15 weekend getaway ideas in california
Want to get away for a weekend but not sure where to go? Here are 15 weekend trip ideas in California for you to choose from.
Girls trip
Weekend getaway to NAPA. Get your besties together, book some wine tastings, bring tons of outfits, have fun, gossip, and take pictures.
To reset
About two hours away from San Francisco, you can find endless options for scenic beaches in SONOMA COUNTY that are way less crowded than Malibu or Big Sur.
A weekend with mom
CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA is a great destination to spend a weekend exploring. Cute coffee shops, restaurants with local foods and wines, charming architecture, art galleries, and shopping. Your mom will love it!
Workation
Sometimes you just need a change of scenery but do not necessarily have time to take a break. Head to SAN FRANCISCO, where you can do a lot of exploring after work.
Couples Weekend
Pack your overnight bag, make some reservations, and surprise your partner with a trip to OCEANSIDE. You’ll feel like you are on vacation!
When you want to go to Europe
CATALINA ISLAND is just a short ferry ride away from Long Beach. This little island gives European vibes. Hike, kayak, eat and enjoy the view. You should definitely rent a golf cart while you are there. Such a fun way to explore the island!
When you want to get lost
JOSHUA TREE NATIONAL PARK will make you feel like you are on another planet. This epic landscape definitely doesn’t look like it belongs to California. Just don’t go during summer, it’s way too hot!
Winter getaway
MAMMOTH and June Mountain resorts are about five hours driving distance from LA and are probably the most popular skiing destinations in California. Go to June Mountain to avoid crowds.
Always a good idea
BIG SUR never disappoints! You can visit this beautiful destination many times and will always find something new to see.
When you want something different
ANZA-BORREGO DESERT STATE PARK is extremely underrated. The landscape looks like a combination between Arizona and Death Valley National Park. Book yourself a resort stay and watch the stars from the swimming pool at night.
For camping lovers
The best way to explore CHANNEL ISLANDS NATIONAL PARK is to bring your camping tent and stay overnight. Anacapa Island is so tiny that you can walk from one side to another in 20 minutes. You will be literally sleeping in the middle of the ocean!
Staycation
Why not spend a weekend in LOS ANGELES as a tourist? I call it a staycation because I live here, but if you come from another city, you can call it “Get closer to the stars.” And make sure to check out the telescope at Griffith Observatory to see the actual stars!
When you are feeling bougie
MALIBU is not the cheapest place to spend the weekend. Good hotels can cost $1500 a night, but if you feel like it’s time to splurge and treat yourself, there’s no better place than Malibu!
Go with a friend
One of my favorite weekend getaway ideas is to buy tickets to a show in SAN DIEGO and spend the night in the city. Make sure to wake up early and watch the sunrise at the beach.
Challenge yourself
The drive is going to be long, the hikes will challenge your endurance, and the heat is going to feel exhausting… but it’s all worth it for the views DEATH VALLEY NATIONAL PARK has to offer.