California is a paradise for travelers, offering diverse landscapes, pleasant weather, and unique experiences.
Winter in the Golden State is magical, with something for everyone—from snowy mountains to sunny beaches.
Whether you’re into outdoor adventures or simply soaking in serene beauty, California has it all.
Here’s a list of 15+ amazing places to visit this winter to create unforgettable memories.
1. Lake Tahoe
Nestled in the Sierra Nevada mountains, Lake Tahoe turns into a snowy paradise come winter.
It’s a hotspot for skiing and snowboarding, with resorts like Heavenly and Squaw Valley offering prime slopes.
Not into hitting the slopes? No worries. The lake’s stunning scenery is a treat in itself.
A drive along the Lake Tahoe Scenic Byway offers jaw-dropping views, and spots like Emerald Bay State Park are perfect for soaking in the natural beauty.
2. Yosemite National Park
Yosemite in winter? Absolutely magical. The iconic granite giants, El Capitan and Half Dome, look even more majestic with a dusting of snow.
Yosemite Falls often sports a delicate icy facade during the colder months.
For the adventurous, there’s cross-country skiing, ice skating at Curry Village, and snowshoeing in the Badger Pass area.
Even a simple stroll through the valley offers serene, crowd-free vistas that are hard to beat.
3. Mammoth Lakes
Outdoor enthusiasts, this one’s for you. Mammoth Lakes boasts some of California’s best skiing and snowboarding, thanks to Mammoth Mountain.
For a quieter experience, check out Convict Lake. In winter, it’s often frozen over, creating a postcard-perfect scene.
And if you’re up for a warm soak, the nearby hot springs offer a relaxing escape amidst the chilly weather.
4. Big Sur
Big Sur’s rugged coastline is a year-round stunner, but winter brings a special kind of tranquility.
Driving along Highway 1, you’ll be treated to dramatic ocean views with waves crashing against rocky cliffs.
Fewer tourists mean you can enjoy spots like Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park and the unique purple sands of Pfeiffer Beach in peace.
5. Death Valley National Park
Winter is hands down the best time to explore Death Valley. The cooler temps make it much more comfortable to wander its extreme landscapes.
Check out Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America, or hike Golden Canyon for some breathtaking views.
The Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes are a must-see, especially during sunrise or sunset when the light creates incredible patterns.
6. Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree’s desert landscape is something else in winter. The cooler weather makes hiking and rock climbing much more enjoyable.
Trails like Hidden Valley and Barker Dam offer stunning views of the park’s iconic Joshua trees and rugged rock formations.
And for stargazers, the park’s dark skies are perfect for astronomy.
7. San Diego
If mild weather and sunny beaches are more your speed, San Diego’s got you covered.
Take a stroll along La Jolla Cove, explore the tide pools, or visit Balboa Park with its gardens and attractions.
Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve offers hiking trails with panoramic ocean views.
Plus, during winter, you can spot migrating gray whales from the coastline.
8. Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
These neighboring parks offer a peaceful winter retreat amidst giant sequoia trees and snow-covered landscapes.
Seeing the towering General Sherman Tree surrounded by snow is unforgettable.
Snowshoeing and sledding are popular here, especially around the Wuksachi Lodge area.
For the more adventurous, the Kings Canyon Scenic Byway provides breathtaking views of the snowy canyon.
9. Monterey Bay
Monterey Bay is a gem along California’s central coast. Winter is prime time for whale watching, as gray whales migrate along the coast.
Book a tour to see these majestic creatures up close. Visit the world-famous Monterey Bay Aquarium, or take a stroll along Cannery Row and the 17-Mile Drive for stunning ocean views and charming coastal vibes.
10. Palm Springs
Palm Springs is an oasis in the desert, offering mild winter temperatures and plenty of activities.
Ride the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway to the top of Mount San Jacinto for panoramic views and snow-covered trails.
Explore the Indian Canyons, where you can hike amidst lush palm oases, or relax in one of the area’s many wellness spas.
11. Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
As California’s largest state park, Anza-Borrego is a fantastic winter destination for nature lovers.
The cooler weather is perfect for hiking and exploring the desert landscape.
Check out the unique Borrego Badlands, or go on a hunt for the park’s famous metal sculptures scattered across the desert.
For a more immersive experience, spend the night under the park’s star-filled skies.
12. Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz offers a mix of coastal beauty and outdoor adventures.
In winter, the beaches are less crowded, making it a great time to visit Natural Bridges State Beach or Lighthouse Field State Beach.
For wildlife enthusiasts, head to Elkhorn Slough to see sea otters, harbor seals, and a variety of birds.
Downtown Santa Cruz also offers a vibrant shopping and dining scene, perfect for relaxing after a day outdoors.
13. Mount Shasta
Mount Shasta is a snow-capped jewel in Northern California.
This volcanic peak is surrounded by forests, lakes, and trails, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Go skiing or snowboarding at Mt.
Shasta Ski Park, or try snowshoeing around Lake Siskiyou.
For a spiritual retreat, many visitors find the mountain’s energy to be a calming and rejuvenating experience.
14. Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara, often called the “American Riviera,” is a perfect coastal getaway in winter.
The mild weather and fewer crowds make it an ideal time to explore its beaches and parks.
Walk along Stearns Wharf, visit the scenic Butterfly Beach, or hike the trails at Rattlesnake Canyon Park.
The nearby Channel Islands National Park is also a great spot for kayaking and wildlife viewing.
15. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Lassen Volcanic National Park offers a unique winter adventure with steaming hydrothermal vents and snow-covered peaks.
The contrast between snow and the park’s geothermal features is stunning.
Popular activities include snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and visiting the Sulphur Works area.
The park’s Manzanita Lake also offers picturesque winter views, perfect for photography.
16. Pismo Beach
Pismo Beach is a coastal gem that shines in winter. Stroll along the Pismo Pier, explore the Oceano Dunes, or enjoy the calmer beaches with fewer tourists.
Winter is also the time to see thousands of monarch butterflies at the Pismo Beach Monarch Butterfly Grove, a truly magical sight for nature lovers.
California’s diverse landscapes and mild winter weather make it a top destination for travelers.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, tranquility, or scenic beauty, these 15+ destinations offer something special for everyone.
So, pack your bags and get ready to explore the Golden State this winter!