Weekend Vacation In California
A weekend vacation in California may be the most exciting time in your life. The moment that has been building up for an entire week finally arrives: you are getting the heck out of dodge and hitting the road!
That was not a dream! You really can fly to California for a weekend vacation for under $500.00.
For a weekend away from the everyday hustle, consider a vacation to California. The City By The Bay is host to a wide diversity of restaurants and accommodations. Take a tour of Alcatraz, visit the Golden Gate Bridge, or attend an exhibition at one of San Francisco’s many art galleries. There’s no shortage of entertainment options in California.
You’ve probably been to California a number of times and thought, “Man, I’d love to take a week off and relax there!” Many people have this fantasy, but not everyone gets to do it. The next time you have some free time, consider taking a trip there. Here’s why:
The United States is a country that offers wide open spaces. Sprawling manicured lawns, outdoor grills, and the best of the best in terms of shopping and entertainment. The state of California has it all; from the Hollywood stars to the stunning redwood forests, here are some of the best destinations to visit in California.
Looking for the best weekend getaways in California? Our local’s guide to planning the perfect weekend in California has everything you need to know!
Weekend Vacation In California
For visitors from all corners of the world and native Californians alike, the toughest part about planning a the perfect weekend in California is deciding where to visit. No need to request time off work or travel the globe, you can make your weekend a little bit sweeter with these 15 amazing California weekend getaways.
15 Best Weekend Getaways in California
1. Santa Barbara
It’s not hard to see why some visit Santa Barbara and never want to leave. The coastal city is popular among high-class foodies and is a retreat for many celebrities, but the atmosphere is always laid back and easy going.
Walk along State Street or see the rose garden at the Santa Barbara Mansion, and check the “Funk Zone” — a community of cafes, boutique shops, wine tasting shops and art galleries — before heading to the pier. Want to fit in with the locals? Rent a bike.
Where to Stay in Santa Barbara
For a great budget accommodation option, check out the Coast Village Inn on Coast Village Road. The property is just a six minute walk from the beach, has a heated swimming pool, and offers free beach cruiser bicycles for your use.
For a mid-range option, try out the Marina Beach Motel. This cozy spot is a five minute walk from the beach and again, offers free bicycles for your stay.
If high-end is more your style, the Simpson House Inn is the place for you. Built in 1874, this Victorian-style Bed & Breakfast offers individually styled rooms, is surrounded by lush gardens, and offers gourmet breakfast and evening wine tastings.
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2. Catalina Island
On Catalina Island it’s enough to spend your entire weekend lounging in a cabana on the beach, but there’s more to explore if you want to make the most of your time there! You can tour the Catalina Casino (actually not a casino), hike the Trans-Catalina Trail, and stroll through shops on Crescent Avenue.
Even with a little of LA’s glitz and glam carrying over onto the island, it’s also one of the Best Places to Camp in California!
Where to Stay on Catalina Island
For a budget accommodation option, check out the Hotel Catalina. This property is a 20-minute walk from the beach and features a courtyard patio, hot tub, and a fountain.
For a midrange option on Catalina, try out the boutique Aurora Hotel, just an eight minute walk from the Catalina Casino. Guests can enjoy a free continental breakfast, as well as a wine and cheese hour every Friday evening, and a mimosa bar on the weekends.
For a higher-end option, check out the Pavilion Hotel. This beachside hotel features landscaped gardens, a European-style breakfast, and a spa.