Winter Escapes Close to Home: Discovering California’s Gems
- ML
- Jan 5
- 4 min read
Updated: Jan 6
Winter in California offers more than just snow-capped mountains and sunny beaches. After nearly 35 years living in both the Bay Area and Southern California, we’ve come to appreciate how many lesser-known gems are just a short drive away. Yet, despite all those years, there are still plenty of places we haven’t explored—some of which are making our personal travel list for this year.
Whether you’re chasing desert sunrises, quiet coastal trails, or charming small towns, these spots are perfect for winter escapes. They’re easy to reach, packed with things to discover, and ideal for slowing down while still feeling like you’ve uncovered something new.
This guide splits the list by region—Southern and Northern California—so you can plan a quick getaway wherever you’re based. From stargazing in Borrego Springs to wandering Victorian streets in Ferndale, these ideas will help you make the most of winter without straying too far from home.
Southern California
1. Borrego Springs – Stargazing and Desert Adventures
Location: Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, San Diego County
Why Go: This desert oasis offers breathtaking stargazing, whimsical sculptures, and peaceful trails.
Things to Do:
Stargaze in one of the world’s premier dark sky communities, with Font’s Point as a must-visit.
Explore over 130 metal sculptures scattered across Galleta Meadows.
Hike the Palm Canyon Trail to discover hidden palm oases.
2. Wrightwood – Snowy Mountain Escape
Location: San Gabriel Mountains, Los Angeles County
Why Go: Avoid the crowds of Big Bear and enjoy mountain charm closer to home.
Things to Do:
Enjoy skiing or snow play at Mountain High Resort.
Hike Inspiration Point (operated by the resort) for stunning views of the Mojave Desert.
Stroll through Wrightwood Village for cozy shops and warming meals at the Grizzly Café.
3. Mecca Hills Wilderness – Painted Canyon Adventure
Location: Riverside County
Why Go: This unique desert spot features colorful geological formations and thrilling slot canyons.
Things to Do:
Hike the Ladder Canyon Trail, where ladders help you navigate slot canyons.
Marvel at vivid sediment layers and stunning desert vistas.
Capture unforgettable photos of this vibrant landscape.
4. Lancaster Poppy Reserve (Winter Trails)
Location: Antelope Valley, Los Angeles County
Why Go: Enjoy solitude and scenic hikes during the off-season.
Things to Do:
Walk peaceful trails with expansive valley views at the Poppy Reserve.
Photograph the many faces of the SoCal winter landscape.
Visit the nearby Antelope Valley Indian Museum for a cultural experience.
5. Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes – Coastal Solitude
Location: Santa Barbara County
Why Go: Explore one of the West Coast's most expansive and peaceful dune systems.
Things to Do:
Walk the scenic Oso Flaco Lake Trail, which leads through wetlands and dunes to the ocean.
Visit the Dune Center Museum to learn about the area’s history, including its use as a Hollywood film set.
Birdwatch in the wetlands, home to diverse wildlife.
Northern California
1. Moss Landing – Marine Adventures
Location: Monterey County
Why Go: Perfect for marine enthusiasts and peaceful coastal exploration.
Things to Do:
Kayak or take a boat tour of Elkhorn Slough, a wildlife haven for sea otters and birds.
Indulge in fresh seafood at Phil’s Fish Market.
Explore antique shops overflowing with treasures.
2. Point Reyes Station – Wildlife and Coastal Views
Location: Marin County
Why Go: Escape to dramatic coastlines and abundant wildlife.
Things to Do:
Observe elephant seals at Chimney Rock during pupping season. Visit the historic Point Reyes Lighthouse for breathtaking views.
Plan you own seashore discovery drive or, explore by kayak.
Add a neighboring wine and foodie tour.
3. Ferndale – Victorian Winter Escape
Location: Humboldt County
Why Go: Step back in time in this charming Victorian village.
Things to Do:
Stroll through the historic downtown and explore unique shops.
Take a short drive to Fern Canyon, a wonderland featured in Jurassic Park.
Visit the Ferndale Museum for a peek into the town's history.
4. Dunsmuir – Alpine Serenity
Location: Shasta Cascade Region
Why Go: This quaint mountain town offers quiet charm and natural beauty.
Things to Do:
Hike to Hedge Creek Falls, a short and easy trek to a serene waterfall.
Stay in converted train cars at the Railroad Park Resort for a unique experience.
Enjoy cozy downtown cafes and local shops.
5. Murphys – Quaint Gold Country Getaway
Location: Calaveras County
Why Go: A charming small town with a mix of Gold Rush history and modern appeal.
Things to Do:
Visit local wineries for tastings in a relaxed setting.
Explore Ironstone Vineyards, home to a gold nugget museum and beautiful gardens.
Hike among towering sequoias at Calaveras Big Trees State Park.
Winter is more than just a season, it’s an invitation to slow down and wander somewhere unexpected. These California gems—hidden and not so hidden—remind us that adventure doesn’t have to mean long flights or complicated itineraries. Sometimes, it’s just a short drive away.
Picture yourself climbing through colorful slot canyons in Mecca Hills, where ladders guide you through narrow, twisting rock formations straight out of a movie set. Or strolling the dunes at Guadalupe-Nipomo, where the wind shapes waves of sand, and the horizon feels endless.
Up north, Moss Landing invites you to kayak alongside playful sea otters, their easygoing pace reminding you to slow down and enjoy the view. Meanwhile, Dunsmuir’s misty waterfalls and historic train cars feel like stepping into a quieter, simpler world—perfect for unplugging and unwinding.
California is full of stories waiting to be uncovered—tales of gold rush towns, desert mysteries, and coastal sanctuaries. Whether you’re hiking among sequoias near Murphys or spotting elephant seals near Point Reyes, these escapes prove that winter doesn’t have to be ordinary.
Ready to explore more? Follow us to find your travel inspiration and ideas for planning your next trek.
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