california overnight trips

Weekend Getaways in California: 34 Trips You Can Take

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

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

Beverly Hills

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

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

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

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

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

Catalina Island

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

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

Crescent City

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

Death Valley National Park

TripSavvy / Amanda Capritto

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

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

 Kevin Nguyen-Tu / Flickr / CC BY ​2.0

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

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

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

Hearst Castle

othree / CC BY 2.0 / Flickr

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

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

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

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

Laguna Beach

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

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

Lake County

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

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

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

Lassen National Park

TripSavvy / Ana Alarcon

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

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

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

Los Angeles

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mendocino Coast

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

Mono County

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

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

 Taylor McIntyre / © TripSavvy

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

Napa Valley

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

Newport Beach

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

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

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

Palm Springs

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre

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

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

Pebble Beach

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

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

Pismo Beach

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

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

Russian River

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

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

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

San Francisco

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

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

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

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

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

Santa Monica

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

Sequoia National Park

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

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

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

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

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The Best Weekend Getaways in California

By Carey Jones

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

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

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

The pool at Solage Resort and Spa

Napa Valley

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

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

Healdsburg, California

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

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

The views from Marin

Marin and Sonoma Coast

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

Mark Ellwood

Lydia Mansel

Harrison Pierce

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.

The value of a trip is not the time it lasts, but the intensity with which it occurs

15 Best Weekend Getaways in California to Visit Now (2024)

Are you looking for the perfect weekend getaway in California? I’ve got you covered!

Having personally explored the Golden State on numerous occasions , I can’t wait to share with you the best weekend getaways California has to offer. 

From the stunning coastal vistas of Big Sur to the majestic beauty of Yosemite National Park and the exquisite vineyards of Napa Valley, California truly has it all. 

I know it can be difficult to choose between all the places to visit in California, so in this post, I share with you my personal experience and insider tips so you can plan the best California weekend trip .

🚗 Budget Travel Tip: Booking a rental car? I recommend and use DiscoverCars to compare prices across various car rental companies, so you get the best deal. 👉 Book your rental car now !

California offers a diverse variety of destinations for a fun weekend getaway , ranging from the wine country to some of the country’s most beautiful national parks.

With so many amazing options to choose from, you can select from the unique weekend getaways in California that are perfect for your tastes.

This list not only offers the best getaways in California but also covers what to do when you get to your destination .

Now it’s your turn to read through this exciting list of getaways that will make your mini vacation one to remember.

✏️ Post content

California Weekend Getaways At-A-Glance

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Here’s a bite-sized snapshot of everything you need to know to plan your California weekend trip !

• When to Go : Summer is most popular, and most crowded. Visit during spring and fall for pleasant weather and fewer crowds!
• How to Get Around : I recommend having your own car. Use DiscoverCars to snag rental car deals.
• Top 3 Picks : 1) Big Sur for stunning coastal beauty, hiking trails, and luxurious resorts with ocean views. 2) Yosemite National Park for its majestic waterfalls, granite cliffs, and iconic sights like Half Dome. 3) Napa Valley for romantic vineyards, wine tasting, gourmet dining, and luxurious spas.
• Before You Go : Plan ahead and book your accommodation well in advance , especially during peak season.

Best Weekend Getaways in California

San Francisco is appropriately at the top of the list of California weekend getaways, as the city is the perfect destination for families and a romantic weekend . 

The Northern California city is jam-packed with interesting and fun attractions ranging from the Coit Tower to Twin Peaks with its epic view of the city’s skyline . 

Any trip to San Francisco should start with a stroll across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge , where you can watch the fog roll into the bay while enjoying the view of the Embarcadero.

Next, head to Golden Gate Park to visit the Japanese Tea Gardens for a cup of Gen Mai Cha tea and a stop to watch the swans at Stow Lake .

San Francisco is also among the best California getaways for food lovers and gourmands. 

The city is home to some of the best restaurants in the country , ranging from Michelin three-star fine dining to casual take-out dim sum from Chinese bakeries. 

For seafood lovers, visit Fisherman’s Wharf , where you can eat a bowl of Cioppino with some San Francisco sourdough or buy fresh Dungeness crab right from the fisherman. 

San Francisco is also one of the best destinations for mini vacations in California , where you can splurge and book a room with a view of Alcatraz and the bay .

Choose the city by the bay for your perfect getaway in California.

🛏️ Where to stay : Affordable and highly rated – CitizenM Union Square

🚌 Top Rated Tour : San Francisco Bay Sunset Catamaran Cruise

Big Sur will surely be the star of the show for a road trip down the Pacific Coast Highway after a stop in the seaside town of Carmel .

This stretch of the California Coast offers breathtaking views of the turbulent Pacific Ocean , crashing into the rugged rocky coves and cliffs.

Make sure to stop to check out the Bixby and the Big Creek arch span bridges , which are the most photographed in the state. 

Another popular viewpoint is in the Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park to see McWay Cove, where a waterfall spills from the cliffs onto the sand.

While in the state park, take a hike on the Pfeiffer Falls trail for an opportunity to walk amongst the giant Coastal Redwoods.

Big Sur also is home to several retreats and resorts that specialize in rest and relaxation with a focus on immersing in nature. 

There are options with jaw-dropping ocean views tucked away on the cypress-covered bluffs with onsite hot springs, or you can book a sea view room in Carmel .

You can enjoy the views along the way down Highway 1 or stay for a few days, but make sure that Big Sur is a part of your getaway in California.

🛏️ Where to stay : Affordable and highly rated – Carmel Valley Lodge (including breakfast)

🚌 Top Rated Tour : Monterey, Carmel, and 17-Mile Drive – Full Day Tour from San Francisco

Yosemite National Park is one of the nation’s greatest treasures and is beloved for its massive granite monoliths and towering waterfalls.

This massive national park covers 748,542 acres and has over 750 miles of trails to explore for nature lovers and hardcore outdoor adventure seekers.

One of the best hikes in Yosemite is up to the top of the 2425-foot-tall Yosemite Falls, which offers unique vantage points of the falls along the way.

Hikers can also opt for a strenuous but rewarding trek up to Glacier Point for views of Half Dome or a leisurely stroll to mirror lake for a picnic by the water.

Without making a special trip to Sequoia National Park, visitors can get up close to the giant Sequoia trees , which are the largest in the world.

To make a stay in the national park extra special, rent one of the cabins near Yosemite , where you can enjoy a night of counting stars from the hot tub or curl up by the fire. 

Yosemite is one of the best weekend trips in California for an opportunity to connect with nature at one of the state’s top outdoor destinations.

🛏️ Where to stay : Affordable and highly rated – Cinnamon Bear Inn (including breakfast)

🚌 Top Rated Tour : Yosemite National Park and Giant Sequoias Day Trip from San Francisco

Mammoth is located high in the Eastern Sierra Nevada mountains and offers two distinct seasons for a perfect getaway.

During the winter , Mammoth Ski Resort transitions into a winter wonderland with plenty of fresh powder for shredding the slopes. In fact, it’s one of the most beautiful mountains with snow in California .

There are even accommodations that have direct access to gondolas that will whisk skiers and snowboarders right to the top of the mountain.

When the warmer summer arrives , Mammoth becomes a paradise for hikers and mountain bikers, with 112 trails that traverse the scenic valleys and peaks.

One of the best places for relaxing in Mammoth is by one of the 100-plus lakes in the area , where you can go kayaking or go for a swim in the chilly water.

One of Mammoth Lake’s top natural attractions is Devil’s Postpile , which draws tourists to this unique basalt rock formation.

Visitors can book a room at one of the many great resorts and hotels in Mammoth or set up a tent at one of the great campgrounds for extra time in nature.

Lake Tahoe offers all the relaxation and fun you could want for a California mountain getaway.

For a winter getaway, Tahoe is the premier destination for skiing and snowboarding in California , with 15 ski resorts to choose from.

Skiers and snowboarders can shred their way down the mountain with views of the lake’s crystal-clear water. Lake Tahoe in winter is a must!

Although the winter is a popular time to visit Lake Tahoe, most visitors opt for a chance to enjoy some time at the beach during the warm summer months.

Lake Tahoe is also a hotbed for adventure seekers looking to hit the trails . 

One of the top options for a trek is the challenging Mount Tallac Trail to the tallest peak in Lake Tahoe Basin. 

For a more relaxing hike, take the Rubicon Trail , which snakes along the shore to hidden beaches and coves through D.L. Bliss State Park.

For those looking for a tranquil getaway, Lake Tahoe visitors can book a cabin in the woods for some quiet time surrounded by nature.

Lake Tahoe is also the perfect place to let your hair down with plenty of nightlife, including plenty of great craft breweries and a strip of large casinos full of fun restaurants and bars.

Lake Tahoe offers an ideal getaway for those drawn to its sun-drenched beaches and snow sports enthusiasts looking for an ultimate adrenaline rush.

🛏️ Where to stay : Affordable and highly rated – Postmarc Hotel and Spa Suites

🚌 Top Rated Tour : Lake Tahoe Small-Group Photography Scenic Half-Day Tour

Napa is the premier wine region in the United States and is a perfect destination for a luxury getaway with a chance to enjoy a taste of the good life.

With over 400 wineries in the valley, vine lovers have no problem finding an appointment at one of the beautiful vineyards located along the valley.

Visitors can enjoy a picnic amongst the vineyards, visit a wine cave, or taste barrel samples for a chance to experience the upcoming vintage of unique wines. 

The Napa Valley is also home to incredible dining options ranging from casual roadside burger joints to opulent fine dining at a Michelin three-star restaurant.

For a special treat for gourmands, visit the Oxbow Public Market, where you will find an incredible collection of gourmet shops and boutique eateries ranging from empanada vendors to spice stores.

For those looking for a little pampering, head north up the valley to Calistoga to spoil yourself with a spa treatment and a soak in the natural hot springs.

Napa is the perfect destination for a special occasion getaway, where the valley’s beautiful accommodations and stunning wineries are sure to impress. 

🛏️ Where to stay : Affordable and highly rated – Vineyard Country Inn

🚌 Top Rated Tour : Napa Valley Wineries Tour Including Picnic Lunch

San Luis Obispo is a small college town with plenty of fun activities for a special getaway.

The best way to kick off a stay in San Luis Obispo is at the Madonna Inn, where every room has its own theme.

San Luis Obispo is also home to the Edna Valley wine region, which offers a chance to book a tasting at the vineyards or at one of the downtown tasting rooms.

If you enjoy a good hike, hit the trails up to Bishop Peak for 360-degree views of the surrounding valleys and rolling hills.

Those that arrive during the week can start their weekend early by exploring the Thursday downtown farmers market, where they can taste handmade treats and shop for local ingredients.

The historic downtown also offers up a fun night out, where you will find countless great restaurants, taphouses, and bars.

For a relaxing weekend getaway, consider spending a few days in San Luis Obispo, and make sure to stop by Bubble Gum Alley to leave your mark. 

🛏️ Where to stay : Affordable and highly rated – Garden Street Inn

🚌 Top Rated Tour : Taste of SLO – Downtown Walking Food Tour

Paso Robles is an ideal California getaway for a few days of relaxing in the central California wine country.

This up-and-coming wine region is home to many boutique and large-production wineries that are garnering a lot of attention in the wine world.

The Paso Robles wine region offers a chance to experience a smaller and more charming side of wine tasting where the person pouring the wine could be the owner or winemaker.

Wine aficionados can sip some wine at one of the 16 downtown tasting rooms or make a reservation at Justin Winery for a wine-pairing lunch at their Michelin-star restaurant.

For a relaxing afternoon, go for a soak and get pampered at the River Oaks Hot Springs Spa, or make a visit to Franklin Hot Springs for a more rustic experience.

For an extra sensory experience after the sun goes down, swing by Sensorio, a 15-acre art installation made of color-shifting lights.

Paso Robles is located halfway between San Francisco and Los Angeles, making it easy to visit from almost anywhere in the state.

🛏️ Where to stay : Affordable and highly rated – The Oaks Hotel & Suites

🚌 Top Rated Tour : Paso Robles Wine Adventure with pickup

A visit to Solvang will provide all the entertainment and relaxation you could desire for a romantic getaway in the wine country.

This charming small town is located in the heart of the Santa Ynez Valley and offers a perfect escape from cities across Southern California.

The region is home to over 120 wineries, which were made famous for their Pinot Noir by the cult classic movie “Sideways,” and is now a hotbed for wine tasting.

Solvang’s downtown is worth the trip alone to experience the charming Danish architecture, complete with windmills that give it a fairytale-like feel.

For an easy day of relaxing in town, head out for a stroll, check out the small boutique shops, and then visit one of the Danish bakeries for a sweet treat.

For a touch of California history, stop by the Old Mission Santa Ynes to explore its beautiful gardens and church, which date back to 1804.

Solvang is a must-visit destination for anyone dreaming of a getaway that moves at your pace but still offers plenty of things to keep you entertained and having a good time.

🛏️ Where to stay : Affordable and highly rated – King Frederik Inn  

🚌 Top Rated Tour : Solvang/ Santa Ynez Valley Small-Group All-Inclusive Wine Tour

Santa Monica is the quintessential beach town destination in Southern California, offering all the fun you can handle under the sun.

Santa Monica is home to 3.5 miles of sandy beaches for a day of playing in the waves and getting a good tan. There are many fun things to do in Santa Monica !

For some nightlife, head out for the evening to explore the shops and dine at the great restaurants on the 3rd Street Promenade.

For those looking for some romance, go for a ride on the Ferris wheel on the Santa Monica Pier and enjoy the ride with a view of the city lights.

No visit to Santa Monica is complete without a stroll along Muscle Beach to see all the street performers and bodybuilders.  

For some morning exercise, ride down the shoreline on the Marvin Braude bike trail and enjoy the ocean views along the way.

Santa Monica is the best destination on this list for anyone looking to have a great time in a California beach town.

🛏️ Where to stay : Highly rated – Hilton Santa Monica

🚌 Top Rated Tour : Small Group Electric EBike bicycle Tour Santa Monica and Venice

Nothing says “California getaway,” like spending the weekend on Santa Catalina Island.

This island off the Southern California coast is the ultimate destination for spoiling yourself at a luxury resort.

Why not enjoy a spa treatment with gorgeous views of the Pacific Ocean in the background?

For fun at the beach, rent a cabana at the Descanso Beach Club for a lazy day of relaxing by the water with delicious cocktails served right to your sun lounger.

For some time at sea, visitors can book a marine environmental boat tour to check out the sea life.

The Island is also a popular spot for diving, where those that brave the cold water can get up close to sea life ranging from seals to manta rays.

Santa Catalina Island is also a great destination for hikers, as Santa Catalina Island is home to 165 miles of trails. 

Hikers are certain to spot plenty of bison that live on the island that was brought from the mainland for the filming of a movie. 

If the idea of a perfect getaway includes getting away from it all, then Santa Catalina Island is the perfect destination.

🛏️ Where to stay : Highly rated – Pavilion Hotel

🚌 Top Rated Tour : Private Guided Golf Cart Tour of Avalon

With gorgeous year-round weather and countless attractions, San Diego is an ideal destination for a California getaway. 

San Diego only gets 12 inches of rain annually and has an average high temperature of just over 70° F, making this beach town a perfect year-round getaway.

For some adult fun, San Diego is known as the “craft beer capital of America” and is home to 150 local craft brewers making some of the country’s highest-rated beers.

If that’s not enough of a good time, catch a ride to the Gas Lamp District to try out the amazing restaurants and bars for a night out on the town.

For those that love animals, take advantage of the opportunity to learn about and experience the 700 species and sub-species of rescued and protected endangered animals at the San Diego Zoo.

Don’t forget that San Diego is a beach town with over 17 miles of coastline. Head up to La Jolla to spend the day at the beach, including a stop to explore the tide pools.

For some touristy fun, head down to the bayfront Embarcadero to check out the USS Midway Museum and explore the shops at Seaport Village , and don’t forget the famous Balboa Park.

A getaway to San Diego will certainly have you planning your next visit well before you even finish your trip.

🛏️ Where to stay : – Budget – Staypineapple / Luxury – Pendry San Diego

🚌 Top Rated Tour : San Diego Whale Watching Cruise

This coastal town is one of the famous romantic getaways in Southern California for the rich and famous and is equally popular with those looking for some of the limelight. 

Santa Barbara is so much more than a beach town, as it is also one of the country’s best wine regions for Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. 

Wine tasting is easy in Santa Barbara as you can visit the Santa Maria or the Santa Ynez wine-growing valleys to visit the vineyards, or you can visit one of the 20 downtown tasting rooms.

A visit to Santa Barbara would be incomplete without some time to relax at Arroyo Burro County Beach Park for fun in the sun.

To taste the city’s history, visit the Old Mission Santa Barabara, which dates back to 1786.

For outdoor enthusiasts, head up into the Santa Ynez Mountains for a day of hiking, where you can go for a dip in the Red Rock Pools at the Santa Ynez River.

Santa Barbara offers all the entertainment you could need, even if you only want a weekend getaway by the sea.

🛏️ Where to stay : Budget – Marina Beach Motel / Mid-range – La Playa Inn

🚌 Top Rated Tour : Downtown Santa Barbara Food Tour

Palm Springs was once a playground for the rich and famous and their fans, who would flock to this luxury oasis in the middle of the desert.

While the daytime high temperatures in Palm Springs can commonly climb as high as 120° F during the summer, this city in the desert offers an escape from the cold during the winter.

With temperatures in the mid-seventies, Palm Springs is the perfect destination for golf lovers.

This desert getaway has nine golf courses and over 100 more within a 30-minute short drive, including Indian Wells, a stop on the PGA professional tour.

Palm Springs is also home to the largest rotating aerial tramway in the world, which offers a 2.5-mile ride with stunning views of Chico Canyon. 

When visitors arrive at the top, you can dine at one of the two restaurants offering spectacular views of the Coachella Valley. 

When the weather is pleasant, Palm Springs offers several hiking options, including many trails in San Jacinto State Park.

For a fun day trip, visit a desert oasis at Palm Canyon, stand on top of the San Andreas Fault, and finish your day at Joshua Tree National Park .

If you are looking for the best winter destination in California to escape the cold, Palm Springs should be at the top of your list.

🛏️ Where to stay : Affordable and highly rated –  Alcazar Palm Springs

🚌 Top Rated Tour : San Andreas Fault Jeep Tour from Palm Desert

Death Valley more than lives up to its name during the summer, when it is the hottest place on the planet, with a record-high temperature of 134° F.

It’s safe to say that it’s best to visit during the winter months when the weather is perfect for exploring desert landscapes. 

Death Valley offers an escape from the city, where you will have no choice but to disconnect and enjoy getting away to this unique destination.

One of the highlights of a visit to Death Valley is a stop at Zabriskie Point, where you can hike into the wrinkly hills that look like they have been painted with massive brush strokes.

For an epic view of Bad Water, the lowest point in the United States, head up to Dante’s View for a hike along the ridgeline.

If you are looking for cheap weekend getaways in California, stay a few days at Homestake Dry Camp, and enjoy stargazing without any light pollution.

Death Valley is a great additional stop to warm up after a weekend of skiing in Mammoth Lakes, and there are plenty of hotels in the area for a refresh before exploring the desert.

For those that love stunning desert landscapes, do not miss out on a chance to explore Death Valley.

🛏️ Where to stay : Highly rated –  The Inn at Death Valley

🚌 Top Rated Tour : Death Valley full day tour from Las Vegas (Watching the sunset & stars Tour)

This interactive map shows you the best weekend trips in California.

The Golden State offers an abundance of unforgettable weekend getaways . 

Whether you seek scenic coastal retreats, adventurous mountain escapes, or vibrant city experiences, this diverse state has it all!

Embrace the magic of California weekend getaways and create cherished memories that will last a lifetime. Start planning your next adventure today and let California’s beauty captivate you!

Now that you have picked out the perfect option from this list of the best weekend getaways in California, all you have to do is book your accommodations. 

Pack your bags and get ready for an epic getaway in California, and while your traveling, pick out another destination from this list for your next weekend off.  

FAQs about the Best Weekend trips in California

Consider budget-friendly weekend getaways to places like Santa Cruz for its affordable beachside charm, Joshua Tree National Park for outdoor adventures and camping, Ojai for its quaint small-town atmosphere, or Pismo Beach for its affordable accommodations and relaxed coastal vibes. 

For family-friendly weekend getaways in California, visit Disneyland, Legoland, Santa Cruz beaches, Lake Tahoe, or San Diego attractions.

For unique weekend getaways in California, visit Carmel-by-the-Sea, Joshua Tree, Solvang, Santa Cruz, or Mendocino.

For affordable weekend getaways in Southern California, consider Oceanside, Palm Springs, Temecula, Long Beach, or San Juan Capistrano.

In December, the best weekend getaways in California include Lake Tahoe, San Francisco, Santa Barbara, Palm Springs, and Big Bear Lake.

Consider Ojai, Idyllwild, or Cambria for affordable romantic getaways in California, offering charming accommodations and a peaceful ambiance.

Indulge in romance at California’s top getaways: Napa Valley’s wine country charm, Big Sur’s breathtaking coastal vistas, Santa Barbara’s beachside allure, Lake Tahoe’s mountain-lake serenity, and Carmel-by-the-Sea’s idyllic village ambiance.

For a romantic weekend getaway in California, consider these enchanting destinations: Napa Valley’s vineyards, Big Sur’s coastal beauty, Santa Barbara’s beachside charm, Lake Tahoe’s scenic serenity, and Carmel-by-the-Sea’s picturesque village.

For an unforgettable weekend getaway in California, here are some fantastic options: Explore the stunning landscapes of Yosemite National Park, immerse yourself in the vibrant city life of San Francisco, relax on the beautiful beaches of Santa Cruz, experience the glamour of Los Angeles, or indulge in wine tasting in the charming vineyards of Sonoma County. 

For a Southern California weekend getaway, visit San Diego’s sunny beaches, explore LA’s vibrant city, relax in Palm Springs, discover Santa Barbara’s charm, or indulge in Laguna Beach’s art and beach vibes.

Head to the majestic city of San Francisco for a captivating weekend in Northern California. Explore the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, indulge in delicious cuisine at Fisherman’s Wharf, and immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant cultural scene.

This weekend in Southern California, soak up the sun on the beautiful beaches, visit world-class theme parks like Disneyland or Universal Studios, explore the trendy neighborhoods of Los Angeles, go hiking in the stunning national parks, or enjoy outdoor activities like surfing and kayaking.

Embark on a romantic weekend in Southern California by visiting the idyllic coastal town of Laguna Beach. Stroll hand-in-hand along the scenic beaches, indulge in gourmet dining, explore the local art galleries, and savor breathtaking sunset views. Laguna Beach offers the perfect setting for a romantic getaway filled with relaxation and romance.

Escape to the charming coastal town of Carmel-by-the-Sea for a delightful weekend getaway in California. Experience its picturesque white-sand beaches, explore the art galleries and boutique shops in the village, indulge in gourmet dining, and take scenic drives along the breathtaking coastline. 

A fantastic weekend getaway in California is Santa Barbara. Explore its beautiful beaches, visit the historic Mission Santa Barbara, stroll along State Street for shopping and dining, and unwind in the peaceful ambiance of the city. 

While it’s not possible to fully explore the entirety of California in just one weekend due to its vast size and numerous attractions, you can certainly have a fulfilling and enjoyable weekend getaway in specific regions or cities within California.

The best time to visit California is during spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

To fully experience California’s diverse attractions, it is recommended to plan a trip of at least 10 days. However, the duration can vary depending on the specific regions and activities you wish to explore.

The best way to travel around California is by car for flexibility and convenience.

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Sara Rodríguez

A passionate traveler with a mission: Help you plan your next trip easily and enjoy it to the fullest.

In this travel blog you will find everything you need to get inspired and organize your next adventure. Read more about my story here.

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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

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

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.

13 Epic Weekend California Getaways

Updated December 2023

When it comes to California weekend getaways, there are several choices in the golden state. There are some incredible road trip destinations here in California that make for a wonderful weekend escape. Some of my favorite memories from the last few years are hopping in the car and exploring a new California destination.

Navigate Northern California Like a Local!

Unlock the best-kept secrets of Northern & Central California with my curated Google Map, showcasing 600+ accommodations, eateries, coffee shops, and unique experiences. Get the map here!

Whether it is southern or northern California, the options from outdoor escapes to city destinations are available in both. You can even road trip down the coast between the major destinations pending how much time you have. If you’re looking for a getaway that is just for the weekend, then any of these below will be a great fit.

For summer months, I love heading out to the coast to get some fresh air and time at the beach. Destinations like Southern California and Palm Springs , I’ll often save for the early fall when the weather has cooled off a bit. And then you have some destinations that are truly year-round like the city of San Francisco or even Yosemite National Park if you don’t mind a bit of snow. Either way, there is a lot to do in California.

Take a look at some of my top picks for epic weekend California getaways.

Short on Time? Here Are My Top Picks for the Best Weekend Getaways in California:

• Palm Springs (Staying at Korakia Pensione ), for the best Southern California getaway
• Paso Robles (Staying at Geneseo Inn at Cass Winery ) , for the best Central California getaway
• Point Reyes (Staying at Nick’s Cove ), for the best Northern California getaway

1. San Francisco

One California weekend getaway that I love the most is to the city of San Francisco . After living there in the city for almost a decade, its truly one of the most amazing cities in California. The vibrance and proximity to nature are second to none. From incredible cuisine to be able to be out by the ocean in ten minutes, it always blows my mind. San Francisco is one of my favorites for a short weekend because two full days will give you a great introduction to the city. And you can always save something for the next trip. If you’re up for an early start, catching sunrise from the iconic Golden Gate Bridge is something you’ll never forget.

San Francisco Hotel Recommendations

• 1 Hotel ,  for the best design hotel
• San Francisco Proper , for the best central hotel
• Fairmont San Francisco ,  for the best Nob Hill hotel
• Hotel Kabuki ,  for the best neighborhood hotel

Helpful San Francisco Guides to Plan Your Trip

• The Ultimate Local’s Travel Guide to San Francisco
• The best restaurants in San Francisco
• The best hotels in San Francisco
• My secret list of restaurants
• My favorite coffee shops.
• Some great photography locations in the city

2. Palm Springs

If there is one place that I’ve vacationed the most in California outside of the Northern California area, it’s Palm Springs . It’s an awesome ladies’ weekend getaway in California, so I’ve done quite a few trips here with friends. Personally, I love the slow pace in Palm Springs paired with incredible dining and stunning hotels. It’s an amazing spot to go for the weekend and relax poolside with friends.

Palm Springs Hotels Recommendations

• Korakia Pensione , for the best adults-only hotel
• The Kimpton Rowan , for the best downtown hotel
• Sparrows Lodge , for the best design-for-dollar hotel

Helpful Palm Springs Guides to Plan Your Trip

• 20 Best Restaurants In Palm Springs
• The Best Hotels in Palm Springs
• Hip Weekend Guide to Palm Springs

3. Yosemite National Park

When it comes to outdoor travel, Yosemite National Park is hard to beat. The picturesque valley is home to open lands perfect for hiking and exploring. It’s a very special part of California and drive out there is well worth the effort. If you’re able to snag a cabin in the park, it’s super helpful as you can cut down the drive time in and out of the park.

I love catching sunsets on either the valley floor or up from Glacier Point.

Yosemite Hotel Recommendations

• AutoCamp Yosemite National Park , for the best boutique hotel
• Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite , for the best resort hotel
• Curry Village Cabins , for the best in-park cabin stay

Helpful Yosemite Guides to Plan Your Trip

• The Ultimate Weekend Guide to Yosemite

4. Northern California — Gold Country

For great family weekend getaways in Northern California, there is so much to do nearby. I love destinations around Gold County for white water rafting and wine tasting. As you head further into the foothills, towns like Auburn , Grass Valley, and Nevada City are incredibly picturesque and close to nature.

I’d recommend exploring more of what is in this area for a weekend away.

Northern California Gold Country Hotel Recommendations

I adore the more recently opened Park Victorian Inn bed and breakfast that overlooks Auburn. You’d be centrally located to most sights in the foothills.

Helpful Gold Country Guides to Plan Your Trip

• A Road Trip Guide to Gold Country
• The Weekend Guide to Auburn, California

5. Santa Cruz

When it comes to the northern central coast of California, the most iconic destination is Santa Cruz. Known for its historic pier, quaint downtown, and great surf, Santa Cruz one of the most family-friendly beach towns for those looking for a weekend getaway. The area has a lot to do like hiking the mountains nearby and afternoons at the beach.

Santa Cruz Hotel Recommendations

• Hotel Paradox , for the best overall hotel
• Dream Inn , for the best oceanfront hotel

6. Southern California — Los Angeles to Laguna Beach

There are so many popular weekend getaways in Southern California. Whether it’s a trip to LA to experience Beverly Hills or spend a day at Santa Monica, there is a lot to do there. My personal favorite area of Southern California is Laguna Beach as the beaches there are beautiful and the city itself has so much charm and wonderful art galleries and tasting rooms.

Los Angeles to Laguna Beach Hotel Recommendations

• Santa Monica Proper Hotel , for the best Santa Monica hotel
• Surf and Sand resort , for the best Laguna Beach hotel

Helpful Los Angeles to Laguna Beach Guides to Plan Your Trip

• The 20 Best Restaurants in Laguna Beach
• 19 Incredible Things to Do in Laguna Beach
• Southern California Road Trip Guide: Laguna Beach to Big Bear

7. San Diego

Another weekend getaway down south that is popular is San Diego. There is some beautiful resorts and golf courses along the coastline which makes it an awesome family getaway. The city of San Diego itself has changed a lot, with the downtown popping up with new restaurants and boutiques.

San Diego Hotel Recommendations

• Kimpton Hotel Palomar , for the best downtown hotel
• Fairmont Gra nd Del Mar , for the best luxury hotel
• Hotel del Coron ado , for the best Coronado hotel
• Park Hyatt Aviara Resort & Sp a , for the best Carlsbad hotel

8. San Luis Obispo

Known as a college town, San Luis Obispo is home to some great beach destinations in California. Most famed for Pismo Beach, the area is an awesome summer weekend getaway for those who want to make the drive. Downtown San Luis Obispo is lined with great restaurants and there is even local wineries nearby in the county.

San Luis Obispo Hotel Recommendations

• Madonna Inn , for the most unique hotel
• San Luis Creek Lodge , for the best downtown hotel
• Hotel San Luis Obispo , for the best modern hotel

Helpful San Luis Obispo Guides to Help Plan Your Trip

• The Best Hotels in San Luis Obispo
• How to Spend 48 Hours in San Luis Obispo

9. Paso Robles

One area for a romantic weekend in California that is often overlooked is Paso Robles . The wine from the Central California wine country region has been highly awarded over the last decade, so if you’re looking for a warm destination with access to great wine and food, this is it. If you’re looking for day trip options, consider Hearst Castle San Simeon and Morrow Bay State Parks are nearby and worth a visit.

Paso Robles Hotel Recommendations

• Geneseo Inn at Cass Winery , for the best design hotel
• Hotel Cheval , for the best luxury hotel
• The Piccolo , for the best downtown hotel
• Allegretto Vineyard Resort , for the best vineyard resort

Helpful Paso Robles Guides to Plan Your Trip

• The Design Lover’s Guide to a Central California Road Trip
• The 13 Best Paso Robles Hotels For All Budgets

10. The Marin and Sonoma Coast

I once took a solo weekend getaway up the coast from Marin through Sonoma. What I found was these beautiful towns and incredible hotels, all set on the wild coastline of Northern California. I fell in love with Point Reyes and the hiking out in the National Seashore. The rolling pastoral hills with dairy farms and local produce. Farm fresh restaurants and charming boutique hotels. All of it reminds me why I love this area of Northern California so much.

If you’re based in the Bay Area or in greater Sacramento region, this is an easy weekend getaway!

Marin and Sonoma Coast Hotel Recommendations

• Nick’s Cove , for a quaint waterfront cottage stay
• Timber Cove Resort , for a great stay further up the coast

Helpful Marin and Sonoma Coast Guides to Plan Your Trip

• The Weekend Guide to Point Reyes
• Three Night Road Trip Guide to Sonoma Coast
• Ultimate Northern California Road Trip Itinerary
• Best Hotels on Northern California Coast

11. Napa Valley

One of my favorite local romantic getaways in the Bay Area is to Napa Valley . It’s a quick drive out of the city (around an hour or so) and you’re in the heart of the wine region. This area is known for spa getaways where many hotels have onsite spas to enjoy after a day of wine tasting. The summer is particularly nice if you’re looking for a place to hang poolside. Napa Valley ranges from downtown Napa to Calistoga. I personally love the town of Yountville that is midway as you can pop into either side of the valley easily.

Napa Valley Hotel Recommendations

• Archer Hotel ,  for the best downtown hotel
• Carneros Resort & Spa ,  for the best resort hotel
• Four Seasons Resort Napa Valley ,  for the best family-friendly hotel
• Hotel Yountville , for the best located hotel
• Bardessono , for the best modern Yountville hotel

Helpful Napa Valley Guides to Plan Your Trip

• The Best Hotels in Napa Valley, California
• The 20 Best Restaurants in Napa Valley
• A Mid-Week Getaway: Napa Valley Guide
• How to Spend 24 Hours in Napa Valley

12. Lake Tahoe

One more weekend getaways in Northern California for either summer or winter is Lake Tahoe . Lake Tahoe is famous for winter skiing but it also has awesome summer activities like hiking and boating. It’s a rare gem for being truly year-round for outdoor experiences, depending on what you want to do. I personally love the summer months, laying out by the lake and enjoying the mild temperatures.

Lake Tahoe Hotel Recommendations

• The Landing Resort , for the best lakefront relaxing hotel
• Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe , for the best luxury hotel
• The Coachman Hotel , for the best South Lake hotel
• Basecamp Tahoe City , for the best North Lake hotel

Helpful Lake Tahoe Guides to Plan Your Trip

• A Quick Summer Guide to Lake Tahoe
• The Best Hotels and Cabins in Lake Tahoe
• The 18 Best Restaurants in South Lake Tahoe
• The 10 Best Resorts in South Lake Tahoe

13. Santa Barbara

The final spot on my weekend getaways list for California is Santa Barbara. It’s idyllic, quaint, and truly one of the most beautiful coastal cities in California. From pristine beaches to the nearby Santa Ynez Valley, Santa Barbara feels like the best of all worlds.

Santa Barbara Hotel Recommendations

• El Encanto, A Belmond Hotel , for the best luxury hotel
• The Ritz-Carlton Bacara , for the best beachfront hotel
• Kimpton Canary , for the best downtown hotel
• Hotel Californian , for the best family-friendly hotel

Helpful Santa Barbara Guides to Plan Your Trip

• A Slow Road Trip Guide to Santa Barbara, Ventura, and Ojai
• The 20 Best Restaurants in Santa Barbara
• 17 Best Things to Do in Santa Barbara

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PS — Are You Booking a Trip Soon? Use My Booking Checklist!

These are the sites I use most to book my own trips. Using the links below is a great way to support Bon Traveler’s travel journalism at no extra cost to you . If you need help organizing your itinerary, get my free travel itinerary template here .

1. Book Your Flights

Use Skyscanner to find the best flights. It searches 100s of airlines and websites across the globe to ensure you’re not missing out on any route options or deals.

2. Book Your Accommodations

Use Booking.com for hotels and guest houses. They have the biggest inventory and consistently offer the best rates.

3. Book Your Tours & Experiences

Use Viator or Get Your Guide to find the best tours and experiences. They are my favorite tour search engines. I always check both as their inventory varies depending on the destination.

4. Book Your Car

Use Discover Cars or Rentalcars.com to find the best car rental deals. I recommend comparing rental agency reviews on Google to ensure you are booking with the best company in that destination, as the reviews are often more accurate than the car rental search engines.

5. Don’t Forget Airport Lounge Access

Get a Priority Pass membership to gain access to 1,400+ VIP lounges and airport experiences worldwide. The Priority Pass app is the first thing I check when I have a layover. I’ve been a member for over a decade, and having a comfortable place to relax before and between flights makes air travel so much more enjoyable.

6. Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

I never leave the country without travel insurance. It provides comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong (ie. illness, injury, theft, and cancelations, etc.). I use it frequently for my travels to stay protected.

My favorite companies that offer the best coverage and rates are:

• World Nomads (best for all-around)
• Safety Wing (best for frequent travelers)

Xx, Jessica

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15 Best Weekend Getaways in California

By: Author Susan Moore

Posted on Last updated: December 10, 2023

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

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

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

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

Best Weekend Getaways in California

1.   santa barbara.

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

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

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

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

2.   San Francisco

San Francisco is a world of its own.

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

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

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

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

3.   Palm Springs

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

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

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

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

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

4.   San Diego

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

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

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

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

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

5.   Marin County

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

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

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

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

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

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

6.   Napa Valley

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

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

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

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

Just say YES to a wine country weekend in Napa Valley

7.   Catalina Island

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

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

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

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

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

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

8.   Carpinteria

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

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

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

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

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

A weekend in Carpinteria is the perfect place for beach lovers

9.   Big Sur

Here is your chance to reconnect with nature.

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

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

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

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

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

10.   Paso Robles

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

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

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

11.   Yosemite National Park

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

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

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

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

12.   Lake Tahoe

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

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

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

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

13.   Sequoia National Park

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

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

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

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

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

14.   Redwood National/State Park

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

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

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

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

15.   Joshua Tree National Park

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

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

Sunsets are divine at Joshua Tree.

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

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

Read more about visiting Joshua Tree National Park .

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

Final Thoughts on California Weekend Trips

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

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15 Unbelievable Weekend Getaways in California

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read  full disclosure  for more information.

Are you wondering about the best weekend getaways in California? You’re in the right place!

California is the host to many of the most eclectic cities and natural environments in the country, so why not take a weekend off of the couch and take a getaway within a two-hour driving distance from your home?

Or, if you are visiting from another state or country, it is very easy to get from each of these getaway destinations by train or bus. I live nearby in Las Vegas and have taken quite a few California weekend getaways.

Some weekend getaways are more geared towards families, while some are aimed at cozying up next to your partner. Nonetheless, vacationing in California is the ultimate West Coast experience!

Keep reading to learn all about the best weekend getaways in California!

🚗 Don’t forget to book your California rental car! Click here to check rates.

Table of Contents

Best Weekend Getaways in California

Santa barbara.

Let’s start with sunny Santa Barbara on the coast of California! This gorgeous weekend getaway destination holds a variety of activities for families on vacation in CA.

The top family activity is the Santa Barbara Zoo . California, specifically Southern California, has a great amount of zoos for you and your family to visit.

Along with the amazing Zoo, Santa Barbara is more of a beach city than anything, so it might be a good idea to leave the kids home for this weekend getaway.

There are gorgeous beaches throughout that make this weekend getaway worth it! Especially the County parks and beaches with crystal clear waters and clean sandy beaches. Santa Barbara is one of the best weekend getaways in California for couples.

San Diego is one of the best weekend getaways in California for families, couples, or solo travelers alike!

This city has a lot to it, from the trendy Ocean Beach to the hip Gaslamp District downtown, which is a destination for cocktails or a nice dinner. San Diego is located on the coast of California, so you can imagine how beautiful it is.

There is the famous Balboa Park in downtown San Diego, the San Diego Zoo , Legoland , and many different beaches, each with its own vibe, from hippy to dog beaches.

The great thing about San Diego’s getaway is that everything is within 15-20 minutes away from each other!

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Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a city in the desert of California. This weekend vacation and getaway spot is perfect for couples, so leave the kids at home for this one. It is very well known for its spas, fancy hotels, and golf courses.

This great getaway also offers a plethora of outdoor activities, such as hiking and horseback riding. Travelers beware: Palm Springs is very hot in the summer, while the winters are cooler.

It is a fun place to visit during the off-season when it is not too crowded with tourists. My most recent trip was during the month of September and it was like a ghost town!

Carmel, also known as Carmel-by-the-Sea, is a small coastal town that makes for a short weekend getaway! It is known to have more of a suburban feel and does not attract many tourists because of its small population.

There are also a ton of museums and an old city feel in the small downtown area. It is great for scuba diving, sea animal watching, and just living the beach life.

San Francisco

Settled in Northern California lies San Francisco , one of the largest and most famous parts of California. If you happen to be in CA, it makes a perfect weekend getaway or vacation destination for the family or couples, as there is so much to do.

The Golden Gate Bridge is what most people think of when they think of San Francisco, CA, as well as the rolling hills, eclectic buildings, and laid-back culture.

The Cable Cars and trolleys are great to get around in, and visiting the famous Haight-Ashbury neighborhood is a must!

Another must is dining throughout the city. The dining options are endless, and San Francisco is well-known for its dining scene.

As for the weather, it can be tricky. It can be 70 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and then drop down to 50 in the evening, so pack appropriately!

Laguna Beach

Laguna Beach is located on the South Coast of California and is great for a weekend beach getaway. It is filled with expensive homes and is a very desirable place to live because of the amazing beaches it is home to.

Places like Crystal Cove State Park are designated underwater parks. The main beach features are tide pools, great waves for surfing, and a mild year-round climate. It is a highly recommended destination for a weekend getaway in CA because of that!

Malibu, California, is very close to Los Angeles and is known to host many celebrities in mansions.

Zuma Beach is a must when visiting Malibu, CA, on your weekend getaway for its huge beach and pristine sand. There are also plenty of hiking trails, waterfalls, canyons, and grasslands.

Big Sur, California, is a rugged mountainous area close to Carmel that is known for its dramatic scenery. It has an amazing coastline filled with cliffs and mountains to drive through and plenty of hikes to adventure on.

It is mostly isolated and only has a few year-round residents but plenty of tourists. This national treasure has only a few visitor services throughout, such as restrooms and shops, so make sure to have everything with you before you go!

There are campgrounds if you choose to stay for the weekend. Big Sur is definitely worth the trip for a weekend getaway in CA.

Lake Tahoe, California, is a resort city in the mountains and very well known for its beaches in the summer and skiing in the winter.

Although it is not on the ocean, it has a beautiful natural lake with a high percentage of clean water that is almost pure enough for drinking! It is also the second-largest lake in the entire United States.

Whatever the season is, it’s a great time to go on a weekend getaway with the family or as a couple to enjoy the pristine lake or the enormous amount of snow for skiing or snowboarding!

This is one of the best weekend getaways in California, especially if you’re located nearby in Nevada.

Yosemite National Park

Many people believe that they need to leave the country to see natural beauty, but it exists right in the backyard of inland California!

Yosemite National Park is a weekend getaway in CA that is perfect for the entire family with its rich nature that includes cliff faces, waterfalls, clear streams, and giant sequoias, just to name a few.

May through September are the best months to visit Yosemite National Park as those months correlate with lodging and shuttles to get everyone around the Park.

In the winter months, it is covered in snow, which makes it look magical but very difficult to navigate, and some of the roads are also closed.

Take those summer months and take a weekend getaway to Yosemite National Park in CA; you won’t regret it. Just wake up early to avoid the crowds as much as possible.

Big Bear, California, is inland and about a two-hour drive from Los Angeles. The winding roads that get you there show off amazing mountains that are just a preview of what is to come when you actually arrive in Big Bear.

Big Bear is a great weekend getaway for the family because there is so much to do during every season of the year!

It is better known for its winter activities of snow tubing, skiing or snowboarding the amazing huge mountains, and holiday shopping downtown.

During the summer, Big Bear Lake is open for water activities such as kayaking or stand-up paddle boarding, the beautiful weather, and hiking.

When you arrive for your weekend getaway to Solvang, California, you may think that you have been transported to a different country. Solvang has taken to Danish culture through and through.

Located in Southern California, the Danish-style buildings and city delve into Danish culture and heritage. One thing that Solvang is not lacking is motorcycle museums. If you are a biker, Solvang, CA, is the weekend getaway in CA for you.

Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is located in Southeastern California. This is definitely a weekend getaway in CA for the nature lovers out there.

The desert environment makes it warm during the day and cool in the evenings. Joshua Tree is named after the actual Joshua Trees, which are native to their surrounding environment.

Despite the weather conditions, many plants and animal species have adapted to the environment and thrive there, including coyotes, rabbits, and other small mammals.

Hiking trails over thousands of miles of barren land make for a perfect getaway for someone with a passion for nature and adventures!

Napa Valley

Napa Valley, California, is definitely a weekend vacation for adults. Napa Valley is north of Los Angeles and absolutely stunning. Wineries are what Napa Valley is known for, and it is nearly impossible to miss one.

Napa Valley is a great place for a romantic getaway or a weekend getaway with some friends. They offer plenty of wine tours throughout the area, and it’s almost guaranteed that you will have a great time in Napa Valley, CA.

Catalina Island

Catalina Island, California, is a quick ferry ride away from the Los Angeles area. This weekend getaway spot is one of California’s Channel Islands.

There are two areas of Catalina Island. One of the areas is the resort town, while the other half is known for scuba diving and wildlife.

There is a smaller part of town that is called Catalina Casino, which is made up of museums and a movie theater. Catalina Island, CA, can be busy year-round because of the great weather, so plan accordingly!

This is a great weekend getaway for the family and is one of the top weekend getaways in CA.

Final Thoughts: California Weekend Getaways

This diverse list of weekend vacations in California should be enough for you or your family to choose a destination of your liking!

California is amazing and stunningly beautiful with everything it has to offer, from major cities to National Parks. California weekend getaways are a must. So get out there, explore, and have some fun!

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Check out more California posts below!

• 13 Fun Things to do in Joshua Tree, California
• 13 Charming Small Beach Towns in California
• How to Have a Perfect LA to Big Sur Road Trip
• How to Spend One Day in San Francisco, California
• 13 Free Things To Do in Lee Vining, California
• California Bucket List: 27 Best Things to do in California

KP is the head blogger and founder behind Volumes & Voyages. After studying abroad in Dublin for a semester, KP got bitten by the travel bug. Now, she writes articles to help other travelers in between trips where she chases her wanderlust. KP has lived in many different places, including Boston MA, Denver CO, Las Vegas NV, southern VT, and Dublin IE.

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Weekend Trips in California – Best Places to Visit in 48 Hours

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When it comes to the best area of the United States to experience a myriad of epic 48 hour getaways, there are not many better spots than to enjoy a collection of weekend trips in California. Recognized as the “Golden State”, California is the third largest state in the US after Alaska and Texas and is full of amazing weekend getaway destinations. Whether you choose to hop on a short flight or you are fortunate to be able to drive to one of these amazing locations, California is home to both rural and urban spots that will capture your imagination.

We have been fortunate to visit California on multiple occasions, ranging from trips to Los Angeles, San Francisco and San Diego, while also spending time in Yosemite National Park and Redwood State Park. The beauty of California is that there are endless opportunities to explore, so if you are like us and want to find amazing weekend trip locations, this is definitely the place to be.

As California is home to so many distinctive locations, we are sharing not only some of our favorite spots for a weekend break but also we have asked some of the most knowledgeable travel bloggers to share their highlight destinations across the Golden State. While this is only a small selection of destinations, we are convinced that you will be inspired to check these out while also exploring some other gems that we haven’t covered.

Let’s take a look at some of the best weekend trip destinations in California.

Death Valley National Park

One of the best national parks to visit in California is Death Valley National Park. Death Valley is one of the hottest places on Earth. It holds the world record for the hottest temperature in the world; 134 degrees Fahrenheit. Even though it is blistering hot, it is a great place to explore especially if you stay at The Inn At Death Valley.

This national park is filled with phenomenal views and hikes. One of the most popular areas is Zabriskie Point. This a great place to experience the sunrise. The sun’s rays slowly creep up, and you can spot the colors and formations of Zabriskie Point. It is a magical time. Just note that you won’t be the only one there!

A hike near Zabriskie Point is Golden Canyon, Gower Gulch, and Badlands Loop Hike. It is one of the most popular hikes in the park, and for a good reason. The trail is filled with many spiderweb-like formations and colorful mountains with specs of blue, yellow, and pink. The views are astonishing. Just remember to bring some water with you.

Another great spot is the Badwater Basin. It is the lowest point in North America and stands at 282 feet below sea level. The basin is filled with salt, so all you see surrounding you is a vast white land with stunning mountains in the distance. It is an excellent spot for photography.

Death Valley is filled with so many unusual formations. It is one of the most impressive and unique national parks in California.

By Michelle Stelly from The Wandering Queen. Check out our post highlighting an epic day trip from Las Vegas to Death Valley National Park .

Joshua Tree National Park

While California is home to a variety of amazing cities that deservedly attract visitors from all across the globe, our love of USA national parks makes it easy for us to recommend one of California’s nine areas that have such a designation. While Yosemite is perhaps the most famous, we would argue that Joshua Tree National Park is equally spectacular and deserves to be on everyone’s radar.

Located in the heart of Southern California, Joshua Tree is a short two-hour drive from downtown Los Angeles and the perfect national park to experience for a weekend getaway. A scenic drive throughout Joshua Tree will allow you to capture a glimpse of the inherent beauty of this park, but perhaps the best way to truly appreciate the amazing landscapes is to experience a collection of the best hikes in Joshua Tree .

Lassen Volcanic National Park

Lassen Volcanic National Park may not get as much attention as the state’s other national parks, but its history of eruptions and hydrothermal activity that reminds visitors of the best of Yellowstone make it an exciting pick on any California trip.

Kick off your first day with a hike to the best viewpoint in the park: Lassen Peak. You’ll climb 2,000 feet of elevation over 5 miles roundtrip on this one, but the vistas are worth it. Pack a picnic lunch and good hiking shoes with some traction. If you’re not spent, head to Bumpass Hell, the scene of the park’s hydrothermal activity. Three miles of much easier hiking will get you to the boardwalks and that tell-tale sulphur smell.

Spend the morning of your second day hiking to Terrace, Shadow and Cliff Lakes on a 3.5-mile trek that you’ll have mostly to yourself. If you’re short on time, the second lake of the three, Shadow Lake, is the largest and most impressive. Follow that up with a drive to the park’s best scenic stops: Kings Creek Meadow, the Devastated Area, Lake Helen, Hat Creek and Manzanita Lake.

For your overnight stay, the only options in the park are the Drakesbad Guest Ranch and the park’s campgrounds. There are more options in the nearby towns of Shingletown (the closest), Chester or Burney. Local grocery shops will offer the best chance for meals, as the scenery is definitely the highlight here!

By Agnes Groonwald from Travel on the Reg

Los Angeles

Los Angeles is one of the best places to take a weekend trip in California. There are a ton of free and cheap things to do in Los Angeles . Visitors should opt to stay in the Downtown area as it is in the center of all the activities.

There are so many things visitors can do during a weekend in Los Angeles. On the first day, opt to explore Downtown Los Angeles. Visit the Broad, a free modern art museum. Then, check out the creative stacks in the Last Bookstore. Grab some lunch at one of the many Mexican restaurants on Olvera Street and a snack in Little Tokyo.

Spend the afternoon in Hollywood. Walk along the Walk of Fame and check out the Dolby Theater where the Academy Awards are held. Then, head to Griffith Park to catch some view of the Hollywood sign and watch the sunset at the Griffith Observatory. For dinner, head to Mama Shelter which offers a gorgeous view of the Hollywood sign.

During day 2 of a weekend getaway in Los Angeles, start the morning by attending a TV show taping. 1iota and TV Tickets are two sites to get free tickets and see what shows are available. Then, spend the afternoon exploring the Getty Museum, one of the most popular museums in Los Angeles. Finally spend your evening at the Santa Monica Pier to catch another gorgeous sunset.

By Francesca from Homeroom Travel. Check out our post on the best things to do in Hollywood if you need more inspiration on visiting Los Angeles.

Mammoth Lakes

If you love playing outside, you can make the most of a weekend getaway in Mammoth Lakes. Winter in Mammoth provides epic skiing and snowboarding, while summer is the ideal time to explore a range of outdoor activities in Mammoth , from hiking to mountain biking to climbing. In fact, this mountain town located in the Eastern Sierras has so much to offer, you might want to extend your stay!

But if you only have 48 hours in Mammoth Lakes, the hike to the unique rock formation of Devils Postpile has to be on the top of your to-do list, and it can be combined with the trail to Rainbow Falls. If you prefer a pedal-powered excursion, check out the bike park at Mammoth Mountain. For a vertical adventure, climb Crystal Crag, a fun multi-pitch alpine climbing route.

After all your adventures, soak your sore muscles in one of the many hot springs in Mammoth Lakes, including Pulkey’s Pool and Wild Willie’s. Finally, treat your tastebuds with a visit to the iconic Schat’s Bakery for hearty sandwiches and delicious baked goods.

By Allison from She Dreams of Alpine

Monterey Peninsula

The Monterey Peninsula is one of the most popular weekend getaways in California, and with good reason. It features spectacular scenery, picturesque coastal towns, and lots to see and do, for kids and adults alike.

One of the best things to do in Monterey is to go on a whale watching tour. Monterey Bay is one of the richest marine habitats on the planet, and it provides food for whales, which can be seen here year round. The Monterey Bay aquarium is a great place to get acquainted with the various ecosystems and creatures that live here.

Experience the scenic 17-Mile Drive that starts in Pacific Grove and winds past a series of beautiful viewpoints (and oceanfront mansions!) in Pebble Beach. Wind down with a stroll along Cannery Row in downtown Monterey, the setting for Steinbeck’s novel on the sardine canning industry.

On day two, start by visiting the historic (and beautiful!) Spanish mission in Carmel. The grounds are beautifully landscaped and the museum holds many artifacts. Next, head to the charming village of Carmel-by-the-Sea, where you can stroll the streets to browse the many shops and galleries. In the afternoon, take a drive into bucolic Carmel Valley to tour vineyards and sip some local wines. Finish up your day with a stroll along the pristine beach in Carmel.

Pacific Grove has many historic inns that make a great base from which to explore the peninsula. And you will find quality eateries in all the towns here, many featuring farm-to-table cuisine or fresh-caught seafood.

By Dhara from Roadtripping California

San Diego makes the perfect weekend trip and in 48 hours you can do and see a lot of the city and cool things around town. San Diego is only a two hour drive from LA and short and easy flight from San Francisco and Sacramento, the largest cities in the state. Start off your weekend getaway with visiting the historic parts of the city to include Old Town San Diego and then a visit to the Balboa park neighborhood.

The Old town is actually a designated state park with actual buildings fronting a grand square and redone like a living museum which is fun to explore. Next Balboa park is fun to explore for the famous zoo, many outstanding museums, botanical gardens and gorgeous outdoor places to explore right in the middle of town. You can spend the rest of your day exploring some of the cool neighborhoods maybe for a nice dinner like Little Italy and the Gaslamp district.

Day two is fun beach day exploration with the historic Coronado hotel, town and beach area, followed up with Belmont park amusements and boardwalk for a colorful visit to this area. If you’re into more historic parks and monuments, check out the Cabrillo Monument, lighthouse and beautiful outdoor hiking trails and overlook sights to drive through or hike depending on your interest.

End of day would be to see sunset in La Jolla, enjoy the promenade and coves lined with California wildflowers and wild marine life hanging on the rocks. Cap off the day with a delicious meal at an outdoor dining venue, brew pub or even a fine dining restaurant that is typical in this high end district.

Check out this post on the top things to do in San Diego here for more inspiration, unique places to visit and other fun adventure activities around this exciting city to explore.

By Noel Morata from Travel Photo Discovery . Check out our post on experiencing an epic 48 hours in San Diego if you need any more convincing that this is the perfect weekend getaway destination in California.

San Francisco

The clanging of the cable cars’ bells, the barking sea lions down at Fisherman’s Wharf , and the quick blast of the ferry horn as its pulls in to take you to Alcatraz Island are just a couple of the sounds that you will experience on your fantastic weekend in San Francisco. It’s is one of the most iconic cities in the U.S, and has tons of history, great architecture, world class museums, Chinatown, the Golden Gate bridge, and so many things to fill your perfect weekend in the city.

While you are there, don’t miss some fantastic tastes such as those at Dungeness crab, San Francisco sourdough bread, Chinese dim sum, and some spicy Mexican food. If you have a sweet tooth, top it all off with a whirl through Ghirardelli Chocolate. They’re hot chocolate chip cookies are delectable. No matter where you eat, or what you do, you will enjoy a perfect weekend in San Francisco.

By Corinne Vail from Roving Vails

Although the home of Silicon Valley, San Jose offers a fantastic weekend getaway. Ideal for those who enjoy shopping, dining, and sightseeing with a touch of class.

Check into the stunning Hotel Valencia along the tres chic Santana Row. Make dinner reservations at the exquisite Left Bank Brasserie (just steps away from the hotel) and don’t leave town without perusing the San Pedro Square Market. A great spot to get in some local color and mouth-watering eats.

San Jose has you covered if museums are on the itinerary. Start your day at the Tech Museum of Innovation. Three stories to explore everything science and technology await you. While over at the beautiful San Jose Museum of Art, nearly 2,500 modern and contemporary works of art are on display. If you love quilts, check out the unique Museum of Quilts and Textiles.

Don’t miss the Winchester Mystery House. One of the world’s most unusual homes, you have to see it to believe it. Don’t forget to ask about the Door to Nowhere! After an afternoon of museum and shop hopping, visit some San Jose wineries, or if a few cold beers sound enticing, plan some brewery stops.

Where will San Jose take you?

By Mary Farah from Along Comes Mary

Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is the perfect town for a quick California trip. It is conveniently located about 2 hours from Los Angeles. You can even grab the train from LA for one of the US’ prettiest train rides. This historic mission town lies nestled between mountains and coastline.

It has a happening downtown with excellent shopping and restaurants.. You can go wine tasting in the Funk Zone or by going right outside of town to wineries. Don’t miss the food at Zaytoon or ice cream at Mission Street Ice Cream.

If you like to be active there are a plethora of hikes including one through Monarch-filled Eucalyptus groves in Goleta or a hot springs in the wild in Gaviota. You can also rent a kayak and paddle around Stearns Wharf.

Santa Barbara also has many beaches to relax on or surf from. Be sure to visit the mission and the botanical garden Although there are many places to stay, the most convenient places are right on the water downtown, such as The Beachside Inn or The West Beach Inn. So head to this jewel by the ocean and spend 2 days in Santa Barbara .

By Jamie from The Daily Adventures of Me

Santa Monica

You’ve probably seen the iconic pictures of the Ferris Wheel on Santa Monica Pier and read about the relaxed atmosphere of one of the most trendy beach spots in California and are wondering how you can get involved.

There are so many exciting things to do in Santa Monica that your 48 hours will fly by. These include relaxing or admiring the sunset on Santa Monica Beach and watching the athletes at Muscle Beach. Also, ensure you walk down the lively Santa Monica Pier, especially at night when the lights shine and then experience the Santa Monica Farmer’s Market, which occurs on Sundays. You can also hire bikes and cycle to the nearby Venice Beach to check out the Venice Beach Boardwalk, the Skate Park and the Venice Canals.

To fit in with the trendy locals, you should eat at Urth Caffe, or if you fancy a burger, you can try Big Dean’s Ocean Front Café or Pono Burger. Alternatively, there is a range of restaurants in Downtown Santa Monica and Third Street Promenade. For accommodation, if you’re on a budget, stay at HI Santa Monica, or you can treat yourself at Oceana Beach Club or Viceroy Santa Monica.

By Rachel from Average Lives

Temecula is the perfect California weekend getaway, especially for wine lovers. This Southern California wine region feels like a trip to Tuscany. You will find rolling vineyards, tall cedar trees lined on the ridges, and a fabulous selection of wineries in Temecula .

Wine tasting is definitely a must, when you visit Temecula. You can either explore on your own, or join an organized tour to take you from winery to winery. The latter is great, because you don’t have to worry about driving and you get to check out some great places. They even have a wine tour where you are driven around in a vintage motorcycle sidecar.

Another great experience is a sunrise hot air ballon ride with champagne. It is magical to see the sunrise over the vineyards, enjoying the view over the never-ending rows of grapevines while toasting with a glass of local sparkling wine.

Old Town Temecula is also a fun place to visit. You will find cute shops and great restaurants, parks and art galleries. It is the perfect spot to explore, relax and enjoy yourselves. Definitely add Temecula to your shortlist for a fun California getaway!

By Maria Haase from San Diego Explorer

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite is one of the most iconic National Parks in the USA , and it is packed with endless adventures. Whether you’re a hardcore adrenaline junkie looking for an epic time in the backcountry or you’re simply looking for a beautiful place to relax and unwind for a weekend getaway, you’re sure to find plenty of things to fill your time.

For iconic views, head to Tunnel View near the westside entrance where you’ll be rewarded with a panoramic view over the Yosemite Valley. Glacier Point is another spectacular viewpoint that begs you to take lots of photos, as it is almost too beautiful to be real. Getting onto the trails and doing a hike or two is a great way to explore the park even further.

Taft Point and Bridalveil Falls are quick and easy trails that fit easily into a short visit. However, if you are looking to get off the beaten path and avoid the big crowds, you may consider a longer hike, like West Valley Loop Trail, or a strenuous but incredibly rewarding trek to Cloud’s Rest.

The best way to truly experience Yosemite is to camp inside the park, however, be sure to make your reservation well in advance as the campgrounds fill up quickly. If you’re not into camping, there are lodges as well. Be sure to pack lots of snacks and some food that you can easily cook while camping, as the restaurants and stores inside the park tend to be overpriced and of low quality.

By Katie Diederichs from Go Wander Wild

While this collaboration barely touches the surface of awesome weekend getaway destinations in California, we hope that this gives a glimpse of the amazing beauty that can be experienced in as short as 48 hours throughout the Golden State. We would like to reiterate our appreciation to those that contributed to this post and encourage you all to share your favorite California getaway spots that perhaps we didn’t cover in this post.

Whether you are intrigued by the prospect of visiting one of the major cities and indulging in eclectic cuisine, or perhaps you prefer the great outdoors and want a little adventure by exploring one (or more) of the breathtaking national parks, California is home to a plethora of amazing attractions.

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San Francisco was a great weekend great away. After reading your blog, Santa Barbara sounds amazing. Zaytoon and the wineries sound like a must.

What truly amazes us about California is that you can go from surfing to skiing…in the same day! There is just so much variety, and so many fantastic state and national parks, it’s truly a weekend adventurer’s paradise!

Beautiful Indeed. I love every part of this publish. And the images are simply out of this world. Thanks for sharing such an extremely good blog.

good to know about California beautiful destinations. Thanks

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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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read More: Best Beaches in Malibu

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Ventura

Highlights: A small piece of Copenhagen in California filled with Danish things to do, see, eat, and buy

Located just north of Santa Barbara in the beautiful Santa Ynez Valley, Solvang really is a little bit of Denmark in Southern California. It's filled with Danish people, Danish shops, and Danish food. Even the buildings look Danish, with a lot of windmills and European designs. The city was founded by Danish immigrants in the early 20th century looking to escape the Midwestern cold.

Don't miss the Solvang Vintage Motorcycle Museum or the Hans Christian Anderson Museum , both interesting and fun places to visit for both kids and adults. The Elverhof Museum of History and Art is the only museum outside Denmark dedicated to both Danish and Danish-American culture. The Old Mission Santa Inez, built in 1804, is another must-see spot.

For an overview of the town, take a ride on the Solvang Trolley , an antique horse-drawn street car that travels in the downtown area.

Surrounded by agricultural areas, Solvang is also a good destination for foodies, as there are a lot of restaurants that feature farm-to-table cuisine.

Highlights: One of the lowest, driest, and hottest places on Earth; Zabriskie Point has great views; Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes is an amazing photo background

Why not get away to one of the lowest and driest places on Earth? Death Valley National Park is all about extremes. It's the lowest, driest, and hottest of all our national parks. The park is 3.4 million acres, so it's hard to explore the whole area on a single visit. Aside from the low parts, some of the park's mountains rise 11,000 feet above sea level.

The Inn at Death Valley is a unique luxury desert resort, which first opened in 1927. It recently underwent a total renovation and is a very luxurious place to stay in what is such a barren environment. The area is about a four-hour drive from LA.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Death Valley

Highlights: Idyllic beach city focused on the arts and artists filled with art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants

Laguna Beach getaways are all about art. The town is filled with art studios and art galleries and hosts several big art festivals. The beauty of the curving beach, blue ocean, and consistently sunny sky also make it a popular subject for artists.

Like many SoCal beach towns, life is lived outside, so there is a range of fun things to do . The beachfront public park area has a big beach (called Main Beach), basketball and volleyball courts, and miles of bike paths.

Laguna Beach also has a good range of hotels, including several five-star beachfront luxury resorts. The food scene is also excellent with many restaurants serving all different types of food at all price levels.

July is festival month here, with the Festival of the Arts city-wide art show and the Pageant of the Masters. The Pageant of the Masters is a long-running festival, where works of art are recreated as life-size scenes using real people in make-up and costumes.

Highlights: Exotic, easily accessible international destination with cheap and delicious food and lodging

Although it's not actually in Southern California, this Mexican border town is less than an hour from downtown San Diego . It's a great destination for a day or a weekend trip from San Diego. There are large parking lots on the American side of the border, and most people park their car, walk across the border bridge, and then take a taxi (or Uber) into downtown Tijuana. It's a fun tourist town filled with interesting shops, artisans, and, of course, delicious Mexican food.

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

Highlights: Low-cost beach resort an hour from San Diego known for great street food and seafood

A Mexican beach resort within easy reach of the California border, Rosarito is about an hour south of downtown San Diego and is great for cheap weekend getaways . There are many places to stay, and it's a chance to experience real Mexican beach culture.

The food scene is great, from nice sit-down places to excellent street food like fish tacos. There are all kinds of things to do in Rosarito , both on the beach and in the water, (surfing, wakeboarding, and body boarding are very popular) along with a lot of fishing options.

The best time to visit Southern California is during April, May, and June, which offer the best weather. That said, coastal areas can be foggy in June. Average temperatures are in the high 70s during the day and low 60s Fahrenheit at night. The weather can get hot during June, July, and August, but usually, cooler temperatures return in September, making October and November also great times to visit.

Southern California usually doesn't see much rain, with storms typically coming in December and January and sometimes in March and April.

Temperature can also vary greatly between Southern California's coastal and desert areas, sometimes as much as 30 to 40 degrees. Coastal Santa Monica might be 60 degrees Fahrenheit in May, while the desert city of Palm Springs might hit 100 degrees Fahrenheit the same day.

More on California

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

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 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

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 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 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.

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 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 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

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 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’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 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.

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The 7 Best Weekend Getaways in California to Visit Year-Round

From idyllic coastal vacation spots to remote desert escapes, here are the best weekend trips in California.

April 15, 2020

Whether you’ve been daydreaming about an epic Pacific Coast Highway road trip , a weeklong escape to Carmel Valley , or a remote desert town to get away from it all, California has the cure for your wanderlust. The intricate lattices of the state’s varied landscapes culminate in one-of-a-kind destinations that can be visited any time of year. Springtime lakes become wintertime skiing destinations , cozy autumnal cabins metamorphosize into idyllic coastal vacations , and summer camping spots transform into respites from the cold. 

While there are endless places to choose from, these are our favorite year-round destinations for weekend trips in California.

1. Joshua Tree National Park

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When it comes to  weekend getaways from Los Angeles , it doesn’t get much better than  Joshua Tree National Park . The park’s rugged landscape has long attracted hordes of visitors, thanks to its unique wildlife, dozens of campsites, stellar sunsets, and renowned hiking trails.

The area is a popular spring and summer vacation spot—even as the temps rise well into the 100s—but it’s the off-season when the desert truly comes alive. So, come and take advantage of the abundant rock-climbing opportunities , picture-perfect scenery, and vibrant California spirit.

Stunning beaches, incredible eateries, and a relaxed vibe make Malibu one of the most popular weekend getaways in Southern California. Though the shoreline is typically busier during the spring and summer months, the surf season in SoCal extends into autumn. Whether you’re getting ready to pack your swimsuits or hiking boots , there’s always something fun to do in Malibu.

3. Mendocino

Mendocino is the ultimate weekend getaway in Northern California. Filled with fair-trade coffee shops, lush forests, Michelin-starred eateries, and picturesque ocean views, this unparalleled seaside town leaves you wanting for nothing.

4. Palm Springs

Like Joshua Tree National Park, Palm Springs makes for another classic weekend trip from Los Angeles. Plan a girls’ weekend when the temperatures begin to drop, block off your schedule to attend Modernism Week next year, and visit for a golf-filled weekend to make memories season after season.  

5. San Francisco

San Francisco is known for its temperate climate, year-round fog , and plethora of iconic tourist attractions. Since the weather is fairly consistent regardless of the season, it’s a great place to visit nearly any time of year. Schedule a trip to the top art galleries , savor San Francisco’s incredible coffee , splurge on a meal at the Bay Area’s Michelin-starred restaurants , and stop by the region’s famous surfing destinations to make the most of your urban escape. 

If you live in San Francisco, check out the best weekend getaways near the Bay Area for even more travel inspo. 

6. Santa Monica

Santa Monica is the epitome of California’s boho style. Located near the eccentric Venice Beach Boardwalk and mysterious Venice canals , Santa Monica is refreshingly easygoing. Spend a day shopping downtown , having fun in Pacific Park— Santa Monica Pier’s amusement park —or finding the town’s historical landmarks for some wholesome family fun. 

7. Yosemite National Park

The state’s national parks always make unforgettable destinations for mini vacations in California, but there’s something extra special about Yosemite National Park that beckons to us all year. From backpacking expeditions in the springtime to rock-climbing excursions in the summer (and a special trip in February to see Horsetail Fall glowing orange and red at sunset), there’s never a bad experience here.

What do you think are the best weekend getaways in California? Let us know in the comments below.

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The 20 best weekend getaways from los angeles.

Escape the LA hustle with a weekend retreat to nearby shores.

The Best Weekend Getaways From LA

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Explore national parks, beaches, wine country and more away from LA.

If you're tired of sitting in traffic on the 405 or need a break from your Zoom calls in the City of Angels, you're in luck: Los Angeles sits close to a wide variety of vacation spots that are perfect for a weekend away. The options can range from scenic mountain destinations to relaxing desertscapes to small coastal towns – or even to lively Las Vegas. To help you pick the right destination for your much-needed escape, U.S. News evaluated expert and traveler opinion to find the best weekend getaways from LA. Whatever you choose for your weekend trip, it's time to take a break from the bustle of Los Angeles and head out for a new adventure with your best friends , significant other or entire family .

See more of Los Angeles:  Things to Do | Tours | Hotels

Best Weekend Getaways from Los Angeles:

About one hour or less:, long beach, california, catalina island, california, newport beach, california, laguna beach, california, about two hours or less:, ojai, california, temecula, california, santa barbara, california, big bear lake, california, palm springs, california, about three hours or less:, la jolla, california, joshua tree national park, california, los alamos, california, about four hours or less:, san luis obispo, california, paso robles, california, about five hours or less:, death valley national park, california, about six hours or less:, mammoth lakes, california, carmel, california, a quick flight:, puerto vallarta, mexico, vancouver, british columbia.

Long Beach boasts many iconic attractions – the Queen Mary ship and the Aquarium of the Pacific , for example – and thus makes for a wonderful weekend getaway or daytrip. Fill your time in this California city (only about 25 miles south of Los Angeles) with shopping, dining, art and roaming the coastline: Junipero Beach is one of the top LA-area beaches . You can start your trip on Fourth Street, also called Retro Row, to explore offerings such as the famous vintage shop Meow. Visitors can also catch an indie film at the recently renovated Art Theatre before riding a bike through the streets of Long Beach and browsing its other cultural attractions.

Long Beach is one of the most ethnically diverse U.S. cities, with a variety of cultures represented in its food scene. Options span Cambodian fusion at A&J Seafood Shack to Peruvian staples at El Pollo Imperial to fine Italian dining at L'Opera downtown. For an overnight stay, you'll find popular chain hotels around downtown and Shoreline Village, such as Hotel Maya – a DoubleTree by Hilton or other Westin, Hilton and Hyatt lodging options.

See more of Long Beach:  Things to Do | Hotels

Rather than taking a road trip from Los Angeles, how about hopping on a boat? Catalina Island , located a little more than 20 miles from the Southern California shoreline, is accessible from the San Pedro neighborhood of LA or from Long Beach via a Catalina Express ferry. The island is full of adventure, romance, relaxation and sightseeing both on land and in the ocean. Once you arrive in Avalon, the main city, you can take a walking tour at the historic Catalina Casino, rent a golf cart to cruise around or experience the thrill of an ecotour by zip line. Vacationers may also enjoy hitting the beach at Descanso Beach Club or unwinding at the 15,000-square-foot Island Spa Catalina.

Seafood fans can enjoy fresh lobster at The Lobster Trap, among other popular dining options. For an unforgettable weekend stay, book a room at the sophisticated Mt Ada. This romantic bed-and-breakfast features a wraparound deck with expansive ocean views. Guests have access to their own golf cart, as well as complimentary breakfast, lunch and snacks. Just outside of Avalon, Hamilton Cove has private villas perched on a hillside overlooking the Catalina coastline – or, if you want to rough it in the outdoors, campsites are also available at the island's campgrounds.

Newport Beach sits in the heart of coastal Orange County , about 45 miles south of downtown Los Angeles. Getting out on Newport Harbor is a must in this nautical hot spot: Whether you go by yacht, electric boat, whale watching excursion , paddleboard or even on a floating tiki bar, an unforgettable experience awaits. You can dock at dozens of waterfront restaurants along the harbor specializing in seasonal and locally sourced cuisine. Two of the most popular Newport Beach communities to explore are Balboa Island – be sure to try the famed frozen banana dessert – and Balboa Peninsula, ideal for surfing or leisurely biking. Travelers in search of the best shoreline can check out Corona del Mar State Beach to experience firsthand why it's such a beloved spot.

For upscale shopping and dining, the trendy Lido Marina Village is the place to be seen. After enjoying lunch at Malibu Farm Lido or picking up some couture pieces at the elysewalker store, plan for a sleepover at the Lido House to soak in the hotel's Cape Cod -inspired aesthetic. If you have a posh pet with you on your weekend getaway, you can splurge for the Pampered Pooch Package at Balboa Bay Resort , where fur babies and "paw-rents" alike can enjoy a luxurious stay.

See more of Newport Beach:  Things to Do | Hotels

About 50 miles south of Los Angeles you'll find picturesque Laguna Beach, also known as the California Riviera. This chic coastal town in Orange County comes complete with high-end boutiques, five-star accommodations, gourmet restaurants and art galleries galore. If you plan your weekend trip for the summer, you may be able to catch one of the world-famous art festivals hosted by Laguna Beach, such as the Sawdust Art Festival – but art lovers can also take a self-guided walking tour that showcases the city's public art any time of year. Travelers seeking outdoor adventure will have plenty of opportunities, whether you opt to scuba dive in a kelp forest, peruse tide pools in Heisler Park , or head to 7,000-acre Laguna Coast Wilderness Park for hiking and mountain biking.

Laguna Beach has an abundance of upscale dining options, especially if you're looking for waterfront views or a unique atmosphere. Enjoy sushi seaside at Hotel Laguna's Fin restaurant, listen to live jazz at The Drake or sip Champagne while watching the sun set over the Pacific Ocean at the Surf & Sand Resort bar. For a luxury weekend stay, the Montage Laguna Beach resort features seaside balconies and an elegant indoor/outdoor spa. If you're craving a cozy canyon environment, The Ranch at Laguna Beach is tucked into green hillsides and boasts an array of amenities, such as a golf course.

See more of Laguna Beach:  Things to Do | Hotels

If your weekend trips typically include racing around to see all the top tourist attractions, maybe you'll enjoy a change of pace in beautiful Ojai, where visitors can slow down and embrace nature. This small town, tucked into the valley of the Topatopa Mountains about 80 miles northwest of Los Angeles, is an outdoor paradise and a wellness retreat destination. Hike for miles and miles in the Los Padres National Forest (check to see if you need an Adventure Pass), kayak on Lake Casitas, embark on a rock climbing adventure or go horseback riding along the Ventura River valley.

Travelers interested in spiritual and holistic-focused establishments will find plenty in Ojai, such as The Crystal Corner, Center for Spiritual Living Ojai and Meditation Mount. Go for a deep detox with a treatment called Kuyam, which is inspired by the Chumash Native American people, at Ojai Valley Inn 's five-star Spa Ojai. Ojai Valley Inn has plenty more to offer overnight guests, with world-class dining and activities ranging from beekeeping to soap making.

You don't have to go all the way to Napa Valley for award-winning wineries . About 85 miles southeast from the City of Angels, the wineries of Temecula Valley produce more than 50 varietals of wine; this year-round vacation destination pours plenty of craft beers and spirits too. Temecula is also home to a charming Old Town, farm-to-table cuisine, relaxing spas, the massive Pechanga Resort Casino, hot air ballooning and more. The ever-evolving culinary scene, small-town atmosphere, and outdoor recreation and entertainment in Temecula Valley culminate in a spirited destination inspired by the vine. Leave the kids at home for a romantic getaway with your partner in SoCal wine country.

The charming Ponte Vineyard Inn is located in the heart of Temecula Valley, surrounded by nearly 300 acres of mature vineyards and views of rolling hills. During your weekend trip, visit the inn's on-site wine tasting rooms or hop in a motorcycle sidecar for a tour of other nearby wineries, such as Altisima Winery, Fazeli Cellars or Akash Winery.

For serene coastal vibes and seaside views about 95 miles west of LA, Santa Barbara is a great escape in Southern California – especially for pet owners, since it's one of the top dog-friendly beach destinations in the U.S. With its balmy Mediterranean climate, cultural offerings, star-studded beaches and flourishing culinary scene, it's no wonder Santa Barbara draws millions of vacationers each year. Oenophiles will have the opportunity to explore more than 30 local wineries along the Santa Barbara Urban Wine Trail – some, like Pali Wine Company, allow dogs. You can unleash your artistic side as you listen to live music or experience the city's colorful wall murals, galleries and museums. Take a sunset stroll along the beach , or head out on the water on a kayak or sailboat during your weekend getaway in Santa Barbara.

The high-end Hotel Californian is just steps from the Pacific Ocean and the vibrant Funk Zone – a bustling enclave of the city's best wine tasting rooms, breweries, boutique shops, art galleries, cafes and restaurants. The hotel boasts a rooftop pool and deck with 360-degree views alongside a Moroccan-inspired spa and myriad dining options, including a new wine tasting room that opened in March 2022. Santa Barbara has a compelling culinary scene overall, with plenty of farm-to-table options that focus on locally sourced ingredients – such as The Lark in the heart of the Funk Zone neighborhood.

See more of Santa Barbara:  Things to Do | Tours | Hotels

For a cold-weather getaway, Big Bear Lake – less than 100 miles east of LA – is a prime winter destination for skiers and snowboards, who flock to Big Bear Mountain Resort. In the warmer seasons, Big Bear Lake becomes a hub for boating, hiking and biking, so this small city in the San Bernardino National Forest makes an ideal trip year-round. You can get out on the lake in a rented pontoon boat, paddleboard, kayak and more – or, for an off-road adventure, the Big Bear Jeep Experience is a popular activity. Fuel up with a poke bowl from Tropicali, dine on Nepalese and Indian cuisine at the Himalayan Restaurant, or sip a craft brew at Big Bear Lake Brewing Company.

Although plenty of visitors opt for a daytrip to Big Bear, consider extending your getaway with a stay at the Viking-inspired Marina Riviera, which has the atmosphere of a vintage ski lodge and features fire pits, lake views and a heated pool. For budget-friendly accommodation, check out the Best Western Big Bear Chateau or the area's numerous cabin and cottage rentals on Airbnb. In the nearby community of Lake Arrowhead, guests of the Lake Arrowhead Resort and Spa have access to a private beach and personalized boat tours.

Read: The Top Things to Do in Big Bear Lake, California

If a desert escape is what you're craving, head to the Palm Springs area. Relaxation here may include lounging by the pool, cocktail in hand, at a stylish midcentury modern home or hotel. To explore more of what Palm Springs has to offer, visitors can hike through the desert and mountains, visit Cabot's Pueblo Museum , browse shops on Palm Canyon Drive , or take the scenic Palm Springs Aerial Tramway for an incomparable view atop Mount San Jacinto (where you'll see snow in winter). One buzz-worthy new attraction in this resort city is the Palm Springs Surf Club, which features a state-of-the-art wave pool.

With Palm Springs sitting a little more than 100 miles east of Los Angeles, A-listers flock to this desert destination for much-needed rest and relaxation. You can splurge on your overnight stay to vacation like a celebrity at the Jonathan Adler-designed Parker Palm Springs luxury hotel. Tried-and-true splendor can also be found at The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage , which boasts stunning views overlooking Coachella Valley . If your fur baby is in tow on this weekend trip, the new local hangout Boozehounds is a hit with dogs and owners alike; it offers a pet-friendly menu just for your pooch.

See more of Palm Springs: Things to Do | Hotels | Restaurants

Escape for a weekend to the San Diego neighborhood of La Jolla – one of the top California beach destinations , set about a 110-mile drive south from Los Angeles. Grab a snorkel mask to swim with marine life in La Jolla Cove or hike sandstone cliffs at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve . In addition to experiencing the natural world, travelers can hit some balls at world-renowned Torrey Pines Golf Course or browse the boutiques in La Jolla Village.

When you're not kayaking through a sea cave, admiring adorable sea lions or zipping up the road to Mount Soledad on an e-bike, you can enjoy ocean views and Mediterranean food at La Valencia Hotel , also known as "the Pink Lady of La Jolla," or dine alfresco on California cuisine under century-old olive trees at Herringbone. If you seek a romantic retreat, enjoy the soaking tub in a couples bungalow at Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa . Whatever you do in La Jolla, don't miss the newcomers to town: The world's smallest species of penguins can now be found at the Birch Aquarium .

See more of San Diego: Things to Do | Tours | Hotels

Experience the Zen of the desert and the majestic natural wonders that await in Joshua Tree National Park , about 130 miles east of Los Angeles (and not too far from Palm Springs). Explore the 800,000 acres of desert wilderness through hiking, biking, rock climbing , horseback riding, backpacking and photography. Before you head out, stop by the Joshua Tree Cultural Center in Twentynine Palms, California, to pick up maps, park information and safety tips; this museum space also has exhibits sharing Indigenous stories and more. As you traverse Joshua Tree, be sure to take in sights such as Skull Rock , Black Rock Canyon, Cottonwood Spring and Covington Flats.

With more than 500 campsites in the park – most of which are available by reservation – camping is one of the most accessible ways to experience an overnight stay. Or, upgrade to AutoCamp Joshua Tree, where guests sleep in stylish and modern Airstream trailers, for a glamping experience . If budget is not an issue, you may choose to rent one of the most exclusive homes in the world: the Kellogg Doolittle House.

Los Alamos, California – not to be confused with a New Mexico town of the same name – is a laid-back destination with an authentic Old West heritage; the town was created in 1876 by two ranchers donating part of their land. Only about 140 miles north of Los Angeles, Los Alamos is ideally located for a daytrip or weekend getaway – especially for couples and wine lovers – amid Santa Ynez Valley wine country. Travelers can take time to peruse the one-of-a-kind shops and boutiques that adorn Bell Street, such as the new Elder Flat Farm store.

A major highlight of Los Alamos is the proliferation of top-notch dining options. A great California destination for foodies, the town is home to the Santa Ynez Valley's only Michelin-starred restaurant: Bell's, a French-inspired bistro. The artisanal Bob's Well Bread Bakery and Pico Los Alamos, which serves upscale comfort food, are other popular local eateries. The primary lodging options in this town include the retro motel Skyview Los Alamos, the Western-themed Alamo Motel and the opulent Victorian Mansion B&B.

With 315 days of sunshine, San Luis Obispo (nicknamed SLO) is the perfect year-round weekend destination – and one of the best places to visit in California – with picturesque beaches, a burgeoning farm-to-table culinary scene, rolling vineyards and plenty of small-town charm. Kick off a long weekend with a stop at a pedestrian-friendly farmers market held on Thursday evenings along Higuera Street downtown. Other SLO activity options include shopping for one-of-a-kind items at the JunkGirls shop, taking a surfing lesson or catching a movie at the nostalgic Sunset Drive-In. There are plenty of galleries to sate art lovers, but a more unconventional tourist attraction invites visitors to help make graffiti out of chewed gum in Bubblegum Alley. For a bit of California history, wander through the historic Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa.

One thing you won't want to miss is the wine. Try some Malene rose in a 1969 Airstream mobile tasting room or visit the adjacent Chamisal Vineyards in Edna Valley to sip chardonnay and pinot noir with views of the vineyards. For an overnight stay, The Kinney San Luis Obispo, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, offers a casual college town atmosphere with board games and draft beers. A stylish boutique hotel option is the one-of-a-kind Madonna Inn: Each of the more than 100 guest rooms has a different theme, such as the Caveman, Love Nest, Pioneer America and Golfer's Room.

Head to central California's wine country for a visit to charming Paso Robles, a city about 200 miles northwest of LA that's located along coastal U.S. Route 101. Paso Robles is a community of cowboys, surfers and innovators; travelers can enjoy world-class food and wine as well as inspiring art and whole-body wellness here. You'll find more than 200 wineries in the region, complemented by a variety of craft breweries, cideries and distilleries in Paso Robles. Check out about a dozen craft distilleries on the Paso Robles Distillery Trail. A can't-miss nighttime activity is a self-guided stroll through the Sensorio lights display.

Thanks to the world-class wines and family farms, Paso Robles is a mecca for delicious dining – including The Restaurant at JUSTIN; the Michelin-starred Six Test Kitchen, located inside the Tin City makers market; and Paso Market Walk, a reinvented farmers market. From rustic hideaways to glamping sites, Paso Robles also has lodging options to fit any taste and budget. For luxury accommodations, consider the boutique Hotel Cheval, just off Paso Robles' historic town square. For a unique experience, opt for a farm stay – such as in an RV on an alpaca ranch – or spend a night sleeping in a revamped shipping container at Geneseo Inn.

If an adults-only weekend trip is what you have in mind, head out to Las Vegas, a vivacious and walkable city. Sitting about 270 miles north of Los Angeles, Las Vegas checks all the boxes for a memorable vacation. You can hit the slots at the casinos, catch in-residency concerts from big names such as Katy Perry, indulge in a phenomenal treatment at a world-class spa or enjoy a meal crafted by a celebrity chef. More unique things to do include a boozy Upside Down Tea Party at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas, Curio Collection by Hilton, or a spin around the SpeedVegas off-road track. If you're not afraid of heights, you can zip line over Fremont Street downtown or experience LIFTOFF at Area 15's immersive playground for panoramic city views.

Live it up like a high roller with a Sky Suite atop ARIA Resort & Casino , the Sake Suite at the Nobu Hotel inside Caesars Palace or ultra-exclusive The Mansion at MGM Grand. Enjoy a feast for the eyes and mouth with innovative eateries all over the city – Las Vegas' dining scene boasts a variety of culinary choices and the ability to cater to whatever your budget may be.

See more of Las Vegas: Things to Do | Tours | Hotels

From Los Angeles, the closest paved entrance to Death Valley National Park is on California state Route 190; whichever route you take to get there, you'll likely want to budget around five hours for the drive, which is about 290 miles. Death Valley is the largest national park in the lower 48 states. Its 3.4 million acres include some of the most unique landscapes and sites you'll find anywhere – such as the Badwater Basin salt flats, the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, Rainbow Canyon and Artists Palette's colorful hills. Download the free National Park Service app to take a driving tour of "Star Wars" filming locations in the park. Death Valley also boasts some of the best stargazing opportunities in the U.S., as an International Dark Sky Park considered "Gold Tier," meaning there is minimal interference from light pollution.

The Oasis at Death Valley – part of the Xanterra Travel Collection – encompasses the romantic Inn at Death Valley and the family-friendly Ranch at Death Valley. The Oasis completed a $150 million restoration in 2022 and now features a revitalized town square and new shops, including an ice cream parlor with an old-school soda fountain. If you're looking for a quirky desert experience, stay overnight in the Pyramid, a one-bedroom glass pyramid bookable on Airbnb, or pick from the seasonal campgrounds, inns and motels in the park.

Read: The Best National Parks in California

If the mountains are calling you, head to the Sierra Nevada for a weekend in the resort town of Mammoth Lakes. From LA, take U.S. Route 395 for a scenic road trip across approximately 310 miles. Winter ushers in world-class downhill skiing, snowboarding, tubing and cross-country skiing in the Mammoth Mountain Ski Area. During the warmer months, visitors can ride gondolas for panoramic views on Mammoth Mountain in addition to hiking and mountain biking there and at the Mammoth Lakes Basin. Other popular lake activities include fishing, paddleboarding and boating.

Located in Mammoth Lakes' The Village, the rustic yet elegant Westin Monache Resort, Mammoth , offers access to dining, shopping and the gondola up the mountain. Dine at the on-property restaurant, Whitebark, for tasty and healthy options. Travelers can also indulge at Gomez's Mexican Restaurant in The Village, visit Tamarack Lodge & Resort for a romantic dinner at the Lakefront Restaurant or stock up on gourmet snacks at Bleu Market & Kitchen.

The 1-square-mile, European-style village of Carmel seamlessly blends history, arts and culture, and stunning ocean views for a relaxing and unique travel experience. Just off of state Route 1 near Monterey , this charming seaside destination about 320 miles northwest of LA is ideal for dreamy weekend getaways any time of year – especially if you have a canine companion in tow. Carmel boasts world-class art galleries, whimsical architecture, nearly 20 wine tasting rooms, the dog-friendly Carmel Beach, a few dozen secret passageways and more restaurants per capita than any other small U.S. city. Enjoy Mediterranean, Italian or French cuisine at quaint local eateries like La Balena, Dametra Cafe, Yafa, La Bicyclette and many more.

Book a stay in one of the historic inns, such as the "Grande Dame of Carmel": La Playa Carmel , a historic hotel with a prime view of Carmel Beach, is perfect for evenings spent gazing out at the sunset or taking a moonlit walk in the sand. If you bring your fur baby with you on your weekend jaunt, Cypress Inn provides an array of amenities to welcome pets, such as its daily "yappy hour."

If you're willing to take to the skies, you can leave California – and the U.S. – altogether for a quick weekend trip to Mexico. Grab your besties or your significant other for a flight to Puerto Vallarta, a resort town on Mexico's Pacific coast, and after about three hours on a plane, you can be sipping margaritas with your toes in the sand. There's plenty to do in Puerto Vallarta: Sail to the Marieta Islands to discover a hidden beach, take a whale watching tour or stroll along the iconic El Malecón boardwalk for souvenirs, ocean views and street performances. Beyond the shoreline, travelers can visit the nearby village of Sayulita for artwork by Huichol Indigenous people or dance the night away in lively nightclubs.

For an all-inclusive stay, Casa Velas is a boutique, adults-only resort that offers laid-back luxury in an intimate setting. If you're traveling with your family, consider Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit , which features entertainment, dining and activities like kids and teens clubs. Try the Hydrotherapy Circuit at the five-star spa or feast on innovative global cuisine at the property's many restaurants.

See more of Puerto Vallarta: Things to Do | Tours | Hotels

Vancouver sits perched on the west coast of Canada, surrounded by water and woods, and is only a three-hour flight from Los Angeles. The beauty of the environment lends itself to outdoor activities, such as boating, fishing, hiking, biking, skiing and more. And, even though the scenery is rustic, there is plenty of luxury in this coastal Canadian city – from top-notch hotels and restaurants to bountiful art and culture. Must-do activities in the area include a thrilling boat ride with Vancouver Water Adventures, a foodie tour at Granville Island Public Market and an outdoor adventure at Capilano Suspension Bridge Park , where you'll experience a 450-foot-long suspension bridge, the Cliffwalk and a treetops excursion. Vancouver is also full of parks and beaches for when you need some relaxation.

Stay at the JW Marriott Parq Vancouver for bountiful amenities and impeccable service; there's a spa, access to a casino and plenty of dining choices. For a city-chic boutique hotel, the DOUGLAS, Autograph Collection , brings the outdoors inside with creative design elements, such as an urban park on the rooftop.

See more of Vancouver: Things to Do | Tours | Hotels

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Romantic Getaways in California
• The Top San Diego Beaches
• The Top Natural Hot Springs in California
• The Top Lakes in California
• The Top Things to Do in California
• The Best Restaurants in Palm Springs
• The Top West Coast Road Trips to Take
• The Best Beach Bags
• The Top Travel Backpacks
• The Top Duffel Bags

Tags: Travel , Weekend Getaways , California Vacations , US Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

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

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Ditch the car, catch the train: 7 day trips you can take by Amtrak from L.A.’s Union Station

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Good morning, and welcome to the Essential California newsletter . It’s Saturday, May 4 . Here’s what you need to know to start your weekend:

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• Seven day trips to take by train from Union Station.
• Who were the masked men behind the UCLA camp attack?
• Peruvian sushi blooms in Long Beach.
• And here’s today’s e-newspaper

Ditch the car, catch the train

The stress of traveling out of L.A. takes many forms: high-priced gas pumps, bumper-to-bumper traffic and a constantly crowded LAX. One way to minimize that stress is taking an Amtrak train for a day trip.

Snag a seat on the left side if you’re heading north to get the best view of lush valleys and agricultural land, plus breathtaking vistas of the Pacific Ocean and beaches.

Similarly heading south, sitting on the ocean side will also get you some great views once you pass San Juan Capistrano. You might even recognize the Mediterranean-style station in Santa Ana from the TV series “True Detective” and the movie “Rain Man.”

Times contributor Marsha Takeda-Morrison compiled seven day trips that start at Union Station and take three hours or less each way. Each includes plenty of activities within walking distance of the destination stations.

Unlike with air travel, you can bring your own food and an upgrade to a business class seat won’t cost you an arm and a leg.

Here are a few destinations Marsha features:

This station is only a 10-minute walk from downtown Ventura. Known for its sprawling beaches that have long been popular for surfing, windsurfing, fishing and biking, Ventura also offers a charming and highly walkable downtown.

To truly take in the scenery of Ventura and its surrounding areas, Marsha recommends bringing your bike (see rules for transporting a bicycle on the train here ) to ride the popular Ventura to Ojai bike route .

Carpinteria

Called “one of California’s last great beach towns” by Times writer Christopher Reynolds, Carpinteria has an eclectic collection of restaurants and shops, and touts a hefty reputation among surfers.

Rincon State Beach is one of the most popular surf spots in California and holds the annual Rincon Classic Surf Competition.

The train station is located on the town’s main street, Linden Avenue, which makes for an easy walk to the beach or to grab food. Dog lovers are in for a treat as Island Brewing Company , a dog-friendly microbrewery, is directly across the street from the station. In case you’re wondering: yes, you can bring your pet on an Amtrak train with a reservation and a fee.

San Juan Capistrano

Known for the Mission San Juan Capistrano , this beautiful small town is also home to the Los Rios Historic District , considered the oldest neighborhood in California. The area is across the tracks from the train station.

But if you happen to be traveling to San Juan Capistrano on the second Saturday of July, you may be treated to another one of the town’s historical assets: mooning of the Amtrak . Throughout the day, hundreds flock to the fence lining the tracks and moon the passing trains. The annual tradition apparently started in 1979 when a patron at a nearby saloon offered to buy a drink for anyone willing to run outside and moon the next train … Cheers, San Juan Capistrano!

The week’s biggest stories

Campus protests

• Dueling Gaza protests at UCLA draw hundreds as USC sees peaceful demonstration.
• UCLA struggles to recover after 200 are arrested, and a pro-Palestinian camp is torn down.
• After a violent night at UCLA and classes were canceled , UC president launches an investigation into the response.
• Who were the masked men behind the UCLA camp attack? Online sleuths vow to find out.
• Police report no serious injuries. But scenes from inside UCLA camp, protesters tell a different story .
• ‘Unacceptable’: Why it took hours for police to quell attack at UCLA pro-Palestinian camp .
• Jailed students, a canceled commencement, angry parents: USC’s Carol Folt takes on critics .
• L.A. gangsters used painter suits, assault rifles and zip ties for brazen armored car heists .
• Three friends drove from California to Mexico for a surfing trip. Then they disappeared .
• ‘Someone stole her dreams’: A serial killer in Mexico killed her niece , an Orange County woman says.

Lakers fire head coach

• Lakers fire coach Darvin Ham in the wake of first-round playoff loss.
• Hasty firing of coach Darvin Ham is more Lakers madness.
• Lakers’ next coach? Here’s a rundown of the potential candidates .
• Amid Lakers coaching speculation, Clippers hope to keep Tyronn Lue for a ‘long time.’

More big stories

• After canceling commencement, USC will host event at L.A. Coliseum , rolls out new campus security.
• A law that ended single-family zoning is struck down for five Southern California cities.
• Stagecoach and Coachella fans leave behind tons of camping gear, clothes, food. Here’s what happens to it .
• What are the blue blobs washing up on SoCal beaches? Welcome to Velella velella Valhalla.
• A first view of what the high-speed rail to Las Vegas might look like.
• ‘Folks, it’s bad’: Merced sheriff warns of public safety crisis as deputy vacancies mount.
• ‘Unseasonably cold’ storm driving another chilly, damp weekend for Southern California .
• California roads damaged by storms could get help with Newsom’s emergency declaration.
• Father Greg Boyle of Homeboy Industries to receive Presidential Medal of Freedom.
• Sam Ash, iconic retailer to musicians, plays its last notes .

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Column One is The Times’ home for narrative and longform journalism. Here’s a great piece from this week:

Feds say he masterminded an epic California water heist. Some farmers say he’s their Robin Hood . Stolen water is an indelible part of California lore. But the federal case against Dennis Falaschi, longtime head of the Panoche Water District, alleges one of the most audacious water grabs in modern history.

More great reads

• California climbers train for Mt. Everest from the comfort of their own beds .
• The longest, strangest trip: Some psychedelic drug users are stuck with unwelcome highs.
• Palos Verdes Peninsula landslides can tell us a lot about L.A. history.
• ‘The Phantom Menace’ dominated 1999’s box office. History has been kinder to it .

How can we make this newsletter more useful? Send comments to [email protected] .

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Kevinisha Walker is a multiplatform editor for newsletters at the Los Angeles Times. She previously worked as a social media editor at the Daily Beast and has a bachelor’s degree from the University of New Orleans and a master’s in journalism from Roosevelt University. Walker is a proud New Orleanian, but currently calls Long Beach home.

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Bodies found in Baja California near where surfers from San Diego went missing

Mexican officials have not confirmed the identifies of the deceased. Australian brothers Jake and Callum Robinson and San Diegan Jack Carter Rhoad have been missing since last weekend

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Three bodies have been found south of Ensenada near the surf break where two San Diego men and a brother visiting from Australia were last seen before disappearing under suspicious circumstances, and an arrest warrant has been issued in connection with the case, Mexican officials said Friday.

The bodies were discovered nearly a week into the search for Callum Robinson, 33, an Australian living in San Diego; his visiting brother, Jake Robinson, 30; and their friend, Jack Carter Rhoad, 30, a U.S. citizen and San Diegan.

Mexican authorities have not yet positively identified the deceased. Officials say the older remains of a fourth person may have been found, as well.

The remains were found at the bottom of a well near Punta San José in Santo Tomás, near a picturesque, remote surfing spot known as Lighthouse. It is the same general area where the Chevrolet pickup that the trio had been driving through Baja California was discovered about a day earlier. It had been set on fire.

The bodies were found after a nearly 24-hour search at the site — a rural oceanfront property that includes a small, brick house. The Mexican National Guard, Mexican Army, Baja California Attorney General’s Office and Ensenada Fire Department rescue team remained at the scene into Friday evening.

The surfers had planned to camp near the beach last weekend, then stay at an Airbnb in Rosarito, according to social media posts by friends and family. But they never checked into the Airbnb, and Callum didn’t show up for work in San Diego as scheduled.

Baja California prosecutors on Friday issued an arrest warrant for one person on charges of forced disappearance.

Prosecutors did not identify the suspect but had said Thursday that three people were under investigation in connection with the disappearances. That included a 23-year-old woman was detained with drugs and a cellphone that had a wallpaper photo of one of the missing men, according to Ensenada Mayor Carlos Ibarra Aguiar.

Rhoad graduated from Point Loma Nazarene University and works in technology services in San Diego, his LinkedIn profile says. Callum, who used to play professional lacrosse, works for a mobile fundraising platform, according to his LinkedIn. Jake, a doctor in Australia, is visiting his brother in San Diego.

The brothers’ parents, Martin and Debra Robinson, who live in Perth, told Australian news outlets earlier on Friday that they were heading to Mexico to be close during the search.

“Callum and Jake are beautiful human beings. We love them so much and this breaks our heart,” they said in a statement to Australian media.

The brothers had attended the Coachella music festival before the surf trip, the parents said.

“Surfing is a passion they both share. Our only comfort right now is that they were together doing something they passionately love,” the parents said.

Mexican officials have been coordinating with the FBI in San Diego and the U.S. State Department, as well as consulate officials of both the U.S. and Australia.

In a statement Thursday, Baja California Gov. Marina del Pilar Ávila promised a thorough investigation and said that anyone responsible for a crime will be “punished to the fullest extent of the law.“

Baja California had one of the highest homicide rates in the country last year, with 2,417 people killed, according to state Secretary of Citizen Security. The deaths are largely attributed to drug violence as warring cartel factions fight for control of the area. But violence affecting foreign tourists in the region has been rare.

There have been 595 homicides in the state through March of this year.

9:10 p.m. May 3, 2024: This story has been updated with additional information.

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Thieves killed Australian, American surfers to steal truck tires: Mexican authorities

Family members identified the bodies sunday, according to baja california state prosecutors, by the associated press and nbc 7 staff • published may 5, 2024 • updated on may 6, 2024 at 12:08 pm.

Relatives have positively identified the bodies found in Baja California as the two Australians and a San Diego man who disappeared last weekend, Mexican officials said Sunday.

Since the victims' relatives identified them, genetic testing is not needed to confirm their identities, according to the State Attorney General's Office of Baja California.

Relevant content:

Mexican officials believe bodies of missing surfers, 2 from San Diego, found

Safety tips from the US government for Americans traveling to Mexico

Thieves apparently killed the men on a surfing trip to Mexico in order to steal their truck because they wanted the tires, authorities said earlier on Sunday.

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The corpses were decomposing after the thieves dumped them into a remote well about 50 feet (15 meters) deep, some 4 miles (6 kilometers) from where the foreigners were killed. The well also contained a fourth cadaver that had been there much longer.

The cause of death for the three bodies recovered in Baja California on Friday was ruled a shooting, the medical examiner's office in Ensenada said on Sunday.

Two bullets were recovered, accounting for two of the three gunshot wounds to the head of each body, all identified as men, approximately 30 to 40 years old, according to the ME. They were likely to have been dead for five to seven days, the ME added.

The three men were on a camping and surfing trip along a stretch of coast south of the city of Ensenada, posting idyllic photos on social media of waves and isolated beaches, before they went missing last weekend.

María Elena Andrade Ramírez, the Baja California state attorney general, described what likely would have been moments of terror that ended the trip for brothers Jake and Callum Robinson from Australia and American Jack Carter Rhoad, who multiple people have reported lived in San Diego. Callum lived in Ocean Beach.

She theorized the killers drove by and saw the foreigners’ pickup truck and tents and wanted to steal their tires. But “when (the foreigners) came up and caught them, surely, they resisted.”

She said that’s when the killers would have shot the tourists.

The thieves then allegedly went to what she called “a site that is extremely hard to get to” and allegedly dumped the bodies into a well they apparently were familiar with. She said investigators were not ruling out the possibility the same suspects also dumped the first, earlier body in the well as part of previous crimes.

“They may have been looking for trucks in this area,” Andrade Ramírez said.

The thieves allegedly covered the well with boards. “It was literally almost impossible to find it,” Andrade Ramírez said, and it took two hours to winch the bodies out of the well.

The site where the bodies were discovered near the township of Santo Tomás was near the remote seaside area where the missing men’s tents and truck were found Thursday along the coast. From their last photo posts, the trip looked perfect. But even experienced local expats are questioning whether it is safe to camp along the largely deserted coast anymore.

The moderator of the local Talk Baja internet forum, who has lived in the area for almost two decades, wrote in an editorial Saturday that “the reality is, the dangers of traveling to and camping in remote areas are outweighing the benefits anymore.”

But in a way, adventure was key to the victims’ lifestyle.

Callum Robinson’s Instagram account contained the following slogan: “If you’re not living on the edge, you’re taking up too much room.”

At Sunday's news conference, Andrade Ramírez was questioned by one reporter who expressed approval that such a massive and rapid search was mounted for the foreigners, but asked why, when local people disappear in the area, little is often done for weeks, months, or years.

“Do you have to be a foreigner in Baja California in order for there to be an investigation if something happens to you?’ asked the reporter, who did not identify herself by name. ”Every investigation is different,” Andrade Ramírez replied.

As if to underscore that point, dozens of mourners, surfers and demonstrators gathered in a main plaza in Ensenada, the nearest city, to voice their anger and sadness at the deaths.

“Ensenada is a mass grave,” read one placard carried by protesters. “Australia, we are with you,” one man scrawled on one of the half-dozen surf boards at the demonstration.

A woman held up a sign that read “They only wanted to surf — we demand safe beaches.”

San Diego photographer was invited to join surfers on Baja trip

Gabriela Acosta, a surfer, attended the protest “to show love, solidarity and respect for the three lives that were lost.” Acosta said that surfers in Baja are aware of the dangers.

“We are women and we would sometimes like to surf alone,” Acosta said. “But we never do that, because of the situation. We always have to go accompanied.”

“I think that what happened to them is just an example of the lack of safety in this state,” she said.

Baja California prosecutors had said they were questioning three people in the case, two of them because they were caught with methamphetamines. Prosecutors said the two were being held pending drug charges but continue to be suspects in the case.

A third man was arrested on charges of a crime equivalent to kidnapping, but that was before the bodies were found. It was unclear if he might face more charges.

The third suspect was believed to have directly participated in the killings. In keeping with Mexican law, prosecutors identified him by his first name, Jesús Gerardo, alias “el Kekas,” a slang word that means “quesadillas,” or cheese tortillas. Andrade Ramírez said he had a criminal record, and that more people may have been involved.

Last week, the mother of the missing Australians, Debra Robinson, posted on a local community Facebook page, appealing for help in finding her sons. Robinson said Callum and Jake had not been heard from since April 27. They had booked accommodation in the city of Rosarito, not far from Ensenada.

Robinson said Callum was diabetic. She also mentioned that the American who was with them was named Jack Carter Rhoad, but the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City did not immediately confirm that. The U.S. State Department said it was aware of reports of a U.S. citizen missing in Baja, but gave no further details.

In 2015, two Australian surfers, Adam Coleman and Dean Lucas, were killed in western Sinaloa state, across the Gulf of California — also known as the Sea of Cortez — from the Baja peninsula. Authorities said they were victims of highway bandits. Three suspects were arrested in that case.

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Bodies recovered likely those of 2 Australians, 1 American who went missing, Mexican prosecutors say

The state prosecutor’s office says three bodies recovered in an area of Mexico’s Baja California state are likely to be those of the two Australians and an American who went missing last weekend during a camping and surfing trip

MEXICO CITY — Three bodies recovered in an area of Mexico’s Baja California state are likely to be those of the two Australians and an American who went missing last weekend during a camping and surfing trip, the state prosecutor’s office said Saturday.

While there has not yet been confirmation based on forensic examination, physical characteristics — including hair and clothing — means there is a high likelihood that the bodies are those of the three tourists, local TV network Milenio reported, citing chief state prosecutor María Elena Andrade Ramírez.

“It is presumed that (the bodies) are the ones being investigated,” an employee of the state prosecutors’ office who was not authorized to be quoted by name told The Associated Press.

The bodies were found in a well where investigators also found another body that authorities said would be investigated.

“A fourth body was located. It is not related to the three foreigners. The fourth body had been there for a long time,” the official added.

The site where the bodies were discovered near the township of Santo Tomás was near the remote seaside area where the missing men’s tents and truck were found Thursday along the coast.

The men — identified by family members as brothers Jake and Callum Robinson from Australia and American Jack Carter Rhoad — went missing Saturday. They did not show up at their planned accommodations over the weekend.

The U.S. State Department said: “We are aware of those reports (of bodies) and are closely monitoring the situation. At this time we have no further comment.”

Baja California prosecutors had said Thursday that they were questioning three people in the case. On Friday, the office said the three had been arrested on charges of a crime equivalent to kidnapping. It was unclear if they might face more charges.

Andrade Ramírez, the chief state prosecutor, said evidence found along with the abandoned tents was linked to the three people being questioned about the missing foreigners.

Milenio reported that she said the suspects appeared to have stolen the surfers’ truck and some of its parts were found in another truck belonging to one of the suspects.

On Wednesday, the missing Australians’ mother, Debra Robinson, posted on a local community Facebook page an appeal for help in finding her sons. Robinson said Callum and Jake had not been heard from since April 27. They had booked accommodations in the nearby city of Rosarito.

Robinson said one of her sons, Callum, was diabetic. She also mentioned that the American who was with them was named Jack Carter Rhoad, but the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City did not immediately confirm that. The U.S. State Department said it was aware of reports of a U.S. citizen missing in Baja, but gave no further details.

In 2015, two Australian surfers , Adam Coleman and Dean Lucas, were killed in western Sinaloa state, across the Gulf of California — also known as the Sea of Cortez — from the Baja peninsula. Authorities said they were victims of highway bandits. Three suspects were arrested in that case.

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3 bodies in Mexican well identified as Australian and American surfers killed for truck’s tires

Relatives have identified three bodies found in a well as those of two Australian surfers and one American who went missing last weekend, Mexican authorities said Sunday. Baja California state prosecutors said the relatives had viewed the bodies recovered from a remote well about 50 feet (15 meters) deep and recognized them as their loved ones.

A demonstrator holding a bodyboard written in Spanish " I don’t want to die” protests the disappearance of foreign surfers in Ensenada, Mexico, Sunday, May 5, 2024. Mexican authorities said Friday that three bodies were recovered in an area of Baja California near where two Australians and an American went missing last weekend during an apparent camping and surfing trip. (AP Photo/Karen Castaneda)

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Locals march to protest the disappearance of foreign surfers in Ensenada, Mexico, Sunday, May 5, 2024. Mexican authorities said Friday that three bodies were recovered in an area of Baja California near where two Australians and an American went missing last weekend during an apparent camping and surfing trip. (AP Photo/Karen Castaneda)

A demonstrator holding a bodyboard written in Spanish " No more violence” protests the disappearance of foreign surfers in Ensenada, Mexico, Sunday, May 5, 2024. Mexican authorities said Friday that three bodies were recovered in an area of Baja California near where two Australians and an American went missing last weekend during an apparent camping and surfing trip. (AP Photo/Karen Castaneda)

In this image made from video, Mexico’s police officers stand guard at the Ensenada station in Ensenada, Mexico, Thursday, May 2, 2024. Mexican authorities said Thursday they have found tents and questioned a few people in the case of two Australians and an American who went missing over the weekend in the Pacific coast state of Baja California. (AP Photo)

In this image made from video, Mexican security forces frisk men at a checkpoint in Ensenada, Mexico, Thursday, May 2, 2024. Mexican authorities said Thursday they have found tents and questioned a few people in the case of two Australians and an American who went missing over the weekend in the Pacific coast state of Baja California. (AP Photo)

A demonstrator holding a bodyboard written in Spanish " They just wanted to surf and they were executed” protests the disappearance of foreign surfers in Ensenada, Mexico, Sunday, May 5, 2024. Mexican authorities said Friday that three bodies were recovered in an area of Baja California near where two Australians and an American went missing last weekend during an apparent camping and surfing trip. (AP Photo/Karen Castaneda)

A demonstrator holds photos of the foreign surfers who disappeared during a protest in Ensenada, Mexico, Sunday, May 5, 2024. Mexican authorities said Friday that three bodies were recovered in an area of Baja California near where two Australians and an American went missing last weekend during an apparent camping and surfing trip. (AP Photo/Karen Castaneda)

MEXICO CITY (AP) — Relatives have identified three bodies found in a well as those of two Australian surfers and one American who went missing last weekend, Mexican authorities said Sunday.

Baja California state prosecutors said the relatives had viewed the corpses recovered from a remote well about 50 feet (15 meters) deep and recognized them as their loved ones.

Thieves apparently killed the three, who were on a surfing trip to Mexico’s Baja peninsula, to steal their truck because they wanted the tires. They then allegedly got rid of the bodies by dumping them in a well near the coast.

The well was located some 4 miles (6 kilometers) from where the foreigners were killed, and also contained a fourth cadaver that had been there much longer.

Three suspects are being held in connection with the case, which locals said was solved far more quickly than the disappearances of thousands of Mexicans.

The three men were on a camping and surfing trip along a stretch of coast south of the city of Ensenada, posting idyllic photos on social media of waves and isolated beaches, before they went missing last weekend.

Chief state prosecutor María Elena Andrade Ramírez described what likely would have been moments of terror that ended the trip for brothers Jake and Callum Robinson from Australia and American Jack Carter Rhoad.

She theorized the killers drove by and saw the foreigners’ pickup truck and tents and wanted to steal their tires. But “when (the foreigners) came up and caught them, surely, they resisted.”

She said that’s when the killers would have shot the tourists.

The thieves then allegedly went to what she called “a site that is extremely hard to get to” and allegedly dumped the bodies into a well they apparently were familiar with. She said investigators were not ruling out the possibility the same suspects also dumped the first, earlier body in the well as part of previous crimes.

“They may have been looking for trucks in this area,” Andrade Ramírez said.

The thieves allegedly covered the well with boards. “It was literally almost impossible to find it,” Andrade Ramírez said, and it took two hours to winch the bodies out of the well.

Australian Treasurer Jim Chalmers expressed sympathy for the Robinson family. “I think the whole country’s heart goes out to all of their loved ones. It has been an absolutely horrendous, absolutely horrific ordeal and our thoughts are with all of them today,” he said at a news conference Monday in the capital, Canberra.

The site where the bodies were discovered near the township of Santo Tomás was near the remote seaside area where the missing men’s tents and truck were found Thursday along the coast. From their last photo posts, the trip looked perfect. But even experienced local expatriates are questioning whether it is safe to camp along the largely deserted coast anymore.

The moderator of the local Talk Baja internet forum, who has lived in the area for almost two decades, wrote in an editorial Saturday that “the reality is, the dangers of traveling to and camping in remote areas are outweighing the benefits anymore.”

But in a way, adventure was key to the victims’ lifestyle.

Callum Robinson’s Instagram account contained the following slogan: “If you’re not living on the edge, you’re taking up too much room.”

At the news conference, Andrade Ramírez was questioned by one reporter who expressed approval that such a massive and rapid search was mounted for the foreigners, but asked why, when local people disappear in the area, little is often done for weeks, months, or years.

“Do you have to be a foreigner in Baja California in order for there to be an investigation if something happens to you?′ asked the reporter, who did not identify herself by name. ”Every investigation is different,” Andrade Ramírez replied.

As if to underscore that point, dozens of mourners, surfers and demonstrators gathered in a main plaza in Ensenada, the nearest city, to voice their anger and sadness at the deaths.

“Ensenada is a mass grave,” read one placard carried by protesters. “Australia, we are with you,” one man scrawled on one of the half-dozen surf boards at the demonstration.

A woman held up a sign that read “They only wanted to surf — we demand safe beaches.”

Gabriela Acosta, a surfer, attended the protest “to show love, solidarity and respect for the three lives that were lost.” Acosta said that surfers in Baja are aware of the dangers.

“We are women and we would sometimes like to surf alone,” Acosta said. “But we never do that, because of the situation. We always have to go accompanied.”

“I think that what happened to them is just an example of the lack of safety in this state,” she said.

Surfers later performed a “paddle-out” ceremony where they formed a circle on their boards in the ocean.

Baja California prosecutors had said they were questioning three people in the killings, two of them because they were caught with methamphetamines. Prosecutors said the two were being held pending drug charges but continue to be suspects in the killings.

A third man was arrested on charges of a crime equivalent to kidnapping, but that was before the bodies were found. It was unclear if he might face more charges.

The third suspect was believed to have directly participated in the killings. In keeping with Mexican law, prosecutors identified him by his first name, Jesús Gerardo, alias “el Kekas,” a slang word that means “quesadillas,” or cheese tortillas. Andrade Ramírez said he had a criminal record, and that more people may have been involved.

Last week, the mother of the missing Australians, Debra Robinson, posted on a local community Facebook page, appealing for help in finding her sons. Robinson said Callum and Jake had not been heard from since April 27. They had booked accommodation in the city of Rosarito, not far from Ensenada.

Robinson said Callum was diabetic. She also mentioned that the American who was with them was named Jack Carter Rhoad, but the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City did not immediately confirm that. The U.S. State Department said it was aware of reports of a U.S. citizen missing in Baja, but gave no further details.

In 2015, two Australian surfers , Adam Coleman and Dean Lucas, were killed in western Sinaloa state, across the Gulf of California — also known as the Sea of Cortez — from the Baja peninsula. Authorities said they were victims of highway bandits. Three suspects were arrested in that case.

Korea Box Office: ‘The Roundup: Punishment’ Passes $55 Million on Second Weekend, as ‘The Fall Guy’ Trips

By Patrick Frater

Patrick Frater

Asia Bureau Chief

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Locally-produced crime action thriller “ The Roundup: Punishment ” dominated the South Korea box office for a second weekend. In contrast, Hollywood’s “ The Fall Guy ” opened softly in third place.

Data from Kobis, the tracking service operated by the Korean Film Council (Kofic), showed “The Roundup: Punishment” grossed $13.8 million between Friday and Sunday, earned from 1.92 million ticket sales.

Popular on Variety

Over the latest weekend, “Kung Fu Panda 4” scored $1.17 million. Its aggregate score is now $11.1 million, earned since a release on April 10.

“The Fall Guy,” which also fell short of expectations on its North American debut , earned only $544,000 between Friday and Sunday, with a 3% market share. Over its full five-day opening in Korea, the film managed to pass the $1 million mark and finished Sunday with $1.12 million.

In fourth place, a new “Pokemon” film earned $440,000 over the weekend. Over its five opening days, its total was $660,000.

Fifth place belonged to rereleased Japanese drama title “The Last Ten Years,” which picked up $181,000. Its cumulative total is $3.43 million.

Box office champion, “Exhuma” earned an incremental $105,000 in sixth place. Its running total is $84.5 million earned from 11.9 million spectators.

European animation film “Richard the Stork and the Mystery of the Great Jewel” opened in seventh place. It earned $72,000 from the weekend and $108,000 over its full five-day opening run.

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Perth brothers Callum and Jake Robinson went for a quick surf weekend in Mexico. How did it go so wrong?

It was meant to be an idyllic surf adventure down Mexico's north-west coast. 

Australian doctor Jake Robinson, 30, flew over to San Diego, where his older brother Callum was based. 

Both athletic, outdoorsy adventurers who shared a love of the waves and adventure, they decided to grab a friend — American Jack Carter Rhoad — and head south for a quick surf jaunt. 

Like so many before them, they were lured by Baja California's crisp, sparkling waves, as well as the chance to camp on rugged and remote beaches among the wildflowers. 

Here, beaches are often referred to by their latitude and in late April, the men visited the K38 surf break. 

Rodrigo Leal Bravo from the local surf shop remembers them coming in to buy wax. 

"They were excited about their surf trip and they were on their way south," he told the ABC. 

He noticed the strong bond between the Australian brothers. 

"Their fraternity was so admirable," he said. 

Callum told Rodrigo they were heading to Punta San Jose, a remote spot which was about three hours drive from the surf shop. 

It's only accessible by unsealed roads and the mobile tower coverage is patchy at best, but Rodrigo says he wasn't concerned for their safety

"I did not think anything should happen to those big strong guys, right?" he said. 

But when Callum didn't show up to work in San Diego after the weekend, loved ones were confused, then concerned, and then finally panicked. 

Three bodies have been found where Callum, Jake and Jack went missing — though they are yet to be formally identified. 

"All three bodies meet the characteristics to assume with a high degree of probability that they are the American [Jack] Carter Rhoad as well as the Robinson brothers from Australia," said Baja California's state Attorney-General María Elena Andrade Ramírez.

Mexican authorities have also detained two men and a woman in connection with their disappearance. 

As the case is investigated, a devastating picture is emerging of what may have gone wrong on the scrubby cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean. 

A weekend jaunt south of the border 

Callum shared glimpses of their Mexican surf trip on his Instagram account. 

The first photo shows their white Chevvy packed with boards and towels right near the water's edge. 

"....and it begins," Callum wrote as the caption, along with a surfer emoji and a picture of the Mexican flag. 

He then added more snapshots of their journey — taco stands, brightly coloured buildings, and Jack beaming with a boom box on his shoulder. 

The stories ended abruptly with a picture of Playa San Miguel, a crop of yellow daisies growing at the edge of the sand. 

They were reported missing about two days later, but in Baja California, timelines can be difficult to piece together. 

As each wave crests and breaks, as each taco is procured from a local food stand, and as each sunset melts over the Pacific, the days start to blend. 

Locals and tourists alike have vague memories of seeing a pair of Australian brothers and their American friend riding the waves on the northern Mexican coast in late April, but exact dates are difficult. 

Callum, a 190-centimetre-tall athlete with cascading brown hair, turned heads everywhere he went. 

"I remember seeing one guy that ... could have been like, a rugby player or division one football player," visiting American surfer Austin Pickle told the ABC. 

"They were smiling and you know, doing like the friendly surfer [chatty] thing. But yeah, nothing super strange.

"And then I just paddled in. I never saw them again." 

Ana Cristina Heym Cárdenas works in a cafe about an hour north of Punta San Jose.

She believes one of the men — probably Callum — came in the afternoon of April 28 to ask if she could break a 100-peso note so he could buy a taco from the stand outside. 

She was shocked to later hear that they disappeared. 

"It's not normal here — [the] disappearing of three people in this way and burning their car and all this," she said. 

"We know that some areas here in Baja California, they're dangerous.

"We feel very sad because there are good people here [in Baja] who like international tourists. We don't want other people thinking that it is too dangerous for people."

A gun, a burned-out car and a missing phone 

It's every parent's dream for their children to stay close in adulthood.

But Debra Robinson sensed something was wrong when her sons stopped picking up their phones during their holiday together in northern Mexico.

In late April, she got on a Baja Facebook group, posted a picture of her boys together and issued a plea.

"They were due to book into an Airbnb in Rosarito after their camping weekend but they did not show up," Ms Robinson posted. 

While others in the group tried to reassure her, reminding her that mobile reception in the area is patchy and roads are often unreliable, she insisted their disappearance was "out of character".

"Callum is a type one diabetic so there is also a medical concern. Please contact me if you have seen them or know their whereabouts," she wrote.

"Please please please."

Callum, Jake and Jack were soon reported missing, and Ms Robinson marshalled foreign agencies and police to search for her sons. 

While Baja California is plagued by drug cartels, crimes against foreign tourists are relatively rare, and well-populated areas are considered more safe. 

"It is an atypical, exceptional case," Attorney-General María Elena Andrade Ramírez told the ABC. 

"We have a tourist influx and a similar case has not occurred."

Yesterday, it was confirmed that three bodies have been discovered in what's described as a well close to where the men were last seen.

Forensic investigations are continuing to take place to formally identify them.

The details are not yet known, but at some point, Jake, Jack and Callum were separated from their belongings — including their Chevy, their tents and at least one of their phones. 

This week, that phone was traced to a 23-year-old Mexican woman, who has since been arrested. 

Her romantic partner and his brother have also been detained, and Ms Andrade Ramírez says they "may be directly or indirectly related to the investigation". 

All three suspects were allegedly in possession of illicit drugs, but this incident does not seem to be linked to organised crime. 

Another key part of the investigation is likely the remote ranch where the brothers' burned-out car was found.

The property is several kilometres from the initial search site and is located south of the city of Ensenada.

"We have secured a cell phone and a firearm," Ms Andrade Ramírez said. 

"The firearm was discovered in the pick-up truck belonging to an individual currently under investigation

"A criminal scene has already been processed where we found evidence that someone burned the remains of tents, clothes, drink bottles and some evidence related to this case." 

At this stage, investigators are treating this as a potential robbery gone wrong, with the suspects allegedly trying to steal the victims' car. 

"This aggression seems to have occurred in an unforeseen, circumstantial manner," Ms Andrade Ramírez said. 

"We pledge that this crime will not go unpunished."

'They were together doing something they passionately love'

With three bodies discovered — but yet to be identified — the Robinsons are on their way to Mexico for a task no parents should ever have to complete. 

The fact that crimes against foreign surfers are exceptionally rare in Mexico is no comfort when your babies are the unlucky ones. 

So far, the case appears to have eerie similarities to the slaying of two Perth-born surfers in Mexico in 2015. 

Dean Lucas and Adam Coleman were on the trip of a lifetime, surfing down the Baja California coast. 

But when they arrived in the badlands of Sinaloa, they were stopped, robbed and then killed by a gang.

But most surfers will tell you, chasing the best waves sometimes takes you to some dangerous places. 

"[Punta San Jose] is a beautiful place with perfect waves," Antonio Otanez from the Baja Surfing Association told the ABC.

"But it's very lonely there. And it's like one hour [away down] a dust road. There's no [phone] signal there."

Mr Otanez said the local surf community has been left devastated by the news, but no-one is hurting more than Jake, Jack and Callum's parents.

"Surfing is a passion they both share," Ms Robinson said of her sons. 

"Our only comfort right now is that they were together doing something they passionately love.

"We ask people to keep them in their thoughts and prayers."

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