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If you’re looking for the best weekend getaways in California, you’ve come to the right place. Everything you need to know about preparing for the perfect weekend in California may be found here!
There’s a lot to consider when arranging a weekend in California for visitors worldwide and residents alike. You don’t have to take time off from work or travel the world to enjoy these California weekend escapes.
1. San Francisco
San Francisco is one of my favorite places in California for a weekend break. One of California’s most beautiful cities has been my home for about a decade now. You won’t find a more vibrant and close-knit community anywhere.
It’s always awe-inspiring to be at the beach in ten minutes or less. Two full days in San Francisco are all you need to get a good feel for the city if you’re only in town for a short weekend. There’s also the possibility of repurchasing unused items on your future journey.
2. San Diego
To complete this California weekend getaway piece, we must include a trip to Southern California’s southernmost city, providing everything you need for a relaxing weekend away from home. Avoid the usual tourist traps and get to know the city like a resident!
Sip on a craft beer from a local microbrewery while you soak up the sun in San Diego. Laguna Beach, one of our favorite coastal villages, is only 45 minutes from northern San Diego if you’re ready for the drive!
3. Solvang
Located in California, Solvang has a unique, charming and inviting motif. You may see windmills, local bakeries that serve Danish delicacies, and plenty of fascinating shops to peruse for presents in this European-style village. It’s also thrilling that lots of sampling and tour choices are available in the city and adjacent vineyards because Solvang is a premier wine destination in the San Ynez Valley.
During the Solvang Stomp in October, you can participate in the activities above and eat, drink, and sing your heart out. You and your loved ones will feel like you’ve entered a new age and time when you spend the weekend here.
4. Napa
Even after all these years, Napa Valley remains one of the most sought-after weekend getaway destinations in the United States, and for a good reason. Check out new vineyards or revisit favorites you’ve visited before while you’re here.
Also, Napa is a terrific spot to bike, whether on the concrete trails that run through town or on rolling hills with quiet views on the vineyard roads. There are a few new breweries in town that are worth checking out if you need a break from all that wine. Oxbow Public Market is an excellent place to taste local foods and shopping.
5. Fort Bragg
Even though the nearby town of Mendocino gets most of the attention, a weekend trip to Fort Bragg is well worth it if you want to learn more about the Golden State. Sea kayaking and kayaking excursions are popular pastimes in this northern California town, which is noted for its Glass Beach.
You can bring your bike to town for the weekend, ride it around town, and visit the North Coast Brewing Company, a well-known local brewery. Not only does the brewery offer a wide variety of beers and tasty food, but it also frequently hosts live acts on the stage in the back room, some of which are free.
6. Calistoga
Napa Valley’s northernmost hamlet is awe-inspiring and breathtaking. A beautiful tiny town with less pretense than some of its southern neighbors, Calistoga is the spa capital of Napa Valley.
Besides its visitor-friendly vineyards, the area has a lot of exciting things to see and do, making it a great site to take in the “wine country” beauty while also doing something unusual. Whether you’re looking for a family vacation or a romantic getaway, this is the place.
7. The Monterey Peninsula
It’s possible to spend an entire weekend in one town on the Monterey Peninsula, which is located on California’s Central Coast and has many small, picturesque communities. An excellent whale-watching opportunity and a world-class aquarium await visitors to Monterey. Visit the Monterey State Historical Park, go kayaking, or take in the marine life. One of the most beautiful drives in the world takes place in Pebble Beach, which is just a short drive away.
Quiet Pacific Grove offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean from the Asilomar Coastal Trail and Lovers Point Park, as well as a variety of water sports. Visit the town’s charming heritage properties and take in the vibrant murals adorn the walls.
8. Point Reyes National Seashore
Plan a journey to Point Reyes National Seashore for your weekend getaway if you wish to reconnect with nature. With 1,500 types of animals and plants, as well as stunning ocean views, this is a must-see destination for nature lovers.
There are elephant seals, salmon spawning season, and roughly 150 miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding in the area during the winter rains. Hosteling International, which features dorm-style accommodations and four private rooms, or camping in the backcountry are options for your weekend stay.
9. Big Sur
As a nature lover, you can’t go wrong with a weekend trip to Big Sur in California. In addition to its dramatic cliffs and panoramic views of the Pacific, the Big Sur coast’s raw beauty is well-known worldwide. Big Sur weekends can be as relaxing or active as you like. Glamping and camping areas and luxury resorts allow visitors to relax and enjoy the natural splendors of the area.
Alternately, you can take a road trip around the Big Sur Coast, stopping at notable locations like McWay Falls and Bixby Creek Bridge to capture the scenery and search for hidden waterfalls. Point Lobos State Reserve and Garrapata State Park have sandy beaches and numerous hiking routes.
10. Mendocino County
Mendocino County in Northern California is a terrific area to spend a relaxing weekend if you’re looking for natural beauty, great food and drink, and attractive tourist sites. The Village of Mendocino is an architectural wonder on a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean. In surrounding state parks, explore redwoods and pygmy forests, and paddle a redwood outrigger canoe down Big River in an outrigger.
Beautiful Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens are just short drive north. In addition to spectacular ocean views and flower displays, it is open for most of the year. It’s no secret that the water at Fort Bragg’s Glass Beach has returned treasures in exchange for rubbish. More state parks and coastal paths can be explored by taking Skunk Train’s historic train into the redwoods.
11. Santa Barbara
Glorious and ethereal. It’s hard to imagine a coastal California city without considering Santa Barbara. With its tiled rooftops, warm walls covered in bougainvillea, and tall palms, we’re sure you won’t be able to leave Santa Barbara after just one weekend. Assumed Duty For history aficionados, the Presidio and the city of Santa Barbara are must-sees. Known as “Queen of the Missions,” the Spanish mission in Santa Barbara, California, is one of the most beautiful in the state. Two of the fort’s original adobe structures can be found in the Presidio de Santa Bárbara State Historic Park.
An unusual mix of exciting stores, restaurants, and wine tasting rooms can be found in the Funk Zone. Take advantage of your time in the Funk Zone by arranging a cuisine and photography tour with a local guide. Fun museum MOXI is a must-stop for kids and adults alike in the Funk Zone. Butterfly Beach in Montecito is a beautiful place to watch the sunset, and the sand is ideal for a stroll. One of Montecito’s most popular tourist attractions is Lotusland, a beautiful garden complex.
12. Sonoma Valley
To the north of the Napa Valley comes the beautiful Sonoma Valley, which wine drinkers and non-drinkers alike can enjoy. The countryside is lovely, the towns are charming, and the food is excellent. Our favorite place to visit in the Sonoma Valley is Healdsburg, located north of the valley. There may be numerous bakeries, wineries, and restaurants with farm-to-table cuisines near Healdsburg Plaza. Inspired by the local ingredients available, Spoonbar serves up inventive cocktails. The menu at SingleThread is influenced by Japanese cuisine and features elements from nearby farms in Sonoma Valley.
Village of Sonoma, with its ancient square, rose gardens and topiary, is equally as attractive in the South. You’ll discover bakeries, cafes, restaurants, and tasting rooms near the central plaza. Several historical sites are in and around the square, including the last of the Franciscan friars’ Spanish missions, which is part of the Sonoma State Historic Park. You may take a hot air balloon ride in Windsor.
The Russian River Valley has you covered if you’re looking for a tranquil river float or a canoe ride. Wineries in the vicinity are a terrific place to go hiking, biking, or horseback riding and schedule a winery tour. We recommend visiting the lavender fields of Sonoma County during the early spring months!
13. Malibu
In addition to its magnificent coastline, Malibu is an excellent location for hiking and other outdoor pursuits. Not surprisingly, this seaside haven in Southern California is well-known for its wineries and fine dining. Malibu has a beach for every type of traveler. Head to El Matador Beach if you’re interested in photographing the landscape and exploring sea caves or rocks. Surfrider Beach is no better place to catch a wave in Malibu. Swimming, sunbathing, and watching whales are popular activities at Zuma Beach.
Point Dume Preserve is a great place to see Malibu and the Santa Monica Mountains from an observation platform. The Grotto Trail and Solstice Canyon both lead to waterfalls. Escondido Falls, one of California’s top waterfalls when it’s flowing strongly, is also accessible via trek.
14. Catalina Island
There is only one permanent human occupant on Catalina Island, just off the coast of Southern California. Ferries run year-round on the Catalina Express, providing quick access to the island. The trip takes about an hour each way. In addition to ground transportation, a helicopter is an option for transportation. Catalina Island is one of the best places in California for a romantic weekend.
More than a century ago, Avalon became a favorite resort for tourists and locals alike in the island’s southeast corner. It’s a beautiful city with a wide variety of lodging options, restaurants and spas, as well as a variety of water and land activities. While strolling Front Street, the Wrigley Fountain and the Serpentine Wall can’t be missed. A wide variety of boat tours may be found at the Green Pier, while the Tour Plaza is the best site to sign up for inland excursions.
