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.
Imagine the cool beauty of a morning on the sea, the crisp salt-tinged air invigorating your senses as the sun rises over the lush hills of Central California, and you will picture the fabulous Ventana Big Sur...
With an envious location near both the Embarcadero waterfront and the lively Financial District, 1 Hotel San Francisco adds another layer of wonder to the chic city of San Francisco
With a flurry of awards showering its name, Bardessono is an extraordinary Napa Valley hotel that brings simple, soothing luxury to everything you encounter...
Discover cinematic style at The Hollywood Grande, Autograph Collection, where bold design, rooftop glamour, and storied surroundings bring modern luxury to the heart of Hollywood.
Surrounded by lush gardens and ancient oaks, landmark historic Beltane Ranch overlooks estate vineyards, grazing horses and the heart of Sonoma Valley Wine Country. Rooms feature spectacular views, private outdoor seating areas and the opportunity to enjoy the property's iconic highly-acclaimed estate wines while watching the sunset over the vines that grew them.
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.