If you need a quick escape, consider one of these weekend getaways in California. With several large airports, it’s easy to get in and out for a weekend trip. It’s one of the prettiest states in the U.S. and has everything from bustling cities to outdoor adventures.
What kind of trip are you feeling? Maybe you need to recharge in a place like Sausalito or Santa Barbara. Or do you want to sunshine and beaches somewhere like San Diego or Los Angeles? Keep reading to see which destination is right for you.
Southern California
Escape to SoCal for palm trees, ocean views and perfect warm weather. These spots sit along the California coast, so expect a sunny, picturesque vacation.
Santa Barbara
Best for: Relaxation, Restaurants, Shopping
Need a trip where you can take a break and relax? Then Santa Barbara is the place for you. It’s an iconic California city because of its mellow vibes, wine culture and views of the Pacific Ocean.
The main areas are downtown Santa Barbara, East Beach and the harbor area. You can spend most of your days sipping wine on a sunny patio. Here’s a list of the best things to do in Santa Barbara.
Just two hours north of Los Angeles, Santa Barbara has its own airport (SBA). So, it’s easy to fly in to either town for your weekend trip. I recommend AirBnB or VRBO instead of a hotel. There are some amazing private residences that embody its coastal influences. Plus, having your own place really lets you get some peace.
San Diego
Best for: Beaches, Art, Restaurants
San Diego is probably the most well-rounded city in California. It’s the perfect mix of entertainment, beaches, culture and history. Often less crowded than other areas, it’s a peaceful place to recharge your batteries.
If you like adventure travel, you can hike the cliffs at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve. Or have a day at one of the many San Diego beaches like Mission Beach, La Jolla Shores or Coronado Island. The Gaslamp Quarter is a foodie’s paradise, filled with eclectic restaurants, bars and breweries.
Want to see more? Here’s a list of the best views in San Diego.
Los Angeles
Best for: Entertainment, Nightlife, Shopping, Beaches
The most popular weekend destination in SoCal has to be Los Angeles. This famous town is part of a greater area and offers everything from theme parks and beaches to landmarks, mountain trails and sports arenas.
As a result, you can narrow your visit to a smaller area like Long Beach, Santa Monica or Huntington Beach. There’s enough in each of these places to keep you busy for a 2-day trip. You can also stay in proper Los Angeles to visit entertainment spots like Hollywood, SoFi Stadium and downtown L.A.
Northern California
Northern California is just as beautiful with some noticeable differences. Swap the palm trees for towering sequoias and redwoods. The coast is colder and more rocky creating a more cozy vibe.
Sausalito
Best for: Restaurants, Relaxation, Shopping
Sausalito is great for the sophisticated woman with upscale restaurants, spas and art galleries. This small waterfront city stands out because it’s built into rocky shoreline cliffs. It’s easy to access from San Francisco, just a 20 minute drive away.
Historically, Sausalito has been a hotspot for artists and musicians. Today, it’s still home to several art galleries and museums. There are even restaurants that sit on the water with 360° views of San Francisco Bay.
Try out a unique lodging option like a quaint bed and breakfast or even a houseboat on the water. Explore more about visiting Sausalito in this post.
San Francisco
Best for: Sightseeing, Nightlife, Restaurants
There’s so much to see in San Francisco, making for a fast-paced trip. There are well-known landmarks like Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz and the Fisherman’s Wharf. There are even more hidden gems like Lombard Street, the Transamerica Building and Washington Square.
In addition to tourist attractions, you can embark on an outdoor adventure at nearby Muir Woods National Monument. Likewise, places like Angel Island and Golden Gate Park are great for nature lovers.
Of course, a city like San Francisco brings together food and culture from all around the world. You can get a taste of several different cultures in various historical neighborhoods throughout the city. Need a place to stay on your San Francisco weekend trip? Read my review of the Hotel Kabuki in Japantown.
Napa Valley
Best for: Relaxation, Wine, Restaurants
How about a quick trip to America’s most famous wine region, Napa Valley? If you love wine and calming landscapes, this is the perfect weekend getaway in California.
With hundreds of wineries to choose from, you can schedule a few tastings to fill up your time. Many offer tours where you can see the winemaking process from behind the scenes.
The area is home to several mini-districts like Yountville, Oakhurst and St. Helena. Each offers a unique blend of wineries, restaurants, breweries and shops. Check out this 1-day Napa Valley itinerary for more.
Conclusion
A weekend getaway in California is a great idea, whether you want an adventure or calming retreat. Because the weather is mild, these areas are generally nice to visit all year round. So, what’s your favorite place to escape to in California?
