California in the fall is a whole mood. Between golden vineyards, crisp mountain air, and charming small towns, October is one of the best months to explore the Golden State. After years of traveling up and down California, I’ve pulled together my personal list of October destinations, including a few hidden gems that don’t make it onto most lists.
Whether you’re chasing fall foliage, sipping wine during harvest season, craving a cozy cabin escape or catching some warm weather before winter, these are the best places to visit in California in October.
1. Napa Valley in October – Harvest Season & Vineyard Views
The vineyards in Napa Valley transform into a patchwork of gold, orange, and crimson during late October (through November), making it one of the most iconic autumn destinations in California.
Why Go: October is peak harvest season, so wineries are buzzing with grape picking, crush parties, and seasonal events. Sweater weather and wine tastings are the ultimate fall pairing.
Don’t Miss: Take a hot air balloon ride at sunrise for sweeping vineyard views.
Where to Stay:
- Calistoga Motor Lodge for a budget option with personality
- Carneros Resort & Spa for a luxurious countryside escape.
2. Yosemite National Park in October – Fall Colors Without the Crowds
Yosemite in October is pure magic. The summer crowds are gone, the weather is perfect for hiking, and the fall colors light up the valley floor. One of my favorite California getaways I’ve ever done was at the end of October, we got up at sunrise and had the whole valley to ourselves for a few hours. Magic.
Why Go: Golden maples and oaks frame iconic views like El Capitan and Half Dome.
Don’t Miss: Walk the Meadow Boardwalk for views of Upper Yosemite Falls or catch sunrise at Tunnel View.
Where to Stay:
- Evergreen Lodge for cozy cabins.
- These cabins for stylish glamping.
3. Arnold, California in October – Fall Foliage, Wine, and Small-Town Charm
Arnold is a small Sierra Nevada town that deserves a spot on your October bucket list. It’s quieter than Tahoe, more affordable, and brimming with fall beauty. It’s next door to Murphys, which is a town that literally feels like Stars Hallow from Gilmore Girls, there’s always something cute happening.
Why Go: Golden aspens along Ebbetts Pass Scenic Byway, small-town charm, and nearby wineries in Murphys plus a Mystic Saloon, an actual Halloween Bar.
Don’t Miss:
- Ebbetts Pass Scenic Drive: Picnic at Lake Alpine surrounded by fiery foliage.
- Red Apple Bakery: Life-changing cider donuts and fresh cider.
- Murphys Wine Tasting: Locke Vineyards for its garden setting and Hatcher Winery for bold reds.
- Calaveras Grape Stomp: A lively harvest festival in October.
Where to Stay: My Whimsy Homes cabin complete with a cedar hot tub, pink kitchen, and cozy fireplace.
4. Joshua Tree National Park in October – Cool Desert Days & Stargazing Nights
While you won’t find fall foliage here, October marks the start of prime desert season. The triple-digit summer heat finally breaks, making Joshua Tree Park and Palm Springs one of the best times to visit in October.
I love to plan desert hikes in the fall, and rent a very cute Airbnb that I can make home base.
Why Go: Cooler days mean you can explore trails, climb boulders, and stargaze without overheating.
Don’t Miss:
- Hike to Skull Rock or Hidden Valley.
- Catch a sunset at Keys View for panoramic desert landscapes.
- Stay after dark to see the Milky Way in crystal-clear skies.
Where to Stay:
- A design-forward Joshua Tree Airbnb with a cowboy tub.
- Sacred Sands for boutique desert luxury just outside the park entrance.
5. Apple Hill in October – Orchards, Cider Donuts & Pumpkin Patches
For Northern Californians, Apple Hill is a fall tradition. I love to go apple picking up here every year, the farm owners are so nice and there’s wine tasting to enjoy after getting my fill of apples.
Why Go: Apple picking, pumpkin patches, wagon rides, and more cider donuts than you thought possible.
Don’t Miss: Visit mid-week to skip the crowds.
Pro Tip: Bring a cooler to stock up on pies and cider for the drive home.
6. Mendocino & Fort Bragg in October – Coastal Beauty & Redwood Adventures
October on the Mendocino Coast means warm breezes, sunny skies, and peaceful trails. This is one of my favorite towns in the entire state and I also go for a digital detox before the busy holiday season.
Why Go: Cozy small towns, rugged coastline, and hidden spots like Glen Blair Bar, which is only accessible via the Skunk Train through the Redwoods.
Don’t Miss: Glass Beach and Point Cabrillo Lighthouse for classic Mendocino views.
Where to Stay: Inn at Newport Ranch for bluffside luxury.
7. Carmel Valley in October – Santa Lucia Highlands Wine Country Escape
If you love wine country but want fewer crowds than Napa, Carmel Valley is a great choice. You’ll find world-class Santa Lucia Highlands wine to sip in charming tasting rooms.
Why Go: Warm days, crisp nights, and vineyards in full fall color.
Don’t Miss: Wine tasting at Joyce Wine Co followed by dinner at in Carmel at La Bicyclette.
Where to Stay: Bernardus Lodge for a romantic escape.
8. June Lake & Mammoth Lakes in October – Eastern Sierra Fall Foliage
The Eastern Sierra is California’s crown jewel for fall foliage, and October is peak season. It’s truly one of the best places to visit in October in California for anyone looking to catch fall colors and squeeze in a last mountain hike before the snow hits.
Why Go: The June Lake Loop explodes with golden aspens reflecting in alpine lakes.
Don’t Miss: End a day of leaf-peeping with a soak in the Wild Willy Mammoth Lakes hot springs or a hike around the Mono Lake Tufas.
Where to Stay: This cozy ski chalet condo comfort and convenience.
9. Big Sur in October – Rugged Coastline & Mild Weather
Big Sur’s rugged cliffs and turquoise coves are even more peaceful in October. We love to go camping in Ventanna every october.
Why Go: Mild weather, fewer tourists, and hills dotted with golden grasses.
Don’t Miss: Hike Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park for ocean views framed by fall color.
Where to Stay: Alila Ventana for an all-inclusive luxury retreat, or their campground for rugged bliss.
10. Lake Tahoe & Hope Valley in October – Golden Aspens & Mountain Air
Lake Tahoe in October is way less crowded (I won’t touch it in the summer since it’s too busy!) The autumn crystal-clear water meets Hope Valley’s vibrant aspens for the perfect fall combo.
Why Go: Crisp air and bright foliage make it ideal for hiking or scenic drives.
Don’t Miss: Drive through Hope Valley or hike Popo’s Trail for the best views.
Where to Stay: Desolation Hotel for luxury glamping.
11. Nevada City in October – Gold Rush History & Autumn Streets
A charming Gold Rush town that shines in October with fall foliage, perfect fall weather and fun seasonal events.
Why Go: Stroll historic streets lined with trees in full fall color.
Don’t Miss: A countryside drive for more autumn views.
Where to Stay: National Exchange Hotel for boutique charm or this super cool farm stay Airbnb.
12. Sonoma County in October – Wine Country Harvest & Farm-to-Table Dining
Napa’s more laid-back sibling comes alive during harvest is Sonoma County. I love Healdsburg for some of the best wineries in the state.
Why Go: Vineyard views, grape stomps, and farm-to-table dining.
Don’t Miss: Spend a day in Healdsburg for boutique wineries and a cozy downtown.
Where to Stay:
- Farmhouse Inn for an upscale wine country retreat.
- Flamingo Resort for urban access.
12. Central Coast in October – SLO, Paso Robles, and Seaside Charm
The Central Coast blends seaside charm with wine country magic, and October is so lovely. It’ll also be harvest season but also a slower tourist season so you won’t be fighiting the crowds.
Why Go: October means fewer tourists, cooler temps, and fall events.
Don’t Miss: Avila Barn in San Luis Obispo for pumpkin patches, cider, and baked goods.
Where to Stay: Just Inn so you can literally way up in a vineyard.
13. Santa Barbara in October – Warm Beaches & Coastal Escapes
Beach meets fall here. If you’re looking for a warm weather autumn escape, rent a bike and troll the boardwalk in Santa Barbara.
Why Go: Warm weather and empty beaches in October.
Don’t Miss: Day trip to Solvang for a peaceful Danish-inspired autumn escape.
Where to Stay:
- Hotel Californian for downtown style.
- Glass house cottage (so unique!)
14. San Francisco in October – True Summer in the City
The city’s late summer season means sunny days and fewer crowds. Most travel tips and packing lists will tell you to always bring a jacket to San Francisco, but this is the one month of the year you actually may not need it.
Why Go: Explore neighborhoods, parks, and the fall food scene.
Don’t Miss: Sunny pincics at Dolores Park, beach days at Baker Beach and Fleet Week.
Where to Stay: Fairmont Hotel for historic luxury.
15. Big Bear Lake in October – Southern California Fall Foliage
Southern California’s favorite mountain getaway for fall colors. One of my favorite October road trips my husband and I did was renting a cute cabin in for fall foliage hikes.
Why Go: Golden aspens, crisp mountain air, and lake views.
Don’t Miss: Hike Castle Rock Trail for panoramic scenery.
Where to Stay:
- This cool A-frame with a hot tub
- This cabin looks like The Shining Hotel bathroom?!
16. Julian in October – Apple Pie & Small-Town Fall Vibes
A tiny mountain town near San Diego that’s big on autumn spirit.
Why Go: Apple pie, cider, and small-town charm.
Don’t Miss: Julian Pie Company for the best slice in town (I’m obsessed!)
Where to Stay: Julian Gold Rush Hotel for a historic stay.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting California in October
Q: Is October a good time to visit California?
A: Yes! October is one of the best months to explore California. Crowds are smaller than summer, the weather is mild across most regions, and it’s peak season for fall foliage, wine harvests, and seasonal events. From crisp mountain air in the Sierra to warm desert days in Joshua Tree, there’s something for every traveler.
Q: Where is the best fall foliage in California?
A: The Eastern Sierra (June Lake Loop, Mammoth Lakes), Hope Valley near Lake Tahoe, and Ebbetts Pass near Arnold are famous for vibrant aspen displays. Yosemite Valley also glows with golden maples and oaks in October.
Q: Is California warm in October?
A: It depends on where you go. Coastal cities like Santa Barbara and San Diego often stay in the 70s, the desert (Joshua Tree, Palm Springs) cools to pleasant 70–80°F days, and mountain towns like Arnold or Lake Tahoe see cooler temperatures in the 50s–60s. Always check the local forecast before packing.
Get Ready For The Perfect California Travel Road Trip
October in California is all about variety. You can sip wine under golden vineyards, hike through fiery aspens, stargaze in the desert, or enjoy the coast without the summer crowds. Whether you choose a classic like Napa or a hidden gem like Arnold, you’ll find unforgettable fall magic.
Grab your coziest sweater, pack your camera, and make October your month to explore California with my guide!
