Known for its lush state parks and beautiful coastline, California is a popular summer destination. However, did you know that even in winter you can still have fun in the Golden State? There is a whole host of fantastic places waiting to be discovered.
From snow-capped mountains and pine forests to romantic vineyards and idyllic beaches, California never disappoints.
To help you plan the perfect trip, we’ve put together a list of the 10 Best Places to Visit in California in Winter 2023-2024. There they are:
Martis Camp at Lake Tahoe
Martis Kamp transforms into a winter wonderland with a plethora of activities for cold weather enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy skiing with direct access to the Northstar California Resort, explore the serene landscape on cross-country ski trails, or glide gracefully on the community’s ice skating rink. For those seeking relaxation, Martis Camp’s lodge offers a cozy retreat with luxurious amenities, making it an ideal destination for both adventure and leisure during the winter months.
The Great Bear Lake
Visiting Big Bear Lake in winter it is a magical experience, offering a mix of adventure and serene beauty. The area becomes a snowy wonderland, ideal for enjoying the best winter activities. Ski and snowboard enthusiasts flock to the Snow Summit and Bear Mountain resorts for exciting descents. For those looking for a more leisurely pace, snowshoeing around the lake offers a peaceful exploration of the winter landscape. Finally the Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain offers a unique and exciting sledding experience for all ages, making Big Bear Lake a diverse winter destination.
Napa Valley
Napa Valley is a classic. Offering miles of picturesque vineyards, numerous gourmet eateries and luxury resorts, it is a fantastic place to indulge.
Not a fan of wine? Napa Valley features a number of hot springs, most of which are located in private resorts. It’s a great way to relax, especially on cool winter days.
If you’re in the area in mid-January, don’t miss the Napa Truffle Festival. You can look forward to gourmet food, cooking shows and even truffle dog demonstrations.
Mammoth Lakes
Located in the eastern Sierra Nevada, Mammoth Lakes is a picturesque mountain town, ideal for enjoying winter fun. There are two major ski areas: Mammoth Mountain and June Mountain. You can also go cross-country skiing in the nearby Inyo National Forest.
After a long day on the slopes, you deserve to relax in one of the natural hot springs. Try Willy’s Hot Spring, Travertine Hot Springs or Rock Tub Hot Springs. They all have their unique atmosphere, but offer the same relaxing experience.
Joshua Tree National Park
If winter sports aren’t your thing, but you still like to spend some time outdoors, Joshua Tree National Park is an excellent option for you. This majestic desert landscape tends to become less crowded in winter. Plus, the mild weather makes hiking and rock climbing much more enjoyable.
You can even camp in Joshua Tree National Park. There are plenty of unique glamping and camping sites available. And thanks to very little pollution, the sky is lit up with thousands of stars at night. What’s not to like about it?
Palm Springs
Palm Springs has been a popular destination for snowbirds for some time. And for good reason. The city has an average of 350 days of sunshine per year, and temperatures do not drop below 22 degrees Celsius even in winter. Plus, there are plenty of activities for you to enjoy.
Golf courses, tennis courts and luxury resorts are the main attractions. But you can also walk, dine, shop or admire the beautiful local architecture. There are also interesting events to attend. In January, the city comes alive during the Palm Springs International Film Festival. Followed by Week of Modernism in February with walking tours, screenings, live music and parties.
Solvang
If you’re looking for something a little more cozy, head to Solvang. With Danish-inspired architecture, this city is often called “the Danish capital of America.” The streets are full of charming shops and bakeries that will make you feel like you’re in the middle of Europe. And around town you will find many wineries that are much more affordable than Napa or Sonoma.
Moreover, you can get into the festive mood until January 6 at Solvang Julefest celebrate. You can expect light shows, lots of food and drinks, and loud holiday music.
Cayucos
Cayucos has something to offer visitors all year round. And in winter it is especially known for its wildlife watching opportunities. Just take binoculars and enjoy whale watching. You can also spot some other marine animals such as sea lions, elephant seals and dolphins.
If you’re brave enough, you can even catch some waves at Cayucos State Beach. All you need is a wetsuit and good weather. A walk on the Cayucos Pier won’t disappoint either.
Trinity Alps
In winter, Northern California’s Trinity Alps become a hiker’s paradise, with three popular spots: Canyon Creek Lakes, Caribou Lake and the Four Lakes Loop. Canyon Creek Lakes offer picturesque frozen landscapes, while Caribou Lake, located deeper in the wilderness, offers a tranquil setting for the intrepid explorer. A favorite among seasoned hikers, the Four Lakes Loop offers a challenging yet rewarding journey along snow-covered trails, with breathtaking views of the mountain lakes. These destinations, each unique in their charm, make the Trinity Alps a must-visit for winter hiking enthusiasts.
Yosemite National Park
Yosemite is a blast all year round, and winter is no exception as it transforms into a magical winter wonderland. The iconic rock formations such as Half Dome and El Capitan become covered in snow. Moreover, there is little crowd, so you have all the natural beauty just for yourself.
Did you know that you can also ski in Yosemite? Badger Pass Ski Area offers opportunities for downhill skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, but also snow tubing and snowshoeing
