COZY WINTER HOTELS
Vichy Springs Resort
Established in 1854, Ukiah’s Vichy Springs Resort is a unique historic hot springs resort only two hours north of downtown San Francisco. It’s the oldest ongoing resort of its kind in California. In North America, Vichy Springs offers the only naturally warm and carbonated "Vichy" mineral baths. The room and cottage rates include full use of the mineral baths, a hot soaking pool, an Olympic-size swimming pool (in season), and a 700-acre private reserve for walking and hiking. The restaurants and downtown shopping of Ukiah are only a 10-minute drive away.
Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa
Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa recently unveiled the completion of a $13.9 million renovation of its 210 guest rooms and suites along with additional enhancements to the property’s multiple lawn spaces and a brand-new apiary and chef’s garden. This winter, guests can retreat in the hotel's brand-new guest rooms, enjoy a savory Baja-inspired meal at Mustangs & Burros, or indulge in decadent pampering at Spa Estancia.
San Diego’s Seaside Resorts
Plan the quintessential San Diego experience this winter at one of its many hotels. San Diego Mission Bay Resort features sweeping views of the bay, Fiesta Island and SeaWorld, and additionally offers guests a private beach, bayside dining at Covewood, inspired treatments at Spa Brezza and on-site Action Sports. Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina underwent a multimillion-dollar renovation on 1,366 newly designed guest rooms, an M Club lounge, and a new Topgolf Swing suite, among other new additions. Kona Kai Resort has inviting pools, guest rooms and suites, and innovative programming including dog massages at Spa Terre. Vessel Restaurant + Bar is the perfect place to catch a winter sunset over the marina while enjoying one of many expertly crafted signature cocktails.
L'Auberge Del Mar
L’Auberge Del Mar overlooks the Pacific Ocean offering a resort experience reminiscent of a private seaside estate. Visitors can immerse themselves in the iconic Del Mar institution that boasts luxurious guest rooms, an upscale pool and pool bar overlooking the Pacific Ocean, an inviting “Living Room” lobby area, as well as the introduction of an entirely new culinary experience, Adelaide.
AutoCamp Joshua Tree
AutoCamp Joshua Tree offers unique, luxury lodging for every type of explorer. Located minutes from the gates of Joshua Tree National Park, the property gives visitors a one-of-a-kind desert experience with custom Airstream suites, a decked-out Clubhouse with food and beverage offerings, a seasonally heated pool, and more.
Presidio of San Francisco
With mild weather and spectacular park experiences, visit the Presidio of San Francisco for a “Green Christmas”.Experience cozy indoor activities at one of its historic boutique hotels - Lodge at the Presidio or Inn at the Presidio. Enjoy outdoor trails, views, overlooks and forests, and indoor museums and wellness options. See a holiday show at the Presidio Theatre in December. Play a round of golf or play at the new Outpost nature playground at Presidio Tunnel Tops. New and old restaurants like Dalida, Colibri, Sessions, Il Parco and more, all offer seasonal menus and holiday cheer.
Balboa Bay Resort
The iconic Forbes Four-Star, AAA Four-Diamond Balboa Bay Resort along Newport Beach’s Pacific Coast Highway is the premiere waterfront warm winter destination. Enjoy a full-body massage or facial at Balboa Bay Spa, or relax at the Tequila Bar serving rare tequila and mezcal brands like Asombroso: The Collaboration Extra Anejo. Dine at the hotel’s flagship restaurant A+O while enjoying views of the yacht-covered sparkling waters.
Four Seasons San Francisco at Embarcadero
Located in San Francisco’s bustling Financial District atop a 48-story landmark building, Four Seasons San Francisco at Embarcadero is a lifestyle-driven property that affords guests a dynamic connection to the city with sprawling views spanning the Golden Gate Bridge and iconic skyline. Guests have walkable access to some of San Francisco’s best neighborhoods such as Jackson Square and the Embarcadero waterfront, surrounding Michelin-starred restaurants, top global company headquarters, the Historic Ferry Building, and more.
Half Moon Bay Lodge
Half Moon Bay Lodge has long been a seaside retreat located 28 miles south of San Francisco. The property’s outdoor space, called The Backyard, is surrounded by breathtaking scenery and now has outdoor fire pits and additional seating for guests. Take a swing at the Half Moon Bay Golf Links, spend the day hiking or explore nearby lighthouses. The property’s updated 80 guest rooms include new bedding, furniture and TVs, and more natural textures and colors including ocean-inspired blues and earthy browns, while still embracing its lodge-like feel.
The Lodge at Sonoma
The Lodge at Sonoma has 182 guest rooms, suites and cottage accommodations – some of which feature private outdoor soaking tubs and fireplaces – and offers completely redesigned spaces, distinct culinary concepts, and unexpected experiences. Highlights include Chef Michael Mina’s first wine country restaurant, Wit & Wisdom, High Horse Bar, a horse trailer turned endearing poolside bar, and Benicia's Kitchen serving up farm fresh fare. Retreat to The Spa at the Lodge for locally inspired treatments highlighting indigenous botanicals.
WINTER ATTRACTIONS & EVENTS
Modesto’s Almond Blossom Cruise
Starting in February 2024 to mid-March, the almond blossoms on the outskirts of Modesto burst into full bloom, giving travelers a chance to see miles of blooms as a lesser-known alternative to cherry blossoms. Listen to the Almond Blossom Cruise while exploring the rolling hills and learn the essential role of the Central Valley's agricultural system, plus stop for famous almond butter milkshakes at Robert's Ferry Gourmet.
West Hollywood’s Social Wellness Club
Recover from the winter slopes on West Hollywood's famous Sunset Strip, perched on the edge of the hills, with pampering spas and trendy rooftop pools. The world's first social wellness club, Remedy Place, welcomes visitors for one-off recovery treatments like hyperbaric chambers, infrared sauna, Vitamin C rinse, IV treatments, and custom chiropractic or stretching.
Winter Nature Sightings in Oceanside
From November to April, the waters around Oceanside become a prime location for spotting migrating whales, adding an extra layer of wonder to a visit. A top 12 destination for wintering birds, Oceanside is a winter haven for bird enthusiasts who can enjoy guided excursions through the Buena Vista Audubon.
WARM WINTER DESTINATIONS
Winter Bliss in St. Helena Napa Valley
St. Helena offers an unforgettable experience in the heart of wine country. Dine in The Charter Oak's yurts for a rustic gastronomic experience or retreat to the Forbes five-star rated Spa at Meadowood for ultimate winter rejuvenation. Indulge in food and wine at Brasswood and explore its 17,000 sq. ft. of wine caves. Visit St. Helena's Historic Shopping District for luxurious boutiques, art galleries and antique shops.
Water Adventures in Long Beach
Long Beach is the ideal respite in December and January making it warm enough to get out on the water. Rent jet skis and explore Alamitos Bay or see the Queen Mary up close. Cruise around Naples Island on a fully enclosed Duffy boat, or see the canals with Gondola Getaway while enjoying Italian food and serenades from a Venetian-trained gondolier. Book a day pass and hang out by the pool at one of the major hotels downtown, like Hyatt Centric, or a cabana and private beach area at Hotel Maya. For a day trip with hiking, dining and beaches, take the Catalina Express from Long Beach to Catalina Island, just an hour ferry ride away.
Luxurious Beverly Hills
Beverly Hills is famous for year-round clear skies, manicured parks and gardens, SoCal sunshine, and palmtree-lined streets. Home to more 5-star hotels per square mile than any other city in the U.S., legendary hotels, like the Beverly Wilshire, a Four Seasons Hotel, and The Beverly Hills Hotel, pull out the stops for guests during the holidays with festive décor and events. Opt for a pool day at one of many rooftop pool decks from the L’Ermitage Beverly Hills to the Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills. New restaurant openings in the 90210 include the legendary restaurant and aperitivo bar Dante, Sinatra-loved La Dolce Vita, and Evan Funke’s Funke. Make travel planning easy with Beverly Hills’ curated Happy Trails guides designed to showcase the best spots.
Breathtaking Trails in Pacifica
Hiking season does not have to stop when summer ends. Pacifica is home to more than 100 miles of hiking and biking trails perfect for exploring during any season. Enjoy Mori Point for views of the coastline where the bluff protrudes out into the ocean and offers views from Point Reyes to Pedro Point. San Pedro Valley Park has picnic sites with barbecue pits, a self-guiding nature trail, hiking trails and views of the seasonal Brooks Waterfall. There are multiple trails available for varying skill levels with some of the most popular being the Montara Mountain Trail and Brooks Falls Loop.
Beautiful Winter Weather and Sunsets in Carlsbad
For Carlsbad, wintertime brings a perfect mix of warm sun during the day and crisp cool air after the sun goes down. Spend the day exploring its seven miles of pristine beaches and untouched natural bluffs. Hiking trails also come with stunning views of lagoons and beaches, while many of the city’s resorts feature panoramic views of its natural surroundings.
Winter Escape to Santa Monica
Visit Santa Monica for a perfect blend of warm sunsets, mild temperatures, and exciting additions that make it an irresistible destination. From the iconic Santa Monica Pier to Palisades Park, the city offers a plethora of sights, events, and activities visitors will want to experience. With 3.5 miles of coastline and a gentle break, Santa Monica’s beaches are excellent for beginner surfers. Catch a wave and then head to the mountains to ski in under four hours, all in a day.
SLO CAL's Warm Beaches
Situated between Los Angeles and San Francisco, SLO CAL is a Californian gem with over 80 miles of stunning coastline. It uniquely combines the picturesque, icy blue shores reminiscent of the Pacific Northwest with the warm, sandy beaches typically associated with Southern California. Experience the winter perfection of SLO CAL, where charming beaches like Avila Beach and Morro Bay offer serene and picturesque settings.
Winter Wine Tasting and Outdoor Adventures in Temecula
Temecula Valley is a great destination where visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities year-round, including hot air ballooning, horseback riding, golfing, hiking, and biking. A winter wine tasting tour offers a delightful opportunity to soak in the stunning views and lush landscapes while savoring delicious wines. Old Town is filled with historic charm, boutique shops, cultural attractions and amazing dining options.
Quince Summer in Pismo Beach
In autumn, Pismo Beach’s “Quince Summer,” a harvest-themed alternative to Indian Summer, is one of the most picturesque, peaceful, and affordable times of year to experience California’s Central Coast. The days are warm and mild, and hoteliers offer a wide range of accommodations at pleasing seasonal rates. Pequín Coastal Cocina at Vespera Resort offers fireside comfort and scenic views for evening relaxation. Water sports like kayaking, surfing, and kitesurfing aren’t limited to one season at Pismo Beach. Just a few minutes drive inland, explore rolling hills, quaint orchards, pumpkin patches and wineries.
Whale and Dolphin Watching in Dana Point
Dana Point, the Dolphin and Whale Watching Capital of the World®, is a year-round destination with unmatched access to marine life and endless opportunities to explore the outdoors. Visitors can discover nearly two dozen parks and seven miles of sandy beaches and beach-side trails, and from December to April can spot gray whales,Pacific white-side dolphins, and Orcas from the shores and with local outfitters. Experience its laid-back luxury as one of 11 beachfront properties, each offering thoughtful packages and luring amenities.
Monterey County Winter Respite
White Christmas in Monterey County means playing in the white sands of Carmel Beach while enjoying delicious pastries from the village’s many bakeries and coffee shops. Mild year-round weather, idyllic coastlines, and scenic countryside make Monterey County the ideal destination for a coastal holiday. Make the most of Monterey’s temperate climate with outdoor adventures such as hiking Pinnacles National Park, horseback riding through Pebble Beach, kayaking in the Monterey Bay, or a leisurely cruise through Moss Landing’s Elkhorn Slough to catch glimpses of sea life.