Looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of your busy life? California is a hot destination for locals and visitors from all over the world.
Quaint beach towns, unrivaled nature, plentiful vineyards, luxurious resorts, and world-class dining— you can find it all here. There’s truly something for everyone. The hardest part is choosing just one destination.
Plan your next memorable solo sojourn, family vacation, romantic getaway, or friend’s weekend at any one of these amazing California getaway destinations. They’re easy to get to and you can plan a trip suitable to work within your budget.
Here is our list of the best weekend getaways in California.
Best Weekend Getaways in California
1. Santa Barbara
From its lively beaches, ideal for catching the perfect wave or a stunning sunset, to the picturesque backdrop of the Santa Ynez Mountains, it’s easy to see how the chill beach town vibes of Santa Barbara draw people in.
After a full day of surfing, kayaking, or being a beach bum, take some time to explore the trendy streets full of boutique shops, indulge in a wine tasting, or learn about the area’s diverse history. Read our full list of things to do in Santa Barbara.
For wonderful views, murals, painted tiles, gorgeous gardens, and amazing architecture head over to the Santa Barbara County Courthouse. That’s right, this courthouse is a work of art!
Explore the sights in Santa Barbara for a relaxing West Coast weekend getaway
2. San Francisco
San Francisco is a world of its own.
It’s home to tons of famous attractions, events, and a unique subculture you won’t soon forget.
Fill your weekend with some of the top sights like Fisherman’s Wharf, Golden Gate Park, Alcatraz Island, and the Golden Gate Bridge.
When your feet get tired from all that walking, hop on the cable car to get a glimpse of historic landmarks before catching a Giants game or splurging on a 5-star meal and checking out the vibrant nightlife.
Spend a weekend in San Francisco and discover why it’s one of the most visited places in the US
3. Palm Springs
Made famous for its lavish resorts and spas, natural hot springs, and impressive golf courses, Palm Springs is the place to be for a luxurious and relaxing weekend getaway in California.
Spend your mornings teeing off early, hiking the palm canyon, or getting in a few laps before relaxing poolside.
In the afternoon, enjoy a well-deserved spa treatment or a soak in the hot springs. Come here to de-stress, pamper yourself, and revitalize your soul.
Staying more than a few days? Check out the best day trips from Palm Springs. And be sure to read our list of the Best Boutique Hotels in Palm Springs.
A Palm Springs weekend adventure offers many options from hiking, golfing, thrift shops, spas, and hot springs to name a few
4. San Diego
With nearly perfect weather all year round and sandy beaches that stretch for miles, this coastal city brings in visitors every season.
But it’s more than just another Cali beach town. San Diego has a rich military history, fantastic foodie scene, and thriving cultural element that sets it apart from other cities.
After all, there’s a reason it’s called “America’s Finest City.” There’s something here for city lovers, beach dwellers, and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Read our list of best things to do in San Diego and explore the top day trips from San Diego.
San Diego is a great choice for a weekend trip in California – beaches, museums, and gorgeous weather await!
5. Marin County
Marin County is known for its natural beauty. From stunning coastlines to rolling verdant hills, to towering redwood forests, it’s a paradise for those who appreciate a quiet hike in nature or more privacy at the beach.
If your schedule allows, book a ferry to Sausalito, a small waterfront town with Mediterranean vibes, hundreds of houseboats dating back decades, and charming character.
To cover more ground, rent a bike to take with you. It’s the perfect way to explore this quaint area.
From Muir Woods to Point Reyes National Seashore there’s tons of stuff to do in Marin County – and especially fun for outdoorsy folks.
I stayed in Corte Madera for a week but a weekend gives you enough time to explore a lot of Marin County from beaches to small towns and scenic drives.
Escape for a weekend to Marin County for beaches, nature walks, wildlife viewing on the California coast
6. Napa Valley
Welcome to wine country, host of some of the best weekend getaways in California.
The region has earned its prominence through its world-class wine and hospitality.
The striking hillside vineyards, Napa Valley Wine Train, and Michelin star restaurants attract nearly 4 million visitors a year.
For non-wine-related activities, take a trip to the Bothe-Napa Valley State Park, book a hot air balloon ride, stroll through the lively downtown area, and be sure to check out Oxbow Public Market.
Just say YES to a wine country weekend in Napa Valley
7. Catalina Island
Just 22 miles off California’s southern coast lies the scenic Catalina Island.
Once you’ve arrived by ferry there’s no shortage of exhilarating activities to enjoy from ziplining to helicopter rides over the island to scuba diving.
Of course, a trip to the botanical garden, a stroll through the vibrant downtown areas, and casual lounging on the beach are all favorite activities as well.
While you will certainly find spectacular accommodations on the island, Catalina offers some of the best camping in California.
So, whether you come here to unleash the adventurer in you or relax, your trip is destined to be a weekend for the books!
Take a weekend escape to Catalina Island and you’ll feel world’s away on this California getaway
8. Carpinteria
Perhaps it’s the title of “The World’s Safest Beach,” that brings swimmers and surfers to Carpinteria.
The absence of riptides makes this destination a safe oasis for water sports. Or perhaps it’s the welcoming small-town feel, cute cafes, and seal pups that draw people in.
It’s easy to spend the day walking on the beach, checking out the tide pools, looking for sea glass, or simply enjoying a beach day.
Close out the day with a sunset beach walk and then dinner at Zookers Restaurant or Teddy’s by The Sea.
Carpinteria an exceptional choice for a family getaway, romantic weekend, or a solo sojourn. Read our complete list of stuff to do in Carp and find out why it’s such a beloved small beach town in California.
A weekend in Carpinteria is the perfect place for beach lovers
9. Big Sur
Here is your chance to reconnect with nature.
Begin your trip on the winding roads of Highway 101 which offers sweeping vistas of rugged coastlines as the salty ocean breeze fills your car.
There are tons of surrounding state parks, nature reserves, beaches, and hiking trails to check out.
This is the perfect place to spend a few days hiking, biking, swimming, or fishing and disconnecting from city life.
Check out our suggestions for 30 Pacific Coast Highway stops on an LA to San Francisco road trip.
A weekend in Big Sur is an experience you will remember forever
10. Paso Robles
If you’ve already done Napa Valley, mix things up and take a visit to Paso Robles laid-back wine and olive region.
While there are plenty of wineries and breweries to choose from, you can also trade in those wine glasses and pints for spoons as you sample different olive oils at a tasting.
The vibrant downtown area is great for taking an evening stroll, fueling up at an award-winning restaurant, and be sure to grab a sweet treat from the Paso Market Walk.
11. Yosemite National Park
Famous for being home to towering sequoia trees, beautiful waterfalls, and granite giants El Capitan and Half Dome, Yosemite is one of America’s most visited national parks.
It is a haven for hiking, climbing, biking, and wildlife sightings.
If it’s your first visit, be sure to check out all the famous landmarks, or take the path less traveled and set out to find the hidden gems of the park.
A weekend in Yosemite is a great escape to nature with scenic drives and outstanding hiking opportunities
12. Lake Tahoe
Located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, this pristine freshwater lake attracts visitors all year round.
In summer, the crystal-clear aquamarine waters and evergreen forests invite nature lovers, and in winter, the lake provides a picturesque backdrop for skiing and snowboarding.
The scenic drive along the lake alone is enough to warrant a visit.
So, if you’re looking for a stunning place for a fun weekend getaway in California, let Lake Tahoe be your outdoor playground.
13. Sequoia National Park
Prepare to be humbled by the awe-inspiring sequoia forests.
Gaze up as you stand next to these magnificent giants and see first-hand just how incredibly tall they are!
Of course, these are the main draw to the park, but there’s so many things to do at Sequoia.
Visitors can also snap a photo of the famous tunnel log, hop on any of the hiking trails, or for some of the best views, climb the 400 steps to the top of Moro Rock and breathe in the vistas.
For an epic outdoor weekend getaway in California, start planning your trip to Sequoia National Park.
14. Redwood National/State Park
Come for the 300 feet redwoods, stay for the stunning scenery, incredible hikes, and awesome wildlife.
Hike through the massive redwoods or take in the views from the many outlooks sprinkled throughout the park.
Whether you choose to hike your way through the park or drive along the coastline, there’s a ton of nature to be enjoyed and savored.
People from all over the world travel to marvel at the redwoods, but it can easily be made into a short, magical weekend away.
15. Joshua Tree National Park
Come explore where the Mojave Desert meets the Colorado Desert, and the landscapes are otherworldly.
An incredible park to explore, visitors can plan their trip around hiking, climbing, and day or nighttime photography.
Sunsets are divine at Joshua Tree.
Hidden Valley offers beautiful views unlike anything you’ve seen before, and you can take a short hike suitable for all levels of hikers.
Explore the unique geology of the area and catch a glimpse of the notorious San Andreas Fault Line or hit the Cholla Cactus Garden to get up close and personal with the flora in the park. Just don’t make the mistake of touching the cactus!
Read more about visiting Joshua Tree National Park.
You’ll enjoy spectacular sunrises and sunsets with a Joshua Tree National Park weekend getaway
Final Thoughts on California Weekend Trips
With the Pacific coast, mountains, vineyards, and incredible national parks California has some of the best weekend trips in the US. Whether you want to relax or test your endurance out on the trails Cali will surprise you with abundant choices. This list of weekend trips in California is your starting point, now pick your trip and start packing!
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