Cheap Vacations in California

Best time to take a vacation to California

Best Time to Go

California vacations are popular throughout the year because much of the state has a very mild climate. At the same time, however, it does cool off during the winter, making it more difficult to enjoy the beach. You can save money during the winter because many of the beaches slow down during these months, which brings about fewer tourists. You can also avoid lineups at many tourist destinations during the winter. Do not miss the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, held at the end of April in Indio and features some of the most famous bands in the world.

Popular California experiences

Anaheim

It's hard to think of a California vacation without your inner child getting a word in. Home of Disneyland, Knotts Berry Farm and California Adventure, Anaheim is the hub of childhood joy. When you're not whizzing through the air on rides or taking in the magic of Disney, check out the Crystal Cove State Park for some magic of the natural variety.

Los Angeles

The City of Angels may be filled with its share of sinners, but there's no escaping the "anything is possible" vibe that comes over you when you arrive. Hollywood is a California vacation must-see, and while it's not the movie-making hub today that it once was, it still leaves visitors star-struck. The Santa Monica Boulevard is also worth a look, so get your bronze on.

Pacific Coast Highway

For awesome views and some great pics to show the folks back home, you can't beat a drive along this iconic stretch. During the day, you'll get sun-drenched ocean scenes to snap in places like Big Sur and Orange County, and by night you'll see a sea of glimmering lights and the glowing moon. Take your significant other for an extra-special moment, if you know what we mean…

San Francisco

A solid hippie history and picturesque city center make this trendy hub a must for California travels. Ride a cable car, indulge your taste buds in Chinatown, hit Fisherman's Wharf, and marvel at the iconic Golden Gate Bridge -- a 1.7-mile span between San Francisco and Marin County that draws nine million visitors each year.

Wine Country

For a taste of the high life and some top-shelf wine while you're at it, make your way to California's Wine Country. Strewn with vines, artisan boutiques, laidback people and some of the prettiest scenery you're likely to see anywhere, Wine Country includes idyllic towns like the Napa Valley, Sonoma County and Santa Barbara. It's the perfect place to sit back, relax and let yourself indulge a little on your California travels.

Insider tips for California travel

Hollywood Comedy

California travel is not complete without a trip to a Hollywood comedy club, such as the Laugh Factory, where you are sure to see a surprise special guest.

Santa Cruz Boardwalk

The Santa Cruz Boardwalk is less popular than Santa Monica, but is preferred by most who visit this location.

Sea World

While SeaWorld gets most of the attention, the Monterey Bay Aquarium features a number of great exhibits in a more personal environment.

Summer Concerts

Summer concerts are held all over the state, with the Hollywood Bowl and the Ford Amphitheatre being popular locations.

^Savings based on all package bookings with Flight + Hotel made on CheapTickets.com from 2019-04-01 - 2020-03-31 as compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings will vary based on origin/destination, length of trip, stay dates and selected travel supplier(s). Savings not available on all packages.