The breathtaking Sierra Nevada Mountains, gorgeous beaches, and gorgeous natural parks may come to mind when you hear about the state of California. It is a vast region in the US that boasts majestic natural wonders and captivating cities and towns with different offerings. If you are planning to go on a romantic trip to California with the love of your life, you cannot be disappointed as there are lots in store for you on this side of the country, from the majestic Yosemite National Park to the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. Other interesting attractions include Los Angeles County Museum of Art, Disneyland Park, Universal Studios Hollywood, and more. Browse through this list to know more about the top romantic weekend getaways in California, USA.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status. recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on February 07, 2024.
1. Santa Barbara (from USD 285)
Reasonable pricing for spacious, clean rooms with ocean views. Onsite parking available for a fee.
Convenient location near the beach, pier, and dining options. Pool and gym facilities. Some rooms offer balconies and ocean views.
Prime location within walking distance to restaurants, shops, and attractions. Close to the beach and State Street.
Numerous dining options nearby, although breakfast is not included. Some guests found the onsite restaurant small with long queues.
With the majestic Santa Ynez Mountains as Santa Barbara’s picture-perfect background, nothing can get more romantic than this city. It boasts a dramatic cityscape, enchanting sandy beaches, and breathtaking sunsets. If you wish to indulge in the best Santa Barbara has to offer, visit Stearns Wharf. It has a stunning beach, a magical sunset, excellent seafood restaurants, bars, local shops, and lots of recreational areas. Are you and your partner into architecture? If so, you might want to include Superior Court Of California County Of Santa Barbara and Casa del Herrero in your itinerary. Santa Barbara is 384 mi (618 km) away from Sacramento.
Harbor View Inn
Address: 28 West Cabrillo Boulevard
316.64 km (196.8 mi) from Monterey Bay Aquarium
2. Laguna Beach (from USD 572)
Premium rates for oceanfront rooms, worth the cost for stunning views and beachfront access.
Beachfront property with pool, spa, and exceptional staff service.
Prime spot on Laguna Beach, with easy access to restaurants and shops.
Impeccable dining experience, especially the breakfast burrito and French toast.
Thinking of exploring the charming Orange County in California? Don’t forget to spend a day or two in Laguna Beach. This beautiful coastal city is a paradise for sea lovers. It showcases a vast beach with tide pools that tourists love. Not only that, this city is crawling with excellent dining spots, making it a perfect destination for foodies as well. Also, art enthusiasts can fall in love with Laguna Beach’s Laguna Art Museum that houses contemporary masterpieces. Make your holiday in the city even more special by taking your partner on a wine-tasting adventure at Laguna Canyon Winery. Sacramento is 434 mi (698 km) away.
Surf and Sand Resort
Address: 1555 South Coast Highway
508.85 km (316.2 mi) from Monterey Bay Aquarium
3. Sonoma (from USD 323)
Located 68 mi (109 km) away from the capital city of Sacramento, Sonoma is a charming city that is famous for its multitude of vineyards and wineries. It is a dream destination for gastronomy enthusiasts. Buena Vista Winery is one of the best wineries in the city. It serves its signature bottles in a stunningly quaint tasting place. If you plan to go on a complete culinary adventure with your beloved, you can add Roche Winery, Bump Wine Cellars, and Kamen Estate Wines to your vacation plans. Also, don’t miss out on the chance to visit Sonoma Valley Museum of Art while in the city.
Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa
Address: 100 Boyes Boulevard
195.26 km (121.4 mi) from Monterey Bay Aquarium
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4. Avalon, Santa Catalina Island (from USD 140)
Sitting on Santa Catalina Island, 402 mi (647 km) away from Sacramento, Avalon is a dreamy holiday destination ideal for tourists who wish to experience luxurious island life. It offers marvelous beaches, breathtaking nature views, a cool coastal area breeze, and lots of fantastic restaurants. Indulge in the vibrant art scene of Avalon and catch a show at the seaside Casino Ballroom. Reconnect with Mother Nature and admire her masterpieces at Wrigley Botanical Garden. Also, you might like to spend an afternoon playing golf with your significant other at Golf Gardens.
The Edgewater
Address: 415 Crescent Avenue
488.54 km (303.6 mi) from Monterey Bay Aquarium
California Tour Guide
Stephanie Eley
I'm a graduate of ITMI, International Tour Management Institute and 17 years as a licensed Tour Director and Program Director. My expertise began in NYC and Washington, DC where I'm a licensed guide and has expanded to Europe, South America, Cuba and the Western / Southwestern National Parks of the US. I'd love to introduce you for a day or a week to Denver, Colorado and the 4 corners region of the US: Colorado, Utah, New Mexico and Arizona! Let's GO!! stepheley@gmail.com
Tours by Stephanie
5. Ferndale (from USD 210)
Reasonable pricing for a charming Victorian B&B in a quaint town.
Elegant period decor, afternoon tea, wine, and homemade treats, and spacious rooms with fresh flowers.
Located in the picturesque town of Ferndale, minutes away from shops, restaurants, and Coastal Redwoods.
Delicious homemade breakfast, wine, cheese, and snacks, with accommodating staff for dietary restrictions.
Situated 279 mi (449 km) away from the capital city, Ferndale is a charming city situated in Humboldt County. It is a short drive away from the gorgeous Centerville Beach, which offers picture-perfect views and wild waves. This city has an abundance of attractions for all types of tourists, including lovebirds. If you and your partner are into a nature adventure, be sure to explore Russ Park and Eel River. The latter is not only a destination for swimming, but it is also a site for fishing. After days of reconnecting with nature, you can swing by Assumption Catholic Church and say a few prayers of thanks and well wishes.
Gingerbread Mansion
Address: 400 Berding Street
485.49 km (301.7 mi) from Monterey Bay Aquarium
6. South Lake Tahoe (from USD 126)
South Lake Tahoe, located 103 mi (166 km) away from Sacramento, is one of the most visited resort cities in California. It’s a popular tourist destination that not only brags beautiful beaches but world-class ski resorts as well, making it a getaway paradise ideal all year round. It has scenic natural parks such as Van Sickle Bi-State Park, Taylor Creek, and Desolation Wilderness. Montbleu Resort, Casino and Spa and Bijou Municipal Golf Course are also must-visits if you and your lover want to enjoy some interesting games.
Hilton Vacation Club Tahoe Seasons Lake Tahoe
Address: 3901 Saddle Road
310.38 km (192.9 mi) from Monterey Bay Aquarium
7. Half Moon Bay (from USD 198)
Fall in love with the string of beaches found in the dreamy little city of Half Moon Bay. Nothing can be more romantic than going on a saltwater swim with the love of your life as the sea creates a picture-perfect backdrop. Some of the most majestic beaches in Half Moon Bay are Half Moon Bay State Beach, Poplar Beach, Mavericks Beach, and Miramar Beach. Take a break from swimming and water sports and have a romantic date at Lemos Farm or go for a wine-tasting adventure at Trojak'knier Winery. South Lake Tahoe is 115 mi (185 km) away from Sacramento.
Aristocrat Hotel, BW Signature Collection
Address: 1400 Cabrillo Hwy
103.36 km (64.3 mi) from Monterey Bay Aquarium
8. Avila Beach (from USD 194)
Reasonable pricing for a charming coastal getaway with complimentary snacks, wine, and breakfast.
Spacious rooms, Mexican-style decor, jacuzzi tubs, and a variety of complimentary treats throughout the day.
Conveniently located just a block from the beach, close to restaurants, shops, and a secluded beach.
Delicious homemade pie, wine and appetizers, fresh croissants for breakfast, and a charcuterie plate in the room.
Are you in love with California’s beaches? You haven’t seen it all if you haven’t been to Avila Beach, located 299 mi (81 km) from Sacramento. Located in San Luis Obispo County, Avila Beach is a vibrant place where nature thrives. It has beautiful beaches you and your partner can enjoy such as Pirates Cove Beach, Olde Port Beach, Fisherman’s Beach, and more. If you like fishing, Avila Beach Pier might be the place for you. It is also a fantastic site for great white shark viewing. If your interest falls more on the side of hiking and camping, you can fall in love with nature and scenic views at Cerro San Luis Obispo and Irish Hills Natural Reserve.
Avila La Fonda Hotel
Address: 101 San Miguel Street
191.45 km (119.0 mi) from Monterey Bay Aquarium
9. Napa Valley (from USD 309)
Known as a paradise for gastronomic experiences, Napa Valley is a world-renowned wine country that produces some of the most top-rated wine brands. This county is home to picturesque vineyards that can make you feel like you’re vacationing in a countryside European town like Tuscany. What makes it more romantic, besides its magical sceneries, is its abundance of excellent dining spots that take advantage of Napa Valley’s landscape and views. Some of the best places to try some wine are Ca’ Momi Osteria, Brix Napa Valley, Angele Restaurant & Bar, Tarla Mediterranean Bar + Grill, Clos du Val Winery, and many more. Napa Valley is 56 mi (90 km) away from Sacramento.
Marriott Napa Valley Hotel & Spa
Address: 3425 Solano Avenue
192.99 km (120.0 mi) from Monterey Bay Aquarium
10. Carmel-by-the-Sea (from USD 296)
High pricing for luxury experience, inclusive of breakfast and shuttle service.
Charming historic property with beautiful gardens, pool, and cozy lounge area.
Prime location, minutes from the beach and downtown restaurants.
Excellent breakfast buffet, complimentary wine, and cookies, plus a classic bar with a great vibe.
Imagine swimming in beautiful beaches, building sandcastles under the pleasant warmth of the sun, and enjoying some cocktails. If this scenario sounds romantic to you, you might consider taking your special someone to Carmel-by-the-Sea. It is a captivating beach city in California that boasts more than powdery shorelines. It also has fascinating museums and art galleries. Some of them are Carmel Mission Basilica Museum, Ocean Avenue, Weston Gallery, and Carmel Art Association Gallery. The best part? Carmel-by-the-Sea has a lot of excellent dining spots and wineries. This city is 189 mi (304 km) away from California’s capital city, Sacramento.
La Playa Hotel
Address: Camino Real at Eighth Avenue
7.65 km (4.8 mi) from Monterey Bay Aquarium
Have a romantic time in California with the love of your life
California is a dream destination for most people in the US and the world. It has a multitude of offerings that can charm all types of tourists. Natural parks, amusement parks, museums, luxurious shopping districts, and excellent dining spots are everywhere in this vast state. Take your special someone on an adventure they will never forget, and make it extra special by visiting the destinations included in this list of top romantic weekend getaways in California, USA.
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