15 Thanksgiving Getaways in California You’ll Love

California, with its diverse landscapes and vibrant cities, offers a cornucopia of options for Thanksgiving getaways. Whether you’re dreaming of a coastal retreat, a mountain escape, or an urban adventure, the Golden State has something to satisfy every traveler’s appetite. Let’s explore 15 unforgettable Thanksgiving destinations that showcase the best of California’s natural beauty, culinary excellence, and holiday spirit.

Coastal Escapes: Seaside Thanksgiving Celebrations

Carmel-by-the-Sea: A Quaint Coastal Retreat

Nestled along the picturesque Monterey Peninsula, Carmel-by-the-Sea offers a charming backdrop for a Thanksgiving getaway. This enchanting village, known for its fairy-tale cottages and artist-friendly atmosphere, provides a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness.

Carmel-by-the-Sea

Key Attractions:

• Stroll through the town’s art galleries and boutique shops
• Enjoy a Thanksgiving feast at historic inns like La Playa Carmel or L’Auberge Carmel
• Explore nearby Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, often called “the crown jewel of the State Park system”

Thanksgiving Tip: Book a table at Grasing’s, a local favorite, for a gourmet Thanksgiving dinner featuring locally-sourced ingredients and award-winning wines.

you might also like:23 Exciting Places to Visit in California in Winter

Santa Barbara: The American Riviera

Santa Barbara, aptly nicknamed “The American Riviera,” offers a Mediterranean-like climate and Spanish colonial architecture, making it an ideal Thanksgiving destination for those seeking a blend of culture, cuisine, and outdoor activities.

Holiday Highlights:

• Take a Thanksgiving wine tour along the Urban Wine Trail
• Enjoy a beachfront Thanksgiving brunch at the Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara
• Visit the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden for a post-feast nature walk

Did You Know? Santa Barbara hosts an annual Thanksgiving Day Pumpkin Smash at the Santa Barbara Zoo, where animals enjoy pumpkins as enrichment activities.

Santa Barbara

Half Moon Bay: Pumpkin Capital of the World

Half Moon Bay, known as the Pumpkin Capital of the World, offers a unique Thanksgiving experience with its coastal charm and agricultural heritage.

Thanksgiving Activities:

• Indulge in farm-to-table Thanksgiving feasts featuring local produce
• Take a scenic drive along Highway 1 for breathtaking coastal views
• Visit local pumpkin patches for last-minute Thanksgiving decorations

Local Tip: Book a table at the Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay for their annual Thanksgiving buffet, featuring panoramic ocean views and live music.

you might also like:1 Day in San Francisco The Perfect Itinerary for the City by the Bay

Half Moon Bay

Urban Adventures: City Thanksgiving Experiences

San Francisco: A Foodie’s Paradise

San Francisco, a diverse hub of cultures and culinary experiences, delivers a city-based Thanksgiving retreat brimming with flavorful dishes and festive joy. Furthermore, its lively atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for a memorable holiday.

Must-Do Experiences:

• Ice skate at Union Square’s holiday ice rink
• Witness the Embarcadero Center’s Building Lighting Ceremony (typically held before Thanksgiving)
• Enjoy a Thanksgiving cruise on the San Francisco Bay

Foodie Highlight: Try the Thanksgiving tasting menu at Atelier Crenn, the first female-led restaurant in the U.S. to receive three Michelin stars.

San Diego: Sun, Sea, and Safari

San Diego’s mild climate and diverse attractions make it an excellent choice for families seeking a Thanksgiving getaway with a mix of relaxation and adventure.

Family-Friendly Activities:

• Attend the San Diego Jazz Fest, a Thanksgiving weekend tradition
• Enjoy a Thanksgiving dinner cruise in the San Diego Bay
• Visit the San Diego Zoo or SeaWorld for special holiday programs

Thanksgiving Event: Don’t miss the Mother Goose Parade in El Cajon, held on the Sunday before Thanksgiving, featuring floats, marching bands, and equestrians.

you might also like:15 Best Places to Visit in California in Summer

San Diego Sun Sea

Los Angeles: Glitz, Glamour, and Gratitude

Los Angeles provides a celebrity-filled Thanksgiving experience, mixing Hollywood allure with a variety of culinary delights and fun, family-friendly activities. Furthermore, its vibrant energy makes it an unforgettable holiday destination.

Holiday Highlights:

• Attend the Hollywood Christmas Parade, held on the Sunday after Thanksgiving
• Enjoy a luxurious Thanksgiving brunch at The Polo Lounge at The Beverly Hills Hotel
• Visit the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) for a cultural Thanksgiving experience

Celebrity Chef Experience: Book a table at Wolfgang Puck’s Spago in Beverly Hills for a gourmet Thanksgiving dinner with a Hollywood twist.

Wine Country Retreats: Gourmet Thanksgiving Getaways

Napa Valley: World-Class Wine and Dining

Known for its exceptional wines and gourmet fare, Napa Valley provides a lavish Thanksgiving escape for food and wine lovers. Moreover, its scenic vineyards create the perfect setting for a holiday indulgence.

Thanksgiving Experiences:

• Enjoy a wine pairing dinner at renowned vineyards like Robert Mondavi Winery
• Take a ride on the Napa Valley Wine Train’s special Thanksgiving journey
• Soar over autumn vineyards in a hot air balloon ride

Wine Lover’s Tip: Visit Domaine Carneros for a sparkling wine tasting to kickstart your Thanksgiving celebrations.

Sonoma Valley: Rustic Charm and Fine Wines

Sonoma Valley, with its laid-back atmosphere and world-class wineries, provides a more relaxed alternative to Napa for a Thanksgiving wine country getaway.

you might also like:11 Best Places for Spring Break in California

Sonoma Valley

Holiday Activities:

• Attend a farm-to-table Thanksgiving feast at a historic winery like Buena Vista Winery
• Go wine tasting at family-owned wineries like Gundlach Bundschu
• Take a post-feast hike through Jack London State Historic Park

Local Event: Check out the Sonoma Valley Delicious! event, typically held around Thanksgiving, showcasing local wines and artisanal foods.

Mountain Escapes: Thanksgiving in the Great Outdoors

Lake Tahoe: Alpine Thanksgiving Adventure

Nestled on the California-Nevada border, Lake Tahoe offers a stunning mountain backdrop for a Thanksgiving retreat, featuring early-season skiing and waterfront dining. Additionally, its breathtaking scenery enhances the holiday experience.

Thanksgiving Highlights:

• Hit the slopes at Heavenly or Northstar California Resort for early-season skiing
• Enjoy a Thanksgiving buffet with lake views at the Lone Eagle Grille
• Take a scenic cruise on the MS Dixie II paddle wheeler

Outdoor Enthusiast Tip: Try snowshoeing or cross-country skiing at Tahoe Donner Cross Country Ski Center for a unique Thanksgiving workout.

Yosemite National Park: A Natural Wonderland

Yosemite National Park provides a majestic backdrop for a Thanksgiving retreat, offering a chance to connect with nature and enjoy traditional holiday festivities.

Must-Do Experiences:

• Attend the Grand Feast at The Ahwahnee, a Thanksgiving tradition since 1927
• Join a guided photography walk to capture Yosemite’s fall colors
• Take a stargazing tour in Yosemite Valley

Insider Tip: Book accommodations well in advance, as Thanksgiving is a popular time to visit Yosemite.

Mammoth Lakes: High-Altitude Holidays

Mammoth Lakes delivers an elevated Thanksgiving experience, merging top-notch skiing with a quaint town vibe and soothing natural hot springs. Additionally, its stunning alpine scenery makes it an ideal holiday getaway.

Thanksgiving Activities:

• Take advantage of Thanksgiving ski packages at Mammoth Mountain
• Soak in natural hot springs like Wild Willy’s Hot Spring
• Enjoy a scenic gondola ride to the summit of Mammoth Mountain

Local Tradition: Join the annual Turkey Trot at Mammoth Creek Park, a fun run/walk event held on Thanksgiving morning.

Desert Retreats: California Thanksgiving Getaways Under the Stars

Palm Springs: Mid-Century Modern Oasis

Palm Springs provides a one-of-a-kind Thanksgiving in the desert, blending mid-century style with upscale resorts and exciting outdoor activities. Moreover, its warm weather and vibrant atmosphere make it a perfect holiday escape.

Holiday Highlights:

• Enjoy a retro-themed Thanksgiving dinner at a mid-century modern hotel like The Parker Palm Springs
• Take the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway for stunning views and cooler temperatures
• Indulge in a post-Thanksgiving spa treatment at one of the city’s many luxury resorts

Golfer’s Delight: Book a tee time at the Indian Wells Golf Resort for a Thanksgiving round on their celebrity course.

Joshua Tree National Park: Stargazing and Rock Climbing

For those seeking an unconventional Thanksgiving, Joshua Tree National Park offers a chance to spend the holiday under the stars, surrounded by unique desert landscapes.

Joshua Tree National Park

Thanksgiving Adventures:

• Book a glamping site or vacation rental for a desert Thanksgiving feast
• Join a ranger-led program to learn about desert ecology
• Enjoy world-class rock climbing and bouldering

Stargazer’s Tip: Attend a night sky program at the Sky’s The Limit Observatory and Nature Center for an unforgettable Thanksgiving night.

Island Getaway: A Catalina Thanksgiving

Catalina Island: Mediterranean Vibes in SoCal

Just off Southern California’s coast, Catalina Island offers a distinctive Thanksgiving getaway, blending a Mediterranean atmosphere with thrilling outdoor activities. Plus, its serene island setting adds to the holiday charm.

Holiday Experiences:

• Enjoy a Thanksgiving buffet with ocean views at the Avalon Grille
• Take a glass-bottom boat tour to see Catalina’s marine life
• Visit the Catalina Island Museum for a dose of island history

Adventure Seeker’s Choice: Try a zip line eco-tour for a thrilling post-Thanksgiving activity.

Hidden Gem: Coastal Redwoods Retreat

Mendocino: Rugged Coastline and Towering Trees

This coastal retreat provides a peaceful Thanksgiving retreat, blending the grandeur of towering coastal redwoods with the allure of a quaint seaside village. In addition, its tranquil setting makes for a perfect holiday escape.

Mendocino

Thanksgiving Activities:

• Book a Thanksgiving stay at a historic Victorian inn like the MacCallum House
• Join a mushroom foraging tour and cooking class
• Take a ride on the Skunk Train through the redwood forests

Foodie Experience: Attend the Feast Mendocino event, typically held around Thanksgiving, showcasing local wines, craft beers, and farm-to-table cuisine.

Practical Tips for California Thanksgiving Getaways

1. Book Early: Thanksgiving is a popular travel time in California.However secure accommodations and dinner reservations well in advance.
2. Weather Considerations:
   • Coastal areas: Mild temperatures, possible fog
   • Mountain regions: Cold, potential for snow
   • Desert areas: Warm days, cool nights
3. Packing Tips:
   • Layer clothing for variable temperatures
   • Bring rain gear for coastal and mountain trips
   • Pack sturdy shoes for outdoor activities
4. Transportation:
   • Consider renting a car for flexibility
   • Book flights early to avoid holiday price surges
   • Be prepared for heavy traffic, especially around major cities
5. Holiday Closures:
   • Many attractions and restaurants may have limited hours or be closed on Thanksgiving Day
   • National and state parks remain open, but visitor centers may be closed

Conclusion

California Thanksgiving Getaways diverse landscapes and vibrant cities offer a wealth of options for unforgettable Thanksgiving getaways. From coastal retreats and urban adventures to wine country escapes and mountain hideaways, there’s a perfect destination for every traveler. Whether you’re seeking a traditional turkey dinner with all the trimmings or an unconventional holiday adventure, the Golden State delivers with its unique blend of natural beauty, culinary excellence, and holiday spirit.

This Thanksgiving, consider breaking away from the usual routine and creating new traditions in one of California’s many spectacular locations. With careful planning and an open mind, your California Thanksgiving Getaways could become the highlight of your holiday season, filled with memories to cherish for years to come.

So, pack your bags, bring your appetite for both food and adventure, and get ready to experience a California Thanksgiving Getaways that you’ll truly love. The Golden State is waiting to welcome you with open arms and a cornucopia of unforgettable experiences.