California’s golden stretch of land offers an unbeatable mix of vibrant cities, tranquil wilderness, and coastal gems. The best part? So many destinations are within driving distance for a perfect weekend getaway. Whether you’re in the mood to hike among ancient redwoods, surf Pacific waves, or uncover historic neighborhoods, these seven weekend trips in California deliver the best of what the Golden State has to offer.
So, start up your navigation systems, buckle your seatbelts, or even put your seatbacks and tray tables to their full, upright positions (California is the third biggest state in the U.S.)! Here’s your guide to weekend trips in California, where adventure, nature, and history converge, promising an unforgettable West Coast road trip.
Palm Springs: Desert Glam Meets Outdoor Adventure
No list of weekend trips in California would be complete without Palm Springs. Tucked into the Coachella Valley, Palm Springs is a vibrant destination. It’s a breathtaking desert oasis that blends vintage Hollywood charm with striking natural beauty. This sunny retreat, just under a two-hour drive from Los Angeles, is best known for its mid-century modern architecture, poolside lounging, and retro-chic ambiance. But beyond its stylish hotels and hip boutiques lies an adventurer’s playground.
Hike the dramatic trails of Indian Canyons or take the rotating Palm Springs Aerial Tramway up to Mount San Jacinto for panoramic desert views. After your trek, stroll the downtown strip for art galleries and classic cocktail lounges. Don’t miss a chance to explore the fascinating Palm Springs Air Museum, which hosts one of the world’s largest collections of World War II aircraft.
Whether you’re seeking spa luxury or rugged hikes through boulder-strewn canyons, Palm Springs delivers heat and heart in equal measure.
Best for: Guys trips, couples, girls trips
Top attractions: Coachella Valley, Palm Springs Air Museum, Indian Canyons
Best time to visit: Fall for poolside lounging, exploring, nightlife, sightseeing (Summer temperatures can reach 108 degrees!)
San Diego: Coastal Culture and Sun-Soaked History
With miles of stunning beaches, a world-famous zoo, and Spanish colonial architecture, San Diego offers the ideal blend of relaxation and enrichment. This southern city is perfect for a weekend trip in California. It has a laid-back attitude, but its adventures run deep.
Kick off your weekend in Balboa Park, a cultural jewel packed with gardens, museums, and historic buildings that transport you to another era. For ocean lovers, La Jolla Cove offers kayaking through sea caves and snorkeling among bright orange Garibaldi fish. Surfing in Pacific Beach or catching sunset from Sunset Cliffs Natural Park adds a thrill to your coastal stay. For history buffs, a stroll through Old Town San Diego State Historic Park reveals preserved 19th-century adobe homes and the birthplace of California.
San Diego’s blend of outdoor fun, fascinating past, and mouthwatering tacos makes it a vibrant escape for any traveler.
Best for: Guys trips, girls trips, couples, beach lovers
Top attractions: Balboa Park, Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, Gaslamp Quarter
Best time to visit: Summer for beaches, fall for Boardwalk strolling
San Francisco: Urban Hills and Stories Untold
San Francisco’s steep hills and sweeping bay views are perfect for weekend trips in California. Begin your adventure with a ferry ride to Alcatraz Island, where the haunting corridors of the former federal prison offer a chilling yet riveting narrative of justice and isolation.
Back in the city, ride a cable car through Russian Hill, snap photos at the famously crooked Lombard Street, and marvel at the Painted Ladies as fog rolls in. For a nature fix, walk across the Golden Gate Bridge or hike the nearby Marin Headlands for postcard-perfect views. Explore the edgy murals of the Mission District or take a historic tour of Chinatown, the oldest in North America.
Every street in San Francisco tells a story — from gold rush dreams to countercultural revolutions — making this fog-kissed city a weekend escape with unforgettable depth.
Best for: Romantic getaways, sightseeing, restaurants
Top attractions: Alcatraz Island, Mission District, Fillmore District
Best time to visit: Summer for nightlife, fall for sightseeing
Redwood National and State Parks: Giants of the Earth
If you’re longing to trade traffic for tranquility, a weekend trip in Northern California’s Redwood National and State Parks is the ultimate remedy. Time slows under the canopy of the tallest trees on Earth — towering redwoods that have stood for over 2,000 years. Drive the epic Avenue of the Giants, a scenic route that winds through otherworldly groves, or lace up your boots for a hike along the Lady Bird Johnson Trail, where sunlight filters through mossy branches like stained glass.
The nearby coastline offers a chance to explore tide pools, elk meadows, and remote black sand beaches. This ancient forest isn’t just a marvel of nature; it’s a reminder of resilience, standing tall through centuries of change. Camp beneath the stars, unplug from the world, and breathe in the pure, pine-scented air. A weekend with the Redwoods will ground your spirit and expand your sense of wonder.
Best for: Nature lovers, couples, adventure seekers
Top attractions: Lady Bird Johnson Trail, Avenue of the Giants
Best time to visit: Summer for camping, fall for hiking
Los Angeles: Stars, Surf and Stories of Old Hollywood
Los Angeles is more than just movie magic. It’s a layered city where history, glamour, and grit coexist under perpetual sunshine. Spend your morning exploring the Getty Center, perched high in the hills with panoramic city views and a world-class art collection.
Cruise down Sunset Boulevard, then dive into the past with a walking tour of Hollywood Forever Cemetery, the resting place of icons from Judy Garland to Rudolph Valentino. For a taste of California surf culture, head to Venice Beach or Santa Monica Pier for rollerblading, people-watching, and sunset over the Pacific. History lives on at El Pueblo de Los Angeles, the city’s birthplace, and the bustling Grand Central Market lets you taste the city’s cultural melting pot.
Whether you’re stargazing at the Griffith Observatory or hunting vintage finds on Melrose, Los Angeles lets you write your weekend trips in California script — equal parts flash, fun, and authenticity.
Best for: Guys trips, girls trips, tourists, couples, beach lovers
Top attractions: Chinese Theater, Hollywood Walk of Fame, Griffith Observatory
Best time to visit: Summer for beaches, fall for city strolling
Santa Barbara: Spanish Roots and Coastal Sophistication
Nestled between the Santa Ynez Mountains and the sparkling Pacific Ocean, Santa Barbara offers a weekend trip in California steeped in old-world charm and outdoor allure. Known as “The American Riviera,” this chic destination is famous for its red-tile rooftops, white stucco buildings, and laid-back luxury.
Begin your weekend with a visit to the Old Mission Santa Barbara, founded in 1786. Stroll through its beautiful gardens and museum, which tell the story of California’s early Spanish missionary days. Soak in the sun at Butterfly Beach or take a stand-up paddleboard into the harbor for a peaceful sea adventure. Don’t miss a sunset ride on the Santa Barbara Trolley for a scenic overview of the town. The Funk Zone district adds a modern edge with local wineries, art galleries, and buzzy cafés.
Equal parts elegance and ease, Santa Barbara is a retreat that offers both cultural depth and seaside serenity.
Best for: Romantic getaways, couples, beach lovers, amusements
Top attractions: Old Mission, Funk Zone, amusement pier
Best time to visit: Summer for beaches, fall for pier strolling
Yosemite National Park: Majestic Peaks and Misty Falls
For a soul-stirring weekend trip in California nature, few destinations compare to Yosemite National Park. About four hours from both San Francisco and Los Angeles, Yosemite delivers jaw-dropping scenery and bucket-list-worthy hikes.
Drive into the valley to witness the towering granite walls of El Capitan and Half Dome, which rise like sentinels from the forest floor. The roar of Yosemite Falls, especially in spring, provides the soundtrack to a landscape carved by glaciers and time. For a moderate adventure, hike to Vernal Fall via the Mist Trail, where you’ll get drenched in the spray and spellbound by the views. In the evening, gather around a campfire or cozy up in a rustic lodge under a blanket of stars.
Yosemite’s timeless beauty connects you to something bigger—both humbling and exhilarating, it’s the kind of weekend trip that stays with you long after you’ve returned to city life.
Best for: Guys trips, adventure seekers, nature lovers
Top attractions: El Capitan, Yosemite Falls, Half Dome
Best time to visit: Summer for camping, fall for hiking and climbing
From dramatic cliffs to historic missions, coastal escapes to desert skies, California’s weekend destinations are a masterclass in variety. Each trip offers its own unique flavor—tracing the footsteps of pioneers, surfing Pacific waves, or communing with ancient trees. With adventure, nature, and history all within driving distance, the only real question is: Where will you go next?
Frequently Asked Questions
Which destination is the cheapest weekend trip in California?
Consider staying in the suburbs outside major cities or in more economical inland regions. Cheaper California vacation spots like Idyllwild, Big Bear, or Death Valley offer lower rates than the coastal hotspots.
How much is a trip to California for 3 days?
There are loads of vacations in California, and the cost will depend on what type of trip you’re taking. You also have to consider how long you’d like to stay.
Here are some general prices for a 3-night trip for 2 travelers: top vacation $503, family vacation $468, romantic vacation $712, luxury vacation $748, budget vacation $330.
Is a California road trip worth it?
California is the ultimate road trip playground. It offers breathtaking coastal drives, scenic mountain routes, and desert escapes. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or an extended adventure, a little planning can go a long way toward maximizing your trip.
