quick weekend trips in california

• 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.

North America Chevron

United States Chevron

California Chevron

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)

Jessica Puckett

Cassie Shortsleeve

Arati Menon

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)

Recommended

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

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

16 California Family Getaway Weekend Ideas

Updated October 2023

Looking to plan your next family getaway in California? From the stunning coastline to the vast desert, the Golden State is home to a variety of experiences that make family vacations in California unique and memorable.

Your Ultimate California Guide!

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!

While places like wine country are typically reserved for adults, most places are super kid-friendly like this list of family-friendly wineries in Sonoma . So whether you choose to take a getaway in wine country or head out to one of California’s nine National Parks , you can travel at ease with your little one.

Living in Northern California ourselves with our toddler, we’ve taken advantage of several family getaways nearby. I think that what makes California so fun to travel in with kids is that most can be done over the course of a long weekend.

If you’re starting to plan out your summer and fall travels, use this list of California vacation ideas for inspiration. I’ve put together 16 ideas that are perfect for your next family getaway weekend in California!

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

• San Diego (Staying at Fairmont Gra nd Del Mar ), for the best Southern California getaway
• San Louis Obispo (Staying at Madonna Inn ) , for the best Central California getaway
• Lake Tahoe (Staying at The Coachmen Hotel ), for the best Northern California getaway

Not sure what to pack? Check out my essential packing list for a road trip with a baby and my toddler travel essential gear list !

16 California Family Weekend Getaway Ideas

1. san diego.

San Diego is one of my favorite places to visit in Southern California and the perfect location for a family trip. From wine tasting in Little Italy to strolling along the historic harbor, there is so much to do in this coastal city.

There are also plenty of kid-friendly attractions and activities to choose from. Visit L EGOLAND in nearby Carlsbad or head to the legendary San Diego Zoo and Safari Park for a couple of days out with kids. There are also tons of great museums, many of which are child-friendly!

Family-Friendly San Diego Hotel Recommendations:

• 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

Helpful San Diego Guides To Plan Your Trip

• San Diego Itinerary from The Blonde Abroad

2. Monterey

The Monterey Bay Aquarium is without a doubt the most popular attraction for families in Monterey . It truly is one of the best aquariums in the world, and it’s well worth planning a trip around.

The entire Monterey County Area has wonderful things to experience as well. Go spend a day walking along the beaches in Pacific Grove, or have a beach day at Carmel Beach or Carmel River State Beach . You can also enjoy some amazing seafood and take a scenic stroll down Old Fisherman’s Wharf.

Family-Friendly Monterey Hotel Recommendations:

• Monterey Tides , for the best oceanfront hotel
• Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa , for the best resort hotel

Helpful Monterey Guides To Plan Your Trip

• The Ultimate 72-Hour Itinerary In Monterey County
• The Best Restaurants in Monterey, County
• Best Things To Do In Carmel, California
• The Best Hotels In Carmel, California

3. Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe is one of the best year-round California destinations for families. Whether you visit in winter or summer, Lake Tahoe is beyond beautiful and offers an endless array of outdoor activities.

Spend your days by the lake or take a dip if the weather permits during the summer months. There are also tons of great hiking and camping options as well if you’re looking for adventure. And come winter, it’s a snow sports paradise!

Family-Friendly Lake Tahoe Hotel Recommendations:

• The Coachmen Hotel South Lake , for the best boutique hotel
• Marriott Grand Residence Club, Lake Tahoe , for the best resort hotel

Helpful Lake Tahoe Guides To Plan Your Trip

• Where To Stay In Lake Tahoe
• A Quick Summer Guide To Lake Tahoe

4. Catalina Island

Transport yourself to the Mediterranean without a long flight! Catalina Island is a true gem that makes for the ultimate California family vacation. You can hop on the ferry from Long Beach to make your way there, plus no car is needed on the island if you stay in the port as everything is within walking distance.

From renting golf carts to explore the island to snorkeling in the crystal clear waters, kids and adults of all ages will feel like they’re on a tropical escape.

Family-Friendly Catalina Island Hotel Recommendations:

• The Pavilion Hotel, Avalon , for the best beachside hotel
• Hote l Atwater , for the best design hotel

Helpful Catalina Island Guides To Plan Your Trip

• What to Do in Catalina Island for a Perfect Weekend Escape

What better place to take the family than Disneyland? Located in Anaheim, Disneyland Resort is the ultimate place for childhood magic, amazing food, and some of California’s most epic roller coasters.

Since there is so much to see and do, you can easily spend an entire weekend at the theme park (or even longer). Be sure to book your passes in advance and plan accordingly.

Family-Friendly Anaheim Hotel Recommendations:

• Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel and Spa , for the best upscale hotel
• Disneyland Hotel , for the best modern hotel

Helpful Anaheim Guides To Plan Your Trip

• A Foodie Guide To Anaheim Packing House

6. Yosemite National Park

Plan a California family vacation to Yosemite if you’re looking for an outdoorsy escape filled with epic hiking, breathtaking views, and iconic sites.

This national park is one of the most iconic ones in the country, let alone California. Though camping is really popular, there are also a couple of nice hotels that provide the best of both worlds. If you can go mid-week for a trip, you’ll have fewer crowds as well.

Family-Friendly Yosemite Hotel Recommendations:

• AutoCamp Yosemite National Park , for the best boutique hotel
• Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite , for the best resort hotel

Helpful Yosemite Guides To Plan Your Trip

• The Ultimate Weekend Guide To Yosemite National Park
• The Ultimate Summer Hike In Yosemite National Park

7. Palm Springs

Palm Springs is the ultimate destination for poolside lounging all year long. While a decent part of Palm Springs is more catered to adults, several hotels have family-friendly areas.

The Living Desert Zoo & Gardens is an awesome attraction, as is the Palm Springs Aerial Tram way . I think this is one of the state’s best “undercover” family getaways since so many write it off for kids. You could even make a short road trip to Joshua Tree National Park as an excursion too!

Family-Friendly Palm Springs Hotel Recommendations:

• Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa , for the best Rancho Mirage hotel
• Hyatt Regency Indian Wells Reso rt & Spa , for the best Indian Wells hotel
• Marriott’s Desert Springs Vill as II , for the best Desert Springs hotel

Helpful Palm Spings Guides To Plan Your Trip

• The Hip Guide to Palm Springs
• Incredible Things To Do In Palm Springs
• 20 Best Restaurants in Palm Springs

8. San Francisco

When it comes to family vacation ideas in California, San Francisco never gets old. Explore Golden Gate Park, ride a cable car then grab some chocolate from the Ghirardelli Chocolate Shop , or visit the animals at the San Francisco Zoo .

No matter what age your kids are, San Francisco is home to great food , historic monuments and streets, and plenty of entertainment options. And if you love a good park with a view, make sure to stop by Tunnel Tops in the Presidio!

Travel Tip: If you’re planning on seeing multiple sights and ticketed experiences, consider booking a San Francisco CityPASS , which gives you admission to the California Academy of Sciences and Blue & Gold Fleet San Francisco Bay Cruise, plus admission to 2 more attractions of your choice: Aquarium of the Bay, Exploratorium, San Francisco Museum of Modern Art — SFMOMA, San Francisco Zoo & Gardens, or The Walt Disney Family Museum. Book the CityPASS here .

Family-Friendly San Francisco Hotel Recommendations:

• The 1 Hotel San Francisco , for the best new hotel
• Kimpton Alton Hotel – Fisherman’s Wharf , for the best Wharf hotel
• Palace Hotel , for the best Union Square hotel

Helpful San Francisco Guides To Plan Your Trip

• The Ultimate Local’s Travel Guide To San Francisco
• The 20 Best Restaurants in San Francisco
• My Secret List Of San Francisco Restaurants After Living There
• Best Coffee Shops in San Francisco

9. Santa Barbara

Located on the central coast, Santa Barbara is an idyllic beach town that truly has something for everyone. The Santa Barbara Zoo is a small but amazing establishment that lets kids get up close and personal with a giraffe feeding.

Be sure to hit the beaches and get some candy on the historic Stearns Wharf . Older kids can enjoy water sports like surfing, kayaking, and stand-up paddle boarding. The Los Padres National Forest is also a great place to go horseback riding.

Family-Friendly Santa Barbara Hotel Recommendations:

• Hotel Californian , for the best overall hotel
• The Ritz-Carlton Bacara , for the best luxury hotel

Helpful Santa Barbara Guides To Plan Your Trip

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

10. Sacramento

Sacramento is the capital of California, making it a great family vacation spot for those looking to learn more about the state’s history. From the Sacramento Zoo to Funderland Amusement Park , parents will find plenty of activities to occupy younger kids. There are also several museums to explore including the California State Capital Museum .

Family-Friendly Sacramento Hotel Recommendations:

• Kimpton Sawyer , for the best new hotel
• Hyatt Regency Sacramento , for the best Capitol Park hotel

Helpful Sacramento Guides To Plan Your Trip

• The Best And Fun Things To Do In Sacramento, California
• A Local’s Guide To Sacramento, California
• The Best Hotels in Sacramento, California
• The Best 20 Restaurants in Sacramento
• A Guide to The Best Coffee Shops in Sacramento

11. Big Bear

Looking for a woodsy escape just outside Los Angeles? Big Bear is a charming, lakeside town that offers a cozy, family-friendly vacation.

In addition to some cute hotels, there are also lots of amazing Airbnb’s to choose from. Whether you visit during the winter or summer, renting a cabin here is ideal for a remote escape that isn’t too far from the city.

Family-Friendly Big Bear Hotel Recommendations:

• Marina Riviera , for the best lakefront hotel
• Noon Lodge , for the best design for dollar hotel
• Holiday Inn Resort The Lodge At Big Bear Lake , for the best resort

Helpful Big Bear Guides To Plan Your Trip

• Southern California Road Trip Guide: Laguna Beach to Big Bear
• 15 Best Things to Do in Big Bear Lake
• 11 Dreamy Big Bear Cabins for a Getaway

12. Big Sur

Big Sur is home to one of the most breathtaking stretches of highway in the entire United States. Despite being best known for its natural beauty, Big Sur also has incredible dining and restaurants to experience.

From Pfeiffer Beach to the iconic McWay Falls , there are plenty of bucket list-worthy sites and scenes to see. It would be one of my favorite spots to bring our toddler for all of the outdoor space to roam.

Family-Friendly Big Sur Hotel Recommendations:

• Big Sur Lodge , for the best overall hotel
• Big Sur River Inn , for the best riverfront hotel

Helpful Big Sur Guides To Plan Your Trip

• The Ultimate Travel Guide To Big Sur, California
• The Best Big Sur Hotels For All Budgets

13. San Luis Obispo / Morro Bay

If you’re keen to spend any time on the central coast of California, start with San Luis Obispo as a home base. You can visit downtown with your kids, head out to Avila Beach, and enjoy several hiking areas.

Nearby, Morro Rock is an iconic site that makes for a perfect backdrop to a family photo. After strolling the sandy beach, check out some local seafood joints or enjoy clam chowder along the coast.

While visiting, consider staying at the Madonna Inn — a one-of-a-kind hotel that has themed rooms that kids will love. If you’re looking for a mellow California vacation spot, keep this area at the top of your list.

Family-Friendly San Louis Obispo Hotel Recommendations:

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

Helpful San Louis Obispo Guides To Plan Your Trip

• How To Spend 48 Hours In San Luis Obispo

14. La Jolla

La Jolla is an elegant and upscale beach town just north of San Diego. It is definitely on the more expensive side, but it is also one of the best places for a family beach day.

Stroll along the scenic bluffs or post up in the sand for a picnic at sunset for a relaxing and picturesque California family vacation.

Family-Friendly La Jolla Hotel Recommendations:

• La Valencia Hotel , for the best beachside hotel
• Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa , for the best Torrey Pines hotel

15. Santa Cruz

The famous Santa Cruz Wharf and boardwalk is literally a kid’s dream. From the carnival rides to the games to the classic fair food, you can easily spend a whole weekend at the boardwalk and surrounding beach!

Other fun attractions include Lighthouse Field State Beach , the Seymour Marine Discovery Center , and the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum .

Family-Friendly Santa Cruz Hotel Recommendations:

• Torch Lite Inn Motel , for the best boardwalk hotel
• Dream Inn , for the best beachfront hotel
• Hotel Paradox , for the best modern hotel

16. Humboldt County Redwoods & Beyond

There is nothing quite as magical as seeing the towering redwoods up close and personal. In fact, it’s just as amazing for adults as it is for kids. Humboldt Redwoods State Park includes Rockefeller Forest, the world’s largest remaining old-growth forest of coastal redwoods.

Afterward, make your way further north to the beach town of Trinidad. One of the best local spots on the coast, there are several beaches to enjoy and laidback eateries.

Family-Friendly Hotel Recommendations:

• Humboldt Bay Social Club , for the best boutique hotel
• Scotia Lodge , for the best historic hotel
• The Lost Whale Inn (Trinidad), for the best oceanfront hotel

Helpful Guides To Plan Your Trip

• A Guide To Visiting The Avenue Of The Giants
• A Road Trip Guide To California’s Wild North Coast

Save This Post For Later On Pinterest

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

Related Posts

Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Visiting Coronado Island

13 Hip Boutique Hotels in Santa Barbara, California (2024)

The 20 Best Restaurants in Napa Valley (2024)

Write a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Cayman Islands
• Dominican Republic
• Puerto Rico
• South Dakota
• Washington DC
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• French Polynesia
• Travel Tips
• Family Travel
• Accommodations
• Packing Lists
• Photography Tips
• Northern California Guide
• San Francisco
• Lightroom Presets
• Rent Our Home For Photoshoots
• California Map

Type above and press Enter to search. Press Esc to cancel.

25 Amazing Weekend Getaways in Northern California

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

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

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

25 Weekend Getaways in Northern California

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lassen Volcanic National Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

San Francisco

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mount Shasta

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mammoth Lakes

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Here are all of our favorite Mammoth hikes .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Carmel-by-the-Sea

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Grass Valley and Nevada City

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Point Reyes

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Half Moon Bay

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sonora and Jamestown

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sutter Creek

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

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

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

Read about more amazing caves in California .

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

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

Placerville

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

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

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

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

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

Crescent City

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

8 Incredible Weekend Getaways in Southern California for Every Traveler

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

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

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

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

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

Hotels & Vacation Rentals - Borrego Springs

Where to stay near anza-borrego.

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

La Casa Del Zorro

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

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

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

Hotels & Vacation Rentals - Laguna Beach

Where to stay in laguna beach.

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

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

Montage Laguna Beach

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

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

Hotels & Vacation Rentals - Los Angeles

Where to stay in los angeles.

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

Cameo Beverly Hills

Malibu: a celebrity weekend getaway in southern california.

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

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

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

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

Hotels & Vacation Rentals - Malibu

Where to stay in malibu.

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

Malibu Beach Inn

Ojai: a charming valley town near los angeles.

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

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

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

Hotels & Vacation Rentals - Ojai

Where to stay in ojai.

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

Oaks At Ojai Health Resort

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

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

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

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

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

Hotels & Vacation Rentals - Palm Springs

Where to stay in palm springs.

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

Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs

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

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

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

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

Hotels & Vacation Rentals - Paso Robles

Where to stay in paso robles.

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

Summerwood Inn

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

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

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

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

Hotels & Vacation Rentals - Santa Monica

Where to stay in santa monica.

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

Oceana Santa Monica, LXR Hotels & Resorts

Feature image by  Roberto Nickson ,  Unsplash .

Northern California Weekend Getaways

TripSavvy / Jess Macdonald

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

Getaways in the San Francisco Bay Area

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

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

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

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

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

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

Getaways North of San Francisco

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Getaways South of San Francisco

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

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

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

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

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

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

Getaways in Central California and the Sierras

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Weekend Getaways in California: 34 Trips You Can Take

Best of the West: Top Tourist Destinations

Day Trips and Vacation Side Trips from San Francisco

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

How to Get to California Wine Country

Father's Day in California

California Wine Country: The Complete Guide

Top 12 Places to Visit in the US

Summer in California: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

A Map of the Best California Regions

Calistoga, California

Things to Do in Sonoma, California

The Best Spring Getaways in California

December in California: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

The 10 Top Things to Do in Santa Rosa

Your Trip to San Francisco: The Complete Guide

Protect Your Trip »

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

Getty Images

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

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

The 17 best costa rica tours.

Lyn Mettler April 12, 2024

Hard vs. Soft Luggage

Rachael Hood April 12, 2024

The Best Kauai Boat Tours

Lyn Mettler April 11, 2024

The Top-Rated NYC Food Tours

Ann Henson April 11, 2024

The Best Things to Do in Maine

Mariya Greeley and Nicola Wood April 10, 2024

The Best Pearl Harbor Tours

John Rodwan and Amanda Norcross April 9, 2024

The Best Pigeon Forge Dinner Shows

Korrin Bishop April 9, 2024

Flight Canceled or Delayed? What to Do

Amanda Norcross April 8, 2024

Carry-on Luggage Sizes by Airline

The Best Charleston Tours

John Rodwan April 4, 2024

Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

The best of Los Angeles for free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy Los Angeles without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

Love the mag?

Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox. Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news, events, offers and partner promotions.

• Things to Do
• Food & Drink
• Coca-Cola Foodmarks
• Attractions
• Los Angeles

Get us in your inbox

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

The best weekend getaways from L.A.

Everyone needs an escape from the city sometimes. Hop into the car (or grab the ferry) for these gorgeous weekend getaways from Los Angeles.

You don’t have to get on a plane to feel like you’re in another country. Southern California is dotted with gorgeous, quaint destinations perfect for a weekend getaway from L.A. These easy, affordable road trips  are all within a three-hour  scenic drive (or ferry ride) of the city. Once you arrive at your destination, partake in things that Californians do best: beach-lounging , wine-drinking, hiking and dining. Oh and there’s some pretty good shopping and thrifting in the mix, too. Let these weekend getaways from L.A. be your roadmap to a magical world within SoCal. 

RECOMMENDED: The best day trips from L.A.  

This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click here .

An email you’ll actually love

Top weekend getaways from Los Angeles

1.  Joshua Tree

Joshua Tree should be on everyone’s bucket list. Only three hours from L.A., the magical national park offers a varied landscape full of its gnarled namesake trees and giant boulders to admire as you bike, hike or take a leisurely stroll. The stargazing is choice here—so long as there’s no full moon—and wild coyotes may even howl you to sleep if you plan an overnight camping trip . If you visit during a wet spring, head south to Pinto Basin to see colorful wildflowers in bloom . Other notable attractions include  Pappy & Harriet’s for lunch in a ghost town; the Integratron for a new-age sound bath; and the town of Joshua Tree itself, which offers unique hotels , a few tasty restaurants, some good thrifting and quirky public art. 

Discover the best things to do in Joshua Tree

While you’re in Joshua Tree, visit Palm Springs.

2.  Ojai

• Things to do

The cozy, pastoral town of Ojai is a close and beautiful bet for an easy L.A. getaway. Just an hour and a half northwest of many parts of the city, Ojai is a unique mix of old-school hippie healers and artists along with the new-school folks that are working to make that scene hip again. Ojai’s microclimate means seemingly everything grows here, from olives and grapes to an abundance of citrus, so meals are super fresh and always reflect the season. The wine, too, is locally made and—as a bonus—brought right to you, with tasting rooms dotting the downtown strip and saving you the (sober) drive out to a vineyard. If you’re more outdoor-inclined, Ojai makes a great stop before or after a trip to Los Padres National Forest , just north of town.

Discover the best things to do in Ojai

3.  Santa Barbara

The wealthy resort town of Santa Barbara is almost too perfect to be true for a weekend jaunt—and boy, does it know it. You don’t come here for urban thrills, but for history, top-end eating, an old-world aesthetic and—of course—the beaches . Sheltered between towering green mountains and deep blue ocean, this has long been a desirable place, with the historic  hotels to prove it. The main drag is State Street, a Spanish Colonial strip of boutiques, decent (but increasingly great) restaurants and upscale bars (the dives exist too, but are semi-hidden). Near the top of the downtown core is the Santa Barbara Museum of Art, a worthwhile display of ancient creativity and modern-day pretenders. In the other direction, State Street passes through the wine tasting rooms in the Funk Zone and ends at Pacific-side Stearns Wharf, where fishing boats unload their daily hauls.

Discover the best things to do in Santa Barbara

4.  Catalina Island

Santa Catalina Island is a close and beautiful bet for short trips. The little strip of land—accessable by ferries from Long Beach, San Pedro and Dana Point—has all the makings of a well-rounded vacation: Rich history, beach town relaxation and outdoorsy adventure. On one side of the island, Avalon is a walkable, something-for-everyone kind of village where people flit around town in golf carts, shop in beach boutiques and stroll along the boardwalk with ice cream . There are plenty of decent  restaurants  to choose from, and a fair amount of touristy but worthwhile mainstays (a zip line, a ritzy beach club, Jeep and heli tours—you get the idea). If an outdoorsy, off-the-grid trip is more your style, there are plenty of mountains and beaches to explore while hiking or biking , and lots of wildlife to see. Eighty-eight percent of the island, including 48 miles of coastline, is protected land and there’s a good chance you’ll see bison, bald eagles, foxes, dolphins and whales here. For a less touristy destination—almost the opposite of Avalon, and great for campers and backpackers—check out Two Harbors (the ferries stop there, too). It’s a one-horse (or restaurant, or general store, or hotel ) kind of town where kayaks and camping sites probably outnumber the permanent residents.

Discover the best things to do in Catalina

Take a Catalina Island safari adventure and see bison, bald eagles, and more.

5.  Palm Springs

For Angelenos, Palm Springs is a nice weekend getaway for any occasion. Planning a bachelor  or bachelorette party? Palm Springs has plenty of options, particularly heavy on the pool parties . Looking for a romantic getaway with your significant other? Book a room at one of the desert city’s many romantic hotels. Looking for a road trip destination? Even if you’re not staying the night, you could cruise the area’s midcentury houses and desert landscape. Expect thin crowds in the summer, but temperatures that regularly climb well into the triple digits—perfectly bearable if you’re taking a dip in a pool with a cocktail in hand.

Discover the best things to do in Palm Springs 

6.  Big Bear

It may not quite be the Alps, but L.A.’s closest major mountain town absolutely delivers a sense of high-altitude escape. The slopes at Snow Summit and Bear Mountain are fit for both skiing, snowboarding and tubing in the winter and mountain biking and hiking in the summer. Closer to the namesake lake, you can scoot down the classic Alpine Slide  or paddle a kayak through the mountain waters. You’ll find a bunch of motels and lodges along the busy south shore, but renting a cozy cabin  is definitely the way to go here. Consider an escape just to the west at Lake Arrowhead if you only care about an A-frame in the middle of the woods without as many of the resorty offerings.

Discover the best things to do in Big Bear

7.  San Diego

As you venture south, Orange County’s beach cities (particularly Laguna and Newport ) are absolutely beautiful, but they just feel like a different flavor of L.A. To truly escape the Southland’s grasp, you’ll want to cross yet another county line into San Diego. Though the two-to-three-hour car or train trip  means you  could do it all in a day, keep a full weekend open to tackle things at a more relaxing pace: Stroll the dramatic shores at Torrey Pines State Beach and soak up the coastal beauty of La Jolla; sink into the sand on Coronado (a perfect option for a beachy base for the weekend) and explore its charming town; and hoof it through Balboa Park and the San Diego Zoo, dine around Little Italy and stumble through the late-night madness of the Gaslamp Quarter.

Discover the best things to do in San Diego

8.  Santa Ynez Valley

On the other side of the Santa Ynez Mountains, Santa Barbara’s ritzy riviera vibes give way to open space and small towns that feel equal parts wine country and Old West. The Danish-built city of Solvang, with its walkable Old World-inspired downtown, is among the area’s most bustling destinations. But venture into the surrounding towns (and spend the night at an inn or a winery) and you’ll find an increasingly exciting array of dining options in low-key towns like Los Alamos, Los Olivos, Santa Ynez and Buellton.

See why Solvang should be your next foodie getaway

More weekend getaway ideas

The best places to go camping in Southern California

Pack your pack, grab a map and take your pick of rustic weekend getaways from our list. Happy camping!

The 15 best day trips from Los Angeles

Luckily we happen to be surrounded by spectacular landscapes, beautiful beaches and small towns perfect for day trips.

The best road trips from L.A.

Of all the wonderful reasons we’re in love with L.A. and all the amazing things there are to do here, one of the best is the freedom to escape at any moment.

[image] [title]

Discover Time Out original video

• Press office
• Investor relations
• Work for Time Out
• Editorial guidelines
• Privacy notice
• Do not sell my information
• Cookie policy
• Accessibility statement
• Terms of use
• Copyright agent
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies
• Advertising
• Time Out Market

Time Out products

• Time Out Worldwide

Time Out magazine

DISCOVER CALIFORNIA

© 2024 California.com All Rights Reserved

RECOMMENDED BUSINESSES

9 Inexpensive Weekend Getaways in Southern California

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

February 10, 2021

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

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

Cheap Weekend Getaways In Southern California To Book Now

Distance from Los Angeles: One hour

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

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

Does your business rank among the best in California?

Recomended businesses

Show me california.com recommended businesses near.

Learn more about our selection criteria and vetting process.

2. Dana Point

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

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

3. La Jolla

Distance from Los Angeles: Two hours 

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

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

Need help with a home improvement project? Get a free quote today!

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

4. Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

Distance from Los Angeles: Two hours and 30 minutes

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

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

Distance from Los Angeles: One hour and 30 minutes

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

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

6. Joshua Tree National Park

Distance from Los Angeles: Two hours and 15 minutes

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

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

Affordable Girlfriend Getaways In Southern California

7. Temecula

Distance from Los Angeles: One hour and 15 minutes

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

8. Laguna Beach

Distance from Los Angeles: 50 minutes

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

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

Distance from Los Angeles: 30 minutes

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

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

Inspiration delivered straight to your inbox.

Awesome thank you for subscribing to our newsletter..

When you provide your email address, you are agreeing to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy , and you are giving your consent to receive email communications from California.com regarding updates, happenings, special offers, and promotions from our partners.

RELATED Articles

RELATED CITIES

Discover More

How Long is the California Coast and 10 Other Fun Facts

We delve into some of California's most interesting natural fun facts.

Most Underrated Spring Travel Destinations in California

Ditch the busy Spring Break crowds and check out these fantastic, underrated spring travel destinations in California.

The Oldest Cities in Southern California

Take a trip through the pages of the Golden State’s history and discover the oldest cities in Southern California.

The 9 Best Spots for Parasailing in California

Feeling adventurous? Take to the seas and see the world from a new vantage point by parasailing in California.

11 Easy Weekend Getaways From San Francisco

Get away from the city with one of these easy, drivable weekend getaways..

• Copy Link copied

The Tule Elk Preserve is one of many places to visit during a weekend in Inverness and Tomales Bay.

Photo by Jessie Beck

San Francisco is an amazing city in its own right , but one of the best parts of living here is that you can be at a world-class vineyard, on a beach, or up a mountain within a short drive. There are the North Bay’s oyster farms and vineyards, the (sometimes) snowy Sierras to the east, the quiet of Tomales Bay. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or a change of scene, consider one of these 11 easy weekend getaways from the San Francisco Bay Area.

Healdsburg, California, is more than wine: Redwood forests and stretches of the Russian River to kayak are also accessible from this small town.

Photos by Jessie Beck

1. Healdsburg and Sonoma wine country

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

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

What to do in Healdsburg

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

Healdsburg’s food scene is also a big reason to visit: It’s home to three- Michelin-starred restaurant SingleThread (and awardee of a Michelin Green Star ), and the team’s newly opened vegan café, bar, and restaurant, Little Saint. (Pro move: You can also try their dips while sampling pinot noirs at the beautifully designed, downtown tasting room for Marine Layer.) For a more casual lunch or dinner, grab a pizza on the rooftop at the Matheson , or settle down for cocktails and fried chicken at Lo+Behold . The town also has an excellent farmers’ market on Saturdays.

Where to stay in Healdsburg

For a truly luxurious retreat, book one of the tree houses at the Montage Healdsburg , a 258-acre property that officially opened its doors in 2020, making it the first major resort property in the Healdsburg area. Or head over to the Madrona, a historic property originally built in 1881 as a private residence that is now a beautiful, maximalist boutique hotel designed by Jay Jeffers. Prefer something within walking distance of Healdsburg’s square? Then check into eco-friendly Harmon Guest House, a peaceful yet centrally located hotel only a block away from dozens of fantastic restaurants, tasting rooms, and bars. Coming in the summer? Rest assured: All three options have swimming pools.

Read More: Your Perfect Weekend Getaway in Sonoma Wine Country

Fill your weekend exploring tide pools on the beach and exploring small towns along the Mendocino Coast.

Photo by The Life in Pics/Shutterstock

2. Mendocino coast

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

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

What to do on the Mendocino coast

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

Where to stay on the Mendocino coast

For classic Mendocino coast, book a stay in the town of Mendocino. Right in the heart of downtown is JD House , a six-room bed-and-breakfast with ocean views and decor that lands somewhere between ship captain’s home and modern hygge. Or immerse yourself in nature at Mendocino Grove , where you can stay in safari tents complete with beds, rugs, and firepits. The new for summer 2023 sauna and espresso bar make it an extra dreamy glamping experience. For a more removed but no less beautiful home base, head 15 miles south to the small coastal town of Elk and reserve a room at the Harbor House Inn , a hotel and Michelin-starred restaurant perched on a cliff above a private, pebbled beach.

Read More: Local Getaways: Escape to the Mendocino Coast

Turn off your phone and head to Wylder Hotel for a remote mountain getaway.

Courtesy of Wylder Hotel

3. Hope Valley

• Distance: four hours east of San Francisco
• Best for: a less-crowded escape to the Sierra Nevadas

A short drive south from Lake Tahoe , Hope Valley has all the beauty of a Sierra Nevada mountain getaway—minus the crowds. It’s an ideal weekend destination to retreat to the woods for a few days of digital detox amid alpine lakes and pine forests.

What to do in Hope Valley

Like much of the Sierras and Tahoe, Hope Valley is known as an outdoor destination. In warmer months, grab your hiking shoes or mountain bike to explore miles of trails in the nearby wilderness, like the range of trails around scenic Echo Lake or Snowshoe Thompson’s Cave, which is “a short 1.15-mile hike filled with lore,” says AFAR travel news editor Michelle Baran .

In the winter, opt for a snow-filled adventure snow-mobiling or snowshoeing on one of the trails at Hope Valley Sno-Park then warm up in the natural hot springs at nearby Grover Hot Springs State Park .

Where to stay in Hope Valley

Wylder Hotel , which has rustic but refurbished log cabins, yurts, and budget-friendly campsites, is an ideal homebase in Hope Valley.

Read More: Local Getaways: A Beautiful Mountain Escape in Northern California

Yoga among the redwoods is one of many activities at Canyon Ranch Woodside.

Courtesy of Canyon Ranch

4. Santa Cruz Mountains

• Distance: one hour south of San Francisco
• Best for: wine, hikes, and mountain bikes

Bay Area residents often come to the Santa Cruz Mountains for day trips and brief weekend adventures. But if you plan to stay longer, you won’t be bored—there’s enough winery hopping and hiking among the redwoods to fill an entire weekend.

What to do in the Santa Cruz Mountains

Outdoor activities like hiking, mountain biking, road cycling, and rock climbing are the main draw for visitors to the Santa Cruz Mountains. After you’ve worked up an appetite on the trails, visit one of the area’s wineries, like award-winning, family-run Mindego Ridge , or the many ranches and farms—an afternoon picnic and visit with the goats at Harley Farms Goat Dairy is a local favorite—to relax and refuel.

Where to stay in the Santa Cruz Mountains

Book yourself into a luxurious tree house at Canyon Ranch’s Woodside Retreat , which includes a full schedule of activities, like hikes and yoga sessions, and three healthy, locally sourced meals each day.

Read More: Local Getaways: The Santa Cruz Mountains Offer a Much-Needed Escape to Nature

Glamp in a classic Airstream or safari tent at Autocamp Russian River.

Courtesy of Autocamp

5. Guerneville

• Distance: one hour, 45 minutes north of San Francisco
• Best for: summer fun and food by the Russian River

Although scenic year-round, Guerneville’s location alongside the Russian River makes it an especially popular weekend destination in the summer, when you can float, kayak, or canoe in the water. Off the river, this tiny town is also home to a surprising number of delicious places to eat—with even more restaurants, breweries, and wineries a short drive away.

What to do in Guerneville

In the summer months, pack a floatie and a cooler full of snacks to spend the day lazing around on the Russian River. Visitors can also rent a canoe from Burke’s Canoes . Afterwards, this Sonoma County town is an excellent homebase for food and wine lovers—biscuits at Big Bottom Market , winetasting at Hartford Family Winery , beers at Stumptown Brewery , and ice cream at Nimble & Finn’s are a few of the area’s tasty highlights.

Where to stay in Guerneville

For classic Guerneville, you can’t go wrong renting a house by the river or booking a romantic retreat at the adults-only Boon Hotel + Spa , an intimate, LGBTQ-friendly boutique hotel with a pool, spa, and breakfast delivered to your room each morning. Prefer to glamp? Head to Autocamp and stay in a tricked-out Airstream trailer for the weekend.

Or, consider one of the newer hotels to the area: including the luxurious, 21-room boutique hotel, Stravrand (opened in 2021) located on a former orchard, and Dawn Ranch (opened in 2022), a collection of stylish cabins nestled in the redwoods, complete with restaurant and spa. Read More:

• A Weekend Getaway Guide to Guerneville
• Where to Eat on the Russian River

The Lodge at Bodega Bay is set on a quiet, scenic stretch of California coast—and has no shortage of scenic views.

6. Bodega Bay

• Best for : escaping the summer heat, kayaking, and relaxing in a newly renovated lodge

If you’ve spent any time exploring Northern California, you’ve likely passed by Bodega—the Highway 1 goes through this small blip of a town, located between Tomales Bay and Jenner on the Sonoma coast. Although it’s close enough to San Francisco for a day trip, the newly renovated rooms at the Lodge at Bodega Bay are reason enough for locals, out-of-towners, and north-bound road-trippers to turn their visit into a full-fledged weekend getaway.

Pro tip: Although San Francisco residents rarely have any summer heat to escape from, folks elsewhere in the Bay Area should take note. Bodega can be as much 20 degrees cooler than inland areas, making it an ideal summer retreat for anyone who wants respite from high temps.

What to do in Bodega Bay

Although you might be tempted to spend the entire weekend with a book and a beverage while enjoying the coastal views (and we won’t judge you if do), the natural beauty of the area will likely convince you otherwise. If you’re so inclined, start your morning by kayaking along the coast ( Bodega Bay Surf is a friendly spot for rentals) or hike on the scenic Bodega Head Trail. The area also happens to be an excellent spot for bird-watching, especially along the Birdwalk Coastal Access Trail in Doran Regional Park . In the mood for a beach day? Grab your blanket and head to Doran Beach or Campbell Cove.

After a day of adventuring, refuel with calamari at the Tides , fish and chips at Fishetarian Fish Market , or a cocktail and crudo at Drakes Fireside Lounge .

Where to stay

Book a room at the sprawling Lodge at Bodega Bay , a few minutes south of town. Each of the spacious 83 rooms features comfortable beds, plush robes, and westward-facing balconies with unobstructed views of the marsh and ocean. The area can get chilly at night and the lodge offers plenty of ways to warm up: in-room fireplaces, hot tub, sauna, or with a cocktail at its on-site bar and restaurant.

Big Sur has something for varied adventures and budgets, from basic campsites to five-star luxury.

Photo by Pete Niesen/Shutterstock

• Distance: three hours south of San Francisco
• Best for: a classic California coastal getaway

With its dramatic coastlines, waterfalls plunging into the ocean, and expansive, rugged redwood forests, Big Sur is one of those quintessential California destinations—and also a fortunately easy weekend getaway destination from the Bay Area.

What to do in Big Sur

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

Where to stay in Big Sur

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

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

Carmel Valley (not to be confused with nearby Carmel-by-the-Sea) is less than three hours from San Francisco by car.

Courtesy of Carmel Valley Ranch

8. Carmel Valley

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

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

What to do in Carmel Valley

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

Where to stay in Carmel Valley

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

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

This 15-mile stretch of watery inlet is home to many dairy and oyster farms, as well as excellent natural vistas.

Photo by Jules Fairley/Shutterstock

9. Tomales Bay

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

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

What to do in Tomales Bay

Start off your weekend in Tomales Bay with an outdoor activity or two, like watching elk in the Tule Elk Preserve , hiking to the Point Reyes Lighthouse, or kayaking in Tomales Bay. ( Blue Waters Kayaking in Marshall is a great place to rent from.)

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

Where to stay in Tomales Bay

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

Take a leisurely walk along the Pacific Ocean while relaxing in Cambria.

Photo by Mada_Cris, Shutterstock.

10. Cambria

• Distance: four hours south of San Francisco
• Best for: whale watching, wine, and relaxing on the beach

Equidistant from San Francisco and Los Angeles, the coastal town of Cambria is further than most of the other weekend getaways on this list, but it offers a blissfully relaxing break for those who brave the extra miles. Known as where the pines meet the sea, this low-key town is full of opportunities to get outside and hike, explore tidepools, or hang out on the beach—then fill up on delicious seafood and wine while admiring views of the sunset.

What to do in Cambria

Lean into Cambria’s laid-back charm and while away your day with walks along Moonstone Beach or hike the bluffs at Fiscalini Ranch . Come sundown, enjoy a glass of wine and bite to eat at one of several locally owned eateries, like seaside Sea Chest Oyster Bar or Madeline’s , which sits along the just-lively-enough Main Street. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a drive to explore nearby sights like the tiny town of San Simeon and Big Sur to the north, Morro Bay State Park for hikes or beach hangs to the south, or Paso Robles wine country to the east.

Where to stay in Cambria

At the north end of Moonstone Beach, family-friendly Oceanpoint Ranch has comfortable rooms (many of which have wood-burning fireplaces), plenty of activities (shuffleboard, croquet, horseshoes), and an onsite restaurant that serves to-go breakfasts and hearty suppers. For a more woodsy experience, Cambria Pines Lodge is a cozy, forest retreat complete with a lounge perfect for enjoying a glass of local pinot by a warm fire.

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

Instead of wine, taste brandy, at the new California Brandy House in Napa.

Courtsey of California Brandy House

11. Napa Valley

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

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

What to do in Napa Valley

Napa is about more than wine (though winetasting is certainly a top thing to do here). To see a different side, spend the day cycling its back roads with Napa Valley Bike Tours , hang out with a (very cute) crew of rescue animals at Oasis by Hoopes , or taste brandy at California Brandy House . Once you’ve worked up an appetite, head to Empress M , the vision of entrepreneur Margaret Wong that features gourmet Chinese dishes like shrimp dumplings, Sichuan calamari, and roast duck; Lucy Restaurant at Bardessono , a tranquil restaurant with seasonally inspired dishes like asparagus en cocotte; or North Block , whose menu by Momofuku alum chef Nick Tamburo revolves around a wood-fired oven and features such items as sourdough pizzas and cured trout with almond milk and trout roe.

Where to stay in Napa Valley

There’s no shortage of incredible hotels and resorts throughout Napa Valley, but there are several new and noteworthy places to consider checking in to. The George in downtown Napa is a nine-room inn in a historic, recently restored, 19th-century home where guests are treated to plush towels, comfortable beds, and fresh English muffins from nearby Model Bakery .

Further north in Calistoga, the iconic Dr. Wilkinson’s Backyard Resort & Mineral Springs has been transformed with its chic, fully renovated, midcentury modern–inspired rooms, an on-site eatery, House of Better , that serves Southwestern-style fare, a new outdoor spa, and several new room concepts, like a stand-alone one-bedroom bungalow.

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

This article originally appeared online in 2020; it was most recently updated on June 22, 2023, to include current information.

Discover more travel inspiration with these videos by AFAR.

• Entertainment
• Rex Reed Reviews
• Awards Shows
• Climate Change
• Restaurants
• Gift Guides
• Business of Art
• Nightlife & Dining
• About Observer
• Advertise With Us

The Best Weekend Escapes from San Francisco

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

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

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

1.5-hour drive

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

Where to Stay:

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

3.5-hour drive

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

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

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

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

Carmel-by-the-Sea

2-hour drive

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

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

3-hour drive

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

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

We noticed you're using an ad blocker.

We get it: you like to have control of your own internet experience. But advertising revenue helps support our journalism. To read our full stories, please turn off your ad blocker. We'd really appreciate it.

How Do I Whitelist Observer?

Below are steps you can take in order to whitelist Observer.com on your browser:

For Adblock:

Click the AdBlock button on your browser and select Don't run on pages on this domain .

For Adblock Plus on Google Chrome:

Click the AdBlock Plus button on your browser and select Enabled on this site.

For Adblock Plus on Firefox:

Click the AdBlock Plus button on your browser and select Disable on Observer.com.

The Wayward Home

16 Best Weekend Road Trips That You Have To Try

Posted: March 13, 2024 | Last updated: March 13, 2024

If you need a quick break from daily life, a weekend road trip is a great idea. These short trips need little planning, are easy on the budget, and can fit your interests. Whether you love stunning views or city exploration, we’ve got you covered. Here are the best quick road trips that will give you great adventures in just a few days.

1. Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina and Virginia

Explore Blue Ridge Parkway, a 469-mile highway known as “America’s Favorite Drive.” This road passes through the Appalachian Highlands, offering expansive views, walking trails, quaint towns, and stunning natural landscapes.

2. Highway 1, California

The iconic coastal route Highway 1 runs from the tip of San Francisco to the southern edges of California. It’s a stretch filled with cliffside ocean vistas, beaches, and unique attractions like Hearst Castle. Pit stops at cozy towns like Carmel-by-the-Sea add charm to the journey.

3. Route 66, Illinois to California

Get a taste of classic America by driving chunks of Route 66 over a weekend. This famous road has old gas stations , diners, and shops that keep the old road’s spirit alive. Also, take advantage of the fabulous car museums and old-school motels.

4. Hana Highway, Hawaii

The 64-mile road to Hana Highway in Hawaii is a tropical paradise. You’ll pass by waterfalls, beaches, and stunning sea cliffs. The road may be curvy, but rich scenes and fragrant air make it a delightful drive. Remember to try some fresh tropical fruits and local food in roadside stalls.

5. Overseas Highway, Florida

Imagine a highway skipping over the ocean—the Overseas Highway does just that, connecting the Florida Mainland with Key West. Each bridge offers views of the Gulf of Mexico on one side and the Atlantic Ocean on the other. Also, watch for dolphins and sea birds as you make your scenic journey.

6. Columbia River Highway, Oregon

The Columbia River Highway is a historically significant road dotted with waterfalls. Waterfalls like Multnomah Falls will catch your eye, and the loud river and beautiful views will also grab your attention. Try some local fruit at the quaint roadside stands along the way.

7. Skyline Drive, Virginia

Watch for wildlife as you cruise Shenandoah National Park’s majestic 105-mile drive. This route offers four seasons of splendor, but autumn’s colorful foliage is a true standout.

8. Pacific Coast Highway, Washington to California

The Pacific Coast Highway on the West Coast shows you the ocean, tall trees, and mountains. Stop in small towns or state parks and enjoy the Pacific’s raw beauty. Also, watch for whales and surfers as you travel along this breathtaking coastline.

9. Going-to-the-Sun Road, Montana

Running through Glacier National Park, Going-to-the-Sun road is famous for pristine wilderness views. The road is an engineering wonder, and the scenery of spiked peaks is unmatched. Remember to stop at the lookout spots to see the beautiful valleys and animals.

10. Pikes Peak Highway, Colorado

Pikes Peak Highway leads to the summit of Pikes Peak, one of America’s most famous mountains. This mountain is part of the Rocky Mountains, located in Colorado Springs. The journey up Pikes Peak Highway offers stunning views of green forests, alpine lakes, and the unique geological formations of the Garden of the Gods along the way.

11. Bluebonnet Trail, Texas

In spring, the Texas Hill Country is covered in bluebonnets, the state flower. If you’re driving on the Bluebonnet Trail, you’ll see blue flowers all around you. This is a beautiful and typically Texan sight, which you might want to capture on camera. Don’t forget to take pictures of the flower fields against the Texas sky; they make great photos.

12. Kancamagus Scenic Byway, New Hampshire

New England displays its colors in the fall along the Kancamagus Scenic Byway route. The winding 34-mile drive is known for covered bridges, old forests, and running rivers. The road also features multiple hiking trails for those seeking an adventurous detour. You might spot animals and find lovely places to eat outdoors, making the trip even better.

13. Route 100, Vermont

Route 100 embodies all the charming, small-town qualities typically associated with New England. Sweet small towns meet vast landscapes of mountains and grasslands. 

Every stop along this Vermont route is a delight. Along the way, you’ll also find comforting cafes and shops, perfect for a quick bite or finding souvenirs.

14. Great River Road, Minnesota to Louisiana

The Great River Road is a road trip alongside the Mississippi River from Minnesota to Louisiana. This path lets you see how the area and towns near the river differ from the North to the South.

You can enjoy local music and try special foods like spicy Cajun meals in Louisiana. This journey will also show you how the Mississippi River influences agriculture and businesses in the towns you visit.

15. Natchez Trace Parkway, Tennessee to Mississippi

The 444-mile Natchez Trace Parkway is steeped in history, tracing ancient travel routes used by Native Americans and early Europeans. You can explore historical sites, enjoy the rolling hills and deep forests, and appreciate colorful wildflowers and old cemeteries.

16. United States Route 101, Oregon Coast

With rough cliffs, coastal towns, and lighthouses, this route is a spectacle of the Oregon coast. The dramatic coastline is an open invitation for photographers and nature lovers alike. Along the way, you can explore antique shops, eat fresh seafood, and dip your toes in the Pacific Ocean.

How To Travel Cheap: 15 Unique Budget Hacks

Let go of the thinking that you need thousands of dollars to have a good vacation, it is not true at all!

Let’s dive straight into how to travel cheap and still have the best time. I want you to realize that you can easily travel stress-free and not think about money the whole way. 

• Read More: How To Travel Cheap: 15 Unique Budget Hacks

15 Road Trip Hacks You Need, According to Seasoned Travelers

Looking for the best road trip hacks for your upcoming adventure? Road trips are immensely enjoyable, but they can quickly turn into a drag if you don’t get enough sleep, fail to pack the right snacks, encounter dirty restrooms, or lose network coverage. Proper planning and preparation are key to ensuring a successful journey. 

That’s why we’ve compiled a list of 15 solid road trip hacks full of insider knowledge from seasoned travelers:

• Read More: 15 Amazing Road Trip Hacks for a Better Adventure

More Articles from The Wayward Home

• 12 Scintillating Road Trip Ideas For The Ultimate Nerd
• Road-Tripping America's Most Haunted Routes

More for You

Nikki Haley announces new job after quitting 2024 presidential race

Where is Jennifer Pan from ‘What Jennifer Did’ now?

Remote workers are about to get a rude awakening

CBS issues statement over chaotic Billy Joel broadcast

California school board president ordered to pay legal fees after LGBTQ flag debate, death threats

4 Things You Should Never Cook in Cast Iron

These Are 10 Smells That Cats Absolutely Hate

‘Rust’ Armorer Gets Maximum 18 Months In Prison—Judge Says She Won’t ‘Take Accountability’

Ketanji Brown Jackson's New Warning to Supreme Court

How crews moved a 450-ton hunk of the collapsed Key Bridge

The passport rule that prevented Vicky Pattison from boarding her flight – and how to avoid the same mistake

Country announces major plans to ban of gas-powered vehicles in sweeping new law: 'The evidence ... is clear'

The Coolest Car From the Year You Were Born (1945-1995)

How to Get Sticker Residue Off Anything, According to Cleaning Experts

One of the best British spy dramas of all time is finally streaming on Netflix

10 Tool Brands You Might Not Realize Are Owned By Harbor Freight

USA Basketball Finalizes 2024 Paris Olympics Roster Headlined by LeBron James, Steph Curry

Coachella weekend 1: No Doubt reunites, Blur flops and influencers influence

United Airlines Washington Bound Flight Returned To Chicago O'Hare After Threat Discovered On Lavatory Mirror

78 Riddles for Adults That Will Test Your Smarts