16 Best California Travel Destinations for Unforgettable Girlfriend Getaways

Summer brings warmer weather, making it the perfect time to plan a getaway with a friend. California is one of the best states for a weekend trip, offering endless destination options. Whether you dream of relaxing poolside, exploring a charming coastal town, or wine tasting in a renowned region, California provides a plethora of choices for the ultimate girls’ getaway.

Over the years, taking a yearly trip to Palm Springs with a close friend became a tradition for our birthdays. Staying at one of our favorite hotels for a few nights created some of my best travel memories and truly exemplifies a fun girls’ getaway.

When considering a California destination for a weekend trip with a friend, there are a few key things to keep in mind. Accommodation is a significant choice. Deciding between an Airbnb and a hotel often depends on how much cooking you plan to do and your desired level of service and privacy. This helps narrow down your options and ensures your stay aligns with your goals.

Another crucial element is establishing a budget before the trip. Setting financial expectations beforehand helps avoid uncomfortable conversations later on and ensures everyone is comfortable with the planned activities and expenses.

Finally, choose a destination where both of you will find something enjoyable. This can be easier said than done, but understanding what each person hopes to experience from the weekend trip is incredibly helpful in selecting the perfect spot for your California adventure.

So, here are some of my favorite California girls’ getaway weekend ideas, ranging from coastal escapes to inland retreats, and from active adventures to purely relaxing breaks. You may even find that embarking on a road trip with a friend adds an exciting element to your travel plans!

Planning Your California Girls’ Getaway

For those short on time but looking for top-notch recommendations, consider these highly-rated options for a fantastic girls’ getaway in California. They offer excellent amenities and experiences catering specifically to relaxation and fun with friends. (Note: Specific hotel names from the original source were provided in separate lists, not embedded in the main narrative, so the list format below is adapted to reflect “Top Picks” in general terms based on the original’s section heading).

• For Relaxation & Poolside Bliss: Palm Springs
• For Coastal Charm & Food: Laguna Beach or Santa Barbara
• For Wine Tasting: Napa Valley or Paso Robles
• For Nature & Disconnecting: Joshua Tree or Northern Coast Road Trip

For more California getaway ideas, be sure to check out my summer road trips guide!

Travel Tip: The most flexible way to explore California is by driving yourselves. We recommend using RentalCars.com for rental cars in California. Opt for full coverage insurance and choose trusted companies like Alamo, Hertz, or Sixt for peace of mind. Book your car with RentalCars.com here.

16 California Girls’ Getaway Weekend Ideas

1. Laguna Beach

One of my top spots in Southern California for a mix of relaxation and excellent dining is Laguna Beach. It’s a truly quaint city located right on the Pacific Ocean with a vibrant downtown area that’s perfect for exploring. You are literally footsteps from the beach, with coastal trails for scenic walks and opportunities to rent paddle boards for ocean adventures.

Scenic coastline view of Laguna Beach, a popular destination for a girls' getaway in California

Laguna Beach is one of those effortlessly enjoyable spots to spend a few days of fun. The weather is also consistently pleasant for most of the year, from spring through fall, making it a reliable choice for planning a girls’ trip.

2. Palm Springs

As mentioned earlier, I am genuinely biased towards Palm Springs as a quintessential girls’ getaway destination. When my close friend and I travel together, our idea of relaxation often involves putting our feet up by the pool. Palm Springs excels at this, offering numerous wonderful hotels equipped with fantastic pools and on-site restaurants, allowing you to comfortably stay put for the entire weekend.

Palm trees and mid-century modern architecture in Palm Springs, ideal for a relaxing girlfriend trip

Alternatively, the availability of rental homes here is virtually endless, making it easy to secure a great Airbnb, even for a larger group of friends. Palm Springs also boasts an extensive culinary scene with countless restaurants, opportunities for cycling through town, and great shopping.

Girlfriends relaxing by the pool at a hotel in Palm Springs

For me, Palm Springs is the ultimate relaxing destination that offers the best of both worlds – poolside lounging and engaging activities. I couldn’t recommend it more highly for a memorable girls’ weekend trip.

3. Northern Coast Road Trip

For friends looking for a longer trip focused on nature and exploration, I highly recommend a Northern Coast road trip in California. This region offers so many wonderful spots to explore, starting in Mendocino and extending all the way up to Trinidad.

Girlfriends exploring the dramatic coast near Mendocino on a Northern California road trip

Along the journey, you’ll discover charming local eateries, incredibly scenic beaches, and majestic redwood forests perfect for exploring. I embarked on this road trip with a girlfriend a few years ago and absolutely loved experiencing this stunning part of California together. This trip can easily be extended into a week-long adventure or tailored for a shorter few-day escape.

The iconic coastal landscape of Northern California, perfect for an adventure with friends

4. Joshua Tree

If your goal is to disconnect from the everyday hustle and immerse yourselves in nature with a girlfriend, Joshua Tree immediately comes to mind. This unique desert destination is ideal for those who prefer a slower, more relaxed weekend getaway surrounded by natural beauty.

Iconic Joshua Trees dotting the landscape, a unique setting for a quiet friends' trip

Renting an Airbnb is highly recommended here, as dining options are a bit more limited compared to larger cities, and a rental provides a larger, more comfortable space to relax together. Nearby, Joshua Tree National Park offers a variety of hiking trails to choose from. Just be mindful that the summer months can be extremely hot in the desert.

5. Paso Robles + San Luis Obispo

For a perfect blend of coastal beauty and exquisite wineries, spending a weekend in SLO (San Luis Obispo) and Paso Robles is a fantastic choice for girlfriends. You can easily base yourselves in either city and take day trips to the other, or split your time by booking a few nights in each.

Scenic coastline view near Morro Bay, part of the SLO region for girlfriend getaways

Paso Robles is home to many wonderful wineries, such as Cass Winery or Halter Ranch, offering delightful tasting experiences. Its downtown area features numerous restaurants and shops to explore. In SLO, you are incredibly close to the coast, making it ideal to spend time at Avila Beach or Morro Bay.

Wine tasting experience in Paso Robles, a highlight for girlfriends visiting Central California

This area has also seen the opening of several chic design-focused hotels recently, adding stylish accommodation options for friends who appreciate aesthetics.

6. Lake Tahoe

For friends looking to explore the natural wonders of Northern California, Lake Tahoe is an incredible outdoor destination. We visit here frequently, sometimes even just for a day trip with friends. What I love about Lake Tahoe is that it’s a fantastic place to visit year-round.

Crystal clear waters of Lake Tahoe on a summer day, perfect for outdoor adventures with friends

If you and a friend enjoy hiking and spending time by a lake, summer here is absolutely perfect. Conversely, if you both love to ski or snowboard, it’s an excellent choice for a winter trip. Lake Tahoe offers a stunning natural setting, and you’ll find quite a few restaurants if you choose to stay in South Shore or near Incline Village.

Friends enjoying a scenic view overlooking Lake Tahoe from a hiking trail

7. Point Reyes (& Surrounding Area)

Located in scenic Marin County, Point Reyes is one of those destinations that feels effortlessly perfect for a relaxed few-day trip. It’s a go-to spot for friends who appreciate delicious food, particularly fresh oysters and local cheese, along with easy access to the ocean and breathtaking scenic views.

Delicious fresh oysters at Nick's Cove in Point Reyes, a culinary highlight for a girlfriend trip

Point Reyes offers a slow-paced atmosphere, making it ideal for those who enjoy spending quality time outdoors. I recently visited with a girlfriend for two nights, enjoying leisurely hangouts and hikes in the area. I particularly love being right on the water and the area’s frequently moody, atmospheric charm.

Scenic drive along the coast near Point Reyes, offering stunning views for friends exploring together

8. Big Sur

Big Sur is one of the most iconic destinations in California for any type of vacation, and it’s a top choice for a girls’ getaway focused on adventure and spectacular scenery. With its grand coastal views and stunning natural landscapes, it’s perfect for an exploration-filled trip with friends. If you’re looking to indulge, you could even choose to stay at one of the area’s luxurious resorts.

Dramatic coastal view in Big Sur with Bixby Bridge, an iconic California landmark for friends to visit

In Big Sur, you’ll discover local restaurants, hidden beaches, and endless hiking trails catering to various fitness levels. For the more adventurous, securing a camping site at one of the state parks (booking far in advance is highly recommended) offers a unique experience. Another idea is to incorporate Big Sur as an overnight stop on a longer road trip, perhaps from San Francisco to Los Angeles. I always recommend spending at least one night to fully appreciate most of the iconic sights.

9. Nevada City

For friends seeking outdoor activities combined with the charm of one of California’s most delightful towns, Nevada City offers the best of both worlds. Its main street is bustling with local restaurants, unique boutiques, and cozy coffee shops. Nearby, you’ll find plenty of hiking trails and the Yuba River, perfect for cooling off during warmer months.

The historic National Exchange Hotel in Nevada City, a charming place to stay for a friends' weekend

The city became even more appealing with the recent opening and renovation of The National Exchange Hotel, adding a touch of cool sophistication. It’s an ideal weekend destination to explore with a few friends.

10. Malibu

Effortlessly cool and recognized as a premier beach destination, Malibu is a fantastic option for a girlfriend’s getaway trip. Spend your days relaxing on the beach, choose from several chic restaurants for dining, and browse through curated boutiques. Malibu offers a laid-back vibe while still having plenty to see and do.

Stunning ocean view from the coast of Malibu, a popular destination for a beach getaway with girlfriends

It’s a relatively small town, so you’ll find that you can explore a significant portion of it during a weekend trip. Plus, its proximity to Santa Monica and LA makes day trips easily accessible. And definitely don’t miss catching the spectacular sunset at El Matador State Beach!

11. Ojai

Ojai is an incredibly charming town situated inland from the coast, perfect for a relaxing escape with friends. It features several hotels with inviting pools, incredible restaurants, and a variety of activities. You can enjoy wine tasting, explore local hiking trails, or browse the unique shops throughout the town.

Ojai truly offers something for everyone on a girls’ getaway, providing the flexibility to choose different experiences based on your group’s preferences. You can even try olive oil tasting or participate in creative workshops like a pottery class.

12. Los Alamos

Considered slightly off the beaten path by some, Los Alamos is an up-and-coming destination in California that’s surprisingly packed with things to do, especially for friends who appreciate wine and food. Located in wine country, this small town boasts a great culinary scene with acclaimed restaurants like Bell’s and Bob’s Well Bread Bakery.

While in town, be sure to stop by the effortlessly chic Bodega for a delightful wine tasting experience. Los Alamos offers a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere for a memorable trip with friends.

13. San Francisco

For friends looking for an exciting city escape, San Francisco is my top recommendation. There are endless activities to enjoy in SF, from visiting museums to exploring its diverse neighborhoods, each with its own unique character. You can participate in a food tour to sample the city’s culinary delights, stay out late hopping between bars on streets like Polk Street, and so much more.

Exploring Chinatown in San Francisco, a vibrant neighborhood for a girls' city trip

San Francisco truly has it all for a more action-packed weekend getaway with friends. In fact, it’s where I chose to have my bachelorette party. I loved exploring the city’s incredible restaurants, enjoying shopping, and making the most of our time together in this dynamic urban environment.

Panoramic view of the San Francisco skyline and bay, offering iconic sights for friends visiting the city

14. Santa Barbara

Offering coastal bliss and undeniably beautiful city surroundings, Santa Barbara is a perennial favorite for a girls’ trip. It’s one of those cities you can visit multiple times and still discover something new to do. The downtown area is very walkable, or you can rent bikes to explore further out towards landmarks like the historic mission and the beaches.

Santa Barbara stands out as one of the larger Californian cities that also boasts beautiful beaches, making it an excellent choice if you’re seeking both urban amenities and seaside relaxation.

A serene street scene with palm trees in Santa Barbara, perfect for leisurely strolls with friends

15. Carmel-by-the-Sea

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a charming, fairytale-like town located on the central coast. We have visited several times with friends and always find that its relaxed vibe instantly puts everyone at ease. There are plenty of accommodation options right downtown, which I highly recommend for easy walking access to everything.

Just down the coast, you can explore beautiful state parks like Point Lobos and enjoy various beaches throughout the day. If you venture inland, you’ll find Carmel Valley, home to great wine tasting opportunities at places like Folktale Winery. Carmel is consistently a winning choice for a relaxing and picturesque getaway with girlfriends.

16. Napa Valley

Last but certainly not least on our list of recommendations is Napa Valley. As the heart of California’s wine country, it is undoubtedly one of the top spots for a girls’ getaway focused on indulgence and relaxation. You have an endless selection of wineries to choose from, chic hotels with inviting pools for lounging, and elevated dining experiences.

Exploring the various towns like St. Helena or Yountville offers unique experiences, from boutique shopping to Michelin-starred restaurants. Napa Valley provides a sophisticated backdrop for a celebratory or relaxing trip spent enjoying fine wine, delicious food, and great company.

Planning Your Getaway: Useful Resources

If you’re booking a trip soon based on these suggestions for the Best Travel Destinations For Girlfriends, here are some resources I frequently use myself when planning my own travels. Using the links below helps support content creation like this, at no extra cost to you.

• Book Your Flights: I use Skyscanner to find the best flights. It searches hundreds of airlines and websites globally to ensure you find the best routes and deals.
• Book Your Accommodations: I use Booking.com for hotels and guest houses. They offer a vast inventory and consistently competitive rates.
• Book Your Rental Car: Self-driving is often the best way to explore these California destinations. I use Discover Cars for rental cars, always selecting full coverage insurance and opting for reputable companies like Alamo, Hertz, or Sixt.
• Book Your Tours & Experiences: To find the best activities and tours, I use Viator or Get Your Guide. These are my preferred tour search engines, and I check both as their offerings can vary by destination.
• Consider Airport Lounge Access: Priority Pass provides access to over 1,400 VIP lounges and airport experiences worldwide. Having a comfortable place to relax before and between flights significantly improves the air travel experience.
• Don’t Forget Travel Insurance: I never travel internationally without travel insurance. It provides essential protection against unexpected issues like illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. My favorite companies for comprehensive coverage and good rates include World Nomads, SafetyWing, and Allianz.

Planning a trip with your girlfriends is a wonderful way to create lasting memories. California offers such diverse and exciting options, ensuring you’ll find the perfect destination for your next adventure together.