12 Perfect Destinations for a Long Weekend in California
There is almost no better place to spend a long weekend on the West Coast than in California. Known for its stunning coastline, California is replete with towns such as Pismo Beach and Malibu, where visitors can relish a cozy vacation. Attractions like the Carson Mansion are reminiscent of its 19th-century history, while the Monterey Bay and Green Pleasure Pier add modern elegance to the entire feeling. From San Francisco Bay to the coasts of Catalina Islands, this state has the perfect destinations where adventurers can relax on a long weekend. California is lined with areas like Monterey and Pismo Beach, where travelers can enjoy luxury and comfort.
Sausalito
With a population of 7,000 people, Sausalito is one of the best calm destinations on the West Coast that tourists can visit for a weekend vacation. Located just across the Golden Gate Bridge, Sausalito is a community rich in history and complemented by picturesque scenery. Its proximity to the San Francisco Bay makes a visit here even more enjoyable. Fort Baker and the Bay Area Discovery Museum are some of the historical landmarks that give color to the entire trip.
A stroll along the Sausalito Boardwalk brings travelers closer to the town’s boutiques, galleries, and waterside restaurants. For history buffs, the Bay Model Visitor Center is a must-see. This fascinating working model of the San Francisco Bay showcases the region’s waterways and history through immersive displays. Art lovers will love Marinship Studios and the legacy of Sausalito’s vibrant artist communities that date back to the 1940s. The Marin Headlands have trails that lead to breathtaking views of the bay and the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. After a thrilling day outside, relax at the Cavallo Point Lodge.
Monterey
For a feel of the coast and the beauty that it exudes, Monterey is just the place to visit. This city on California’s central coast is renowned for its marine wonders and historic landmarks. Monterey is famous for the Cannery Row which was a one-time center for the sardine-packing industry.
Begin your visit at the iconic Monterey Bay Aquarium, which is famous for its mesmerizing exhibits and dedication to marine conservation. Here, you can find diverse aquatic animals on display in its interactive exhibits. Stroll through Cannery Row, the former sardine-packing district that is now home to ocean-view dining and quaint shops. Do not miss a whale-watching tour or kayaking excursion on Monterey Bay, where you can spot marine life in its natural habitat. The Monterey Museum of Art is another must-visit destination. For comfort after a good day outdoors, book hotel reservations at The Monterey Hotel, which is known for its peak hospitality.
Malibu
If you have ever wondered what it means for a place to feel very elegant, then you should not miss out on a chance to visit Malibu. Known for its celebrity residences and laid-back beach vibes along the Pacific coastline, Malibu is also home to several beaches, such as El Matador State Beach, Leo Carrillo State Beach, and Zuma Beach. Start your journey at the Adamson House, a historic Spanish Colonial Revival-style home that offers a glimpse into the area's past, complete with beautiful tile work and serene gardens overlooking the ocean.
Nature enthusiasts will enjoy Point Dume State Beach, where the cliffs meet sandy shores. It is a perfect spot for whale watching during migration season or a leisurely coastal hike. The Malibu Pier is another point of interest. It is a hub for dining, fishing, and people-watching while soaking in panoramic ocean views. If you are up for an adventure, take a hike across the Escondido Canyon Trail and see the beauty of Escondido Falls. For accommodations, the Malibu Beach Inn is known for its luxurious beachfront overlooks with world-class amenities, ensuring a comfortable retreat after exploring the town.
Eureka
Between San Francisco and Portland, Eureka is the biggest city on the northern California coast, housing about 26,000 residents. The artistic culture and Victorian homes like Carson Mansion are some of the major highlights that attract tourists. Its centerpiece is the Carson Mansion, an opulent Victorian home considered one of the most photographed structures in the United States. Stroll through the Old Town Eureka Historic District, which is lined with cobblestone streets and preserved 19th-century buildings.
For a breath of fresh air, Sequoia Park is just the place to begin your exploration. It is home to a lot of redwoods, and you can get closer to the biodiversity that inhabits the park. If you want to see some flowers, check out Humboldt Botanical Garden which has an extensive array of flowering plants that come alive during the cool of the day. The Sequoia Park Zoo, just close to the park, is one of California’s oldest zoos, and you can enjoy a memorable experience, especially with its adjoining redwood forest trails. Hospitality is also a key feature of a trip to Eureka, and residing at Eureka Inn during your long weekend exposes you to a combination of vintage elegance and modern comforts.
Red Bluff
Famous for being the home of William B. Ide, who was the president of the Bear Flag Republic in 1846, Red Bluff is a captivating town with a storied past and filled with opportunities for outdoor adventure. Red Bluff is most famous for the annual Red Bluff Round-Up, one of the oldest and largest rodeos in the West, drawing spectators from far and wide. Those who want to know more about the chronicles of this great place will fancy the Kelly-Griggs Museum, which is a beautifully preserved Victorian home that showcases 19th-century artifacts and furnishings.
The Sacramento River Bend Area has miles of trails wind through scenic landscapes, setting the perfect scenery for hiking, birdwatching, or picnicking by the water. William B. Ide State is a good spot for picnics and evening strolls. For a cozy stay, check into the Comfort Suites in Red Bluff, known for its welcoming atmosphere and convenient location.
Avalon
The vibe in Avalon feels like you are being transported to the Mediterranean thanks to its bespoke coastal environment. Reachable by ferry from the mainland ports in Los Angeles, Avalon is smothered by the beautiful coast that lined Catalina Island. Catalina Museum for Arts and History captures your attention as you land at bay. It holds the history of Santa Catalina Island and also has a gift shop where you can purchase items. Green Pleasure Pier has breathtaking views of the coast, and you can walk across to just enjoy the view or board a boat cruise to relish the beauty of the island. Catalina Island Inn elevates the entire experience with its comfortable hotel rooms and swift hospitality.
Mendocino
With its cliffside location along California’s northern coast, Mendocino is a haven of natural beauty and historic allure. The Ford House Museum is housed in a charming 19th-century building where you can find the visitor center and a museum that showcases the town’s logging heritage and cultural history. For outdoor lovers, Mendocino Headlands State Park is bordered by dramatic ocean views and the Big River Beach, where you can have picnics or set up tents and bask in the beauty of the shoreline. Paddle through lush redwood forests in the serene Big River Estuary State Marine Conservation Area, perfect for kayaking adventures. For accommodations, the Heritage House Resort & Spa pairs luxury with sweeping ocean vistas, creating an unforgettable coastal escape.
Palm Springs
Palm Springs is a vibrant desert oasis celebrated for its mid-century modern architecture, cultural events, and natural wonders. One of its top attractions is the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, offering a scenic journey to the top of San Jacinto Peak, where visitors can enjoy panoramic views and extensive hiking trails. Downtown Palm Springs features a thriving art scene, with highlights including the Palm Springs Art Museum and the annual Modernism Week, which celebrates the town’s architectural legacy. If you like to explore, be sure to check out the Indian Canyons and Ruth Hardy Park, where there are plenty of opportunities to see the natural ecosystem and have fun with kids or on a solo trip. After a long and eventful day outdoors, retire to the comfort of the Saguaro Palm Springs, which has stunning decorations and all the modern comfort you need.
St. Helena
Located in the heart of Napa Valley, St. Helena embodies the sophisticated charm of California’s wine country. Renowned wineries like Beringer Vineyards and Charles Krug Winery provide tours and wine tastings that showcase the region’s winemaking heritage. History comes alive at the Bale Grist Mill State Historic Park, which houses a restored 19th-century water-powered mill that allows visitors to learn about pioneer-era California. Hikers and adventurers alike will love Bothe-Napa Valley State Park as it is lined with hiking trails that run through redwood groves and picturesque valley views. The Robert Louis Stevenson Museum is a quiet retreat where you can learn about the life of the author of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde while relaxing in the quietness that the museum has to offer. The El Bonita Motel is a good hotel recommendation for relaxing after an eventful day.
Pismo Beach
Pismo Beach is the ultimate Southern California retreat, combining coastal charm with outdoor adventure. The Pismo Beach Pier is a major highlight with its panoramic ocean views and opportunities for fishing or relaxing seaside strolls. Tourists can explore the Monarch Butterfly Grove, where thousands of butterflies congregate from October to February in a breathtaking display. For more adventure, Spyglass Park and Dinosaur Caves Park make for good places to spend the afternoons. After a day of exploration, unwind at the Inn at the Pier, which has luxurious oceanfront accommodations and modern amenities, making your stay unforgettable.
Cambria
Just along California’s iconic Highway 1, Cambria is abuzz with scenic beauty and a vibrant cultural scene. Artists and other creatives explore this place to refuel their creativity. Beginning at Moonstone Beach, which is just a short drive away from town, visitors are greeted by its boardwalk and sightings of sea otters, dolphins, and seasonal whale migrations. For peaceful hikes, the Fiscalini Ranch Preserve features trails along coastal bluffs and pine forests. A short drive away, Hearst Castle stands tall with its historic architecture and lush gardens, showcasing the grandeur of the early 20th-century California elite. Spend the evening in the tranquil setting of Shamel Park before retiring to Cambria Pines Lodge to cool off.
Solvang
Solvang, dubbed the “Danish Capital of America,” has a European and Californian charm that attracts a lot of visitors. Its iconic Danish-style architecture, windmills, and cobblestone streets feel like tourists are in Northern Europe. The Elverhøj Museum of History & Art provides an in-depth look at the town’s Danish heritage, complemented by traditional pastries from local bakeries like Olsen’s Danish Village Bakery. Hans Christian Andersen Park has shaded trails and picnic spots that make it the perfect spot to cool out in the evening, while Nojoqui Falls Park has hiking trails that are kid-friendly and lead to a waterfall. After exploring the area, Svendsgaard Danish Lodge is a cozy spot to relax and unwind.
If you ever want to spend a long weekend just recharging or relaxing from the stress of everyday life, California has some of the best places to help ease your stress. The waterfront views and picturesque scenery that each of these towns exudes are some of the key highlights that visitors can do when they take a trip to the West Coast. The setting and hospitality in these cities make it even more exciting to spend a weekend. The trick to enjoying your stay is to just relax, have fun, and remember that you can make California feel like paradise.
