15 Best Girlfriend Getaways in California

California , with its diverse landscapes and vibrant cities, is a destination perfect for a girls’ getaway. Whether you’re looking to unwind in luxurious spas, explore charming vineyards, or soak up the sun on iconic beaches, the Golden State has so much to offer for a California girl’s weekend. 
This guide delves into the best spots for laughter-filled vacations, from the rolling hills of wine country to the scenic coastal towns and buzzing urban centers. I’ll highlight top activities, where to indulge, and, importantly, the   coolest hotels in California   to make your stay unforgettable. 
Think poolside cocktails in Palm Springs , boutique retreats in Napa Valley, and chic beachfront properties in Malibu. 
Alright, let’s dive into the best California girls’ getaway destinations.
Best Girls Trips in California
1. Santa Ynez Valley
Best For – Wine Tasting & Countryside Bliss
For a girls’ getaway that combines the charm of countryside vineyards with quaint towns, Santa Ynez Valley is unbeatable. Situated on California’s central coast, this wine region is less about the hustle and more about savoring the moment. 
Spend your days wine tasting at boutique vineyards, exploring the Danish village of Solvang, and enjoying farm-to-table dining experiences. 
Stay at the Fess Parker Wine Country Inn , one of the most   stylish Santa Ynez Valley hotels , where luxury meets rustic elegance, offering a tranquil retreat after a day of adventures. Whether you’re biking through rolling hills or indulging in local wines, Santa Ynez Valley is a picturesque escape that promises relaxation and rejuvenation.
2. Palm Springs
Best for – Retro Chic & Desert Oasis
Palm Springs is synonymous with retro chic, pool parties, and stunning desert landscapes, making it a fabulous spot for a girls’ getaway in California. Dive into the mid-century modern architecture on a guided tour, relax at a luxury spa, or shop at unique boutiques in the Uptown Design District. 
For an unforgettable stay, check into The Parker Palm Springs , where you can lounge in lavish gardens, sip cocktails by the pool, and dine under the stars. Palm Springs combines the allure of the desert with a vibrant social scene, perfect for those looking to blend relaxation with a bit of partying. We also like  Omni Rancho Las Palmas.
3. Joshua Tree

Best for – Desert Hikes & Stargazing
Escape to Joshua Tree for a girls’ getaway that offers a blend of outdoor adventure and bohemian vibes. Explore the surreal landscapes of Joshua Tree National Park, where the Mojave and Colorado deserts meet. Go hiking, rock climbing, or simply enjoy the stunning vistas and starry nights. 
The Joshua Tree House provides a serene base with its beautifully designed interiors and cozy ambiance, ideal for a retreat into nature. Here, the focus is on disconnecting and recharging amidst the desert’s unique beauty, making it perfect for those seeking a peaceful yet adventurous getaway.
4. Ojai
Best for – Spiritual Rejuvenation
Ojai, with its laid-back atmosphere and spiritual allure, is a hidden gem for a relaxing girls’ getaway. Known for its boutique shops, art galleries, and organic eateries, Ojai encourages a slower pace of life. 
Take part in a yoga retreat, enjoy spa treatments infused with local ingredients, or wander through citrus groves. 
The Ojai Valley Inn , a luxurious resort set against the backdrop of the Topatopa Mountains, offers an idyllic setting for rejuvenation. Whether you’re seeking spiritual growth or simply a peaceful escape, Ojai provides a tranquil haven away from the buzz of city life.
5. Laguna Beach
Best for – Coastal Chic & Artistic Flair
Laguna Beach offers the quintessential California beach experience with its pristine shores, vibrant arts scene, and coastal chic vibe. Ideal for a girls’ getaway, you can sunbathe on picturesque beaches, explore art galleries, or catch a live performance at the Laguna Playhouse. 
Stay at the Montage Laguna Beach for unparalleled ocean views, luxurious spa services, and easy access to the best of the town. 
Whether you’re paddleboarding in crystal-clear waters or enjoying sunset cocktails, Laguna Beach combines natural beauty with a laid-back, artistic culture.
6. Malibu
Best for – Luxury Beachfront Bliss
Nestled along the scenic Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu offers an exclusive slice of coastal paradise perfect for a girls’ getaway in California. This luxurious enclave is famed for its stunning beaches, celebrity homes, and upscale dining. 
Embark on a private surf lesson at Zuma Beach, enjoy a wine-tasting tour at Malibu Wines, or have a leisurely brunch with ocean views at Malibu Farm. For a lavish stay, book a beachfront villa at Malibu Beach Inn, where you can fall asleep to the sound of the waves and wake up to breathtaking ocean vistas. 
Malibu is the epitome of California chic, offering both relaxation and glamor.
7. San Francisco
Best for – Urban Adventures
San Francisco ‘s vibrant culture and iconic landmarks make it a fantastic destination for a girls’ weekend in California. From the bustling streets of Chinatown to the historic trams and the majestic Golden Gate Bridge, there’s an endless array of experiences. 
Enjoy a gourmet food tour at the Ferry Building, explore the artsy alleys of the Mission District, or shop at the unique boutiques in Hayes Valley. 
The Fairmont San Francisco offers a grand stay with stunning city views and is centrally located, making it easy to explore the city’s diverse neighborhoods. San Francisco is all about embracing the eclectic, perfect for an urban adventure.

8. Sonoma Valley
Best for – Rustic Wine Country Charm
Sonoma Valley, with its laid-back vibe and sprawling vineyards, offers a more intimate wine-country experience for a girls’ getaway in California. Unlike its more famous neighbor, Napa Valley, 
Sonoma provides a relaxed atmosphere with a focus on artisanal wineries and farm-to-table dining. Take a hot air balloon ride at dawn, relax at a spa surrounded by vineyards, or enjoy a private wine-tasting session at one of the family-owned wineries. 
For accommodation, consider the luxurious yet homely Farmhouse Inn , where you can end your day with a Michelin-starred meal. Sonoma Valley is the perfect mix of rustic charm and gourmet delights.
9. Napa Valley
Best for – Ultimate Upscale Wine & Dine Experience
For wine enthusiasts and foodies, Napa Valley is the ultimate destination for a girls’ getaway in California. The region is renowned for its world-class wineries, Michelin-star restaurants, and stunning vineyard landscapes. Experience the wine train, take a cooking class at the Culinary Institute of America, or indulge in a spa day with treatments inspired by the local terroir. 
With its breathtaking views and exquisite dining options, Auberge du Soleil provides an opulent retreat in the heart of wine country. Napa Valley is about indulging the senses, making it ideal for a luxurious escape.
10. Santa Barbara
Best for – Sophisticated Coastal Escape
Santa Barbara, known as the “American Riviera,” combines Mediterranean charm with California cool, making it perfect for a sophisticated girls’ getaway. Explore the historic Santa Barbara Mission, wander through the lush gardens of Lotusland, or kayak in the clear waters off the coast. 
The Funk Zone offers trendy tasting rooms and chic cafes, ideal for an afternoon of exploration. Stay at the Hotel Californian , which features Spanish Colonial Revival architecture and a rooftop pool with panoramic views of the city and ocean. Santa Barbara offers a blend of cultural richness, outdoor activities, and beachfront relaxation.
11. Russian River
Best for – Serene Nature Retreat
Escape to the Russian River for a serene nature retreat, where towering redwoods and tranquil rivers set the scene for a rejuvenating girls’ trip in California. This area offers a mix of outdoor activities like kayaking, tubing down the river, and hiking in Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve. 
The region is also known for its cozy cabins and boutique wineries, providing a rustic yet refined getaway. For accommodation, consider staying at the AutoCamp Russian River , where luxury vintage Airstreams and canvas tents offer a unique California glamping experience. 
This destination is ideal for those seeking a blend of adventure and relaxation, surrounded by Northern California’s natural beauty.
12. Paso Robles & San Luis Obispo
The Madonna Inn
Best for –  A Hidden Gem Girls Getaway
Paso Robles and San Luis Obispo serve as the central coast’s hidden gems for girlfriends’ getaways in California, boasting rolling hills dotted with vineyards, historic missions, and thermal hot springs. 
In Paso Robles, delve into the wine scene with personalized tours and tastings at over 200 wineries. 
San Luis Obispo offers a charming downtown with boutique shops, art galleries, and farm-to-fork restaurants. Plus, they have the famous Madonna Inn here as well. The Allegretto Vineyard Resort in Paso Robles provides an elegant stay with vineyard views, a spa, and a tasting room on-site. 
13. Venice Beach & Santa Monica
Best for – Trendy Beach Vibes
For a trendy beach vibe, Venice Beach and Santa Monica are the go-to spots for a Californian girls’ vacation. 
Venice Beach offers eclectic boardwalks, vibrant street art, and chic cafes, while Santa Monica boasts the iconic pier, upscale shopping, and golden beaches. Rent bikes to explore the beachfront paths connecting the two areas, enjoy a sunset yoga class on the sand, or shop at the Third Street Promenade. 
The Shore Hotel in Santa Monica offers eco-conscious accommodations with ocean views and is steps away from the beach and local attractions. This area is perfect for those seeking a lively and stylish seaside escape.
14. Lake Tahoe
Best for – Mountain Adventure
Lake Tahoe , straddling the border of California and Nevada, offers a mountainous adventure for a ladies’ retreat in California. Whether you’re visiting in winter for world-class skiing and snowboarding or in summer for the hiking, kayaking, and beach days at Sand Harbor, Tahoe caters to all interests. 
The region’s breathtaking natural beauty, from its crystal-clear lake to its scenic trails, makes it a fantastic outdoor playground. 
The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe provides a luxurious mountain lodge experience, with ski-in/ski-out access and a spa for unwinding after a day of activities. Tahoe is ideal for those looking for an active getaway amidst stunning landscapes.
15. Big Sur
Best for – Breathtaking Natural Coastal Beauty
For a scenic girls’ escape that showcases breathtaking natural beauty, Big Sur is unparalleled. 
This rugged stretch of California’s Central Coast is known for its dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and towering redwoods. Drive along the scenic Highway 1, visit the iconic McWay Falls, and explore Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. 
For a truly memorable stay, book a room at the Post Ranch Inn , where luxury and nature intertwine, offering cliff-side accommodations with panoramic ocean or mountain views. 
Big Sur is the epitome of a scenic escape, perfect for those wanting to connect with nature and each other in one of California’s most majestic settings.
Girls Getaways in California Conclusion
So, there you have it, the best California girls’ getaway destinations. From the serene vineyards of Sonoma to the bustling streets of San Francisco, and the pristine shores of Big Sur. 
Each spot offers its unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable experiences, perfect for creating lasting memories with your closest friends. 
Whether you’re seeking luxury, adventure, or a peaceful retreat, California has it all!
Read Next:
A Guide to All 9 National Parks in California
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