California, particularly Southern California, is an ideal place to spend time in the winter months to escape the cold
California’s perennial sunshine draws visitors to effortlessly discover an ideal retreat, especially during winter, for water activities and other outdoor pursuits. Visit California, the State’s official tourism agency, lists best places to explore distinctive hotels, attractions, and welcoming warm weather.
Winter Hotels
California is lined with a number of luxury hotels, along with vibrant restaurants and downtown shopping chains
Established in 1854, Ukiah’s Vichy Springs Resort is a unique historic hot springs resort only two hours north of downtown San Francisco. Beyond its rich legacy, Vichy Springs offers the only naturally warm and carbonated ‘Vichy’ mineral baths. The room and cottage rates include full use of the mineral baths, a hot soaking pool, an Olympic-size swimming pool and a 700-acre private reserve for walking and hiking. The vibrant restaurants and downtown shopping of Ukiah is a short 10-minute drive away.
The board says that from the Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa’s lavish renovations to the seaside allure of San Diego’s seaside resorts, the Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina, Kona Kai Resort and L’Auberge Del Mar promise distinctive experiences of bay views to upscale poolside relaxation.
For those seeking desert adventure, AutoCamp Joshua Tree features airstream suites and amenities minutes from Joshua Tree National Park. The Presidio of San Francisco offers a ‘Green Christmas’ with mild weather, diverse indoor and outdoor activities and a mix of new and old restaurants serving seasonal menus and holiday cheer.
To the south, the Balboa Bay Resort along Newport Beach’s Pacific Coast Highway provides a warm winter destination. Balboa Bay Spa, the Tequila Bar and the flagship restaurant A+O offer indulgent experiences against the backdrop of yacht-covered sparkling waters.
The Four Seasons San Francisco at Embarcadero offers a dynamic city connection with breathtaking views, while the Half Moon Bay Lodge, situated 28 miles south of San Francisco, is a coastal retreat with updated guest rooms and picturesque outdoor spaces.
Completing this ensemble of exquisite retreats is The Lodge at Sonoma, featuring 182 accommodations, culinary concepts and rejuvenating spa treatments. With these diverse offerings, California’s winter escapes offer both natural beauty and unique experiences for those who venture to explore its historical and contemporary retreats.
Winter Attractions and Events
California’s winter comes with a myriad of attractions and events, from almond blossom cruises and whale watching to luxury spa retreats and picturesque coastal experiences.
Modesto’s Almond Blossom Cruise
Modesto’s Almond Blossom Cruise starts in February 2024 to mid-March, where the almond blossoms on the outskirts of Modesto burst into full bloom, giving travellers a chance to see miles of blooms as a lesser-known alternative to cherry blossoms. Almond Blossom Cruise explores the rolling hills and the essential role of the Central Valley’s agricultural system, enroute stopping for the famous almond butter milkshakes at Robert’s Ferry Gourmet.
West Hollywood’s Social Wellness Club
West Hollywood’s Social Wellness Club, the famous sunset strip, perched on the edge of the hills, has pampering spas and trendy rooftop pools. The world’s first social wellness club, Remedy Place, welcomes visitors for one-off recovery treatments like hyperbaric chambers, infrared sauna, Vitamin C rinse, IV treatments and custom chiropractic or stretching.
Winter Nature Sightings in Oceanside
From November to April, the waters around Oceanside become a prime location for spotting migrating whales, adding an extra layer of wonder to winter nature sightings. A top 12 destination for wintering birds, Oceanside is a winter haven for bird enthusiasts who can enjoy guided excursions through the Buena Vista Audubon.
Winter Destinations
As winter unveils its charm, California beckons with a variety of enchanting escapes, each offering a unique blend of relaxation, adventure, and natural beauty.
Winter Bliss in St Helena Napa Valley
Napa Valley in winter gives visitors a deeper understanding of its charm with fewer crowds and a more personalised experience
St Helena in Napa Valley welcomes winter with an assortment of experiences like dining in The Charter Oak’s yurts for a rustic gastronomic experience or indulging in rejuvenation at the Forbes five-star Spa at Meadowood. Visitors can also explore Brasswood’s extensive wine caves and visit St Helena’s historic shopping district for luxurious boutiques, art galleries and antique shops.
Sunny Respite and Water Adventures in Long Beach
Long Beach curates a wide array of fun and hearty activities
In Long Beach, with its warm December and January temperatures, visitors can rent jet skis for Alamitos Bay exploration, cruise around Naples Island on a duffy boat or venture on a day trip to Catalina Island. Major hotels like Hyatt Centric and Hotel Maya provide inviting pools and private beach areas.
Opulence in Beverly Hills
Home to many Hollywood stars, Beverly Hills features the upscale shopping street of Rodeo Drive
Beverly Hills is renowned for year-round clear skies and manicured streets, and boasts more 5-star hotels per square mile than any other US city. Legendary establishments like the Beverly Wilshire and The Beverly Hills Hotel offer festive holiday décor. Rooftop pool decks, including those at L’Ermitage Beverly Hills and Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills, provide panoramic views. New culinary delights, such as Dante and La Dolce Vita, enhance the city’s allure.
Hiking Wonderland in Pacifica
With over 160 km of trails, Pacifica is resplendent with Mori Point for coastline views, San Pedro Valley Park for hiking trails and the seasonal Brooks Waterfall. The city offers a haven for hiking enthusiasts with varying skill levels.
Coastal Tranquillity in Carlsbad
Carlsbad welcomes winter with a mix of warm sun during the day and cool, crisp air in the evening. Explore pristine beaches, untouched natural bluffs, and hiking trails with breathtaking views. Resorts in the city offer accommodations with panoramic views of the surrounding beauty.
Winter Escape to Santa Monica
Skiing in the mountains is just a four-hour drive away from Santa Monica
Santa Monica promises a blend of warm sunsets, mild temperatures, and exciting activities. From the iconic Santa Monica Pier to Palisades Park, the city offers a wealth of sights and events. With over 5 km of coastline and gentle waves, Santa Monica’s beaches are perfect for beginners. Skiing in the mountains is just a four-hour drive away.
Slo Cal’s Warm Beaches
During winter, hundreds of fluttering Monarch butterflies take to the skies in Slo Cal
Slo Cal, situated between Los Angeles and San Francisco, combines icy blue shores with warm sandy beaches. Travellers can take in the winter perfection of Slo Cal, where charming beaches like Avila Beach and Morro Bay offer serene and picturesque settings.
Winter Wine Tasting and Outdoor Adventures in Temecula
Temecula Valley offers outdoor activities year-round, including hot air ballooning, horseback riding, golfing, hiking and biking. A winter wine-tasting tour provides a delightful opportunity to savour wines while enjoying stunning views in the Old Town for historic charm, boutique shops and dining.
Quince Summer in Pismo Beach
Pismo Beach offers kayaking and surfing opportunities amid rolling hills, orchards, and wineries
“Quince Summer” in Pismo Beach is a harvest-themed alternative to Indian Summer. With warm and mild days, the season offers affordable accommodations. Pequín Coastal Cocina at Vespera Resort provides fireside comfort with scenic views. Water sports like kayaking and surfing can be enjoyed amid rolling hills, orchards, and wineries.
Whale and Dolphin Watching in Dana Point
Dana Point, the Dolphin and Whale Watching Capital, offers year-round access to marine life. From sandy beaches to whale-watching excursions, visitors can immerse themselves in outdoor exploration. Gray whales, Pacific white-sided dolphins and Orcas can be spotted from the shores and with local outfitters.
Monterey County Winter Respite
From whale watching to enjoying a cozy beverage with a view, Monterey County is a lesser known escape
Monterey County welcomes winter with a unique charm. Visitors can enjoy a white Christmas at Carmel Beach and or explore outdoor adventures like hiking in Pinnacles National Park or cruising through Moss Landing’s Elkhorn Slough. The region’s temperate climate makes it an ideal coastal holiday destination.
