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.
Thompson Palm Springs offers a captivating blend of desert tranquility and modern luxury, nestled against the majestic backdrop of the San Jacinto Mountains in Southern California.
Alila Marea is located in North County, San Diego, just 32 miles north of San Diego International Airport along the coast in Encinitas, one of the most unique and iconic coastal towns that dot California’s Coast Highway 101.
Consistently ranked among the best of the best by editors of top travel publications, Rancho Valencia, situated 25 miles outside of San Diego, is a sanctuary for the senses and a full-service resort.
In the beautiful hillside community of Aviara, near the picturesque California coastline of Carlsbad, is Park Hyatt Aviara Resort, on the north shore of Batiquites Lagoon...
3rd Night Free + breakfast + $100
Valid for travel through Jan 31, 2023. Blackout dates may apply.
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...
Basking in San Diego’s endless sunshine, Fairmont Grand Del Mar welcomes guests to a warm Mediterranean estate, replete with signature charm and Southern California style.
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...
There simply is not a time when the rugged, captivating coast of Northern California is anything but an extraordinary escape. On a clifftop overlooking blue expanse of the Pacific Ocean in Big Sur, Post Ranch Inn is a place of natural and intimate luxury...
The premier waterfront downtown San Diego hotel offers a spectacular waterfront resort-like setting, complete with shopping, dining, and entertainment venues that can be found steps away in the Gaslamp Quarter.
Built with a delightful terraced design, the award-winning Montage Laguna Beach, situated in a coastal Orange County locale, is all about escapism and luxury...
With the aroma of ripening grapes and a splendid setting, Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa is the go-to destination for a Northern California wine country retreat.
The world-renowned Fairmont San Francisco presents an awe-inspiring picture of the historic City by the Bay. The grandeur of this luxury hotel, coupled with its reputation for impeccable service promises a truly memorable experience during your stay.
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.