Top 10 Weekend Getaways in California

Big Sur is one of the few places in California that is both well known, and relatively undisturbed. This is because it resides in the center of a large nature reserve, with no big cities or towns for miles on either side.

Here, it makes sense to spend the night at an adjacent town (or camp in the wilderness!) and drive to visit Big Sur during the day. This is a place known to host surfing competitions, so if you really want to see all the West Coast can do look online for some tour dates. Hang loose at one of California’s premiere beach locations!

Often referred to as the ‘wine capital of the U.S.’, Napa Valley is a wine lover’s dream vacation! The rolling hills and charming farms will enchant its guests into saying ‘oh, just one more glass’, and making this the best vacation ever!

What’s especially nice about Napa Valley is that it isn’t just for one type of traveler. If you want to rough it, camp, and get good wine for a cheap price --- think Napa Valley!

And if you want to splurge a little, stay in a resort and let only the finest of wines grace your lips --- think Napa Valley! There’s really no wrong way to enjoy your time here.

The ultimate 2 for 1 adventure! These are actually two separate (but no less beautiful) national parks, but considering they are so close in proximity it makes sense to get the most out of your trip and visit both! Some of the trees here stretch past 300 feet!

Not to mention the fact that they are hundreds of years old, and the paths that wind between them well trekked. These are some of the most stunning nature preserves in the whole country, and they’re neighbors.

The city on the bay come alive! San Francisco is a charming big city with all the lures and personality of a small town.

It has sports arenas, nightlife bars, and the world famous bay piers with hours upon hours of fun for the whole family! While you’re here, don’t forget to check out the golden gate bridge, with an opportunity for some pretty great photos on either side.

The picture of serenity and relaxation… all it needs now is you! Yosemite is nationally acclaimed as being one of the best parks for visitors. There are hours upon hours of trails to explore, and so much to see this site alone could take up well more than just one weekend.

While there are options for overnight stays in the surrounding areas, consider camping! Be sure to look online for any reservations necessary, and start packing those hiking boots.

The city of angels! Surely a city that needs no introduction is one city you won’t want to miss. This is the perfect place for people who like a little bit of big city controlled chaos, and can’t resist a lively crowd.

Los Angeles is known for being home to the stars, a few iconic beaches, and some heavy traffic. Come with your camera locked and loaded because this is one city you won’t soon forget.

While ‘the lowest and driest place in North America’ may not sound like prime vacation realty: there’s a reason it often graces travel bucket lists. This is one of the most unique places in the world, right in the heart of California!

Here you will find wide, expansive deserts, and even a few glistening White Mountains! There are dunes, and diverting paths, and all the outdoor adventure any traveler could need, right at your fingertips in Death Valley.

Adventure on the beach! Santa Cruz is a bustling beach town that is most notably known for its amusement park. Here you can ride rollercoasters, play carnival games, and eat all the festival food you can find on the Santa Cruz boardwalk!

Not to mention the stunning beach that lies just beyond! Sit back and relax, or check the waves to see if you can’t hang loose for an afternoon.

Technically a weekend getaway in both California and Nevada, but well worth the drive to the Stateline! Lake Tahoe is the perfect place to go if you’ve had your fill of ocean beaches. Here there are towering mountains, ski and summer resorts, and a truly stunning lake in the center of it all.

Here you can hike, boat, snowboard, zip line, party, and swim all in one place! It’s a little bit on the pricier side (depending on where you go), but if you’re looking for a place with numerous activities Lake Tahoe is the place for you.

The golden city on the golden coast! San Diego is one of the most recommended places not just in California, but in the United States. It is known for having good food, good people, and plenty of good fun.

Here in San Diego you can enjoy the shoreline with a chilled beach town vibe, and the big city bustle just a few streets over. It is also known for having some truly amazing parks, bars, and nightlife so whatever you’re looking for: San Diego is sure to have it!