The Sunshine State is diverse; you will find something to love regardless of what you like to do. Beachside resorts, wine country B&Bs, hotels on the cliffs of Malibu — California knows how to do romance, and then some. Whether you plan to fly in or drive, there are so many places to sneak off for a romantic weekend. Take in the breathtaking beauty of Big Sur, stroll the beaches of Southern California, or spend time enjoying the beautiful valleys and mountain tops in Yosemite. Your romantic getaway is waiting. Are you hoping for a passionate and adventurous California getaway? Add these ideas to your bucket list of Romantic Californian Honeymoon Adventures.
Road trip Big Sur
The coastline along Big Sur is one of the world's most beautiful stretches of coast. Imagine 90-miles of winding roads with rocky bluffs and fog-lined beaches. The classic Big Sur drive along Highway 1 has plenty of places to pull over and take in the sights, including the iconic Bixby Bridge — you've seen it before in a million different car commercials.
See Incredible Views From Vista Point
Are you planning a romantic trip to San Fran, and you want a stellar view of the Golden Gate Bridge? Trust me when I say Vista Point is well worth the effort it takes to get there. The lookout at Vista Poing will reward you with awe-inspiring views of the iconic Golden Gate and the San Francisco Bay. You can access Vista Point by car or on foot. But I recommend taking a short hike up a hillside instead of going by car. It's a nice scenic hike.
Explore Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe is much-loved for its water activities like boating, fishing, canoeing, hiking, and skiing. It's a bonus that you can enjoy all of this while taking in the stunning mountain scenery. Make sure that you when you create your California itinerary that you include a couple of days in Lake Tahoe.
Hike Yosemite's iconic Mist Trail to Half Dome
Not surprisingly, taking a hike is the absolute best way to experience Yosemite National Park. There are so many trails to explore and get up close with all that mother nature has to offer, but there's no doubt that one of the absolute best is the trail that leads to Yosemite's most iconic attraction. Reaching the top of Half Dome takes some planning, and it won't be a small feat, but it's an experience you'll remember for years to come and one you can brag about too! Are you ready to tackle Yosemite?
Soak in hot springs and take in majestic views
Just when you think California can't get any more beautiful, a drive through the Sierra Nevada will have you reconsidering. Hundreds of secret hot springs dot the eastern side of the area. You can take a dip, all while soaking up the gorgeous views.
Take a cruise from L.A. to Mexico, or Hawaii
Calling all cruise lovers! L.A. is the perfect jumping-off point for a beautiful trip down the coast. Ships depart every day from the area headed for Mexico and Hawaii year-round with the lengths between 3 to 14 nights. Cruising is the perfect addition to any Californian getaway. Explore the best the state has to offer, then set sail for even more adventure.
Explore wine country
How does winery-hopping through California sound? If you're a wine lover, California's superb vineyards are a must-do. There's so much to explore — the grand estates of Napa Valley, the secret vineyards of Sonoma, the tucked-away wineries in the mountains of Santa Cruz, and more. Pick an area to explore for a weekend or hop your way through the country's renowned wine region.
Spend an evening at Santa Monica Pier
Waiting at the end of the well-traveled Route 66 is the iconic Santa Monica Pier. From the end of the pier, you can take in spectacular views up and down the California coast. You can get a bird's eye view of the Pacific and the surrounding area from up on the Ferris Wheel. The pier is the perfect place to catch a California sunset, then explore the city with the twinkling amusement park lights and ocean as your backdrop.
Grab a double-double at In N Out
California is brimming with delicious food, excellent dining and street food alike + it's home to a world-renowned wine. But there's something so quintessential about heading down to In N Out and indulging in a burger, fries, and a shake. Luckily you'll be able to find them everywhere — whether you're looking for a post-beach snack or fueling up before a hike through a State Park.
Bicycle from Venice Beach to Santa Monica
A trip to California isn't complete without a little (or a lot) of beach time. Make time in your busy schedule to enjoy the feeling of the sun shining on your skin as you bicycle from Venice Beach to Santa Monica. Be sure to end the day watching a west coast sunset.
Take a day trip to Catalina Island
Catalina Island is brimming with history, and it's where Hollywood's brightest stars head to get away from the crowds. Strolling around this beautiful little island will be reminiscent of being in Europe, it's very charming. There is so much to do, including snorkeling and other water activities. The island is a two-hour boat ride from Long Beach and San Diego, and it's the perfect day trip. I highly recommend working it into your California itinerary.
Sail to the Channel Islands
Did you know that the Channel Islands are the least visited national park in the U.S.? But you get the benefit of enjoying and exploring these peaceful islands without crowds of selfie-taking tourists. The remote Channel Islands are perfect for kayaking, hiking, or wildlife viewing.
Learn to surf in San Diego
No visit to California is complete without trying your hand at hanging ten. There is no better spot to learn to surf than the magical city of San Diego; it is home to fabulous beaches and perfect weather.
You don't have to go thousands of miles away from home to experience an adventurous and romantic honeymoon! California is a marvel, and you will discover something that thrills your senses and also brings you closer together as a couple. Relaxing resorts, gorgeous beaches, incredible food & wine, and activities that will get your heart pumping, California is the perfect destination for romance.