9 Perfect Destinations for a Long Weekend in California

California is loaded with unforgettable long-weekend adventures, from surfing waves along the Pacific to sipping wine in rolling vineyard country. Venice Beach is a lovely oceanfront stop, with the Venice Beach Boardwalk and Canals. For more coastal energy, Coronado delivers classic seaside charm around Hotel del Coronado and the lively stretch of Orange Avenue. When you’re craving cooler air and a slower pace, Julian is an ideal mountain town; you can grab a slice at the Julian Pie Company and tour the Eagle Mining Company. There is no place on earth quite like California, and these 9 towns below prove it.

Coronado

This gorgeous town is located just south of downtown San Diego. The coastal Hotel Del is an iconic landmark in Southern California. Maralyn Monroe shot the film Some Like It Hot there. Since then, this hotel has been frequented by royalty and celebrities alike. There are shops within the Del that can be perused for free, along with the artwork and architecture. From there, it is a short stroll to Orange Avenue, which is the main thoroughfare of the island. While there are numerous gift shops and cafes, the Bay Company is the best location to pick up some souvenirs and some cool sunglasses. The day would not be complete without a walk along the picturesque, sandy beach to pick up a few seashells. And if you are feeling adventurous, head to the Coronado Ferry Landing to see the shops and art galleries. There is even a ferry that goes across the bay to downtown San Diego.

Julian

About an hour and a half inland from San Diego is a lesser-known town called Julian, nestled in the mountains. It originated as a gold mining town, but now it is more famous for the Julian Pie Company, which is known for having some of the most delicious apple pie you can imagine. At the end of summer, there are orchards like Bailey Creek where you can pick some of the amazing apples yourself. There are tours of the old gold mines at Eagle Mining Company. There is plenty of hiking. The historic buildings are filled with all sorts of unique gift shops to explore. There are plenty of fine places to dine on the main strip, but the Pub at Cuyamca is just a short drive from downtown Julian, and it has a cozy atmosphere and a deck and dining room that overlook Lake Cuyamaca. There are even boats that can be rented and duck food that can be purchased at the adjoining store.

Mill Valley

Up the coast quite a bit in Northern California is Mill Valley. It is located fifteen minutes from the famous Golden Gate Bridge. This mellow, little town is known for the nature preserve Muir Woods. The beauty of the redwood forest with a stream running through it will take your breath away. There are vast trees that you can literally step inside. There are trails for hiking, but there is also a board walk making the woods accessible and inclusive for all individuals. Afterward, you can grab a comforting meal at Watershed Mill Valley and then catch a classic film at the historic Sequoia Cinema.

Palm Springs

If you are looking to have some fun in the sun, Palm Springs is just the place. It is a few hours inland from Hollywood and has been frequented by celebrities for ages. You can stroll around the Living Desert Zoo and Garden, see exotic animals and even feed the giraffes. There is the Palm Springs Surf Club where you can get surfing lessons and ride state of the art, man made waves. You could check out the Palm Springs Art Museum. And in the evening swing by Tac/Quila for some authentic Mexican food and margaritas. The best time to visit is in the fall or spring, and be sure to avoid the crazy crowds that come for the world famous music festival Coachella.

Venice Beach

Located right on the Pacific Ocean and very close to Hollywood, Venice Beach has always been a location seen in many films and television series. It is famous for the quirky Venice Beach Boardwalk that runs right along the coastline. The ocean views look like something from the silver screen. The boardwalk is lined with shops, cafes and vendors and peppered with street performers. It is a fun place to pick up a souvenir. A more mellow stroll can be had walking along the iconic Venice Canals and over the footbridges. After all that fresh air and exercise you will have worked up the perfect appetite for happy hour at the Waterfront Venice pub. A meal always tastes a little more magical if you enjoy it while looking out over the ocean.

Sonoma

Wine tasting is another thing people think of when they think of a glorious weekend getaway in California. Did you know that Sonoma is the birthplace of the California wine industry? Located north of San Francisco, Sonoma is known for having some of the best vineyards in the world. The historic Sonoma Plaza is California’s largest town square. There is gorgeous architecture, art galleries and many fine tasting rooms like Sigh where there are several different facets to explore. You can start in the central bar then explore the bubble room to sip on sparkling wines and then retreat to the window nook or cushy lounge. In between wine tastings Sonoma offers many historical landmarks to explore such as the Mission San Francisco Solano.

Capitola

If a classic beach vacation is more your style, this next one is for you. Just south of Santa Cruz is Capitola. The beaches are beautiful. You can rent a surf board or even sign up for lessons at the Capitola Beach Co Surf Lessons and Rentals. When you have had your fill of surf, sand and sun, you can check out the Tony Pagliaro Gallery to admire the fine art and photography. Then you can enjoy a meal on a patio with a view of the beach at Paradise Beach Grille. If you are looking for desert, this city has quite a few candy shops and sweet shops including the Capitola Candy Cafe.

Laguna Beach

With clear water and soft, white sand, Laguna Beach is one of the best places in the continental United States to go swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, or standup paddleboarding. This pristine beach is a wonderful spot to admire marine life like rays and little leopard sharks. Heisler Park is a breathtaking, beachside park where you can explore gardens alongside tidepools. Cruise the Pacific Coast Highway and take in the views as you head to the Laguna Art Museum. This community is known for being down to earth and very health conscious, so you will find a lot restaurants like Acai Republic featuring menu items made from whole foods.

Mariposa

Mariposa was founded during the famous gold rush of 1849. And many of the buildings there today were built during that timeframe. The Mariposa Museum is the perfect place to explore the town’s history. And the California State Mineral and Mining Museum also provides information on the town’s historical context. But the main reason for the town’s popularity as a travel destination is it is the perfect base camp for those who want to explore Yosemite National Park. With all of the nice restaurants, unique shops and affordable accommodations, Mariposa is a perfect place to spend a long weekend and provides easy access to the state park.

There is nothing like a long weekend in the incredible state of California to recharge the spirit and rejuvenate the body and mind. There is surfing and hiking. You can stroll on the beach or in a redwood forest. You can soak up the sun in the desert or the fresh air in the mountains. California really has something for everyone, and you can never run out of adventures you can get into. If you are looking to make some unforgettable memories, California is the place to explore.