California is a choose-your-own-adventure kind of state. One weekend you can be snowshoeing under giant sequoias, the next you’re sipping Chardonnay in the sun or stargazing in the desert. After living here for almost a decade, I’ve learned that the best way to explore California is seasonally, each month brings something new, magical, and wildly different depending on where you go.
Whether you’re craving coastal road trips, wine country relaxation, or winter cabin vibes, here’s my personal guide to the best California destinations to visit each month.
January: Yosemite National Park
Where I Stayed: Tenaya Lodge
Why January? Snowy waterfalls, fewer crowds, and peak cozy vibes. This is one of my favorite months to visit Yosemite if you’re looking for that peaceful, winter-wonderland energy without the crazy summer crowds. Just make sure to pack snow chains!
My Favorite Things To Do:
- Ice skate at Tenaya Lodge’s seasonal outdoor rink
- Take winter hikes on the Meadow Boardwalk (great views of Upper Yosemite Falls)
- Snap iconic photos from Tunnel View
Pro Tip: Pack snow chains, even if roads look clear when you arrive, Yosemite weather changes fast!
Runner Up: Point Reyes
If you’re looking for warmer weekend getaways in winter, head to Point Reyes National Seashore for blue skies, stunning coastal hikes, and all the oysters you could want.
February: Napa Valley
Where I Stayed: Calistoga Motor Lodge & Spa
Why February? It’s Cabernet Season in Napa Valley and that means fewer tourists, better tasting experiences, and firelit lounges to sip your way through wine country. I adore wearing a cozy sweater and sipping wine, always feels so chic.
My Favorite Things To Do:
- Wine tasting at Peju, Clif Family Winery or Terraces
- Soak in a mineral tub or try a classic Calistoga mud bath
- Ride the Napa Valley Wine Train for a romantic day out
Planning Tip: Book tastings in advance, many spots fill quickly even in slower month
Runner Up: Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe in the winter has some of the best skiing in the country. Makes a great family vacation or friend getaway to hit the slopes and Apres Ski around a fire.
March: Mendocino & Fort Bragg
Where I Stayed: The Inn at Newport Ranch
Why March? The Northern California coast is gorgeous this time of year, and the winter rain often brings out the greenest cliffs and best sea glass finds. This area of the coast makes one of my personal favorite California weekend getaways when I need to digital detox and enjoy the rustic, wild outdoors (or go mushroom hunting)!
My Favorite Things To Do:
- Visit Glass Beach to hunt for sea glass
- Grab a cocktail at Glen Blair Bar (only accessible via the Skunk Train!)
- Walk out to Point Cabrillo Lighthouse
Packing Tip: Bring waterproof hiking boots! March rain = muddy (but beautiful) coastal trails
April: Joshua Tree National Park
Where I Stayed: This adorable Airbnb
Why April? This is the end of prime desert bloom season, plus the temps are still bearable for hiking and sunset chasing.
My Favorite Things To Do:
- Hike to Skull Rock (come at golden hour!)
- Watch the stars, the Milky Way is crystal clear this time of year
- Venture out to Landers for an alien rock one of the weirdest things to do in California
Planning Tip: Bring layers, it’s warm during the day but desert nights get chilly.
Runner Up: SLO Coast
San Luis Obispo and Paso Robles is stunning in the springtime when coastal wildflowers are blooming.
May: Big Sur
Where I Stayed: Big Sur Lodge
Why May? Coastal spring is something else. Wildflowers are popping, the fog hasn’t rolled in too thick yet, and the trails are lush.
My Favorite Things To Do:
- Stop at McWay Falls (an icon!)
- Hike Ewoldsen Trail for forest-meets-ocean magic
- Picnic by the Big Sur River
Pro Tip: Gas up before the trip, fuel stations are few and far between on Highway 1.
June: Calaveras County
Where I Stayed: Our cozy Whimsy Home cabin in Arnold
Why June? It’s the perfect mix of warm weather and low-key crowds before summer vacation really kicks in. Plus: giant trees, hidden lakes, and wine. If you’re thinking of going to Lake Tahoe this summer, swap it with an equally mountainous weekend California getaway with the fraction of the crowds.
My Favorite Things To Do:
- Hike Calaveras Big Trees State Park
- Paddleboard at White Pines Lake
- Go wine tasting in Murphys (we’re members of Locke!)
Packing Tip: Don’t forget your swimsuit, there’s countless alpine lakes here to enjoy!
July: Santa Cruz Mountains
Where I Stayed: Redwood Treefort
Why July? Coastal forests meet beachy breezes, the best of both worlds during the peak of summer. Plus, the Santa Cruz Mountains has some of the best wine tasting in the state.
My Favorite Things To Do:
- Hike through Henry Cowell Redwoods
- Sip wine at Ridge Vineyards
- Visit the Mystery Spot (because why not?)
Planning Tip: Bring a light jacket, the coastal redwoods stay cool even in summer.
August: San Diego
Where I Stayed: La Jolla Cove Suites
Why August? It’s all about beach days, breezy cocktails, and city exploring when everything is in full summer swing. My most recent visit to San Diego was a few summers ago for my birthday and I had a blast waking up every day to snorkel.
My Favorite Things To Do:
- Lounge on Coronado or La Jolla Shores
- Wander Balboa Park
- Try local craft beer (San Diego is one of the best beer cities!)
Pro Tip: Pack reef-safe sunscreen and a swimsuits, spontaneous beach dips are inevitable.
Runner Up: Sequoia National Park
Hiking around Sequoia National Park underneath towering ancient trees is absolutely so fun in the summertime.
September: Healdsburg
Where I Stayed: Hotel Healdsburg
Why September? Crush season! This is when grapes are harvested and wine country feels alive with energy. Healdsburg is an adorable wine country town that can never be missed but is extra fun this time of year.
My Favorite Things To Do:
- Taste wine at Banshee or VML
- Stroll Healdsburg Plaza
- Splurge on dinner at SingleThread
Planning Tip: Be patient as everyone in the Sonoma Valley is working overtime for harvest.
October: Big Bear Lake
Where I Stayed: This cozy cabin Airbnb with a hot tub!
Why October? For fall color chasers looking for scenic getaways, this is one of the few places in Southern California that delivers on golden foliage. We visited a few years ago and I loved soaking up all the fall colors in the mountains!
My Favorite Things To Do:
- Hike Castle Rock Trail
- Kayak or paddleboard on the lake
- Sip seasonal brews at Big Bear Lake Brewing Co.
Packing Tip: Bring layers! Mornings are crisp, but afternoons can still feel like fall summer.
Runner Up: San Francisco
San Francisco’s summer is actually in October, so now is a great time to come to the foggy city and experience blue skies. You’ll actually be able to see the Golden Gate Bridge!
November: Palm Springs
Where I Stayed: The Parker Palm Springs
Why November? Warm desert days, crisp nights, and mid-century modern magic all around town. This is when the desert really shines. I personally never travel here in the summer since it’s too hot, that’s why autumn is perfect.
My Favorite Things To Do:
- Bike tour of mid-century homes
- Hike the Indian Canyons, a palm oasis
- Pool + cocktail (always)
Pro Tip: Book dinner reservations early as outdoor patios are in high demand during fall.
December: San Francisco
Where I Stayed: The Fairmont San Francisco
Why December? Holiday lights, festive markets, and ice skating with skyline views. It’s as close to a Hallmark holiday moment as the city gets and I always make sure to spend as much time as possible in San Francisco during Christmas.
My Favorite Things To Do:
- Ice skate at Union Square or Embarcadero
- Take a holiday lights tour
- Shop at the Ferry Building Marketplace for gifts and treats
Packing Tip: Bring a warm coat and a scarf, it gets windier than you think, especially near the water.
Ready to Explore California Like a Local?
I’m a huge believer that California is best explored like a local: month by month, season by season and through weekend trips.
The weather alone lets you plan everything from beautiful snow days to surf sessions, depending on your vibe. So whether you’re craving cozy mountain cabins or coastal sunshine, there’s a spot in California waiting for you this month.
Where will you go first?
