Where should I go and what should I do in California?
Wine & Elegance in Napa Valley — Michelin-starred dining, world-class wineries, and luxurious vineyard retreats.
Coastal Glamour in Monterey — Scenic ocean views, iconic golf courses, and unforgettable drives along the coast.
Beachfront Luxury in Malibu — Exclusive oceanfront escapes, celebrity-favorite dining, and stunning Pacific sunsets.
Iconic Sophistication in San Francisco — Historic charm, acclaimed restaurants, and luxury hotels overlooking the bay.
Desert Serenity in Palm Springs — Stylish resorts, championship golf, and spa experiences set against dramatic mountain landscapes.
When should I go to California?
April–June – Mild temperatures, blooming landscapes, and ideal weather for wine country, coastal drives, and city exploration.
September–November – Warm days, fewer crowds, and excellent conditions throughout much of the state.
What do I need to know for a trip to California?
Pack for multiple climates, especially if combining beaches, wine country, cities, deserts, or mountain destinations.
Reserve wineries, fine-dining restaurants, and specialty experiences well in advance, particularly in Napa Valley and other popular luxury destinations.
Consider a rental car, especially for exploring coastal routes, wine regions, and national parks.
Expect traffic in major metropolitan areas, particularly around Los Angeles and the San Francisco Bay Area.
Don't try to see everything in one trip—California is best experienced by focusing on a few regions and enjoying them at a relaxed pace.
Bring light layers, as coastal mornings and evenings can be surprisingly cool even during summer.
A true oasis, located in the middle of California's picturesque Palm Springs, the enticing OmniRancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa offers luxury and style, with all the modern amenities you could imagine...
Contemporary, Spanish-style architecture sets the scene for a memorable retreat at our oceanfront Huntington Beach hotel. Wake to shimmering views of the Pacific Ocean from your private balcony and fill your day with adventure, from surfing lessons to nearby Orange County arts and entertainment. Pamper yourself with a relaxing treatment at Pacific Waters Spa or sip and savor in the sun at the lagoon-style pool.
A haven of wellness and renewal, The Westin Anaheim Resort is a brand new AAA Four-Diamond hotel across from Disneyland® Resort in Anaheim, California.
From the charm of San Francisco in the north to the chill of San Diego in southern California, the third-largest state has something to offer for everyone. You can find the best 5-star resorts in California from top to bottom and coast to coast, as well as these two local marvels.
You might start by exploring the La Jolla Sea Caves. With 6,000 acres of protected land and ecology, the La Jolla Sea Caves are home to a stunning abundance of leopard sharks, sea lions, dolphins, and sea turtles, not to mention seven caves that are about 75 million years old.
In less than 20 minutes outside of San Diego, you can kayak with a guide through this marine reserve and explore biodiversity and natural beauty at its best.
When the desert heat hits in the summer, the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, the world's largest rotating tram car, will transport you along the stunning Chino Canyon up to elevate 8,500-plus feet. After a transfixing 10-minute ride, you will alight at Mt. San Jacinto State Park, where you can revel in everything from hiking to a natural history museum to observation decks and fine dining.