There’s so much to love about weekend trips — they’re one of my favorite ways to unwind and escape the city and hustle and bustle of IRL life for awhile (without the headache of a plane ride, and, for me since I have two dogs, dog boarding stress). Just hop in the car with some luggage, snacks, and good playlist — and we’re ready to go. If you live in California and you and your partner are looking for a fun, romantic California getaway for the weekend, there are so many good options. As an Angeleno, I’ve road-tripped around the entire state and have found incredible gems that are car rides away (some as close to an hour away from my house).
The thing that makes California such a unique vacation destination is that the state offers so much, and you can truly tailor the experience to your needs and interests, depending on what you’re looking for in a getaway. You really don’t have to travel far to find an escape from real life for a little while. You and your partner can jet off to wine country and enjoy sweeping views of vineyards, connect with the earth and sip cocktails seaside, or indulge in a luxurious spa-themed weekend.
Best Romantic Weekend Getaways in California, at a Glance
Best Overall: Hotel Del Coronado
Best for Mountain Lovers: Getaway House Big Bear
Best for Desert Lovers: Airbnb Twentynine Palms
Best for Wine Lovers: Europa Village Wineries & Resort
Best Splurge: Alila Ventana
Best for Ocean Lovers: Oceana Santa Monica
Best for the Adventurous Couple: Harbor Court Hotel, San Francisco
Best for Animal Lovers: The Ritz Carlton Half Moon Bay
Most Romantic California Cities for a Weekend Trip:
Depending on where you are in the country, a weekend trip might be feasible, and if you’re coming from the East Coast, you might want to allow for a little more time to adjust to the time change.
According to Lindsay Myers, travel expert, TV host, and travel planning professional, there are a few stand-out cities in the Golden State. First off, the Big Sur/ Carmel by the Sea area is a must-see. “Carmel by the sea (south of San Francisco) is a small sleepy gem of a town,” says Myers. There are “lots of boutique hotels, B&Bs, and amazing ocean views. Think cozy fireplaces and romantic walk,” she adds.
Another great feature of California is for the wine lovers. There are so many wineries and vineyards outside of Napa and Sonoma. “Paso Robles has 200 wineries and is only 30 miles from the coast,” says Myers. “You can taste wine all day and enjoy the sunset at night.” Temecula is also a popular location for wine tasting, as it boasts incredible views of the valley, and plenty of wineries to choose from in Lake Village.
Hotel Del Coronado
Affectionately called “The Del” by many San Diegians who are lucky enough to take a day trip to Coronado (a peninsula in the San Diego Bay, right by Downtown San Diego), this spot is breathtaking (it’s no wonder it’s a top wedding destination in Southern California). This historical oceanfront property is the ultimate luxury experience, and the perfect getaway experience if you’re looking for a romantic space to unwind, enjoy the scenery (you can’t get much better than the Pacific), and take in the beauty of Coronado.
One important note is that The Del is very popular in the spring and summer months — we’d recommend booking your trip in advance (or being okay with visiting off-season: Former San Diegan editor here: October is actually still a great month to visit, since it’s still fairly warm in SD, but not as crowded with tourists. You’ll get seated at restaurants far quicker, and the beaches won’t be so jam-packed. You’re welcome!).
Average cost: $280+ per night
What’s Around? Coronado is its own isolated little “island,” and its surrounding areas have restaurants, cafes, and bars. You’re surrounded by ocean, so this is a popular activity for most staying here. Feel like exploring San Diego? You’re about 15 minutes away from Downtown, and a short distance from beach cities like Pacific Beach, Ocean Beach, and Mission Beach.
Adults only or kid friendly: Kid friendly
Restaurant offerings: 7 restaurants
Amenities (pool, spa, etc.): one pool, fitness center, direct beach access (and cabana offerings)
Getaway House Big Bear
If you’re looking for a cozy cabin getaway, whether it’s in the warmer or colder months, Getaway House offers the ultimate experience — and it’s dog-friendly, too! I traveled from LA to Big Bear (technically Running Springs, which is right outside of Big Bear) with my husband and two dogs, and we camped out in a cute little cabin overlooking the San Bernardino mountains. We hiked, roasted marshmallows, read in bed, and when we got hungry, we drove to the nearby town for some pizza. The cabin was a little tight for two people and two large dogs, but it would have been perfect for me and my husband (and one dog, but we couldn’t leave one of our fur babes behind!). The bed is super spacious, there’s a mini kitchen, and full bathroom — it’s definitely on the minimalist side, but I’d say if you’re a fan of “glamping,” this is for you.
Average cost: Approximately $260-$350 a night
What’s Around? 2 hours from LA, about 30 minutes to Big Bear Lake, 15 minutes to Lake Arrowhead, 4 miles (about 5-7 minutes) to Green Valley Lake (for skiing and snowboarding)
Adults only or kid friendly: Kid friendly
Restaurant offerings: Restaurants nearby
Amenities (pool, spa, etc.): Chairs and picnic table, fire pit, on-site hiking trail
Airbnb Twentynine Palms
Most Californians know about Joshua Tree, but they may not have heard of Twentynine Palms — a neighboring town that offers similar stunning desert views, but usually at a fraction of the price. It’s where my husband and I stay every fall: We find an Airbnb that allows dogs, make sure it has a pool and hot tub (it gets really, really hot!), a suitable yard for the pups, and we book it for the long weekend. Generally, you can find an entire house for well under $400 a night, but if your budget is even tighter, it’s easy to find a bungalow for around $100 a night. It’s about twenty-twenty-five minutes away from Joshua Tree, so you’re still close to all the trendy restaurants, bars, and hiking spots — but Twentynine Palms’ town center has everything you need (a grocery store, restaurants, pharmacy) for quick essential runs.
Twentynine Palms is about two-and-a-half hours away from Los Angeles, and offers the perfect escape. This is just one example of the kind of home you can find on Airbnb to rent, check out the rest for more.
Average cost: $100+
What’s Around? Joshua Tree, Joshua Tree National Park, plenty of restaurants and bars, Pioneertown (Pappy + Harriet’s is a fun concert venue with great food!)
Adults only or kid friendly: Kid friendly
Restaurant offerings: Restaurants in Twentynine Palms and Joshua Tree
Amenities (pool, spa, etc.): Depends on Airbnb
Europa Village Temecula Wine Country
Wine lovers, this property is calling your name. In a vast, 45-acre location, Europa Village hosts three different properties to stay at and explore: Bolero, a Spanish winery, C’est La Vie, a French-inspired winery (coming soon), and of course, Vienza, the Italian-inspired winery. You’ll truly feel like you spent the weekend at three different countries after just traveling within the states to California.
Average cost: $260+ per room
What’s Around? Ubers and Lyft are available so you can explore the surrounding area, but property also offers live music, yoga, trivia nights, and more.
Adults only or kid friendly: Kid friendly
Restaurant offerings: Italian, Spanish, and French (coming soon) restaurant offerings to pair with the inspired wine.
Amenities (pool, spa, etc.): balloon ride package, wine tasting
Alila Ventana Big Sur
This all-inclusive resort is set on 160 acres and has 54 guest rooms, suites, and villas. You can truly let go of the outside world when you stay here, since everything you can dream of to stay entertained is right on property. Couples can connect through private astrology readings, gratitude and sound journeys, and more.
Average cost: $2,000+ per night
What’s Around? Ocean, Redwoods Forrest
Adults only or kid friendly: Adults only
Restaurant offerings: Two on-site restaurants to choose from
Amenities (pool, spa, etc.): Daily snacks, reusable water bottles, Japanese baths, heated outdoor swimming pools, spa
Oceana Santa Monica
At Oceana Santa Monica, your stay will be centered around the gorgeous Pacific ocean. There’s even a Beach Butler package you can purchase that includes morning beach yoga, a beach daybed experience (complete with drinks and food), priority bike reservations, cocktails for two on the property’s Sunset Terrace, and more. It’s truly a saltwater baby’s dream.
Average cost: $1,000 per night
What’s Around? Shopping, ocean, beach activities
Adults only or kid friendly: Kid friendly
Restaurant offerings: 4 dining options, including in-room dining
Amenities (pool, spa, etc.): heated pool, fitness studio, terrace, spa, butler services
Harbor Court Hotel San Francisco
The Harbor Court hotel is a boutique hotel that’s nestled right at the San Francisco waterfront. If your love language is to get out and explore, this is the hotel for you, since it’s perfectly located within walking distance of the Financial District, AT&T Park,Union Square, North Beach, and more. There’s even a complimentary wine hour every night for hotel guests, so you and your love can toast to each other each night.
Average cost: $240 per night
What’s Around? parks, beaches, shopping
Adults only or kid friendly: Kid friendly
Restaurant offerings: one on-site restaurant, one on-site bar
Amenities (pool, spa, etc.): fitness center, bar, bikes available
The Ritz Carlton Half Moon Bay
Animal lovers, rejoice! This hotel is located next to the Elephant Seal Preserve right on the beach, so you can watch the seals in their natural habitat. You can stay within the main property or escape to one of the guest houses for an even more private experience.
Average cost: $750 per night
What’s Around? This hotel is located ocean-side and there’s an art museum nearby.
Adults only or kid friendly: Kid friendly
Restaurant offerings: 4 on-site bars and restaurants to choose from
Amenities (pool, spa, etc.): pool, fitness center, spa, golf course
