Queen Mary is a hotel and attraction, but in its heyday, it made 1001 transatlantic crossings.

Visitors can choose from several different tours, watch a movie in the 4D theater, view a replica of the Queen Mary made from 250,000 LEGO bricks, eat at the onboard restaurants, or stay in one of the ship’s rooms.

Best Time to Visit: Long Beach is an all-season destination. The weather is pleasant year round.

Don’t Miss: The Pow-Wow! Art Festival which takes place every July. Contemporary graffiti artists and muralists from around the world flock to Long Beach to create amazing street art in a week filled with music, events, and live scaffolding painting.

Stay Here : The Hyatt Regency Long Beach is located in the heart of Long beach’s tourist center and is within walking distance of Shoreline Village, the Aquarium of the Pacific, and The Pike.

11. Channel Islands

Santa Cruz Island Channel Islands National Park

The Channel Islands are one of the best Southern California weekend getaways for those who really want to get away from it all.

Channel Islands National Park sits off the coast of Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties and is wild, remote, and beautiful. It is made up of five different islands, but most people visit Anacapa and Santa Cruz Islands because they are the closest.

Most people reach the Channel Islands via the Island Packers ferry out of Ventura Harbor, but if you have your own boat, feel free to set sail for the islands yourself!

Santa Cruz Island is the best island for a weekend getaway because it is large and offers plenty of opportunities to hike and sea kayak.

Channel Islands Adventure Company leads guided kayaking tours of the islands many sea caves. There is also great snorkeling to enjoy in the kelp forests just off the coast. Wetsuits are recommended.

There are no food concessionaires on these largely undeveloped islands. Be sure to pack in all the food you will need for the duration of your stay. There is potable water available at the Scorpion Campground on Santa Cruz Island.

Best Time to Visit: Early spring for wildflowers or summer for snorkeling.

Don’t Miss: Wildflower season when brilliant yellow coreopsis and purple lupines dot the landscape with a riot of color.

Stay Here : If you want to stay on an island, you have to camp. Campgrounds are undeveloped and have pit toilets. If you prefer four walls, consider making a couple day trips out to the islands and sleeping at a hotel near Ventura Harbor .

12. San Diego

San Diego is one of the best weekend getaways in Southern California

San Diego has long been a favorite weekend getaway for Southern Californians due to its great weather and numerous things to do.

San Diego’s waterfront downtown area is a great place to call home base as you explore the city. The Gaslamp District is a happening area with lots of restaurants, bars, and people watching.

The entire downtown area is very walkable but there are always pedicabs in the main tourist areas that you can hop on if your feet get tired.

The USS Midway, a retired aircraft carrier, is docked at the waterfront and is open as a museum. Audio tours allow you to explore the massive ship at your own pace and learn what life is like aboard the cities at sea.

The waterfront is also a great place to catch a harbor cruise. I recommend opting for the sunset cruise where you can sip cocktails, watch the sunset, and then return to vibrant city lights.

If you are an animal lover, don’t miss the San Diego Zoo , often recognized as the best zoo in the United States. This zoo has had a hand in helping several species escape extinction, including the beloved California condor.

My family absolutely loves the zoo’s Animals in Action experience. We were able to pet a rhino and a zebra, feed hilarious pink flamingos, and see wild cats like the beloved cheetah, up close and personal.

The San Diego Zoo is in Balboa Park , a sprawling park that is larger than NYC’s Central Park and home to several museums. Our favorites are the San Diego Natural History Museum and the fun San Diego Model Railroad Museum.

San Diego is known as one best destinations in the US for people who love craft breweries. Head to 30th Street in North Park, aka Beer Blvd. , to taste your way through several breweries. Each spot has its own vibe and unique flavors.

Mission Beach is popular with the young, college crowd. There are several restaurants, bars, and a great stretch of beach. Nearby Mission Bay is a popular spot for watersports like jet skiing and water skiing, and home to SeaWorld, famous for its sea mammals and thrill rides.

Best Time to Visit: San Diego is a great place to visit year round. If you have kids, visit in October during “Kids Free” month to visit over 100 destinations offering free admission or meals to children all month long.

Don’t Miss: A ballgame at Petco Park , home to the San Diego Padres. The field is located right downtown.

Stay Here : I have never met an Embassy Suites I didn’t like and the Embassy Suites San Diego Bay Downtown is one of my favorites. Besides having a great location across from Seaport Village, a touristy shopping and restaurant area on the water, it has spacious rooms, a good breakfast, and that famous Embassy Suites complimentary happy hour.

13. Huntington Beach

Huntington Beach is a fun weekend destination for those looking to spend some time on the sand. The city is known for its wide beaches and lively beach town vibe.

Also known as Surf City USA, Huntington Beach is a fun place to learn how to surf and there are several operators, like HB mainstay Cork Carroll’s , who are eager to get you standing on a board.

Surfing not your thing but like to stay active? There are several volleyball courts right on the sand.

Biking along the 15-mile bike trail that hugs the coast is another popular activity. There are several bike rental stands near the pier.

A bonfire is the best way to enjoy the beach at night. There are several bonfire pits on the city’s beaches, but you will have to claim them early if you are trying to snag one during peak season.

Huntington Beach is one of the best Southern California weekend getaways for dog lovers, thanks to its dog beach where pups can run unleashed on the sand and in the water. Restaurants like the Sit Stay Cafe and Park Bench Cafe and spots like Top Dog Barkery welcome Fido.

If it is dining and shopping you seek, there are lots of great options, including Pacific City, an outdoor mall filled with shops and restaurants located right on Pacific Coast Highway. Duke’s is a classic spot for a nice seafood dinner or Sunday brunch located at the base of the Huntington Beach Pier.

Best Time to Visit: There isn’t a bad time to visit Huntington Beach, but summer is best if you want to spend time in the water.

Don’t Miss: If you want to watch the best surfers in the world do their thing, visit during the annual US Open of Surfing which takes place during the end of July and beginning of August.

Stay Here : The Kimpton Shorebreak is a great pet-friendly (with no extra charge!) hotel that has beach cruisers, umbrellas, beach chairs, and even ice chests for guests to check out as part of their Beach Amenities Program. It is located in the heart of the HB action and the closest hotel to the dog beach.

14. Venice/Santa Monica

Venice and Santa Monica are neighboring beach towns with great urban beach vibes.

Venice has long known for its funky Bohemian spirit and eclectic boardwalk filled with street performers, cheap sunglasses stands, and pot shops. I once had a guy offer to sell me a bunny out of his coat pocket while I strolled the boardwalk!

It is truly a great place for people watching because people come here to be seen! Muscle Beach is popular with the shirtless gym rat crowd and there is always a crowd around the beachfront skate park’ s bowl.

Beyond the boisterous boardwalk, head slightly inland to find peace and beauty while walking the Venice canals . If you have a kayak or paddleboard, you can also use it to paddle under the bridges and past beautiful homes.

If it is shopping and dining that you crave, stylish Abbot Kinney Boulevard has some of the city’s best shops, restaurants, and bars.

Just down the beach from Venice is Santa Monica, the beach and boardwalk most associated with LA, thanks to Hollywood cinema.

Route 66 once ended at the Santa Monica Pier, and it is still one of the most popular beach attractions in California today. Pacific Park, a fair on the pier, is home to classic rides and carnival games.

Santa Monica State Beach is very popular and usually bustling with tourists and locals alike. Its wide stretch of sand is a great place to spend the afternoon.

Shoppers won’t want to miss the 3rd Street Promenade or the Santa Monica Farmer’s Market . If it is a great meal you crave, try a farm-to-table meal at Rustic Canyon , the famed Office burger at Father’s Office , and handmade pasta at Uovo ,

Best Time to Visit: Both cities are great to visit year round but sunny days, fewer crowds, and lower prices can be find during the early fall months of September and October.

Don’t Miss: First Fridays , which takes place on the first Friday evening of each month on Abbot Kinney Boulevard. During this event the boulevard is lined with the region’s hottest food trucks.

Stay Here : Oceanfront Hotel Casa del Mar is located in between the Santa Monica Pier and Venice Beach. Their Sea Wellness Spa offers a full array of facials, wraps, massages, and state-of-the-art treatments. On-site dining comes with perfect sunset views.

15. Temecula

Temecula is a wonderful wine region northeast of San Diego that has become one Southern California’s most popular weekend destinations for wine enthusiasts.

Many people begin their weekends by seeing the Temecula Valley from above on a hot air balloon ride. Balloon rides begin bright and early at dawn, and include beautiful sunrises over the vineyards and mimosa toasts.

If you would rather stick closer to the ground, try a horseback ride instead. Wine Country Trails by Horseback offers 90-minute rides out on the hills and through the vineyards of Maurice Car’rie Winery .

More animal-based fun can be found at The Alpaca Hacienda where you can feed and pet alpacas and shop for alpaca goods. It can also be found at Sugarplum Farm which is home to zebras, camels, and miniature horses, as well as incredible chocolates.

If you want to try something unique and fun, head into the hills south of town to mine for gems like tourmaline, aquamarine, quartz, and garnet at the Oceanview Mine . My family had a great time hunting for treasure and touring the mine. We all came home with special gems.

Old Town Temecula is a hub of shopping, dining, and lodging, all set in an Old West atmosphere, complete with wooden boardwalks. There are several breweries and bars in the area.

If it is wine you came for, you will be happy to know there are nearly 50 wineries in the region. It is always more fun to go wine tasting when someone else is driving, and Temecula Valley Jeep & Wine Tours are happy to act as your guide takes you to three wineries, into a barrel room, and on a back-road vineyard tour.

If you have a larger group, a limo tour is a better option. Temecula Limo Wine Tasting can accommodate groups of up to 14 people. They offer discount tasting tickets for seven different wineries and even have lunch packages.

Best Time to Visit: Avoid the summer and early fall if you don’t want to risk visiting on a 100-degreee day.

Don’t Miss: Socal Axe Throwing , which has a location in Temecula located right next to Wild Barrel Brewing. Beer and throwing axes will surely make for a fun evening.

Stay Here: Pont Vineyard Inn is located in the heart of Temecula Wine Country. Rooms are spacious and most have outstanding views of the property’s pond or surrounding vineyards.

The pool is a great place to lounge with a a cocktail and take in the scenery. Three wineries are within walking distance and dozens more are a short, Uber ride away.

Malibu is well known for its celebrity residents, but us commoners can still enjoy a weekend getaway in this beautiful beach town.

When I was growing up in Ventura County, Zuma Beach was our favorite beach to frequent. Its a good place to surf, sunbathe on wide stretches of sand, and play beach volleyball. You may even spot a couple celebrities!

If you would rather skip the crowds and focus on spotting sea life instead of famous people, Westward Beach and Leo Carillo State Park are good options. Leo Carillo is known for its tide pools and sea caves. Westward is a good place to spot seals, sea lions, and dolphins.

If you want to surf (or watch surfers), head to Malibu Lagoon State Beach . I like coming here near sunset to watch the surfers ride waves as the sun goes down and take pictures of Malibu Pier in the foreground.

If you want to shop where the beautiful people shop, head to Malibu Country Mart . Far from country, this upscale shopping center is filled with high end boutiques, galleries, and a variety of dining options.

You visit Malibu without enjoying a meal to remember. Nobu Malibu has a stunning oceanfront setting and some of the best sushi in the state. Malibu Farm Cafe is a more casual spot on the pier with fresh made juices, a great crab cake sandwich, and a wide variety of vegetarian options

Malibu is surrounded by hillside and canyons, making it a great place to hike. Favorite spots include the ruins of Tropical Terrace at Solstice Canyon , the trail to seasonal Escondido Falls , sprawling views on Zuma Ridge , and over a dozen other trails in the area.

Malibu’s hills are home to a few different wineries and Malibu Wines is the place to be on Saturday and Sunday. It features wines from Semler and Saddlerock wines, live music, and food trucks.

They even have a wine hikes program that takes guests on guided hikes to Chumash cave paintings and through the Saddlerock Ranch vineyards.

Best Time to Visit: Malibu is fun to visit anytime but I love September when the weather is still warm and the crowds are gone, or March when the hillsides are covered in wildflowers and the waterfalls are running.

Don’t Miss: The Malibu Wine Safari at Saddlerock Ranch. You tour the property in open-air safari vehicles while stopping to taste wine and meet alpacas, bison, zebras, and Stanley the famed giraffe.

Stay Here : The Malibu Beach Inn is located right on the sand on a strip known as Billionaire’s Beach (in other words, they have some wealthy neighbors). Choose and oceanfront room and watch the sunset from your balcony, eat dinner at the onsite Carbon Beach Club, and then fall asleep to the sound of crashing waves.

17. Death Valley

Death Valley National Park is a great weekend getaway

Death Valley’s name turns a lot of people off from visiting. But the truth is, Death Valley is a vast and beautiful place , and there is plenty of life in Death Valley.

Death Valley National Park is the largest national park in the lower 48 , and there are plenty of great places to explore. Just be sure to keep plenty of gas and water in your car because gas stations are scarce, the climate is usually very dry, and distances are vast.

One of my favorite things about Death Valley National Park is that you don’t need to stick to trails when exploring the park! Death Valley is famous for bein the hottest spot in North America during the summer months, but during the winter it is a great place to hike and explore.

You definitely want to visit Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America at 282 feet below sea level. In this land of extremes, be sure to scan the horizon and take in Telescope Peak which is 11,331 feet in elevation and only 15 miles away!

If you are looking to hike, consider exploring Golden Canyon , Mosaic Canyon , Sidewinder Canyon , and the hills around Zabriskie Point . My family loves scrambling up rocky hillsides and forging our own paths.

If it is sand dunes you crave, head over to the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes where you can wander, roll, make sand angels, and even snowboard down the hills. They aren’t the tallest dunes in Death Valley, but they are the most convenient to reach. Visiting the towering Eureka Sand Dunes requires a 2.5-hour drive down a remote dirt road.

The evening is a great time to enjoy Death Valley. Stars are abundant and the Milky Way is visible. If the moon is full, consider heading to the sand dunes for some moonlit exploration.

Here are 24 animals in Death Valley you may encounter on your visit.

Best Time to Visit: Winter is the best time to visit if you want to get out and explore the park in pleasant weather. Summer visitation is mostly dominated by Europeans looking to experience some serious heat!

Don’t Miss: The extremely rare pupfish in Salt Creek. Temps in the creek can reach 90 degrees in the summer months but the pupfish endures in the harsh environment. A 1/2 mile boardwalk runs alongside the side of the creek, making it easy to spot these special fish.

Stay Here : The Inn at Death Valley offers four star lodging in the middle of nowhere. This historic hotel was first built in the 1920s but has recently undergone a massive renovation.

The Inn has a spa, a great pool area, and is home to the lowest course in the world, the Furnace Creek Golf Course . It has been named one of the 50 toughest courses in the country.

Ojai is one of the best Southern California weekend getaways to enjoy if you are dreaming of spa vacation and prefer things a bit on the “granola” side.

Ojai is a small town located in a valley in northern Ventura County, surrounded by avocado and citrus farms. It is a charming place that bans chain stores but embraces yoga, wellness retreats, and healthy living.

The Ojai Valley Inn is the queen of the spa scene. While stay at the Ojai Valley Inn is highly recommended you can still have still purchase treatments on weekdays without being hotel guest.

Purchase of a treatment also gives you full access to the spa pools, Mind & Body classes, fitness gym as well as indoor facilities for the entire day! The Mind & Body classes include things like yoga, meditation, fitness walks, and spin classes.

In addition to Himalayan salt massages and Kuyam treatments- part healing clay, part dry heat, part guided meditation- the spa offers spiritual counseling, crystal healing therapy, and even custom aromatherapy.

There are several other wonderful spas in the area such as the Oaks at Ojai and the Lavender Inn Spa .

Beyond the spa, Ojai is a great place to get outside. There is horseback riding, and several great local trails for hiking or biking.

Back in town, you don’t want to miss the wonderful shops along Ojai Avenue. Many sells goods from local artists and all are independently operated.

Best Time to Visit: I like to avoid the peak summer months. Summer temps in the Ojai Valley can be quite hot which may limit your ability to enjoy the great outdoors.

Don’t Miss: Bart’s Books, the largest independent outdoor (yes, outdoor) bookstore in the United States.

Stay Here : The Ojai Valley Inn is the big name in town, for good reason. This resort offers much more than the spa and beautiful rooms. There is also a golf course, pools, tennis courts, an artist cottage where you can take classes, and even a beekeeping experience!

19. Solvang

Solvang is a great weekend getaway in Southern California

Solvang is a charming little Dutch town 30 miles north of Santa Barbara. It is filled with cute shops, great pastries and several nods to Dutch culture.

We had fun renting a surrey and peddling around town. Keep an eye out for the Little Mermaid Fountain, five different windmills, and the giant red clog.

There are 20 different beer and wine tasting rooms downtown because Solvang sits on the edge of Santa Barbara County wine country. As a matter of fact, the wine-centric movie, Sideways , was filmed in Solvang!

I highly recommend going on a wine tasting tour to visit several of the 120+ wineries in the area. Options include everything from bike tours to limos.

Food is part of the fun in Solvang. Don’t miss breakfast at Paula’s Pancake House , beers and brats at the Copenhagen Sausage Garden , and Danish pastries from Olsen’s , Mortensen’s , and Birkholm’s .

Best Time to Visit: Visit during the fall and you can enjoy events like Danish Days in September or the Solvang Grape Stomp in October where you can stomp on grapes a la I Love Lucy !

Don’t Miss: Danish Days which is filled with Danish fun! Enjoy folk dancers, three parades, concerts, axe throwing, an Æbleskiver breakfast, historical Viking re-enactments, artisanal craft booths, and plenty of food and drinks!

Stay Here : The Landsby is a small, boutique hotel in the heart of Solvang. It embraces Scandinavian design and heritage, and has charming courtyards with fireplaces. The hotel’s restaurant, Mad & Vin, serves wonderful Wine Country cuisine.

20. Hollywood

Hooray for Hollywood! Those of us who grew up in Southern California tend to take Hollywood for granted, but playing tourist for the weekend and going Hollywood can be fun!

Start by taking one of those cheesy celebrity TMZ bus tours or grab a map highlighting the star’s homes, because why not?

Walk the Hollywood Walk of Fame and search for your favorite stars, making time to place your hands and feet in the imprints left by celebrities outside of Grauman’s Chinese Theater .

Want to take pictures with your favorite celebrities but can’t find them anywhere? Head to Madame Tussaud’s and pose with wax replica’s of celebrities like Taylor Swift, Jimmy Kimmel, Marilyn Monroe, John Wayne, and Tupac.

If you want to see or be a part of the real thing, take a tour of Paramount Studios , the last major studio still located in Hollywood. Or sign up to be a part of a studio live studio audience during a tv taping.

You can’t spend a weekend in Hollywood without spending some time at the theater. There are several famed theaters around town hosting movie premiers, musicals, and concerts. I love watching the latest touring Broadway hits at the Pantages Theater .

After you have had enough of the city, head up into the hills and hike to the world-famous Hollywood Sign. There is a trail that link the sign with the Griffith Observatory . Views are especially impressive sight after a good rain. Runyan Canyon is another great place to hike (and potentially spot celebs).

Best Time to Visit: If you want to spot celebs, come during awards season (generally November through February) or wait for a movie premier starring your favorite actor.

Don’t Miss: A picnic at the Hollywood Bowl . This classic outdoor venue in the Hollywood Hills host famous music artists as well as the LA Philharmonic.

Stay Here : The Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel is a historic hotel that reflects the glamour Hollywood. It’s palm-lined Tropicana Pool is a great place to kick back with a cocktail and enjoy that California sunshine.

10 Easy Weekend Getaways in California

Get outside the city—be it san francisco, l.a., or san diego—with one of these locals-approved weekend escapes..

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Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park is one of the most scenic Big Sur stops on California’s Highway 1.

Photo by Laura Dannen Redman

The state of California is, shall we say, massive: 800 miles north to south, 400 miles wide, from craggy coast to redwood forest. It alone could have inspired the lyrics to “America the Beautiful,” while the Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) is among the most iconic drives in the country. Locals are spoiled for easy weekend getaways, so this editor-approved list is a mix of classic and quirky, depending on your mood.

Read on for 10 of the best weekend getaways in California.

From the San Francisco Bay Area

Distance: three hours south of San Francisco
Best for: dramatic coastlines, waterfalls plunging into the ocean, redwood forests

Big Sur—"cultural icon, marvel of nature, and ancestral home of the Esselen Tribe "—is one of the most magnificent stretches of California coastline, says AFAR senior editor Aislyn Greene, begging multiple visits, a weekend (or week) at a time.

What to do in Big Sur

“Nature is one of the region’s biggest draws, but there’s plenty of exploration to do beyond the trees,” says AFAR senior editor Aislyn Greene. Places like Tassajara Zen Mountain Center , Hearst Castle , a California condor tour with Ventana Wildlife Society , and a tour of the Point Sur lighthouse , as well as shopping for local art at Hawthorne Gallery or Coast Big Sur are all excellent things to do while in Big Sur.

Where to stay in Big Sur

Accommodation in Big Sur ranges from basic campsites , like those at Pfeiffer State Park, to five-star luxury. Some of our favorite Big Sur hotels include the spectacular, all-inclusive Ventana Big Sur resort, which gives guests the option to choose between staying in one of its luxurious suites or getting in touch with nature in its safari-style tents, as well as the creative rooms at Post Ranch Inn —weekend retreat in a tree house , anyone?

Read More: Embrace the Slow Life—and Maybe a Few Trees—in Big Sur

Mendocino Grove is a peaceful glamping retreat on the Northern California coats.

Simone Anne

2. Mendocino coast

Distance: three hours north of San Francisco
Best for: a remote drive along Highway 1

The Mendocino coast is no secret weekend getaway spot. While most visitors will focus on exploring the coastal town of Mendocino and its surrounds, there’s much to be discovered along the 90+ miles of Mendocino’s coastline. That said, if it’s your first time in the area, base yourself in the small town of Mendocino—beaten path or not, its proximity to trails, beaches, restaurants, and small locally run shops make it a must on any California getaway list. Or explore a new stretch of the coast, like the small town of Elk and nearby Salt Point State Park to the south of Mendocino.

What to do on the Mendocino coast

You could easily fill your weekend exploring tide pools on the beach and hiking trails with dramatic ocean views, but part of the Mendocino coast’s charms are in the small towns near the highway. Save plenty of time for pit stops from Guala to Fort Bragg; shop the variety store Matson Mercantile in Elk; enjoy vegetarian fare and wine at the hip and colorful Fog Eater Cafe in Mendocino; or sample fresh local seafood at Wild Fish .

Where to stay on the Mendocino coast

In the heart of downtown Mendocino is JD House , a six-room bed-and-breakfast with ocean views and decor that lands somewhere between ship captain’s home and modern hygge. Or immerse yourself in nature at Mendocino Grove , where you can stay in safari tents complete with beds, rugs, and firepits. The new-for-summer 2023 sauna and espresso bar make it extra dreamy.

Read More: Local Getaways: Escape to the Mendocino Coast

In the northern end of Sonoma wine country, the small historic town of Healdsburg is the center of many exciting new openings.

Courtesy of Bread & Butter PR Agency

3. Healdsburg and Sonoma wine country

Distance : 90 minutes north of San Francisco
Best for : a low-key wine and food getaway

It’s hard to see all of Sonoma wine county in a single weekend—it’s larger and more spread out than neighboring Napa Valley. Instead, make the northern town of Healdsburg, which is experiencing something of a revival, your home base for the weekend. In the past few years, a long list of exciting new hotels, restaurants, and tasting rooms have joined the area—giving the historic town a burst of new energy.

What to do in Healdsburg

Yes, of course, you could spend an entire day tasting wine (it is Sonoma County, after all), but you’ll also want to explore the area’s natural beauty. To do so, join a cycling tour at Russian River Adventures to see the area on two wheels with a knowledgeable guide, or combine your ride with a kayak adventure on Getaway Adventures ’ pedal-paddle tour.

Healdsburg’s food scene is also a big reason to visit: It’s home to three-Michelin-starred restaurant SingleThread (and awardee of a Michelin Green Star ), and the team’s newly opened vegan café, bar, and restaurant, Little Saint. For a more casual lunch or dinner, grab a pizza on the rooftop at the Matheson , or settle down for cocktails and fried chicken at Lo+Behold .

Where to stay in Healdsburg

For a truly luxurious retreat, book one of the tree houses at the Montage Healdsburg , a 258-acre property that officially opened its doors in 2020, making it the first major resort property in the Healdsburg area. Or head over to the Madrona , a historic property originally built in 1881 as a private residence that is now a beautiful, maximalist boutique hotel designed by Jay Jeffers.

Read More: Your Perfect Weekend Getaway in Sonoma Wine Country

What You Need to Know Before Winetasting in Napa Valley

Napa Valley offers world class wine — but that’s not the only activity for weekend getaways.

Photo by Brandon Bourdages/Shutterstock.com

4. Napa Valley

Distance: one hour to 90 minutes northeast of San Francisco
Best for: wine, of course, but also so much more

Napa Valley may feel like an obvious choice for a Bay Area getaway (it is undeniably easy), but that doesn’t mean your itinerary has to be predictable. With an exciting array of new restaurant and hotel openings in the past two years, as well as lesser-known tours, activities, and tastings (and we don’t just mean wine), it’s easy to go beyond the most well-known attractions. If you’re feeling especially adventurous, you could even turn your Napa getaway into a mini road trip from Napa Valley to Mendocino along the scenic Highway 128.

What to do in Napa Valley

Napa is about more than wine (though winetasting is certainly a top thing to do here). To see a different side, spend the day cycling its back roads with Napa Valley Bike Tours . Once you’ve worked up an appetite, head to Empress M , the vision of entrepreneur Margaret Wong that features gourmet Chinese dishes like shrimp dumplings, Sichuan calamari, and roast duck; Lucy Restaurant at Bardessono , a tranquil restaurant with seasonally inspired dishes like asparagus en cocotte; or North Block , whose menu by Momofuku alum chef Nick Tamburo revolves around a wood-fired oven.

Where to stay in Napa Valley

The George in downtown Napa is a nine-room inn in an historic, recently restored 19th-century home where guests are treated to plush towels, comfortable beds, and fresh English muffins from nearby Model Bakery .

Read more: Napa’s in Bloom: How to Plan the Perfect Spring Weekend

Who couldn’t relax with those Carmel Valley views?

Courtesy of Carmel Valley Ranch

5. Carmel Valley

Distance: two hours, 30 minutes from San Francisco
Best for: a wine country escape to the south

Napa Valley and Sonoma County aren’t the only places to go for a weekend of winetasting and sunshine (though you’ll rarely see us turn down a trip there). Carmel Valley (not to be confused with nearby Carmel-by-the-Sea) to San Francisco’s south is an equally fantastic, but often overlooked, destination for wine and food adventures.

What to do in Carmel Valley

Plan your weekend around winetasting at the area’s vineyards, like western-style Cowgirl Winery or Joyce , which specializes in wine from sustainability-minded vineyards. Then, decompress with an afternoon of hot and cool outdoor pools and a massage at Refuge Spa or a stroll through the shops at Carmel Valley Village.

Where to stay in Carmel Valley

Relax with a room at family-friendly Carmel Valley Ranch . Or for a more Tuscan-esque experience, stay at Bernardus Lodge & Spa , a wine country escape with rooms that overlook its 28-acre vineyard.

Read More: Why Carmel Valley Is the Wine Country Escape You Need

Pacific Ocean Coastline and Field of California Poppies. Tomales Point Trail, Point Reyes National Seashore, Marin County, California, USA.

A weekend in Tomales Bay means coastal hikes and lots of oysters.

Shutterstock

6. Tomales Bay

Distance: one hour, 30 minutes north of San Francisco
Best for: oysters, cheese, and kayaking in the sea

If a weekend of eating fresh seafood, sampling locally made cheese, and kayaking in a tranquil bay sounds like your kind of getaway, then head to Tomales Bay. This area, just north of the Point Reyes National Seashore, refers to the 15-mile stretch of watery inlet separating Point Reyes Peninsula from mainland Marin County. It also happens to be home to many dairy and oyster farms, as well as scenic parks and natural vistas.

What to do in Tomales Bay

Start off your weekend in Tomales Bay with an outdoor activity or two, like watching elk in the Tule Elk Preserve , hiking to the Point Reyes Lighthouse, or kayaking in Tomales Bay with Blue Waters Kayaking .

After you’ve worked up an appetite, eat your way through the area’s specialties, oysters and cheese, with a stop at Point Reyes Farmstead Cheese Company just north of Point Reyes Station, oysters at Hog Island or Tony’s Seafood in Marshall, and a locavore dinner at Saltwater Oyster Depot in Inverness. Locals know: For oysters to go, no-frills Tomales Bay Oyster Co. is the best in the bay.

Where to stay in Tomales Bay

Point Reyes Station is where all the action is, but we prefer to cozy up in a bay-side Airbnb, like Enchanting Garden Getaway in the tranquil town of Inverness on the west side of Tomales Bay.

From Los Angeles

Several miles of boardwalk line Moonstone Beach in Cambria.

Photo by randy andy / Shutterstock

Distance: Four hours’ drive from San Francisco or Los Angeles
Best for: strolling miles of boardwalk, gawking at Hearst Castle

Known locally as “where the pines meet the sea,” central Cambria has both stretches of Monterey pine forest and untamed shoreline worth exploring. With only 5,000 locals, it’s also a guaranteed chill time. What to do in Cambria

Part of Cambria’s charm is how laid-back it is. Some of the best ways to spend a day include a meander along Moonstone Beach inspecting driftwood structures and shucking at the no-reservation, cash-only Sea Chest Oyster Bar . Or maybe a hike along the bluffs spotting birds, whales, and otters at Fiscalini Ranch. Browse the singular boutiques along Main Street before a bite to eat and a glass of something local.

That said, there’s plenty to keep you busy, too. If it’s your first time, Hearst Castle, William Randolph Hearst’s sprawling, 165-room mansion packed full of European art, is a must (it was closed at time of writing but planning on a phased reopening)—as is a pit stop to see the elephant seals sunning themselves at Piedras Blancas.

Where to stay in Cambria

Set across nine acres at the far north end of Moonstone Beach, Oceanpoint Ranch is perfectly positioned for strolls along the boardwalk, explorations of rocky tidepools, and bracing hikes on deserted stretches of sand. Meanwhile, high in the woods above the main town, Cambria Pines Lodge is the kind of archetypal forest retreat the name suggests. The Fireside Lounge is a fine place for a glass of local pinot.

Read More: Why Cambria Is Central California’s Most Relaxing Weekend Break

Hop a ferry and spend the weekend in Catalina Island.

8. Catalina Island

Distance: one-hour ferry ride from L.A. on the Catalina Express
Best for: an accessible, unpretentious, car-free getaway

Warm and sunny , with a small town built into the hills around a palm tree–lined seafront that overlooks a sleepy harbor, Catalina Island evokes any number of spots on the Italian—or French—Riviera.

The 22-mile-long island has provided shelter for smugglers, served as a training ground for the Wrigley-owned Chicago Cubs, and long been a respite from mainland life. To wit: Most people get around on foot or by golf cart.

What to do on Catalina Island

An ideal weekend on Catalina Island would probably be split 50/50 between land and sea. You won’t want to miss snorkeling or scuba diving among the almost aggressively bright orange garibaldi fish by the casino—the water here is clear and dense with scaly creatures. On dry land, there’s the usual gamut of vacation activities: hiking, boutique shopping, bombing around via golf cart. Descanso Beach Club presents a rare opportunity in California: the chance to drink alcohol with your feet in the sand.

Where to stay on Catalina Island

We love Hotel Atwater , a century-old, centrally located slice of Avalon history named after Helen Atwater Wrigley, wife of Philip Knight Wrigley (William’s son). Its centennial renovation in 2020 gave it a light and modern feel with soothing shades of teal and coral and fresh carnations. Guests linger in reception playing board games and watching island life come and go through the large windows.

Read More: Catalina Island, the Mediterranean Escape Every Southern Californian Needs

The Santa Barbara Mission is a cultural and historic landmark.

Photo by Jenny Miller

9. Santa Barbara

Distance: less than two hours drive from L.A. (if the traffic gods are smiling)
Best for: culture, shopping, surfing...you name it

Sunny, palm tree–bedecked Santa Barbara—with its sweeping coastline framed by dramatic Santa Ynez mountains, winetasting rooms, sandy beaches, and relaxed city vibe—definitely deserves the nickname “the American Riviera.”

What to do in Santa Barbara

There are many ways you could spend your weekend in Santa Barbara. You could surf, swim, or rent a paddleboard. You could stroll round the harbor, taking in the Maritime Museum , cycle along the seafront, or kayak round the Channel Islands with Santa Barbara Adventure Company . You could eat clam chowder on the pier. Go whale-watching. Learn to sail. Or browse the city’s seemingly endless supply of boutiques. Explore the Old Mission . Or Lotusland botanic gardens.

Where to stay in Santa Barbara

“Check into the new 45-room Drift hotel—where Santa Barbara’s modern coastal decor is on full display,” says AFAR contributing editor Kristin Braswell. “On the lobby floor, Dusk cocktail bar is a favorite for residents looking to enjoy a spicy mezcal cocktail and small plates like avocado tostada.”

Read More: Escape to Santa Barbara, the American Riviera

From San Diego

Oceanside’s public spaces are splashed with colorful art.

Courtesy of Visit Oceanside

10. Oceanside

Distance: 30 minutes north of San Diego; two hours south of L.A.
Best for: a beach town with soul

South of L.A., north of San Diego, right by Legoland, and on the Amtrak line—Oceanside is perfectly positioned for a weekend getaway on the coast. Why else choose it? To start: It’s got soul. Character with a capital C. You will get into a conversation with someone on the pier. You’ll also find unusual independent businesses amid the usual third-wave coffee shops and upscale dining.

What to do in Oceanside

One downtown street alone is home to Steel Mill coffee , a bustling joint owned by Tony Hawk’s son Riley, with a huge motorbike above the door and punk rock blaring; tasting room Coomber Craft Wine ; a surfing academy; and a self-defense school. Around the center is also a surf museum , a tattoo museum , and an axe-throwing place . Oceanside’s undergone a huge transformation in recent years, with newer hotels, craft breweries, and artists’ spaces popping up—often in preserved historic buildings.

Where to stay in Oceanside

Mission Pacific is 161 rooms of laid-back yet luxurious seaside comfort—think L’Auberge del Mar or Shutters with some more modern touches—that encompasses a rooftop pool and bar, delicious breakfast spot (High/Low), and access to the beach.

Seabird next door is home to 226 rooms, many with balconies overlooking the ocean, a similar beachy decor, a big family-friendly pool, and more local art.

Read More: Why Oceanside Is a Great Coastal Retreat a Quick Train Ride from L.A.

San Francisco, California / United States of America - 5/14/2020: San Francisco Japantown Pagoda During the Day

8 Incredible Weekend Getaways in Southern California for Every Traveler

I’m riding 130 feet in the air at the top of the world’s only solar-powered Ferris wheel. From my vantage point, above the Santa Monica Pier at Pacific Park, I have a panoramic view of the surrounding Southern California coastline. Straight ahead, the majestic snow-capped Mount Baldy, the highest peak in California , rises in the distance while blue waves roll onto the sandy shore below me. After sunset, the Ferris wheel is aglow, illuminated with changing colors in a spectacular light show visible for miles.

Variety is the spice of life in SoCal where you can be building sandcastles at the seashore in the morning, and in less than two hours, trekking through rugged mountain trails or lounging by the pool in a desert oasis by afternoon.

Sample a taste of the region’s diversity with one of these Southern California weekend getaways .

Anza-Borrego: Visit the State's Largest State Park on this Weekend Getaway in Southern California

For a desert experience completely different from Palm Springs, visit Anza-Borrego, home to California’s largest state park. It’s spectacular from mid-March through April during the SuperBloom when the desert wildflowers and cactus flowers blanket the area in vibrant color. After dark, the sky glitters with light in Anza-Borrego, one of California’s prime stargazing spots with Borrego Springs named the state’s first (and only) International Dark Sky Community.

Hotels & Vacation Rentals - Borrego Springs

Where to stay near anza-borrego.

Stay in one of the casitas with a private outdoor hot tub at La Casa del Zorro , a luxurious desert oasis restored to its original 1937-style adjacent to Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. Head into the nondescript town of Borrego Springs for margaritas and Mexican fare at Carmelita’s Mexican Grill. On the way, keep an eye out in the open areas for some of the 130 full-sized metal sculptures of prehistoric mammals, historical characters and a 350-foot-long fanciful serpent created by Perris, California-based artist/welder Ricardo Breceda.

La Casa Del Zorro

Laguna beach: a southern california weekend getaway in an informal artist colony.

An elegant and informal artist colony, the seaside town of Laguna Beach is a seven-mile stretch of coastline punctuated by scenic coves, curvy canyons, and small streets lined with shops, galleries, and restaurants.

Visitors flock to Laguna in the summer, not just for the beach, but for the annual Festival of Arts Pageant of the Masters, a 90-minute narrated performance of tableaux vivants (living pictures), set on a stage in an outdoor amphitheater with actors posing in hyper-realistic, recreated works of classical and contemporary art that will fool your eyes. Also make time for a visit to the Sawdust Festival where over 200 Laguna Beach artists exhibit their works, including painting, jewelry, ceramics, clothing and textiles, wood and metal sculpture, hand-blown and fused glass, photography, and even scrimshaw.

Hotels & Vacation Rentals - Laguna Beach

Where to stay in laguna beach.

Settle in at Montage Laguna Beach , 30 acres of pure luxury on the coastal bluff above the Pacific. No need to ever leave the property as it has four gourmet restaurants, two pools, and the 20,000-square-foot Spa Montage. But you’ll want to pop into Laguna Village to shop, gallery hop, and catch the sunset outdoors while dining on coastal-American cuisine at one of the beachfront restaurants such as The Cliff or Splashes.

The sun will be beating against your skin no matter where you end up on your weekend getaway in Southern California. Enjoy your time exploring the left coast!

Montage Laguna Beach

Los angeles: a weekend getaway in the city of angels.

Los Angeles is a sprawling city full of distinct, eclectic neighborhoods, like East Los Angeles, West Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, Koreatown, and the list goes on. You could spend a month, indeed a lifetime there, and still not see it all. But you can do your best by starting in the heart of the city where you can avoid the region’s notoriously heinous traffic and make use of the city’s updated Metro Rail network.

Hotels & Vacation Rentals - Los Angeles

Where to stay in los angeles.

For a central, walkable location in one of L.A.’s most glamorous neighborhoods, consider a stay at Mr. C Beverly Hills . Neither hip, ultra-modern, nor stuffy traditional, the hotel is a blend of stylish contemporary and classic European. Guests can relax at the rooftop pool overlooking Beverly Hills and beyond while dining poolside on classic Italian fare prepared by the fourth generation of Ciprianis.

Cameo Beverly Hills

Malibu: a celebrity weekend getaway in southern california.

Known as “the ‘Bu” by locals and surfers, Malibu is a 21-mile stretch historically known as an enclave for Hollywood celebrities and other affluent entertainment industry residents. The beach lines one side of the Pacific Coast Highway while narrow canyon roads emerge from the other, some leading to great hiking trails in the Santa Monica Mountains, such as Solstice Canyon, where hikers can trek to a perennial waterfall.

In the heart of the city, the Malibu Country Mart is a popular destination whose high-end retail and dining establishments attract many famous locals. Nobu is a celebrity dining favorite, but if you want to tap into a real holdover from the bohemian and hippy era, head up to nearby Topanga Canyon. The romantic Inn of the Seventh Ray is so New Age that it almost seems satirical. An extension of their personal health-focused lifestyle, owners Dr. Ralph and Lucile Yaney opened the restaurant in the early 70s when the locavore and organic food movements were not as ubiquitous as they are today. Their prescient farm-to-table vision lives on, albeit not as “alternative” as it seemed back then. The menu features seasonal organic ingredients that are in many cases sourced from known local farms. Even the water is chemical-free, treated by reverse osmosis, then alkalinized. (Don’t ask me what that means.)

After decades, the Yaney’s spiritual beliefs remain the undercurrent of everything in and out of the kitchen. During my dinner, our server greeted us with “for your first course, may I serve you a bit of philosophy?” The Inn invites guests to “partake of the angelic vibrations” while dining on chemical and artificial additive-free cuisine they say is “charged with the vibration of the violet flame of the Seventh Ray.” They hope all of this will be their guests’ “personal transportation to a higher plane.”

Although the experience was more esoteric than spiritual for me, the sound of water flowing in the creek was a soothing accompaniment to a delicious meal. Can you dig it?

Hotels & Vacation Rentals - Malibu

Where to stay in malibu.

Its private beach isn’t the only draw of the Malibu Beach Inn . All guest rooms have balconies with unobstructed sea views where you can keep an eye out for the dolphins. If all the touring has left you tired, there’s no need to leave the property for dinner. Savor some coastal cuisine and local regional wines at the Inn’s Carbon Beach Club where you can dine al fresco on the terrace.

Malibu Beach Inn

Ojai: a charming valley town near los angeles.

A charming valley town, 90 minutes northwest of Los Angeles , Ojai is a center for the arts, culture, spirituality, self-improvement, and environmental consciousness. (It even has a vegetarian boarding school.)

From the 50s to the 70s, Ojai was a hub of the Boho (or Bohemian) craft movement that rejected social traditions in favor of more unconventional artistic, literary, and spiritual pursuits. The town retains an updated Bohemian vibe and is host to seasonal arts festivals including the Ojai Valley Music Festival, Ojai Valley Film Festival, and Ojai Shakespeare Festival.

Its Mediterranean microclimate is perfect for olive growing, making the Ojai Valley area a destination for olive oil lovers. Visit some olive groves to sample the superb artisan small-batch olive oils. Regalo Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Ojai Olive Oil are both family-owned presses dating back to the mid-1800s era of the Spanish missions when the valley had a communal olive press. Just outside of the town, the Topa Mountain Winery opens onto the Ojai Valley Bike Trail, so pack your picnic lunch and cycle over for a tasting outdoors in the shadows of the Topa Mountain Range. Check the winery’s schedule as there’s live music every Saturday and Sunday with other events woven in like Macramé and Wine, and Comedy Night.

Hotels & Vacation Rentals - Ojai

Where to stay in ojai.

For a regimented wellness program, a stay at the all-inclusive Oaks At Ojai Health Resort will leave you rejuvenated, possibly a few pounds lighter, and on the path to a healthy lifestyle you can bring home.

Oaks At Ojai Health Resort

Palm springs: a southern california weekend getaway in hipster headquarters.

Once a winter playground for wealthy retirees and Hollywood celebrities, like Frank Sinatra and the Gabor sisters, Palm Springs is now more hipster headquarters than senior center. It’s become the coolest hot spot in the Sonoran Desert.

Just outside of central Palm Springs is the shopper’s haven of El Paseo. This street tends to remind people of Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills with its many upscale shops that blend the flavors and ambiance of the past with the present. The Palm Springs dining spots of yesteryear — including Las Casuelas, Elmer’s for German pancakes, Melvyn’s for retro food that really is retro like Steak Diane, wilted spinach salad, and cherries jubilee — still thrive alongside their cooler new siblings, like Workshop Kitchen + Bar for dinner, and for a cheesy retro experience, King’s Highway for breakfast in a former Denny’s located in the Ace Hotel .

Take the 10-minute trip on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, the world’s largest rotating tramcar, for the two-and-one-half mile long ride along the cliffs of Chino Canyon to Mt. San Jacinto State Park. You’ll be at 8,516 feet elevation when you arrive at Mountain Station where you’ll find over 50 miles of hiking trails, two restaurants, observation decks, and a natural history museum.

The springs are in nearby Desert Hot Springs. I’ve stayed at Two Bunch Palms, which reputedly originated as Al Capone’s “Fortress West.” For its warm spring-fed mineral pools and extraordinary spa treatments, the unpretentious resort attracts well-known people who don’t want attention and, like all the guests, can lunch in their bathrobes straight from the spa. Try the Desert Abhyanga followed by a Scalp Oil Massage to experience total bliss.

Hotels & Vacation Rentals - Palm Springs

Where to stay in palm springs.

The Kimpton Rowan Hotel , a newcomer adopting the retro-chic mid-century style, is the first newly built downtown hotel in decades and has Palm Springs’ only rooftop pool. Lounging by the pool with a cold drink is heavenly, but there are also 54 miles of hiking trails in the area, most notably Joshua Tree National Park and Painted Desert, named for the variety of rock colors.

Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs

Paso robles: a southern california weekend getaway for agri-experiences.

The town where Marilyn Monroe and Joe DiMaggio spent the first night of their honeymoon has become a viticulture and culinary mecca for its acclaimed vineyards and olive groves. Popularized in Italy, agritourism has grown globally, and with California’s agricultural heritage, Paso Robles is a great fit for agri-experiences .

Venture out to one of several wineries where you can sip a chilled glass while picnicking against the backdrop of lush hills blanketed in grapevines. Make it a day of “vineyard sports” visiting some of the various wineries offering outdoor games. Find a spot on the deck of the 38-acre Eberle Vineyard with views of the Santa Lucia Mountains on the horizon where a glass of wine is a nice foray into a match of bocce ball or a game of Cornhole. Head to Castoro’s Whale Rock Vineyard, where in view of the rolling hills and oak trees, you’ll tour a scenic two-mile loop through the vineyard, after which you can try your hand at some disc golf, crisscrossing in and out of the vines on their 18-hole course.

Absorb it all on two wheels. With such striking scenery at your feet, rent a bike for a ride through the rural countryside. Sulfur springs flow through Paso Robles, three of which are open to the public — a nice way to cap off the day with a soak in the warm soothing mineral waters.

Hotels & Vacation Rentals - Paso Robles

Where to stay in paso robles.

For a genuine local wine country experience, spend a night or two at one of the region’s picturesque wineries. Like the wines, these accommodations vary by taste but are equally elegant and refined. Blending contemporary farmhouse and vintage styles, the SummerWood Inn’s four luxury bedrooms overlook the property’s gardens where guests can enjoy a farm-fresh, cooked-to-order breakfast outdoors. Then in the afternoon, indulge in appetizers paired with SummerWood wines.

Summerwood Inn

Santa monica/venice: a classic weekend getaway in southern california.

These neighboring beach towns are synonymous with popular images of SoCal. Many will recognize Santa Monica and Venice from films, photos, and Beach Boys songs.

No visit to the area is complete without a stop at the Santa Monica Pier where the iconic Route 66 ends at the Pacific Ocean. There’s plenty to do in between your hot dog on a stick and a chocolate-dipped frozen banana. The amusement park’s roller coaster and other rides, the plethora of games in the arcade, and the street performers make it a perfect California family outing for kids and grownups alike. Be sure to visit The Great Zoltar, a vintage coin-operated fortune teller who speaks and moves as he dispenses his prophecy on a card through a slot in the machine. And if you’ve always dreamed of running away with the circus, take a class at the trapeze school.

Walk, jog, cycle, or skate your way along the Santa Monica bike path to the mile-long Venice Boardwalk where hundreds of street vendors hawking cheap souvenirs and tee shirts intermingle with mimes and contortionists, break dancers, and a guy who walks on broken glass. You may catch the chainsaw juggler or the gospel singer with two snakes wrapped around his neck. Get a real or temporary tattoo, a piercing, or have your name written on a grain of rice.

Hotels & Vacation Rentals - Santa Monica

Where to stay in santa monica.

For a relaxing stay that’s walking distance to everything, including the Third Street Promenade’s shopping and dining, check in to the contemporary Oceana Santa Monica . Cross the street for a scenic stroll along Palisades Park at the top of the sandstone bluffs with its infinite views of the Pacific Ocean coastline. As SoCal locals frequently say, “on a clear day, you can see Catalina,” referring to a small island 26 miles across the sea.

Oceana Santa Monica, LXR Hotels & Resorts

Feature image by Roberto Nickson , Unsplash .

Love and Road

15 Best Weekend Getaways in Northern California

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Are you looking for the best weekend getaways in Northern California for your next big adventure?

Well, we visited all the top destinations in the state’s northern half, looking for the perfect getaways. From the Sierra Nevada Mountains to the wine country, this list of the best weekend trips in Northern California will get you on the road to an experience of a lifetime.

These trip ideas cover the best of NorCal with beach towns, outdoor activities, parks, scenic drives, epic views, food tours, and options for wine tasting.

The guide also includes the best places to stay in which region/place, popular activities, and tours. So you can just choose where you want to go, pack your bags, and set for a perfect weekend trip.

It doesn’t matter if you are looking for a romantic Northern California getaway, a family trip idea, or an adventure weekend, we got you covered here!

Woman sitting on the edge of a cliff facing a small secluded beach. It shows one of the spots you can visit on a weekend getaway in Northern California, US.

Weekend Getaways in Northern California

Before we start our guide to the unique places to visit in Northern California, let me tell you that some of these destinations offer different experiences depending on the season.

So don’t forget to take this into consideration when planning your summertime weekend trips or choosing your winter destination. But one thing is for sure, these popular weekend getaways in Northern California just can’t be missed.

Also, why not get closer to nature by driving an RV? You can rent one with RVshare to enjoy all the beautiful scenery of Northern California

Travel Advice:

Don’t forget your Travel Insurance! You don’t want anything to ruin your trip, right? So don’t take the risk! Reliable travel insurance can help you in case of travel issues, from accidents to health problems, travel delays, and lost luggage.

There are many insurances in the market, our picks are HeyMondo and SafetyWing . We used both and always had a good experience. Click on the insurance names to get a quote.

Best places to visit Northern California on a weekend

Photo of Yosemite National Park in Northern California, US. Shows the rocky mountains in the background and a lake in the front.

1 – Yosemite National Park

For nature lovers, Yosemite National Park offers the perfect destination for a weekend getaway where visitors can immerse themselves in this natural wonderland. In fact, it’s one of the best National Parks on the West Coast and in the US.

Take advantage of this opportunity to get up close to the majestic giant Sequoia trees and Yosemite Falls, which is 2425 feet tall.

One of the biggest draws to this national park is its massive granite monoliths which frame the valley, including El Capitan and the famous Half Dome.

Bring your binoculars, and you may spot some climbers making their way up on one of these massive rock faces.

For adventurous types, the park has over 750 miles of trails that lead to park highlights, including Mirror Lake, or viewpoints like Glacier Point that will take your breath away.

To make a weekend getaway extra special, book a cabin in Yosemite where you can relax by the fireplace or in the hot tub after a day on the trails.

Talking about places to stay, here are our suggestions for hotels near Yosemite National Park that you should check out.

Evergreen Lodge at Yosemite: beautiful cabins with everything you need for a comfy and stylish stay. (click on the hotel’s name to see the rooms)
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Oakhurst Yosemite: great hotel with breakfast and bikes included in the rates. (click on the hotel’s name to book it)
Sierra Meadows : an affordable option with well-equipped tiny cabins for two people, or families. (click on the hotel’s name to see the rates)

Now that you have your accommodation sorted, let’s talk about tours and experiences in Yosemite National Park. Keep in mind that during high season it is advised that you book the tours in advance.

Check out this Yosemite National Park experiences we picked for you :

Lake George at Mammoth Lakes, Mono County, California, USA. The photo shows a lake with small boats and the rocky mountains in the back.

2 – Mammoth Lakes

Mammoth Lakes is best known as an epic wintertime ski and snowboard destination but is equally perfect for a summertime weekend getaway.

Located in the Eastern Sierras in Mono County, this small mountain town is a paradise for adventure seekers looking to make some turns at the Mammoth Mountain ski resort.

The skiing and snowboarding paradise sits at just under 8000 feet, meaning they have some of the best snow conditions in California.

This charming ski town also offers plenty of fun adventures during the summer ranging from single-track mountain bike trails to natural hot springs for a good soak.

There are also countless hiking trails perfect for exploring the 100-plus lakes in Mammoth or for a visit to Devil’s Postpile National Monument.

Some of the main lakes offer the opportunity to go for a paddle on a kayak or SUP or a dip in the chilly water.

And if you have time visit June Lake which is only half an hour’s drive from Mammoth Lake. It’s known for its mountain views and it’s a great place to see the Autumn foliage.

For a tranquil weekend getaway, make sure to book a stay near the Village at Mammoth, which is one of the best areas to stay in Mammoth .

Here are the best hotels in Mammoth Lakes:

Snowcreek Resort Vacation Rentals : nice apartments with kitchen and you get free access to Snowcreek Athletic Club and complimentary greens fees at Snowcreek Golf Course with your booking. (click on the hotel’s name to book it)
The Village Lodge: fully furnished apartments, great views, and amenities like a heated outdoor pool, 5 hot tubs, and 3 gyms. (click on the hotel’s name to see the rooms)
Juniper Springs Resort: perfect for your winter weekend trip as you can ski in and out of the hotel. Comfy apartments with a heated outdoor pool, a hot tub, and a golf course. (click on the hotel’s name to see the rates)

Photo of Lake Tahoe with snow-capped mountains in the background and pine trees in front of the lake. This is one of the best places to visit in Northern California for a weekend getaway.

3 – Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe offers the perfect combination of outdoor adventure and stunning natural beauty that draws in millions of visitors annually to experience the lake’s crystal-clear blue water.

During the winter, Lake Tahoe is the state’s top ski and snowboard destination, with 15 ski resorts ranging from small hills to massive facilities with just under 100 runs.

Lake Tahoe is even more of a summer destination, as the lake’s gorgeous beaches are perfect for a day of catching some rays or for a relaxing paddle.

The gorgeous lake’s shores and the surrounding mountains are home to some of the best hiking trails in Northern California , including the Rubicon Trail, which snakes its way along the hidden coves and beaches.

A weekend getaway to Lake Tahoe would be incomplete without a visit to Emerald Bay for a relaxing picnic or on a historic paddleboat ride on the M.S. Dixie II from Zephyr Cove.

You can buy here your Lake Tahoe: Self-Guided Driving Tour to get around easily and even discover some hidden gems.

Lake Tahoe is a popular lake weekend getaway in Northern California also because of its nightlife. Don’t forget to try the local craft breweries like South of North Brewing Company and at the casinos on the strip in South Lake Tahoe.

Of all the best Northern California getaways, Lake Tahoe has the most options for entertainment, from stunning natural attractions to pristine mountain lake beaches and popular hikes.

Here are the best hotels in Lake Tahoe:

Edgewood Tahoe Resort : one of the resorts on Lake Tahoe. It has a private beach, golf course, heated pool, hot tubs, fine dining, and views to die for. (click on the hotel’s name to book it)
Sunnyside Resort and Lodge : great location, rooms with balcony and lake views, and all the comforts you need. (click on the hotel’s name to see the rooms)
Mother Nature’s Inn : cozy and charming hotel with different room sizes, which is a good option for families. Located 200 m from Commons Beach it offers great value for money. (click on the hotel’s name to see the rates)

And here are a few unmissable activities at Lake Tahoe:

Colonial architecture in Old Sacramento Historic District in California, United States. It's a popular destination for a weekend trip in Northern California.

4 – Sacramento

Sacramento is often overlooked as a Northern California weekend getaway, but there is plenty of fun to be found in the state’s Capital.

The city’s most popular tourist destination is Old Sacramento, a throwback to the Gold Rush era with its historic storefronts and wooden boardwalks.

For a unique experience here is a downloadable walking tour about the Gold Rush and Ghosts of Sacramento . You can explore the city at your pace while hearing the best stories from its past.

Old Sacramento offers up a chance to explore the unique shops and visit the California State Railroad Museum.

Make sure to grab drinks or dinner on the waterfront at one of the great riverside restaurants or on board the Delta King paddle boat.

There are also cruise tours on the Sacramento River. Have a look at this Historic Gold Rush River Cruise , for a more historic experience, or Rock The Yacht River Cruise if you fancy a drink and party with friends.

For a fun night out, head to Midtown, where you will find some great craft breweries, wine bars, and restaurants for some snacks.

To get some outdoor time, rent some bikes for a ride along the American River Parkway, which stretches 23 miles on picturesque paved trails.

A good way to pair a bike ride around Sacramento and a few drinks is by joining this Cycling Pub Crawl . Don’t worry, it has a designated driver.

For families looking for Sacramento hotel suites , there are several great options near the riverfront with easy access to the city’s top attractions.

Here are a few good hotels for your weekend in Sacramento:

Kimpton Sawyer Hotel, an IHG Hotel : great central location, stylish rooms, a rooftop pool, and all the amenities you expect from a 4-star hotel. (click on the hotel’s name to book it)
Hyatt Centric Sacramento Downtown : another great 4-star hotel in Sacramento with spacious and beautiful rooms. (click on the hotel’s name to see the rooms)
Arden Star Hotel : a budget-friendly option a bit outside of the downtown. Breakfast is included in the rates and the hotel even offers an outdoor pool and hot tub. (click on the hotel’s name to see the rates)

And more tours in Sacramento for you to have fun!

Photo of Castello di Amorosa in Napa Valley, California. It shows the castle entrance with a long staircase and the stone walls.

5 – Napa Valley

Napa Valley is not only the best wine region in the United States, but it also offers up a taste of the good life with luxury and world-class hospitality.

This makes Napa one of the top romantic getaways in Northern California.

From world-class vineyards with opulent facilities to Michelin-star dining, Napa Valley is a destination worthy of any special weekend getaway.

Days can be spent tasting at the beautiful Napa Valley wineries with picnics in the vineyards, or visitors can opt to head to the adorable town of Calistoga for a soak and some pampering at the natural hot springs.

Napa Valley is also a popular destination for hungry gormands looking to sample the valley’s wine-country cuisine at restaurants like the legendary French Laundry.

Don’t miss a chance to visit the Oxbow Market, which is an amazing collection of gourmet shops and small restaurants focused on local products and produce.

For a unique wine country experience, head to Castello di Amorosa to tour a winery built inside a castle.

If you like games, check out this Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour in Napa that you can do using your phone.

To sum up, Napa Valley is one of the best getaways in Northern California for food and wine lovers.

Here are the best hotels for your weekend in Napa Valley:

Auberge du Soleil, An Auberge Resort : this adults-only resort offers a luxury experience at its best. Impeccable rooms, spa, outdoor pool, gym, and many more. (click on the hotel’s name to book it)
Milliken Creek Inn : another luxury option, but right in the city center. Rooms with extra large beds, great views, and breakfast is included in the rate. (click on the hotel’s name to see the rooms)
RiverPointe Napa Valley Resort : get your own cottage by the banks of the Napa River. The cottages have a small kitchen and the resort offers an outdoor heated pool. All these for friendly prices. (click on the hotel’s name to see the rates)

Here are our top pick of tours in Napa Valley:

Napa Valley: Guided Wine Tour with Picnic Lunch
Guided Private Wine Tour to Napa and Sonoma Wine Country
Napa Valley: Airplane Sightseeing Tour
Wine Country: Kayaking, Biking, Lunch, & Wine Tasting Trip
Napa: Napa Valley History Guided Kayaking Tour

Photo of San Francisco Bay with Golden Gate Bridge in the center. San Francisco is a perfect destination for a romantic weekend in Northern California

6 – San Francisco

San Francisco is a perfect destination for a romantic weekend in Northern California where couples can explore attractions ranging from the Palace of Performing Arts to miles of sandy beaches for watching the sunset.

This Northern California getaway is a great place to treat yourself to a room with a breathtaking view and a dining experience at one of the city’s Michelin Star restaurants.

It doesn’t matter if you are traveling as a couple, solo, with friends or family, don’t forget to head to Golden Gate Park. Take your time to sip some Gen Mai Cha at the Japanese Tea Gardens or have a picnic of local cheeses at Stow Lake while watching the swans.

If there is one thing that is a must for a trip to San Francisco, it is to walk across the Golden Gate Bridge and watch the famous Bay Area fog roll into the city.

Touristy fun can be delicious in Fisherman’s Wharf, where you can eat clam chowder and some freshly caught Dungeness crab right from the fisherman.

This romantic weekend break will surely offer up that special spark that makes San Francisco Bay Area the perfect getaway for couples.

Here are 3 ideas of what to do in San Francisco for couples:

San Francisco Sunset/Twilight Boat Cruise
Luxury Brunch or Dinner Cruise on the Bay
Golden Gate Bridge Seaplane Tour

Don’t forget to book your activities and stay in advance, San Francisco is always busy.

Here are the top hotels in San Francisco for all budgets:

Four Seasons Hotel San Francisco: an awesome 5-star hotel in San Francisco. Great rooms, a perfect location, and guests have free access to the adjacent Equinox Sports Club fitness center. (click on the hotel’s name to book it)
San Francisco Marriott Marquis Union Square : 4-star hotel with stylish rooms, good location and you can book your stay with or without breakfast. (click on the hotel’s name to see the rooms)
Samesun San Francisco : great value for money, you can choose from a double room with a bathroom or a dorm. Breakfast is included in the price and the location is great. (click on the hotel’s name to see the rates)

And here is the city pass and two other activities you can’t miss in San Francisco

View of Pacific Coast Highway in Northern California. Shows the road between the mountains and the sea.

7 – Big Sur

If you are dreaming of taking a road trip down the iconic Pacific Coast Highway, then this stretch of the California Coast will be the highlight of your adventure.

Big Sur is situated between the rocky coast and the Santa Lucia Mountain Range, which offers a combination of ocean and forests to experience.

You can do it in a few hours of drive or in days. The drive time will depend on what you want to do, see, and how many stops you want to make. One thing is for sure, you will have scenic views.

This route along Highway 1 includes countless opportunities to get out and stretch your legs, where you can take in the ocean views.

There are opportunities to check out coves full of turquoise waters and kelp forests, and you might even spot some sea otters snacking on some shellfish.

One of the highlights is a stop to see the McWay Falls, which plummets off a cypress tree-covered cliff with the water crashing onto the sandy beach.

Big Sur also offers a chance to walk amongst the giant Coastal Redwoods at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park.

This is an ideal destination for travelers that love the outdoors, coastal views, and a good old-fashioned road trip.

If you are doing this road trip there are plenty of places to stay, before and after the park.

You can book a nice hotel in advance, or just spot at one of the motels on the way. Before the Big Sur, you can find lodging options in Monterey , Carmel Valley , Carmel by the Sea , Cambria , Pacific Grove , Santa Cruz , and Half Moon Bay . (click on the city’s name to see the hotels)

If you decide to pass the central coast and go to Southern California, then check out these popular beach destinations: Avila Beach, Pismo Beach, and Santa Barbara.

Here is a comprehensive guide about things to do in Pismo Beach that includes great tips about accommodation in the region.

To make the most of your trip get one of these self-drive tours:

Big Sur California: Pacific Coast Highway Self-Drive Tour
From San Francisco: Highway One Self-Drive Audio Tour

Colorful buildings on the old boardwalk in Monterey, California, USA.

8 – Monterey

The coastal town of Monterey was a historic part of California’s fishing and canning industry but is now one of the top tourist destinations on the West Coast.

Monterey County offers plenty of fun for the whole family and is equally special for a romantic weekend getaway in Northern California. For a unique experience check out this Walking Guided Tour with Food and Drink tasting.

The top destination in Monterey is Cannery Row which was the center of sardine canning but is now home to kitschy shops, seafood restaurants, and hotels with ocean-view guest rooms.

Cannery Row is also home to the Monterey Bay Aquarium, which offers a chance to experience sea life up close while learning about the sustainability of our oceans.

The Monterey Bay features 14 straight miles of sandy beaches where you can catch some rays or play in the dunes. If the weather is good you can also join a Surfing Lesson in one of Monterey’s pristine beaches.

Another top attraction is the Old Fisherman’s Wharf, where you can enjoy a seafood feast at one of the restaurants or catch a boat for some whale watching. Here is a well-rated Whale Watching Tour in Monterey .

Your Monterey weekend getaway deserves the perfect accommodation, and here they are:

InterContinental The Clement Monterey : a luxury stay in the heart of Monterey’s historic Cannery Row. Beautiful rooms with sea view and all amenities like spa, swimming pool, and bar. (click on the hotel’s name to book it)
Munras Inn : the perfect middle-range hotel in Monterey. Comfy rooms, a good location, and very good reviews. (click on the hotel’s name to see the rooms)
Super 8 by Wyndham Monterey Fisherman’s Wharf Aquarium : this 2-star motel is perfect for those who want a cozy and budget-friendly place to stay. (click on the hotel’s name to see the rates)

Photo of a man holding a glass of red wine in front of a vineyard. This shows a region of Sonoma, one of the best weekend getaways in Northern California.

9 – Sonoma

Sonoma is a small town and an incredible wine region. Sonoma is full of outdoor adventures like Jack London State Historic Park, where you can see the redwoods and the vineyards in one hike.

The Sonoma Plaza is the center of all the action, with great restaurants featuring locally sourced ingredients, wine-tasting rooms, a cheese shop, and more.

You could spend your day just exploring the plaza and its state historic park, but a trip to Sonoma would only be complete with a few visits to the region’s wineries.

Sonoma is home to some of the country’s top Chardonnay and sparkling wine producers, where you can taste their offerings in their opulent tasting rooms.

Here is a great Sonoma Guided Winery Tour with Picnic Lunch , check it out and book in advance because it usually sells out fast.

Sonoma County stretches from the North Coast near Gualala to San Pablo Bay, so there is plenty to explore.

You can head to the coast to explore destinations like Goat Rock or stay closer to town and enjoy the valley panoramic views from the Sonoma Overlook Trail.

If you are considering visiting the California wine country, consider adding this charming region, especially if you are looking for a Northern California romantic getaway.

Here are the best places to stay in Sonoma for your weekend trip in Northern California:

Sonoma’s Best Guest Cottages : the perfect cottage for your wine experience in Sonoma. All cottages have a kitchen, rooms and bathroom, and you can choose for 2 up to 4 people. (click on the hotel’s name to book it)
An Inn to Remember : lovely rooms in a charming B&B. All rooms have a private bathroom and breakfast is included in the rate. (click on the hotel’s name to see the rooms)
Sonoma Creek Inn : this motel offers comfy rooms in a great location, and it has good reviews. The best part is the friendly price. (click on the hotel’s name to see the rates)

At the top of Cinder Cone, Lassen National Park looking back down the trial and across the forest. A must-visit place in Northern California.

10 – Lassen Volcanic National Park

The centerpiece of Lassen Volcanic National Park is its plug dome volcano which is the biggest in the world.

A visit to Lassen can be thrilling as the volcano is still considered active, as it last erupted just over 100 years ago, and geothermal activity in the park is easy to spot.

One of the park’s top attractions is Bumpass Hell hydrothermal area, which covers multiple acres with steam vents, boiling springs, and mud pots.

Park visitors can also check out the lava tubes at the Subway Cave and explore the lava cones and fields in the area.

For a more hospitable environment, head to Manzanita Lake for a relaxing stroll along the shore, or you can do some water activities such as swimming or kayaking on the crystal clear water.

As Lassen Volcanic National Parks is around four hours from the nearest big city, the crowds are fairly limited, making this a great summertime destination for a getaway.

About accommodation, you can camp in the park or choose a hotel in one of the nearby towns like these ones:

Base Camp Lassen Home 13 Mi to Volcanic Natl Park
Paynes Creek Home with Hot Tub and Views!
Best Western Rose Quartz Inn
Super 8 by Wyndham Susanville

Classic wide-angle view of famous giant sequoia trees, also known as giant redwoods or Sierra redwoods, on a beautiful sunny day with blue sky and clouds in summer, Sequoia National Park, California, USA.

11 – Kings Canyon & Sequoia National Park

These two national parks offer the opportunity to get up close to the largest trees in the world.

Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks are home to many giant Sequoia Groves, with several accessible by taking a short hike.

The biggest trees in the park are General Sherman and General Grant, which are around 270 feet tall and have a massive circumference of over 100 feet.

These giants are not the only thing to see at the park, but many visitors miss out on seeing Zumwalt Meadows, where massive rocky cliffs flank bubbling creeks.

Another must-visit destination in the parks is Moro Rock which offers majestic views of the gorgeous valleys and mountain peaks in the parks.

Here is a Sequoia Park and Kings Canyon Self-Driving Audio Guide that you can download before the trip.

If you are looking for cheap weekend getaways in Northern California, grab your tent for camping or book one of the amazing cabins near the parks .

Another option is to stay in Fresno (Central California) and go on a day trip to Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks which are near to the city. Here is a guide to Freno and the parks near it.

Redwood National Park and State Parks are famous for their forest, incredible trails, and peaceful scenery.

12 – Redwood National & State Parks

If you desperately need some disconnected time while enjoying nature, then the Redwood National Park and State Parks are the medicine you are looking for.

This majestic park is just far enough away from city centers to scare off the crowds, which means that the forests remain a tranquil place to relax even during the busy travel season.

Visitors that drive to the park are treated to old-growth coastal redwood forests, home to the tallest trees in the world.

Make sure to bring your hiking shoes, as those up for a trek will be rewarded with stunning views at every turn on the trails.

The forest is full of trickling waterfall hikes, banana slugs, and ferns that are sheltered by the giant redwoods.

For those that don’t mind roughing it, you can bring your backpacking gear and stay a few nights at one of the rustic campsites in the park that are only reachable by hiking through the majestic redwood forest.

If a hotel bed is a must, then you can choose a hotel in Crescent City (click here to see them) . There you can find boutique hotels, properties with private beach access, fantastic vacation homes, and budget-friendly motels.

For those that love the forest, Redwood National & State Parks are a bucket list destination in California worthy of a weekend getaway.

Sunset in Northern California Coast. There is a lighthouse in the front, with the sea and sunset in the background.

13 – Mendocino

Located on the rugged North Coast of California is the charming town of Mendocino, which offers travelers a chance to decompress and escape the stresses of big city life.

The main part of Mendocino Village is situated above the crashing waves on a rocky peninsula where you will find great cafes to grab a coffee to warm you up as you peruse the small shops and soak up the incredible ocean views.

There are also some great restaurants that take advantage of the ocean’s bounty along with other locally sourced ingredients.

One of the highlights of a trip to Mendocino is hiking along the trails that traverse the headlands, where you will spot battered coves and sea caves.

Just south of town, you will find Van Damme State Beach, where you can do some ocean kayaking or hike back into Fern Canyon to be amongst the redwoods and the banana slugs.

The Russian Gulch State Park is close to Mendocino and is known for beaches, waterfalls, tide pools, and caves. Worth checking out.

And if you plan to go north of the town, then stretch a bit more, and visit Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens and the Glass Beach, this north beach is only a 17-minute drive from Mendocino.

Mendocino is a perfect stop for a Northern California road trip and is a great destination to rent a vacation home for some rest and relaxation.

Here are our suggestions for places to stay in Mendocino:

Brewery Gulch Inn : beachfront 4-star hotel with comfy rooms, and well praised kitchen. Breakfast is cooked to order, and all food prepared uses natural and organic ingredients. (click on the hotel’s name to book it)
Agate Cove Inn : charming inn located 800 meters from Mendocino Art Center. The rooms are comfy and breakfast is included in the rate. (click on the hotel’s name to see the rooms)
Seagull I n n Bed & Breakfast : cozy room with friendly prices in the heart of Mendocino. Breakfast is included in the rates, and guests’ reviews are really good. (click on the hotel’s name to see the rates)

Photo of the house that appeared in the film The Birds by Alfred Hitchcock. The house is located in Bodega Bay, a good destination for a weekend trip in Northern California.

14 – Bodega Bay

Bodega Bay is a small fishing town that became famous after being featured in the Alfred Hitchcock film “The Birds.”

The town has since become a must-stop for travelers heading down the coast as part of a road trip or for some coastal camping.

Bodega Bay is also well known for its seafood restaurants and shacks, where you can try out some fresh Dungeness Crab or a bowl of clam chowder.

A trip to Bodega Bay would be incomplete without a stop at one of the 15 beautiful beaches within eight miles of the center of town.

Visitors can drive out to the headlands for a short hike on the Bodega Bay Trail which offers incredible views of the jagged coastline and a perfect spot to watch the sunset.

The Bodega Head is also a great spot for watching gray whales migrating up and down the coast without getting on a boat.

Here are the best hotels in Bodega Bay for you:

The Lodge at Bodega Bay : stunning rooms and a great location surrounded by nature. Plenty of options for dining in, the hotel also has a spa, outdoor swimming pool, and gym. (click on the hotel’s name to book it)
The Inn at the Tides : located by the sea, the property has amazing views. Rooms are comfortable and breakfast is included in the rate. Outdoor swimming pool and a gym for guests. (click on the hotel’s name to see the rooms)
Sonoma Coast Villa : the hotel is located at Bodega, 10 minutes drive to the sea. The rooms are comfy, breakfast is included, as well as access to an outdoor swimming pool, poolside hot tube, spa, and 9-hole putting green. (click on the hotel’s name to see the rates)

Photo of Point Reyes National Seashore in California. You can see a trail in the mountains just by the sea with rough waves.

15 – Point Reyes National Seashore

Point Reyes National Seashore sits in Marin County, near San Francisco. It is a wonderland for outdoor enthusiasts and is a perfect weekend getaway for some beautiful time away from the city and close to the sea.

Visitors to Point Reyes will be treated to countless trails that range from short hikes to a lighthouse on the point, or a trek through a Tule Elk Preserve.

There are also many incredible beaches where you can spend the day, like Drake’s and Kehoe beaches, where you will easily find an empty stretch for a tranquil visit.

Before heading out to explore, spend some time at Point Reyes Station, a charming town with great bakeries and shops.

You can also visit one of the award-winning cheese producers in the area for a tasting and a picnic at Marin French and Point Reyes Farmstead cheese companies.

Drake’s Bay, just up the road from town, is the epicenter of oyster farming in the state, and you taste these delicious bivalves right from the water.

Don’t miss out on this special destination that might be the most beautiful in the entire state.

Choose one of these hotels in Point Reyes and have a great weekend:

Nick’s Cove : you can choose from a room with a balcony or a cottage with a sea view. Comfy rooms with a luxury touch in front of the beach. You will love it! (click on the hotel’s name to book it)
Hotel Petaluma, Ascend Hotel Collection : a historical building turned into a beautiful hotel. A bit far from Point Reyes, but guests’ reviews say it is totally worth it to stay here. (click on the hotel’s name to see the rooms)
Olema House at Point Reyes : lovely 3-star hotel with bright and comfy rooms. If you like dogs check out the property photos and you will be booking your room here. (click on the hotel’s name to see the rates)

Wrap-Up: Weekend Getaways in Northern California

Now that you have picked out the best weekend getaway in Northern California for your big trip, all you have to do is book your accommodation and pack your bags.

Northern California transportation advice:

The best way to travel in Northern California is by driving. So if you come from a different state or country, you can find the best car rental deals here .

The bigger cities will probably have more offers and shops, check out the airports as well. Just keep in mind that it is cheap if you collect and drop off the car at the same destination.

If you are still planning your trip to California, then you can find the best flight deals here .

For accommodation, check out Booking.com . We usually find the best accommodation deals there.

Traveling beyond Northern California:

If you are planning a trip around California, then read these two articles: costs of traveling to San Diego , and the cool things to do in Malibu.

For those planning to visit many national parks, check out the America the Beautiful National Parks Pass and you might save a few bucks on entrance fees.

Northern California weather advice:

Keep in mind that parks, peaks, and beach towns have different climates. Most of the destinations listed here are perfect for mild weather.

If you are heading to the national parks for hiking or camping, be prepared for cold weather, especially at night.

Check the weather forecast and the national park’s website for weather alerts before the rip.

But it doesn’t matter the season, if it’s raining or you are lucky to get dry weather, the region offers some incredible destinations to explore for well-planned trips or for last-minute Northern California getaways.

And you are certain to have a great time, no matter which getaway you choose.

Now get ready to load up the car and get on your way to experience one of these unique weekend getaways in Northern California.

Love these Northern California weekend trips? Pin them for later!!

The best Northern California travel ideas are here!Perfect places for your Northern California getaway, with tips on how to get there, where to stay, and what to do in each destination. You only need to pack your bags and go!Suggestion for a weekend trip in Northern California with friends and families, and even where to go for a romantic trip in Northern California.Northern California Travel | romantic weekend getaways in Northern California | Northern California road trip|

Author: Gabriel Glasier

Gabriel is a chef and head writer of Chef Travel Guide. After years of traveling the globe, he now wants to share his passion for his home state of California and all of its natural wonders. From the wild North Coast to the Sequoia groves in the Sierras, Gabriel hopes that you find your own adventure in the “Golden State.”

The Ironman San Juan route has 3 bike aid stations.

Northern California Weekend Getaways

TripSavvy / Jess Macdonald

Northern California offers scores of places that you can go to for a two- or three-day getaway.

Getaways in the San Francisco Bay Area

If you live in or near San Francisco (or are starting your getaway from there), these places are all within an hour's drive - and you could avoid traffic and get to most of them by using public transit.

If you haven't explored San Francisco yet , (and that includes San Franciscans who never take time to see what's close to home) start with this first-timer's getaway plan . If you love movies and film, you can explore San Francisco in the movies with this plan - or take a quick trip to Japantown .

Berkeley is more than just the home of the famous university. It's just across the Bay Bridge from San Francisco and a great place for browsing through unique shops, going to the theater, and enjoying an excellent meal.

In the South Bay, adorable, walkable little Los Gatos has been a getaway spot for San Franciscans since the early twentieth century. Cuddled up against the Santa Cruz Mountains, it's a good base for hiking, wine tasting, or a leisurely stroll down the main street.

Cross the Santa Crua mountains to explore one of California's most iconic beach towns. In Santa Cruz , you'll find a waterfront amusement park, take a sailboat ride on the bay or a clifftop walk above one of California's most famous surfing beaches. The area also has some gorgeous beaches and a lively music scene.

Halfway between Santa Cruz and San Francisco, Half Moon Bay is an excellent spot to get out of town for a relaxing weekend exploring the coast.

Getaways North of San Francisco

North of San Francisco, you can spend a weekend in Wine Country. But don't stop there. Explore the backroads of Sonoma County, or drive along the coast highway all the way to Mendocino.

In Napa County, you can check out the up-and-coming Town of Napa , go north to laid-back, funky Calistoga for wine tasting and a relaxing mud bath, or take a look around Napa Valley .

Sonoma Wine Country is much bigger than Napa, with regions as varied as the landscape they occupy. The Sonoma Valley near the town of Sonoma is full of wineries and farm stands, with some delicious places for a meal. To help plan your trip, use the guide to things to do in Sonoma Valley .

Near the coast, the Russian River Towns are close to wineries, beautiful redwood forests, and backroads drives.

At the north end of Sonoma, Healdsburg offers a charming downtown, and it's close to the Dry Creek and Anderson Valleys for wine tasting.

You can even go a little more off the beaten path with a trip to the Sonoma Backroads: Sebastopol and Occidental.

On the coast in Marin County, a trip to Point Reyes is a fun way to get away from it all and see some spectacular coastal scenery. Even further north, try charming and romantic Mendocino - or check out the cute little town of Eureka with its Victorian-style architecture and surrounding forests. Even further north is Crescent City, where you can find more things to do .

Go north through Napa Valley, and you'll be in Lake County , one of California's undiscovered destinations. You'll find one of the largest lakes in California there, and some exciting, up-and-coming wineries, too.

Going north on Interstate Highway 5 will take you to Mount Shasta and Lake Shasta, which I call Shasta Country . The scenery in the area is spectacular.

Also in the area is Lassen Volcanic Park , home of a smoldering landscape created by a volcano that last erupted in 1915.

Castle Crags State Park has good hiking and camping beneath jagged granite peaks. And those craggy rocks really do look a little bit like a castle.

Getaways South of San Francisco

Some people may say that a four-hour drive south from San Francisco takes you too far, out of "northern" California in southern, but if you're simply looking for a place to get away, who cares what the geographical purists think?

Going south on California Highway One, you can spend a weekend in each of the towns at the south end of the Monterey Bay: Monterey , Pacific Grove or Carmel .

Keep going a little further south from Monterey and Carmel, and you can explore the gorgeous Big Sur coastline.

South of Big Sur, the cute little towns of Cambria and Cayucos are both ideal places to relax, putter around and walk on the beach. You can also make an entire weekend out of a trip to Hearst Castle .

My favorite getaway spot south of the Bay Area is Paso Robles, California's fastest-growing and most exciting wine and food destination.

For something off the beaten track, think about a visit to the old Spanish Mission San Antonio and stay overnight at William Randolph Hearst's ranch on a trip to the Valley of the Oaks and Hearst’s Hacienda .

Getaways in Central California and the Sierras

Go east and inland to explore the mountain country and California's high desert. The mountain scenery may be spectacular, but if you get yourself over the mountains into eastern California, you'll find some of the state's most dramatic (and under-visited) sights.

Yosemite National Park is a local favorite, but it's also surprising to me how many Bay Area natives have never been there. If you're one of them, now is the time to fix that.

If you prefer to enjoy your gorgeous scenery without crowds, try Sequoia and Kings Canyon instead. Naturalist John Muir called Kings Canyon even more spectacular than Yosemite, and the giant sequoia trees are bigger there, too.

You can also "glamp" in spectacular style at the Sequoia High Sierra Camp - and you don't even have to hike very far to get there.

Before you get to the big mountains, you could stop off in the Sierra Foothills for a look at Gold Country , with its 1850s gold camps and cute little towns.

You probably know about winter skiing trips, but Lake Tahoe in summer is a lot of fun, too.

You need a three-day weekend to get away to the high desert east of the Sierras. And you need to go when the mountain passes are clear of snow. It's well worth the effort: Mono Lake, Bodie, and Mammoth are some of the most spectacular places to see in all of the Golden State.

Weekend Getaways in California: 34 Trips You Can Take

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Day Trips and Vacation Side Trips from San Francisco

How to Travel from San Francisco to Napa Valley by Car, Bus, and Ferry

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9 Inexpensive Weekend Getaways in Southern California

From desert escapes to quaint beach towns, these are the inexpensive weekend getaways in SoCal that belong on your bucket list.

February 10, 2021

“Budget-friendly” isn’t exactly the first thing that comes to mind when talking about the Golden State—but it’s not impossible to plan an inexpensive weekend getaway . Once you get used to the California lifestyle, you’ll discover that there are many free things to do in Los Angeles , Palm Springs , Orange County , and many other coveted destinations.

Variety is what makes SoCal so unique and spirited. You’re a short drive from forests, deserts, ski resorts , amusement parks, and bustling cities. Thanks to the region’s diverse places, going on a cheap weekend getaway in Southern California is pretty feasible. From desert escapes to quaint beach towns, these are the inexpensive weekend getaways in SoCal that belong on your bucket list.

Cheap Weekend Getaways In Southern California To Book Now

Distance from Los Angeles: One hour

Often overshadowed by the nearby cities of Malibu and Santa Monica, Oxnard is a coastal paradise for those planning a romantic getaway in Southern California on a budget, especially if you love beautiful beaches . Visiting Oxnard and not going to the beach is basically committing a sin. Check out Silver Strand, Bass Rock, or Mandalay State Beach—each is unique in its own way—to enjoy an afternoon picnic and catch the sunset with your special someone. You can also stroll through the Channel Islands Harbor and partake in everything from diving and kayaking to sportfishing and whale watching.

Or, show off your skills at Bedford Pinkard Skate Park before heading over to the Downtown Oxnard Farmers Market to grab local produce and freshly prepared goods. Art aficionados should pay a visit to the Carnegie Art Museum, the first building in Ventura County to be included on the National Register of Historic Places. When in Oxnard, also make sure to check out Casa Sirena, an abandoned seaside resort that was once a prominent destination.

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2. Dana Point

Arguably the best surfing spot in SoCal, Dana Point boasts magnificent ocean views and endless opportunities for exciting activities, making the coastal city a top destination for an inexpensive weekend getaway in Southern California . Dana Point is home to many of the best beaches in Orange County —Poche, Monarch Bay, Salt Creek, and Dana Point Harbor Beaches are all wonderful places to lounge next to the glimmering waters.

You must also see the most popular tourist attraction in Dana Point: the Pilgrim, a replica of an early 19th-century American sailing brig. Later, check out the Dana Point Nature Interpretive Center to view the historical, cultural, and natural history exhibits. Whatever you do, don’t leave Dana Point without visiting Waterman Plaza to learn about local surf icons Hobie Alter and Phil Edwards.

3. La Jolla

Distance from Los Angeles: Two hours

The upscale beachfront community of La Jolla is the perfect place for a mini-vacation in Southern California . Spending an eventful weekend here without breaking the bank is completely possible. When visiting San Diego’s “Jewel,” stroll along Children’s Pool Beach and watch the seals and sea lions who roam around the cove-like spot. Then, grab a free map from the La Jolla Historical Society and go on a self-guided tour of all the historical buildings in town.

Enjoy a long walk on the Scripps Coastal Meander Trail, one of the best hiking trails in San Diego . Later, pay a visit to Legends Gallery to see Dr. Seuss’ artworks on display. While we’re on the topic of art, check out South Korean artist Do Ho Suh’s Fallen Star art installation, too—a cottage perched at an angle off the edge of UC San Diego’s Jacobs School of Engineering building.

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Enter your zip code, romantic getaways in southern california for couples on a budget.

4. Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

Distance from Los Angeles: Two hours and 30 minutes

Fiery sunsets, stellar night skies, and weird desert art are only a few reasons why Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is an ideal weekend getaway in Southern California for couples . As the largest state park in the Golden State, Anza-Borrego offers plenty of inexpensive adventures to enjoy with your one and only.

Among the first things you’ll notice are the giant metal sculptures scattered around the area; there over 130 large-scale artworks of ancient creatures to be discovered, so keep an eye out for them. Hiking here is a must, too—explore the Slot Canyon Trail, trek to Fonts Point, and make your way to Sandstone Canyon via Fish Creek Wash. If you prefer to stay at a hotel instead of camping in the desert , La Casa del Zorro has good deals for overnight stays.

Distance from Los Angeles: One hour and 30 minutes

Nestled in a valley in the Topatopa Mountains, Ojai offers lots of scenic trails, stunning views, and hidden gems—it’s a wonderful cheap getaway in Southern California for couples . Despite its proximity to L.A., the charming SoCal town feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle.

Visit Los Padres National Forest with your partner and embark on an exciting, romantic journey through evergreen forests and oak woodland. You can hike the Pratt Trail for a challenging experience, or opt for an easier one and trek to the Rose Valley Falls Trails. Check out the Ojai Certified Farmers Market to find local produce, fair-trade crafts, and homemade goods. When golden hour is about to begin, head over to Cluff Vista Park to watch the sun disappear into the horizon. You won’t want your Ojai weekend getaway to end.

6. Joshua Tree National Park

Distance from Los Angeles: Two hours and 15 minutes

The Mojave and the Colorado Deserts meet in Joshua Tree National Park , creating a one-of-a-kind landscape with grand rock formations and striking desert flora. The magical destination deserves a spot on every national park bucket list . Here, you have plenty of hiking trails to explore —the Hidden Valley, Willow Hole, and Arch Rock Nature Trails are all worth checking out.

Joshua Tree is also one of the most popular rock climbing spots in the Golden State . Get your heart pumping and rappel down the rocks of the most beautiful national park in SoCal. Make sure to stroll through the Cholla Cactus Garden—one of the coolest places in the park—during your visit as well. With countless other must-see attractions, Joshua Tree is undoubtedly a top destination for a cheap California getaway for couples .

Affordable Girlfriend Getaways In Southern California

7. Temecula

Distance from Los Angeles: One hour and 15 minutes

Temecula serves as one of the best girlfriend getaways in Southern California . So, gather the ladies and drive toward the rolling hills and stunning vineyards of the city. Explore the antique shops and boutiques of Old Town Temecula, where rustic Western-era buildings transport you back to the 1880s. Explore Temecula Valley Wine Country with your best friends, then g et your adrenaline pumping and live your childhood dreams at Get Air Temecula —the coolest indoor trampoline park for endless fun. Don’t forget to buy souvenirs from Promenade Temecula , either.

8. Laguna Beach

Distance from Los Angeles: 50 minutes

Laguna Beach is always a good place for a girlfriend getaway in Southern California . Its nine-mile coastline is home to 36 beaches—you’ll have a busy weekend trying to choose between Aliso, Crescent Bay, Moss Street, and Victoria Beaches.

Enjoy a day with the girls at Heisler Park, an oceanfront spot with walking trails, gardens, picnic tables, and even a marine refuge with galactic tide pools. You should also head over to Treasure Island Beach Park for swimming, snorkeling, paddle boarding, and taking photos of every memorable moment. Don’t leave the seaside haven without surfing at Thousand Steps Beach.

Distance from Los Angeles: 30 minutes

If you want an inexpensive weekend getaway in Southern California , you might want to skip the regular Disneyland adventures and discover the hidden gems of Anaheim . Make your way to Anaheim GardenWalk, an open-air entertainment and shopping center adorned with interchanging art murals.

Next on your Anaheim itinerary is visiting one of the most iconic food courts in the Golden State : the Anaheim Packing District , a walkable culinary collection of 50 artisans. Whenever you and your friends feel the need to take a break from the city, head over to Yorba Regional Park and the Oak Canyon Nature Center to escape the hustle and bustle and immerse yourselves in the great outdoors.

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The ultimate backpacking bucket list for California

Wilderness as far as the eye can see.

By: The Outbound Collective + Save to a List

Did you know that California is home to over 14 million acres of wilderness. You read that correctly. Over 14 million! Even the most driven explorer with all the time in the world couldn’t hike every trail in California in a single lifetime. But that doesn’t mean you can’t try. If you’re able to carve out the time for one of the classic thru hikes like the JMT or the PCT, then get after it! For those of you who can only make time for a long weekend trip, this list of 50 backpacking trips in California is just what you need to fuel your next adventure to the backcountry.

Northern California

From the rugged Pacific coast to the dense redwood forests to the summit of Mt. Shasta, Northern California has no shortage of diverse backcountry terrain. Tackle the Lost Coast or spend a couple days relaxing in Redwood National and State Parks...you can’t go wrong.

1. Backpack Devil’s Punchbowl, Six Rivers National Forest

Photo: Joshua Contois

8.33-mile out-and-back with about 1660 feet of elevation gain

This adventure offers spectacular views of the rugged Siskiyou mountain range. The range is considered one of the most biodiverse coniferous forests in the world. Plus, you’ll get to pass by a breathtakingly blue glacial lake in the mountains known as Devil’s Punchbowl.

2. Climb Mt. Shasta via Clear Creek Route

Photo: Daniel Sherman

11.43-mile out-and-back with nearly 7615 feet of elevation gain

At a high elevation, this adventure has potential for snow activities like skiing, snowboarding, and glissading. The hike begins with a tall red fir forest. There are plenty of camping areas along the way if you choose to make this an overnighter.

3. Hike to Etna Mountain Summit

Photo: Greg Balkin

6-mile out-and-back with about 800 feet of elevation gain

Make your way to the summit and be rewarded by incredible sunrises and sunsets. At the top, you’ll also delight in a pristine Mt. Shasta backdrop. The final stretch of the hike requires some rock scrambling, but the views are well worth it as well as the solitude.

4. Backpack the Sky High Lakes in the Marble Monutains

Photo: Chaney Swiney

11.88-mile out-and-back with approximately 2070 feet of elevation gain

You might be surprised by the handful of scenic lakes that sit in the Marble Mountains. You'll also be surrounded by forests and caves (unmarked). Dive right into the wilderness and explore the geologically diverse range of peaks and ridges on this hike.

5. Backpack Redwood National and State Parks

Photo: Austin Trigg

4.41-mile loop with about 1043 feet of elevation gain

This adventure offers the unique opportunity to view and explore some of the tallest trees in the world. And far away from light pollution, the area is the perfect spot for some amazing night photography. There are campsites along the creek for you and some buddies to spend the night.

6. Backpack to Canyon Creek Lakes

Photo: Dan Loch

14.35-mile out-and-back with roughly 2605 feet of elevation gain

Look no further if you’ve been craving exploration in some of the most wild and pristine terrain in the West. Trinity Alps boasts over 55 alpine lakes and an abundance of additional rivers, streams, creeks, swimming holes, and camping spots. Note: Wilderness Permits are required, but are free and can be obtained at any of the ranger stations.

7. Backpack the Lost Coast: Mattole to Black Sands Beach

Photo: Whitney Whitehouse

A 25.05-mile point-to-point with about 653 feet of elevation gain

This is an extensive stretch of Northern California’s coastline that does not disappoint with its spectacular coastal vistas. There are campsites and easy access points to the water along the way.

8. Backpack the Stuart Fork Trail to Emerald and Sapphire Lakes

27.06-mile out-and-back hike with approximately 4213 feet of elevation gain

This adventure takes you through pristine Northern California wilderness. You’ll find excellent fishing opportunities, an abundance of wildlife, and beautiful wildflowers in bloom during the warmer months.

Living around the Bay Area is ideal for anyone who wants to live a city life but needs to have quick access to the wild. You can drive anywhere from 1-3 hours from San Francisco and find some truly stunning landscapes. Beach camping, epic summits, and more redwoods await.

9. Backpack to King’s Peak from Shelter Cove

Photo: Aja Pete

30.85-mile loop with nearly 6204 feet of elevation gain

Follow the coastline on this gorgeous hike and camp overnight at Buck Creek. Note that parts of the beach may be impassable at high tide, so time your travels appropriately. Find peace among the sounds of rushing mountain streams and the crashing ocean. You may also get the chance to view otter pups playing in the water!

10. Backpack to Pt. Reyes Coast Campground

Photo: Josiah Roe

4.02-mile out-and-back hike with roughly 633 feet of elevation gain

This is a great hike for ocean lovers. You can spend the night above the coast of Pt. Reyes and later make your way down to the beach and tide pools below.

11. Backpack the Glen Camp Loop via the Palomarin Trailhead

Photo: Jeff Driscoll

15.72-mile loop with approximately 3091 feet of elevation gain

This is the perfect coastal and lush green forest adventure, featuring steep hillsides, gorgeous overlooks, and mountainous terrain.

12. Backpack to Point Reyes Wildcat Camp

Photo: Miranda Leconte

11.19-mile out-and-back with about 1926 feet of elevation gain

This is an ideal backpacking trip to camp out on a wide open meadow situated on a bluff overlooking breathtakingly blue ocean water. Note that permits are required. You’ll also need to make a reservation if you want to spend the night at the Wildcat Camp.

13. Backpack Sam McDonald Park

Photo: Ashley Chang

12.19-mile loop with nearly 2192 feet of elevation gain

This is a great escape into Sam McDonald Park’s redwood forest-- just a quick drive from San Francisco. You’ll need a permit to stay overnight, which you can obtain from the ranger station. Find peace grounded in nature on this forest adventure.

14. Backpack the Bear Valley to Coast Camp Loop

16.18-mile loop with roughly 2818 feet of elevation gain

This is a great adventure for camping enthusiasts who want to spend time among stunning coastal mountains and meadows. If you plan on staying overnight, note that having a permit is required. Keep your eyes peeled for whales just off the coast during the Humpback Whale migration season!

15. Backcountry Camp at Big Basin Sunset Trail Camp

Photo: Christian Arballo

9.46-mile out-and-back with about 2146 feet of elevation gain

This is a beautiful cascading waterfall adventure where you can wander among redwoods and across creeks. Note that Big Basin’s backpacking sites are only open from May 1st to November 1st, so be sure to plan accordingly.

16. Backpack to Redfern Pond

7-mile out-and-back with approximately 1263 feet of elevation gain

This adventure in Gilroy, California is open year-round with thousands of acres of wide open grassy land to explore. There are a number of well-marked trails to set foot on for all skill levels to enjoy. Permits are required.

17. Backpack to Pat Springs

Photo: Max Berger

13.18-mile out-and-back with about 3645 feet of elevation gain

This is a beautiful adventure into the rugged Ventana Wilderness that features campsites overlooking Big Sur and the San Lucia Mountains. Pack ample water, especially if you plan on camping.

18. Backpack the Pine Ridge in Big Sur, North Coast Ridge Loop

Photo: Chris Diantonio

33.45-mile loop with nearly 11388 feet of elevation gain

This is a longer adventure that will give you the opportunity to spend several or more days in the Ventana Wilderness section of Los Padres National Forest located in Big Sur, California. This trip features primitive camping sites, ample water sources, and incredible coastal ridge line views.

19. Backpack to the Ventana Wilderness’ Sykes Hot Springs

Photo: Blake Maitoza

18.96-mile out-and-back with about 7339 feet of elevation gain

This adventure features hot springs situated adjacent to the Big Sur River. Visit in the off-season for more seclusion.

20. Climb Cone Peak in Big Sur, Sea to Sky Route

19.72-mile out-and-back with roughly 7484 feet of elevation gain

Located in Big Sur, California, this adventure is less than 3 miles from the ocean, offering spectacular seaside views. You can also camp near an old fire lookout at the summit to extend your time taking in the surreal scenery.

21. Backpack to Goat Camp in Big Sur

Photo: Andrew Conway

8.03-mile out-and-back with approximately 3320 feet of elevation gain

Take in the immaculate beauty of Big Sur with fewer crowds on this lesser-known trail. Though steep on the way up, the ocean views are a great reward.

The Sierra Mountains

The mighty Sierra are a major draw for people around the world. Early explorers like John Muir and Ansel Adams had obsessions with these mountains and made them famous with their writing and photos. But even the best writers and photographers can’t do these mountains justice...you need to see them for yourself.

22. Backpack to Ropi Lake

Photo: Emily Kent

4.87-mile out-and-back with about 1581 feet of elevation gain

Take an adventure to the serene and secluded Ropi Lake. On the way, you’ll pass by incredible waterfalls with Pyramid Peak providing a top-notch backdrop in the distance.

23. Backpack to Leavitt Lake in Stanislaus National Forest

Photo: Jake Young

7.44-mile out-and-back with nearly 1385 feet of elevation gain

Located on the eastern edge of the Emigrant Wilderness, Levitt Lake is an ideal backpacking opportunity in the Sierra Nevadas. The lake is a great spot for fishing with potential to catch species like brook and rainbow trout.

24. Backpack to the Waterfall Camp in Desolation Wilderness

10.5-mile out-and-back with about 840 feet of elevation gain

This is a breathtaking adventure in Desolation Wilderness featuring over 50 waterfalls! Do this as a day hike or choose to camp overnight. Note that an overnight wilderness permit is required and can be obtained at one of the ranger stations.

25. Backpack to Middle Velma Lake

9.18-mile out-and-back with roughly 2251 feet of elevation gain

Located in the heart of Desolation Wilderness, Middle Velma Lake is the perfect backpacking trip for some solitude and fantastic views of Jakes Peak. It’s a great escape from the usual crowds of South Tahoe.

26. Backpack to Susie Lake in Desolation Wilderness

7.96-mile out-and-back with approximately 1496 feet of elevation gain

This adventure is located in Tahoe, California and features forest, lakes, the Old Glen Alpine Springs Historical Site, and breathtaking mountain views.

27. Backpack to Gilmore Lake in Desolation Wilderness

8.66-mile out-and-back with about 1919 feet of elevation gain

In Desolation Wilderness, soak in the beauty of a stunning alpine lake. Along the way, you’ll also get the chance to see Modjeska Falls, Soda Springs, and the historic Glen Alpine Resort built in 1884.

28. Hike and Climb to Mt. Conness

Photo: Alex Souza

19.03-mile out-and-back with roughly 5400 feet of elevation gain

This is a great adventure for the opportunity to see a series of beautiful small lakes situated among mammoth granite canyon walls. It also features panoramic views of the High Sierras– not a bad place to wake up if you plan on making this a multi-day camping trip!

29. Backpack to Vogelsang and Merced Lake High Sierras Camp

Photo: Julie & Brian

27.07-mile point-to-point with about 4596 feet of elevation gain

Explore the remote high country of Yosemite. Get excited for the unique opportunity to glamp in the mountains at the High Sierra Camps! Right in the secluded wilderness, you’ll be treated with perks like a bed to sleep in and breakfast ready for you in the morning. Note that reservations for the camp are made through a lottery system.

30. Backpack Tuolumne Meadows to Yosemite Valley

Photo: Kevin Abernethy

30.82-mile point-to-point with approximately 6109 feet of elevation gain

Though a long expedition, the work you put in will be well worth it. Along the way, you’ll see several iconic Yosemite landmarks in the secluded backcountry. This is a truly incredible route with stunning scenery at every turn, part of the historic John Muir Trail. This adventure is nothing short of spectacular and a huge accomplishment.

31. Backpack Cathedral Lakes

Photo: Addison Klinke

9.04-mile out-and-back with about 1100 feet of elevation gain

Experience captivating views of Cathedral peak, lush green meadows, and a high alpine lake. It’s a true nature lover's paradise.

32. Backpack atop Donohue Pass

27.56-mile out-and-back with nearly 2953 feet of elevation gain

This adventure allows you to take in sweeping views across the Eastern Sierra all the way down through Lyell Canyon. Spend the night above the tree line and enjoy some spectacular star gazing.

33. Backpack Lower & Upper Relief Valleys and the East Flange Rock

21.6-mile out-and-back with about 3600 feet of elevation gain

Take a trip into Yosemite’s backcountry to explore stunning alpine lakes and peaks like Granite Dome and the East Flange Rock. This is a great adventure for those looking to escape some of Yosemite’s typical crowds.

34. Backpack Sunrise Lakes to Clouds Rest

Photo: Nathaniel Polta

18.93-mile loop with roughly 1775 feet of elevation gain

Do this epic hike for 360 degree views of both Yosemite Valley and Little Yosemite Valley from Clouds Rest. You’ll also be able to see the iconic Half Dome. Be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks for ample energy on this longer expedition.

35. Backpack to Duck Lake

Photo: Sierra Joy

9.29-mile out-and-back with approximately 1880 feet of elevation gain

This is a breathtaking adventure with lakeside camping and swimming opportunities in clear waters. This trek also features beautiful wildflowers, patches of forest, and extensive peak views. Note that to stay overnight you will need a backcountry permit.

36. Backpack Agnew Meadows to Tuolumne Meadows

30.14-mile point-to-point with roughly 4593 feet of elevation gain

This hike between Mammoth Lakes and Yosemite is part of a famous stretch of the John Muir Trail. Though it’ll require several days to complete this stretch of trail, you will find the adventure a rewarding one as you’ll encounter beautiful blue lakes, mountainous terrain, and lush treetops along the way. You’ll want to soak in the sights every step of the way.

37. Backpack Ansel Adams’ Garnet Lake

14.46-mile out-and-back with about 2717 feet of elevation gain

On your way to Granite Lake, enjoy incredible vistas overlooking impressive granite peaks. Night photographers will delight in the low light pollution in this area, making for some stunning night shots!

38. Backpack to Ediza Lake

Photo: Tobin Akehurst

13.54-mile out-and-back with approximately 1804 feet of elevation gain

Take in marvelous sunrises and sunsets at Ebiza Lake– a sight you likely won’t ever forget. If you wish to extend your adventure, take a few days in the area to camp, fish, hike some more, or do some mountaineering! Come prepared for whatever your inner explorer may be craving.

39. Backpack to Crater Lake, Sierra National Forest

Photo: Emily Rudger

8.4-mile out-and-back with roughly 2100 feet of elevation gain

This hike features incredible views of an isolated lake and the expansive mountain ranges of the John Muir Wilderness. Set up camp by the water once at Crater Lake and kick back with some friends or take in the natural beauty of the surroundings in peace and quiet.

40. Backpack from Onion Valley to Mt. Whitney

47.35-mile point-to-point with nearly 11745 feet of elevation gain

This is a nature lover and explorer’s dream. You’ll get to soak in the full majesty of the High Sierras while making your way to the highest peak in the lower 48 states. From mountains to lakes to treetops and grassy fields, you’re sure to see it all! If you’re searching for that on-top-of-the-world feeling… this is the expedition for you! Be sure to secure the appropriate permits in advance to ensure all is set for your trip.

41. Backpack the Rae Lakes Loop

Photo: Kevin Kaminski

39.08-mile loop with roughly 7316 feet of elevation gain

Located in Sierra, California, this adventure takes you through the stunning Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. It’s considered one of the most popular hikes in the Sierras– with good reason. You’ll explore diverse mountainous and forest terrain with incredible views of waterfalls, lakes, and beautiful meadows along the way.

42. Backpack to Mount Silliman, Sequoia NP

Photo: Debra Alison

11.24-mile out-and-back with about 4449 feet of elevation gain

In Sequoia National Park, delight in feeling small among giant Sequoias and Redwoods on your way to the Mount Silliman summit. At the top, you’ll be able to see down the mountain to Twin Lakes.

Southern California

Explore the desert expanse of Joshua Tree and Death Valley National Parks or charge the trails on the sunny California coast. Down south, the water is warmer and beach camping is that much better...not sold yet? Check out these adventures.

43. Backpack to Panamint Dunes

Photo: Sarah Eichstedt

7.23-mile out-and-back with around 935 feet of elevation gain

A secluded gem, this is one of the least visited large sand dunes in Death Valley, making for an exciting opportunity to swerve crowds and connect with the natural landscape in peace. Explore during the day and enjoy some spectacular stargazing at night. Permits are required for overnight stays.

44. Backpack the Boy Scout’s Trail in Joshua Tree

Photo: Ian Buchanan

16.12-mile out-and-back with approximately 1539 feet of elevation gain

On this diverse trail, experience expansive Joshua Tree forests to Mars-like terrain. Backcountry camping is permitted in designated wilderness zones. In addition to hiking and camping, try out rock climbing or bouldering if you’re up for the challenge!

45. Backcountry Camp in Joshua Tree

Photo: Lauren Shusterman

2-mile out-and-back with varied elevation gain depending on desired trail or campsite

This backpacking excursion is a great way to experience the beauty of the desert. Note that it can be easy to lose your way while in the desert, so be sure to prepare ahead of time and use landmarks to help with navigating.

46. Beach Camp on Santa Rosa Island

Photo: Michael Wigle

16-mile out-and-back with about 50 feet of elevation gain

Located in Ventura, California, visit California’s least visited national park for a unique camping experience on a secluded part of Pacific Ocean beach. Expect to see wildlife from Torrey Pines to a rare native fox species. On your way back, don’t forget to check out the sea caves along Santa Cruz’s volcanic north coast.

47. Backpack Mt. Williamson from Shepherd Pass

Photo: Jack Brumbaugh

26.66-mile out-and-back with roughly 10653 feet of elevation gain

Located in Seven Pines, California, climb to the second highest peak in the state! There’s plenty of wildlife, water access, and incredible scenery if you’re prepared to challenge yourself for these rewards! With climbing and rock scrambling involved, know your preparedness and experience level before embarking on this trip.

48. Backpack Eaton Canyon to Idlehour

Photo: Alan Leung

10.99-mile out-and-back with about 3291 feet of elevation gain

In the heart of Pasadena, California, check out a secluded campground where you can listen to the sounds of babbling brooks and wildlife in the background. On your way, take moments to look through breaks in the vegetation to get glimpses of downtown LA and Catalina Island.

49. Backpack the Trans-Catalina Trail

Photo: Drew Robinson

36.67-mile point-to-point with approximately 8189 feet of elevation gain

This adventure is perfect for viewing the entire Santa Catalina Island. You may get to see wildlife like bison and the island fox with a guarantee of beautiful ocean views along the way.

50. Backpack Zaca Ridge

6-10-mile out-and-back with roughly 2200 feet of elevation gain

Located in Los Olivos, California, soak in the great beauty of the San Rafael Wilderness. This is one of the best stargazing spots in Southern California, making it an ideal adventure for night photographers. Visit in early Spring for breathtaking sunsets that span across the Santa Ynez Valley to the ocean.

Add these backpacking trips to your bucket list and let us know how you do. The truth is, this list only scratches the surface of the wealth of amazing backpacking you can find in California. But just because you’ve been told you can’t explore all of California’s wilderness in a lifetime, doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try.

Cover photo: Josiah Roe

We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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5 Unforgettable California Road Trips

C alifornia has everything from golden beaches to towering redwood forests—rolling vineyards to snow-capped peaks. As the third largest state in the U.S., the vast sprawl and varied topographical scenery mean California makes for some of the world’s most beautiful road trips. Whether you prefer rugged coastlines or the fresh mountain air, sit back, relax, and rev up for these incredible California road trips.

Santa Cruz to Pacifica – 67 Miles

Fields of wildflowers hug the gently sloping hills on one side of the road between Santa Cruz and Pacifica, while rocky cliffs drop precipitously into the crashing waves of the wild Pacific Ocean below on the other. After exploring the rides at the Boardwalk and watching the surfers ride the waves along West Cliff Drive in the laid-back beach town of Santa Cruz, start your journey north to Davenport. This quaint little town perched on a bluff overlooking the ocean is so tiny that you’d miss it if you blink, but it’s well known for two quirky restaurants , the Davenport Roadhouse and Whale City Bakery.

After a lunch of clam chowder or calamari, continue north. Go past Swanton Berry Farm and a string of rugged beaches before stopping to see the elephant seals at Año Nuevo State Park. The next stop is the historic Pigeon Point Lighthouse, built in 1871 and the tallest lighthouse on the West Coast of the United States. Pull into the lovely town of Pacifica as the sun sets over the Pacific Ocean, and grab a bite at what’s been dubbed “The World’s Most Beautiful Taco Bell,” perched directly on the shores of Pacifica State Beach.

Carmel to Pismo Beach – 168 Miles

The 168-mile stretch between Carmel-by-the-Sea and Pismo Beach along the rugged California coast is one of the most spectacular road trips in the world. Towering mountains rise to the heavens on one side, with cliffs dropping precariously to the sea on the other. Craggy rocks dot the coastline, creating spectacular vistas as wild waves crash to shore after their long journey across the Pacific. Make your first stop along this rugged, windy drive at the Bixby Bridge Vista Point to photograph the famous Bixby Bridge. The most photographed bridge on the U.S. West Coast, the Bixby Bridge was built in 1930 and is one of the tallest single-span concrete bridges in the world.

Next, stop at the Big Sur Bakery for the fantastic cinnamon rolls or a wood-fired pizza before continuing south on Highway 1 to Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park in Big Sur for a bracing hike through one of the best places to see redwoods in California . A further 65 miles south is a highlight of the road trip—Hearst Castle. A grand historic estate built by the publishing tycoon William Randolph Hearst in 1919, Hearst Castle is one of California’s most visited historic monuments. After you tour the 165-room castle, continue the final 53 miles to Pismo Beach to stay overnight in one of the quirky retro-style motels along the beach. Note: Highway 1 is often closed in the winter due to mudslides, so be sure to check for road closures before your trip.

Sacramento to Yosemite – 141 Miles

Yosemite National Park is the fifth most visited National Park in the U.S., for good reason. As soon as you enter its magnificent borders, you feel as though you’ve stepped foot in a magical realm. Granite peaks soar overhead, waterfalls crash hundreds of feet to the valley floor below, and a vast collection of animals roam uninhibited throughout the picturesque landscape. While Yosemite is a gorgeous destination on its own, the road trip to get there is half the fun.

Start your journey in the state capital of Sacramento, the once rollicking wild west town best known as the starting point of the California Gold Rush in 1849. Take a historical walking tour of Old Sacramento’s underground before hitting the road south on State Route 99. Wend through the Central Valley’s golden fields before heading east towards the rustic Gold Rush Country town of Angel’s Camp, one of the area’s most important mining communities in the Mother Lode region during the gold rush. Travel back in time as you walk down the main street past 19th-century storefronts before continuing on State Route 4 to Mercer Caverns just outside the town of Murphy’s. These spectacular caves formed 12 million years ago feature guided tours and exquisite examples of stalactites and stalagmites.

Before you reach Yosemite, stop for an hour or two in the charming Columbia State Historic Park, a former Gold Rush mining town that has been entirely preserved. Mine for gold, visit a historic saloon, or even ride a stagecoach. Finally, drive the last 68 miles to the Yosemite Valley Vista Point, a stunning overlook that gives you a bird’s eye view of California’s most popular national park. This drive is incredibly stunning in the autumn when fall foliage is at its peak in Goldrush Country.

Northern California Volcanoes – 216 Miles

California is part of the Ring of Fire, a geological zone that circles the Pacific Ocean and is a hotspot for volcanic and seismic activity. Thus, it’s no surprise that California is home to over seven volcanoes. While most have not erupted in the past few thousand years, they are still considered potentially hazardous as they still have molten lava deep within their cores. While the threat of an eruption is unlikely, a drive past these majestic volcanoes is highly likely to inspire awe at the wonder of nature.

Head north on Interstate 5 for 163 miles before heading east on State Route 36 to Mineral. It’s here you’ll start the 30-mile Lassen Volcanic National Park Highway (State Route 89), which takes an hour to explore and goes past the Sulphurworks Hydrothermal Area, Emerald Lake, and the towering Lassen Peak. Continue north on CA 89, also known as the Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway, to Mount Shasta. A popular ski area and stratovolcano in Shasta-Trinity National Forest, Mount Shasta last erupted 3,200 years ago. Pop into the Mount Shasta Sisson Museum to learn more about the local history before returning to Interstate 5.

San Francisco to Mendocino Through Wine Country – 189 Miles

Northern California’s most famous wine region provides one of California’s best road trips. California produces a whopping 84 percent of American wine from just 50 miles north of San Francisco in Napa, Sonoma, and Mendocino counties. Over 800 wineries are spread out in this beautiful region, where narrow highways lined with rolling vineyards are perfectly backdropped by crisp blue skies most of the year.

Off State Route 12 lies Domaine Carneros, a French-style winery modeled after a historic estate in France’s Champagne region. Sip pinot noir or sparkling wine on an outdoor terrace before continuing to Yountville, where foodies will find the three Michelin-starred restaurant The French Laundry . If you have planned ahead and gotten a coveted reservation, well done! Otherwise, proceed to the elegant Chateau Montelena in Calistoga. This European-style winery has perfected Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc for the past 140 years, making it one of the oldest wineries in the region. Finally, drive the last 100 miles through the redwood forests of California’s coastal mountains before arriving in the peaceful coastal community of Mendocino. Check into the Stanford Inn By the Sea for a cozy stay with spectacular views and a renowned plant-based restaurant.

Whether you choose to sip wine in Napa, walk among the giant redwoods, or eat a taco on the beach in Pacifica, these California road trips promise to provide you with a truly unforgettable experience.

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News & features, winter center, news / weather forecasts, problems to continue in southern california as easter rainstorm winds down.

Even as a major storm winds down on Easter Sunday over Southern California, problems from additional rain and runoff will continue. The storm has deposited heavy snow in the Sierra Nevada and Arizona mountains.

By Alex Sosnowski , AccuWeather senior meteorologist

Published Mar 29, 2024 8:52 AM PDT | Updated Mar 31, 2024 8:21 AM PDT

A powerful storm targeting the West Coast over Easter weekend will bring huge amounts of snow to mountain passes and drenching rain to much of California.

A slow-moving and potent storm will continue to grab Pacific Ocean moisture and fling it at Southern California in the form of gusty thunderstorms into Easter Sunday, and AccuWeather meteorologists warn that enough rain will fall to increase the risk of flash flooding, mudslides and other debris flows.

Rain totaling 1-3 inches fell across the greater Los Angeles and San Diego areas into Easter Sunday morning with rainfall of 5-7 inches on parts of the Transverse Ranges to the north of Los Angeles. While the worst of the rain is over, additional showers and thunderstorms into Easter Sunday evening can easily trigger localized flash flooding, mudslides and other debris flows on area roads.

The wet weather may lead to delays of the Major League Baseball game versus San Francisco in San Diego Sunday afternoon.

Forecasters urge motorists to allow extra time and be prepared to seek an alternative route.

Spotty thunderstorms will also pack a punch in parts of California, with the risk of some of the strongest storms bringing hail and strong wind gusts during the afternoon and evening. The setup with the storm system could produce a couple of waterspouts along the coast. Spotty downpours will also spill to the east of the Coast Ranges and onto the deserts in Southern California.

In the Southern California mountains, just rain is expected to fall on the major passes, including along Interstates 5 and 15. However, the ridges and peaks are likely due to snow showers continuing, leading to additional accumulation.

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Farther north, heavy snow that pounded the Sierra Nevada to end the week and kick off the weekend will wind down on Easter Sunday. Snowfall since late last week through Easter Sunday morning in the Sierra Nevada range from 6-18 inches with about of foot of snow falling on the Lake Tahoe and Donner Pass areas of California. Motorists can expect slow travel along I-80 through the Sierra Nevada.

Farther to the east, the storm was unloading heavy snow on the Arizona mountains. Close to a foot of snow is forecast to fall on the Flagstaff, Arizona, area with slow travel along I-17 and I-40 in the region.

From July 1 to March 30, Los Angeles International Airport has received 21.56 inches of rain, compared to a historical average of 11.33 inches or 190% of the historical average. Downtown Los Angeles has picked up 24.18 inches of rain since the start of July. Rainfall in the San Diego area has been well above the historical average as well, with 13.74 inches compared to 8.87 inches at the airport. Rainfall has been close to the historical average in San Francisco, with 18.47 inches of rain since July 1.

The weekend rain and Sierra Nevada snowstorm have bolstered reservoir levels and the snowpack from beyond last week's levels (below).

Because of the state of reservoirs and the amount of water locked up in the Sierra snow, AccuWeather experts do not anticipate water shortage problems in California into the spring of 2026, even if lean precipitation occurs during the upcoming winters of 2024-2025 and 2025-2026. There can still be episodes of soil drought and wildfire concerns due to dry vegetation.

AccuWeather meteorologists are tracking additional storms over the Pacific, which are likely to dip southward along the West Coast. At this time, the bulk of the rain from the storms may stay to the north of Los Angeles and San Diego while rounds of drenching rain (and thunderstorms) may affect San Francisco and Sacramento, as well as more snow for much of the Sierra Nevada, during the first week and weekend of April.

Energy from the storm in Southern California this past weekend will swing toward the central United States early this week and could initiate a significant amount of severe weather and tornadoes.

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The 34 best couples vacations.

These incredible trips are sure to inspire romance and relaxation.

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Relax and unwind or get ready for adventure on your next couples escape.

Guests kayak with their Uncruise to Hawaii's boutique yacht behind them.

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Sail with UnCruise to Hawaii

Take a road trip through Wales

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The Atlas Mountains in Morocco on a sunny day.

Kasbah du Toubkal: Imlil, Morocco

Colorful northern lights about Alaskan mountains at Atigun Pas - Dalton highway.

Experience the northern lights and the Iditarod in Alaska

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Exterior of Son Brull Rural Sanctuary through the trees in Pollença, Mallorca.

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Son Brull Rural Sanctuary: Pollença, Mallorca

Close-up of a couple toasting wineglasses at a winery.

Bardessono: Yountville, Napa Valley, California

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, France

Private palapa on the beach of Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort in Eagle Beach, Aruba, at sunset.

(Courtesy of Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort) |

Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort: Eagle Beach, Aruba

Exterior of Ashford Castle in County Mayo, Ireland, on a sunny day with clouds in the sky.

Ashford Castle: County Mayo, Ireland

Interior of Oceanfront Room at Acqualina Resort.

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Acqualina Resort: Sunny Isles Beach, Florida

Lucca, Italy

Sarasota, Florida

Sonoma County, California

Traditional European Christmas market at Vienna Town Hall in Vienna, Austria.

Take a Christmas markets cruise in Europe

People walking along a beach in Costa Rica.

Manuel Antonio National Park, Costa Rica

A body of water in the Atacama Desert, Chile.

Awasi Atacama: San Pedro de Atacama, Chile

Nantucket, Massachusetts

Big Sur, California

Scottsdale, Arizona

View of terracotta roofs in the small French town of Ève, perched on a cliff overlooking the Cap Ferrat, Côte d'Azur.

Château Eza: Eze Village, France

A man and woman hiking Angels Landing in Zion National Park.

Take a tour of U.S. national parks

Turquoise waters of Lake Tahoe from the east shore on a sunny day, with the Sierra Nevada Mountains in the distance.

Lake Tahoe, California

Notre Dame cathedral at dusk with blurred boat lights over the Seine River in Paris, France.

Drive down Route 100 in Vermont

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Falls Park on the Reedy, located in downtown Greenville's Historic West End.

Greenville, South Carolina

Lisbon, Portugal

Interior of guest room/living room at Casa Palmero in Pebble Beach, California.

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Casa Palmero: Pebble Beach, California

Exterior and pool of overwater villa at Song Saa Private Island in Cambodia.

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Song Saa Private Island: Cambodia

Pool of COMO Parrot Cay in Turks & Caicos at sunset.

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COMO Parrot Cay: Turks & Caicos

Private seating on the beach at Excellence Playa Mujeres in Cancun, Mexico.

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Excellence Playa Mujeres: Cancun, Mexico

Couple walking along beach during sunset.

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More than 20 million under flood watches on West Coast as major storm hits

The flood watch in southern California will remain through Sunday afternoon.

More than 20 million people along the West Coast are under flood watches due to a major storm this weekend bringing heavy rain and gusty winds.

A flood watch is in effect for much of Southern California through Sunday afternoon, with areas of flash flooding possible where the heaviest rain falls.

PHOTO: In this screen grab from a video, a flooded street is shown in Santa Rosa, Calif., on March 29, 2024.

This area is in the process of seeing a widespread 1 to 3 inches of rain from San Francisco to San Diego, with up to 6 inches possible in the foothills of Southern California.

Most of the action is happening on Saturday morning, but there will be lingering showers during the day, with pockets of intense downpours.

Meanwhile, the mountains will be seeing an abundance of snow this weekend. Winter weather alerts are in effect across the mountains in California, stretching as far south as the U.S.-Mexico border.

As the storm moves east on Sunday it will bring heavy snow to parts of the Rockies where locally 6 to 12 inches are expected -- especially across parts of Wyoming and Colorado mountains where more than a foot is possible.

MORE: Heavy rain could impact Baltimore bridge recovery efforts

High wind alerts are also in effect for much of the Southwest, with nearly the entire state of Arizona under a wind advisory. Gusts may be topping 55 mph in some locations this weekend.

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Storm to travel east.

As this storm continues to slide east, it will bring a severe weather threat to a large portion of country early in the week.

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A widespread area -- from Texas to Ohio -- could see a severe weather outbreak Monday afternoon and evening. The area with the highest tornado threat will be from Oklahoma through Missouri.

The severe weather outbreak continues into Tuesday as the threat moves east across the Ohio and Tennessee Valleys and into the Mid-Atlantic -- stretching from Birmingham to Baltimore.

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ABC News Live

24/7 coverage of breaking news and live events

CIA Chief to Travel to Egypt This Weekend, Axios Reports

FILE PHOTO: William Burns, nominee for Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) director, testifies during his Senate Intelligence Committee hearing on Capitol Hill in Washington, February 24, 2021. Tom Williams/Pool via REUTERS/File Photo

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. CIA Director Bill Burns is expected to travel to Cairo this weekend to meet with his Egyptian and Israeli counterparts and the Qatari prime minister to try to reach a breakthrough in talks on releasing hostages held in Gaza by Hamas, Axios reporter Barak Ravid posted on social media site X on Thursday, citing two sources.

(Reporting by Jasper Ward)

War in Israel and Gaza

Palestinians are inspecting the damage in the rubble of the Al-Bashir mosque following Israeli bombardment in Deir al-Balah, central Gaza Strip, on April 2, 2024, amid ongoing battles between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas. (Photo by Majdi Fathi/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

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Your last-minute guide to Monday's total solar eclipse

Photo Illustration: The phases of a total solar eclipse

A total solar eclipse will cross North America on Monday , offering millions a rare opportunity to see afternoon skies temporarily darken as the moon blocks the face of the sun.

Tune into NBC News NOW as Lester Holt hosts a two-hour special at 2 p.m. ET Monday from Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

The eclipse's path fortuitously cuts across Mexico, 15 U.S. states and a small part of eastern Canada. In all other states in the continental U.S., viewers will be treated to a partial solar eclipse, with the moon appearing to take a bite out of the sun and obscuring part of its light.

Here’s everything you need to know about the rare celestial event.

What is a solar eclipse?

Solar eclipses occur when the sun, moon and Earth align. The moon passes between Earth and sun, temporarily blocking the sun’s light and casting a shadow on Earth.

A total solar eclipse is when the moon fully obscures the sun, whereas a partial solar eclipse means it blocks just a portion of the sun’s face.

Solar eclipses occur only with the new moon. Because the moon’s orbit around Earth is tilted, the three bodies don’t always line up in a way that creates an eclipse.

“Imagine if the moon’s orbit were in the plane of Earth’s orbit around the sun — if that were the case, then every new moon, you’d have a total solar eclipse and every full moon, you’d have a lunar eclipse,” Neil DeGrasse Tyson, director of the Hayden Planetarium at the American Museum of Natural History, told NBC News. “So, because things don’t always align, it lends to the rarity of the event and the specialness of the event.”

Where and when will the eclipse be visible?

This year’s eclipse will follow a slightly wider path over more populated areas of the continental U.S. than other total solar eclipses have in the recent past.

NASA estimates that 31.6 million people live within what’s known as the path of totality, where the total solar eclipse will be visible. An additional 150 million people live within 200 miles of the path, according to the agency.

The path travels through Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Tiny parts of Michigan and Tennessee will also be able to witness totality if conditions are clear.

After the eclipse crosses into Canada, it will pass over southern Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Cape Breton, at the eastern end of Nova Scotia.

Those outside the path of totality can still take part in the astronomical event by viewing a partial solar eclipse — visible throughout all 48 states of the contiguous U.S. — or a NASA livestream.

The timing, including how long totality lasts, depends on the location, but some spots will see the moon fully cover the sun for up to 4 minutes and 28 seconds.

Below is a list of timings for some cities along the path of totality, as provided by NASA . A number of other resources, including NationalEclipse.com and TimeandDate.com , can also help people plan.

Dallas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:23 p.m. CT and totality at 1:40 p.m.
Little Rock, Arkansas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:33 p.m. CT and totality at 1:51 p.m.
Cleveland: Partial eclipse begins at 1:59 p.m. ET and totality at 3:13 p.m.
Buffalo, New York: Partial eclipse begins at 2:04 p.m. ET and totality at 3:18 p.m.
Lancaster, New Hampshire: Partial eclipse begins at 2:16 p.m. ET and totality at 3:27 p.m.

This composite image of thirteen photographs shows the progression of a total solar eclipse

How to safely view a solar eclipse

It is never safe to gaze directly at the sun, even when it is partly or mostly covered by the moon. Special eclipse glasses or pinhole projectors are required to safely view solar eclipses and prevent eye damage. Failing to take the proper precautions can result in severe eye injury, according to NASA .

Eclipse glasses are thousands of times darker than normal sunglasses and specially made to enable wearers to look at the sun during these kinds of celestial events.

Sky-watchers should also never view any part of the sun through binoculars, telescopes or camera lenses unless they have specific solar filters attached. Eclipse glasses should not be used with these devices, as they will not provide adequate protection.

However, during the few minutes of totality, when the moon is fully blocking the sun, it is safe to look with the naked eye.

Beware of fake eclipse glasses. On legitimate pairs, the lenses should have a silver appearance on the front and be black on the inside. The manufacturer’s name and address should be clearly labeled, and they should not be torn or punctured. Check, as well, for the ISO logo and the code “IS 12312-2” printed on the inside.

If you don’t have eclipse glasses, you can make a homemade pinhole projector, which lets sunlight in through a small hole, focuses it and projects it onto a piece of paper, wall or other surface to create an image of the sun that is safe to look at.

All you need is two pieces of white cardboard or plain white paper, aluminum foil and a pin or thumbtack. Cut a 1- to 2-inch square or rectangle out of the center of a piece of white paper or cardboard. Tape aluminum foil over that cut-out shape, then use a pin or thumbtack to poke a tiny hole in the foil.

During the eclipse, place a second piece of white paper or cardboard on the ground as a screen and hold the projector with the foil facing up and your back to the sun. Adjusting how far you hold the projector from the second piece of paper will alter the size of the image on the makeshift screen.

What to look for while viewing the total solar eclipse

For people along the path of totality, there are some fun milestones to keep track of as the total solar eclipse unfolds.

As the eclipse progresses and the sun gets thinner in the sky, it will start to get eerily dark, according to Tyson.

The "diamond ring effect" is shown following totality of the solar eclipse at Palm Cove in Australia's Tropical North Queensland in 2012.

When the last beams of sunlight are about to become obscured, look out for the “diamond ring effect”: The sun’s atmosphere will appear as an illuminated halo, and the last light still visible will look like the diamond of a giant ring.

As the sunlight decreases even further, an effect known as Baily’s beads will be created by the moon’s rugged terrain. Tiny “beads” of light will be visible for only a few seconds around the dark moon, as the last bits of sunlight peer through the moon’s mountains and valleys.

When the moon is fully blocking the sun, it is safe to remove eclipse glasses and look at the total solar eclipse with the naked eye.

The Bailey's Beads effect is seen as the moon makes its final move over the sun during the total solar eclipse on Monday, August 21, 2017 above Madras, Oregon.

Some lucky sky-watchers may even catch a glimpse of a comet .

Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks — nicknamed the “ devil comet ” because an eruption last year left it with two distinct trails of gas and ice in the shape of devil horns — is currently visible from the Northern Hemisphere as it swings through the inner solar system.

The comet can be seen in the early evenings by gazing toward the west-northwest horizon. During the eclipse, when skies darken during totality, it may be possible to see the comet near Jupiter, but its visibility will depend on whether it’s in the middle of an outburst and thus brighter than normal.

Most likely, all eyes will be on the alignment of the moon and sun.

“Most people won’t even notice,” Tyson said. “But if you know to look, it’s there.”

When is the next solar eclipse?

The next total solar eclipse will be in 2026, but it will mostly pass over the Arctic Ocean, with some visibility in Greenland, Iceland, Portugal and northern Spain. In 2027, a total solar eclipse will be visible in Spain and a swath of northern Africa.

The next total solar eclipse visible from North America will be in 2033, but only over Alaska. Then in 2044, a total solar eclipse will cross Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, parts of Canada and Greenland.

The next total solar eclipse to cross the continental U.S. coast-to-coast in will occur in 2045. The path of totality for that eclipse will cut through California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Kansas, Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, Georgia and Florida.

Denise Chow is a reporter for NBC News Science focused on general science and climate change.

Lucas Thompson is a content producer for the NBC News Climate Unit.

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