Best Places to Travel to in California

If you live in California’s Central Valley, you’re perfectly positioned for an unforgettable weekend getaway. Whether you’re craving towering granite cliffs and waterfalls in Yosemite or the fresh ocean breeze of the California Coast, planning ahead ensures a stress-free and enjoyable escape. Here’s your ultimate guide for a weekend retreat.

Majestic Mountain Escapes: Yosemite is a beautiful spot anytime of the year. Spring and early summer are prime times to visit Yosemite. The waterfalls are at their peak flow from snowmelt, wildflowers are in full bloom, and the weather is pleasant. If you think it’s pretty during the summer, wait until you see it in the winter. With a significant decrease in crowds, you can revel in its splendor while ice skating at Half Dome and skiing at Badger Pass. Additionally, Yosemite has 22 miles of trails that are just right for cross-country skiing. The Sequoia National Park is a perfect weekend getaway to experience the iconic giant sequoias, wildlife, hiking trails and camping.  Lake Tahoe is known for crystal clear blue waters, magnificent shoreline scenery with an abundance of outdoor recreation activities including scenic lake cruises and tours, watersport activities, golfing, helicopter tours and many winter activities. Tahoe may be a little further away than the other two mountain escape options, but the breathtaking views are definitely worth the 5-hour drive.

Top Central Coast Destinations: Visit one of the top aquariums in the world! Monterey Bay Aquarium features mesmerizing exhibits of marine life, including sea otters, jellyfish, and sharks. Enjoy the 17-mile drive, a scenic coastal route through Pebble Beach with iconic stops like The Lone Cypress and Spanish Bay. Visit Carmel-by-the-Sea; this picturesque town is known for its European-style streets, art galleries, charming cottages, and white sandy beaches. Cruise through Big Sur and experience one of the most photographed spots on the Pacific Coast Highway, Bixby Bridge. There you will find dramatic ocean views and McWay Falls, a breathtaking 80-foot waterfall cascading directly into the Pacific Ocean, making it one of California’s most scenic spots! San Luis Obispo County offers many getaway spots such as Hearst Castle, a historic estate built by media mogul William Randolph Hearst. The castle features opulent architecture, lavish gardens, and art collections from around the world. Avila Beach and Pismo Beach are great for sunbathing, surfing, and exploring local seafood spots. Be sure to try the famous clam chowder at Splash Café and visit the esteemed Monarch Butterfly Grove. For the hiking enthusiasts, Bishop Peak and Montaña de Oro offer stunning trails with sweeping views of the coastline and rolling hills.

Theme Park Experiences in So-Cal: You can find a vibrant mix of exciting theme parks to visit in Southern California. Disneyland is a magical and captivating amusement park for all ages to enjoy a variety of rides, parades, shopping and delicious treats. Don’t miss the firework show! Universal Studios Hollywood, known for being one of the oldest and most famous Hollywood film studios still in use, offers studio tours, live entertainment, exciting rides and special events. Located in Valencia, Six Flags Magic Mountain has over 100 rides, including 19 roller coasters, as well as games and attractions for all ages. Cool off during summer at the adjacent water park, Six Flags Hurricane Harbor, and enjoy available combination ticket options.  Knott’s Berry Farm is a popular family destination with a blend of thrilling rides, family attractions and shows. Knott’s Berry Farm is known for its Old West Ghost Town, Camp Snoopy featuring Charles M. Schulz’ Peanut characters, Fiesta Village and the Boardwalk.
 
So-Cal Coastal Retreats: Northwest of Los Angeles, Ventura boasts historical landmarks, beautiful beaches and a thriving downtown area. If you are looking for surf culture, look no further than Huntington Beach, often referred to as “Surf City, USA”. Huntington Beach hosts the U.S. Open of Surfing annually and is home to the International Surfing Museum where you can view surf legend, Duke Kahanamoku’s original surfboard. Be sure to check out Duke’s Restaurant on the beach at Huntington Beach Pier and have a slice of hula pie! Santa Barbara is a popular local favorite on the weekend getaway list and it’s no surprise with all this coastal city has to offer. Activities in Santa Barbara include visiting wineries, farmer’s markets, spending the day whale watching, choosing from 25 beaches and many beach camping spots to enjoy, taking up a round of golf, strolling through the botanical gardens, visiting the museums, soaking in the flourishing downtown scene, and enjoying the day at the Santa Barbara Zoo.

A little planning goes a long way in making your weekend getaway enjoyable. Book accommodations and activities in advance, especially during peak seasons. Arrive early to popular destinations to avoid crowds, and pack layers to stay comfortable in varying temperatures.

If you are searching for a new home, San Joaquin Valley Homes is busy building homes throughout the Central Valley. Our model homes are open daily with no appointments needed. Our website also offers virtual tours for your convenience. Visit www.sjvhomes.com for more information on all our neighborhoods.