California, here you come. The Golden State is large and diverse enough for every type of honeymoon — and you don’t even have to leave the country. From outdoorsy adventures to luxury resorts, you and your new spouse can plan the perfect romantic California getaway, tailored to your unique interests and travel style.
You’ve finished the wedding planning. Now, it’s time to relax and rejuvenate — and take your first adventure as a married couple. Here are 10 California honeymoon ideas and destinations that we think are the most spectacular, plus some resorts worth checking in to.
Yosemite
Is your ideal California less urban glam and more woodsy adventure? You and your honey can either camp in Yosemite or stay at a nearby lodge. Hike, rock climb, admire the dramatic views, and get back to nature. This rustic honeymoon is rife with opportunities for amazing photos and memories.
Stay Here:
- Inside Yosemite Park Winter Wonderland
- Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite
- Sierra Nevada Resort & Spa, Mammoth Lakes
Humboldt County
Looking at the sequoias in the Redwood National Forest should be on everyone’s bucket list. Head to Humboldt County for a laidback honeymoon that will have you breathing in plenty of pine-scented fresh air. Once you’ve thoroughly explored the forest, head to the rocky Northern California coastline for a change in scenery.
Stay Here:
- Benbow Historic Inn, Garberville
- The Redwood Riverwalk Hotel, Fortuna
- Sierra Nevada Resort & Spa
- Inn Of The Lost Coast, Shelter Cove
Sonoma Valley
Sonoma is all about one thing: wine. Luckily, all these vineyards also make for an unbelievably beautiful landscape to enjoy while you sample their bounty! There are plenty of other activities to try in Sonoma (close proximity to the coast and Redwood National Forest), but a honeymoon here means savoring the finer things. Dine on delicious food and find your very favorite wine. Make sure you stop by Pride Mountain, one of our very favorite vineyards, for a splendid afternoon.
Stay Here:
- The Lodge at Sonoma Renaissance Resort & Spa
- Beltane Ranch, Glen Ellen
- Gaige House + Ryokan, Glen Ellen
- The Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa
San Francisco
There are so many different kinds of honeymoons you can have in San Francisco. Go touristy with trips to get ice cream at the Ghirardelli Square, ride a trolley car through the city, or take a ferry to Alcatraz (really, it’s way more interesting than it sounds). The city is full of unique neighborhoods, shopping, and restaurants. If an urban destination isn’t what you had in mind, you can also take a quieter route. Savor the drive across the Golden Gate Bridge on your way to a hike in the stunning Muir Woods. On the drive back, make a detour in Sausalito for a relaxing afternoon in this cozy, upscale town.
Stay Here:
- Fairmont San Francisco
- Loews Regency San Francisco
- Omni San Francisco Hotel
- Travelodge by Wyndham Presidio San Francisco
Santa Barbara
If California is all about enjoying the beach, then Santa Barbara just might be your ideal honeymoon destination. Of course, there is so much more to do here, but this town is quintessentially Southern California, with a relaxed attitude and the finer things aplenty. Take a night out at Stearns Wharf, and spend the days at local vineyards. History buffs will love the historic Spanish buildings and missions, and those with a green thumb will appreciate the town’s vast botanical garden.
Stay Here:
Palm Springs
Palm Springs is a mix of contradictions. It’s an oasis in the middle of an unforgiving desert that’s lush, rich, and green. It has both a flourishing arts community and is designed with a mid-century modern vibe that will have Mad Men fans drooling. You can be standing in the middle of Death Valley, and later that day play a round of golf in paradise. This is one of our favorite California getaways for couples and a destination that you need to visit to fully appreciate all of its wonders.
Stay Here:
Los Angeles
You’ll never get bored on a honeymoon to Los Angeles — there’s simply too much to do. Museum aficionados can’t miss the Griffith Observatory and The Getty. If there is a concert at the Hollywood Bowl, make sure to go and pack a picnic. Before the concert, you can sit in the grass and enjoy an awesome view of the city. Make sure to spend at least one sunset at the Santa Monica Pier, treating yourself to soft serve and a carnival game. No matter what your hobbies and interests, Los Angeles has something to entertain you both.
Stay Here:
Disneyland
Just go with us on this one. Disneyland without kids is nothing short of fantastic. Ride the rides and gorge yourselves on corn dogs and churros. Disneyland and Disney California Adventure neighbor each other, so if you haven’t been since you were little, there’s a whole new experience awaiting you. Both parks also have several events held throughout the year, such as a food and wine festival.
Stay Here:
- Disneyland Hotel
- Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel and Spa
- Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel-On Disneyland Resort Property
Catalina Island
A honeymoon in Catalina means truly getting away from it all. Couples who want to stay in luxury will find several hotels and bed and breakfasts to cater to their every whim. Otherwise, there are several mid-range lodgings. You can even camp in the interior of the island (expect rugged terrain) with a permit. For the most part, honeymooning on Catalina means fun nights out to the local theatre and casino, and getting dolled up for dinner. Adventurous couples can spend the day doing all sorts of water sports or participating in a local tour.
Stay Here:
- DoubleTree by Hilton San Pedro
- Terranea – L.A.’s Oceanfront Resort, Rancho Palos Verdes
- Glenmore Plaza Hotel, Avalon
- Seacrest Inn, Avalon
- Casa Mariquita Hotel, Avalon
San Diego
This vibrant city is filled with all of the typical attractions and accommodations you would expect from a destination this size. But what makes San Diego a truly great honeymoon is its close proximity to some of Southern California’s most exciting attractions. Take a drive over the Mexican border for the day to sip margaritas and shop in Tijuana. Next, take a trip to Escondido to enjoy a few wineries, local parks, and old Spanish missions. Last but certainly not least, stay for a couple days on Coronado Island, one of San Diego’s most luxurious and picturesque beach communities.
Stay Here:
- Kimpton Hotel Palomar San Diego
- The U.S. Grant, a Luxury Collection Hotel
- Welk Resorts San Diego, Escondido
- Hotel del Coronado
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