Best California Weekend Getaways
I think that California weekend getaways aren’t just about where you go. They’re about the balance of relaxation, unique settings, and unforgettable memories created along the way.
There’s something special about packing a bag, loading the car, and heading just far enough to feel changed. That’s what these weekend getaways gave us, space to breathe, new views out the window, and small towns that asked nothing of us but our attention.
California weekend getaways are some of the most unique and unforgettable escapes in the United States. They’re among my favorite ways to enjoy everything from stunning beaches to redwood forests and desert retreats.
With such a diverse landscape, California offers some of the best weekend destinations in the country for relaxation, adventure, and discovery.
What makes California so special is the incredible variety of experiences. You can head to the coast for ocean views, explore wine country in Napa or Sonoma, relax at a lakeside cabin, or hike among towering mountains and national parks. Each trip feels unique, giving you endless opportunities to find new favorite spots.
From the seaside cliffs of Big Sur to the desert beauty of Joshua Tree, California blends scenery, culture, and adventure in a way that few places can match. Add in great food, boutique stays, and scenic drives, and it’s no wonder these escapes are considered some of the best in the U.S.
Best California Weekend Getaways:
Stillness Between the Vines in San Martin
I drove about 1 hour south from San Jose along US-101. The road passed rows of vineyards, ranches, and rolling golden hills before arriving in San Martin, a quiet town in Santa Clara Valley wine country.
San Martin, California, impressed me with its quiet charm and balance of rural beauty and refined experiences. Nestled in Santa Clara County, just south of San Jose, it felt like a hidden gem where vineyards, rolling hills, and farmland created a sense of peace all year round.
What I loved most was how unique San Martin felt compared to its busier neighbors. Driving along country roads, I passed wineries, horse ranches, and wide-open spaces that instantly slowed down my pace. Every season brought something different—spring painted the hillsides green, summer brought warm golden light, fall showed off colorful vineyards, and even winter had a calm, misty magic that made the valley feel cozy.
My stay at The Spa at CordeValle was unforgettable. Set within a luxurious resort tucked into the hills, it gave me the perfect mix of relaxation and indulgence. From soothing massages to tranquil lounges overlooking the valley, every moment felt spectacular. I loved the peaceful setting, where the spa treatments blended seamlessly with the natural beauty outside, leaving me refreshed and completely at ease.
San Martin also surprised me with its sense of adventure. From golfing at CordeValle to taking hot air balloon rides over the valley, I found unusual experiences that made my time here even more memorable. It wasn’t just about slowing down—it was also about enjoying the joyful ways this small town connects with nature.
For me, San Martin is a gem of the South Bay. Whether it’s a sunny summer afternoon sipping wine, a crisp autumn morning exploring the countryside, or a winter retreat at The Spa at CordeValle, it always offers a magical and unforgettable escape.
Slow Mornings at Hotel Cheval & Wine Trails in Paso Robles
We drove about 3 hours south from San Jose along US-101 before reaching Paso Robles.
Hotel Cheval in Paso Robles gave me one of the most memorable stays I’ve had in California’s wine country. From the moment I walked into the boutique property just off the town square, I felt wrapped in warmth and comfort. The atmosphere was refined yet relaxed, which made it the perfect backdrop for exploring Paso’s spectacular vineyards and lively downtown.
My room was spacious and cozy, with plush bedding, thoughtful details, and a fireplace that quickly became my favorite feature in the evenings. I loved how the decor mixed rustic charm with elegant touches, creating a unique space that felt both luxurious and welcoming.
The hotel’s courtyard became my go-to spot. In the evenings, I lingered by the fire pits under twinkling lights with a glass of local wine, soaking in the joyful energy of fellow travelers and the relaxed pace of the town. It felt magical, like a hidden gathering place designed for connection.
Breakfast at Hotel Cheval was another highlight. Fresh pastries, fruit, and locally inspired options were served in a way that felt indulgent yet homey. Starting the day in such a thoughtful space set the tone for winery visits and scenic drives through the rolling hills of Paso Robles.
What stood out most to me was the personalized service. Every interaction felt genuine, and the staff went out of their way to make my stay effortless and enjoyable. For me, Hotel Cheval is a true gem in Paso Robles—romantic, stylish, and unforgettable, the kind of place I’ll always want to return to after a day of wine country adventures.
Carmel Weekend Getaway - L'Auberge Carmel, Carmel-by-the-Sea
I drove about 2 hours south from the Bay Area along Highway 1. The road hugged dramatic cliffs and opened to sweeping Pacific views before curving into Carmel-by-the-Sea.
My stay at L’Auberge Carmel made my time in Carmel feel absolutely dreamlike. Nestled in the heart of Carmel-by-the-Sea, this historic Relais & Châteaux property combined European charm with coastal California elegance, and from the moment I arrived, I felt like I was stepping into something truly special.
The building itself, with its whitewashed walls and flower-filled courtyard, had an old-world beauty that felt both intimate and timeless. I loved how unique the atmosphere was—it was as if I had discovered a hidden retreat tucked right into the storybook streets of Carmel.
My room was cozy yet refined, with warm tones, plush bedding, and French windows that opened to the sea breeze. Every detail felt intentional, and the service was as thoughtful as it was seamless. It quickly became one of my favorite hotel experiences on the California coast.
Dining at Aubergine, the hotel’s Michelin-starred restaurant, was spectacular. Each course felt like a joyful celebration of local ingredients, paired perfectly with wines that highlighted the flavors of the region. Sitting in the intimate dining room, savoring every bite, was pure magic.
Beyond the inn, I loved wandering Carmel’s whimsical streets, browsing art galleries, and strolling to the beach for unforgettable sunsets. Returning to the serenity of L’Auberge at the end of each day felt like the perfect balance of exploration and indulgence.
For me, L’Auberge Carmel is a gem of California’s coast—romantic, elegant, and unique. It’s the kind of getaway where history, hospitality, and beauty come together to create an experience I’ll always treasure.
Unexpected Comfort in Bakersfield
We drove about 2 hours north from Los Angeles through the wide Central Valley.
Bakersfield wasn’t flashy, and that’s what made it feel so easy. It gave us wide streets, warm skies, and a kind of grounded calm we didn’t realize we needed after a few days on the road. We pulled into town mid-morning, dust still on the bumper, and I thought, “Let’s see what this place has to say when we actually listen.”
What We Loved Most: The sense of local pride. Museums, murals, and food all told the story of a place that doesn’t try to impress, it just offers what it has, honestly and fully.
Our highlights? A few hours at the Kern County Museum, where our son explored Pioneer Village like it was built just for him, old schoolhouses, oil derricks, a jail he couldn’t stop talking about. We wandered through it all slowly, stopping to read plaques, push buttons, and let him imagine. Later, we headed downtown for lunch at Dewar’s Candy Shop, a Bakersfield institution. I had a grilled turkey and avocado sandwich, simple, warm, buttery on the edges, and a vanilla milkshake that came thick and cold, with the kind of old-school flavor that brought us all back to life. My son got a scoop of Dewar’s famous peanut butter chip ice cream, and we shared a pack of their signature taffy for the drive.
Plan your family visit:
- Drive Time from San Simeon or Paso Robles: ~2–2.5 hours east
- Vibe: Honest, relaxed, unexpectedly rich in local flavor
- Highlights: Kern County Museum, Dewar’s Candy Shop, Bakersfield Sound music history, Hart Park picnic spots
- Best Time to Visit: Fall or early spring to avoid the summer heat
- Cost: Museum ~$10 adults, ~$5 children; lunch ~$10–20 per person; ice cream ~$5–7
- Hours: Most attractions and restaurants open 10am–5pm; Dewar’s open later
Pines, Pie and a Breath of Mountain Quiet in Idyllwild
I drove about 2 hours east from Los Angeles, climbing Highway 243. The road twisted out of desert flats into pine-scented mountain air.
Idyllwild, California, felt like a mountain retreat that was both peaceful and inspiring. Nestled in the San Jacinto Mountains, the town carried a rustic, artistic charm that immediately made me slow down and savor the moment. Surrounded by tall pines and crisp mountain air, it felt like an escape into a different rhythm of life.
One of my favorite parts of visiting was exploring the trails. Hiking through the forests to overlooks like Tahquitz Rock gave me spectacular views and that joyful feeling of being immersed in nature. Each step felt refreshing, and the quiet beauty of the landscape was pure magic.
The town itself had a unique personality. I loved wandering into art galleries, cozy cafés, and local shops that reflected Idyllwild’s creative spirit. There was something unusual about how the community balanced mountain living with artistic expression, and it made the visit feel deeply memorable.
Evenings were just as special. I spent time by the fireplace at a cabin rental, listening to the wind move through the trees outside. That simple experience felt like one of the absolute best parts of the trip—quiet, grounding, and wonderfully relaxing.
What struck me most was how underrated Idyllwild is compared to other mountain towns. Without the bustle of ski resorts or large crowds, it offered a slower, more authentic connection to the mountains. For me, it was a gem that felt both cozy and spectacular in its simplicity.
Idyllwild left me with a sense of calm and inspiration, the kind of mountain magic I know I’ll carry with me long after I’ve left.
Gold Rush Streets in Murphys
I drove about 2 hours southeast from Sacramento into the Sierra Nevada foothills.
Murphys, California, completely charmed me with its blend of Gold Rush history and small-town warmth. Nestled in the Sierra Foothills, it felt like a hidden gem where wine country meets mountain charm, and I loved how every street seemed to carry both character and stories from the past.
Main Street was the heart of it all. I spent joyful afternoons wandering past historic buildings, boutique shops, and family-owned tasting rooms. Sampling local wines right in town was a unique experience—intimate, relaxed, and full of personality compared to larger wine regions. It quickly became one of my favorite wine-tasting getaways.
The food scene added even more magic to the trip. From cozy cafés to upscale restaurants, every meal felt thoughtful and flavorful. Sitting on a shaded patio with a glass of Zinfandel and a plate of farm-to-table fare was pure summer perfection.
I also loved how close Murphys was to outdoor adventures. A short drive took me to Calaveras Big Trees State Park, where walking among giant sequoias was nothing short of spectacular. The contrast between the vibrant little town and the towering, ancient forest made the getaway feel well-rounded and unforgettable.
What struck me most was the balance Murphys offered. It had the energy of a lively small town, but with a calm, laid-back pace that made it easy to unwind. That mix of history, wine, and nature created an unusual and refreshing atmosphere.
For me, Murphys is a gem of the Sierra Foothills—joyful, unique, and endlessly inviting. It’s the kind of place where you arrive curious and leave already planning your next visit.
Fog, Castles & Ocean Air in San Simeon & Cambria
We drove about 3 hours south from Monterey along Highway 1. The road curved above rugged cliffs and opened to sweeping Pacific views.
San Simeon and Cambria, two neighboring towns along California’s Central Coast, gave me one of the most spectacular coastal getaways I’ve experienced. They sit right on Highway 1, where the ocean meets rugged cliffs, and together they offer a mix of history, natural beauty, and small-town charm that felt magical from the start.
San Simeon is best known for Hearst Castle, and visiting it was unforgettable. Touring the grand rooms, gardens, and pools of William Randolph Hearst’s estate felt like stepping into another world—an unusual blend of European opulence and California coastline. Standing on the terraces with the Pacific stretching out below was pure magic.
Just south, Cambria had a completely different vibe—artsy, cozy, and romantic. I loved walking along Moonstone Beach, where waves rolled over smooth stones that glittered in the sunlight. The wooden boardwalk made it easy to take in the views, and the sunsets here were some of the most joyful moments of my trip.
Downtown Cambria was equally charming. Its mix of galleries, antique shops, and locally owned restaurants gave me a welcoming small-town feel. Sitting in a café with a glass of Central Coast wine and chatting with locals made the experience even more unique.
What made this getaway so special was the balance—San Simeon’s grandeur and history paired with Cambria’s warmth and coastal charm. Whether I was marveling at Hearst Castle, spotting elephant seals along the shore, or simply relaxing by the ocean, every moment felt refreshing and unforgettable.
For me, San Simeon and Cambria together are a gem on the California coast—unusual, spectacular, and the perfect combination of adventure and relaxation.
Morro Bay Calm & Coastal Curiosity
I drove about 3 hours north from Santa Barbara along Highway 101 with my husband and son. The road rolled past vineyard-covered hills and coastal ranchland.
Morro Bay on California’s Central Coast gave me one of the most refreshing and unique seaside getaways I’ve had. The first thing that caught my eye was the iconic Morro Rock rising dramatically from the water—it felt like a natural landmark that made the whole town instantly memorable.
The waterfront was my favorite place to linger. I loved strolling along the Embarcadero, where fishing boats bobbed in the harbor, sea lions barked in the distance, and little shops and seafood shacks lined the way. Sitting down with a bowl of clam chowder while watching kayakers and paddleboarders pass by was pure joy.
The beaches were spectacular too. I spent the afternoon walking the wide sandy stretch near Morro Rock, where the waves rolled in steadily and the views seemed endless. It was the kind of place where I could completely relax, yet still feel connected to the rhythm of the ocean.
I also loved exploring the surrounding nature. Morro Bay State Park offered peaceful hiking trails, birdwatching, and sweeping views of the estuary. The combination of ocean, marshland, and rolling hills created a magical variety of landscapes all in one place.
The town itself had a laid-back charm. From cozy cafés to galleries showcasing local art, it felt welcoming and unpretentious. Ending the day with a glass of Central Coast wine while the sun set over the harbor was one of those absolute best summer memories.
For me, Morro Bay is a gem of the Central Coast—spectacularly scenic, joyful in its simplicity, and filled with coastal magic that lingers long after you leave.
My personal highlights:
Some of my favorite California weekend getaways include Paso Robles for its wine country vibes, Carmel for its unique coastal beauty and sunsets, and the must-see town of Mendocino for its quiet beaches and cozy inns. Each one offers the best blend of scenery, culture, and relaxation.
The Roads Between
By the time we circled back home, I realized it wasn’t just the destinations that stayed with me, it was the space in between. The winding drive into Murphys, the sea mist over San Simeon, the still morning light outside Hotel Cheval, the eucalyptus-scented silence in San Martin. Even Bakersfield, with its quiet museums and candy-shop charm, offered something unexpected. Each of these places gave us more than just a place to stay, they gave us a reason to stop, to look up, to linger. That’s the beauty of a California weekend: it doesn't demand much, but it gives back more than you expect.
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
