25 Best Places to Visit in California in December

Are you planning a trip to California in December? You’re in for a treat! December is a magical time of year in the Golden State, with plenty of festive events and activities to enjoy. California has something for everyone, whether you’re looking to hit the slopes, soak up the sun on the beach, or get into the holiday spirit.

From San Diego to Lake Tahoe, California is home to some of the country’s most beautiful and exciting destinations. Many of these destinations come alive in December with holiday cheer. Whether you’re looking to explore the great outdoors, sample delicious food and wine, or take in a show, there’s no shortage of things to do in California in December.

So, what are you waiting for? Get ready to pack your bags and head to the Golden State for an unforgettable December getaway. In this article, I’ll share some of California’s best things to do this December, from festive events to outdoor adventures. So, If you want to know, Keep reading!

Why Visit California in December?

If you’re planning a trip to California, December is a great time to visit. The state offers a variety of activities, events, and attractions that are perfect for the winter season. Here are some reasons why you should consider visiting California in December:

Mild Weather

While many parts of the country are experiencing cold temperatures and snow, California’s weather is often mild and comfortable in December. You can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and sightseeing without having to bundle up in heavy winter gear. However, it’s still a good idea to check the weather forecast before you travel to ensure you pack appropriately.

Festive Atmosphere

California is known for its festive spirit, and December is no exception. Many cities and towns across the state decorate for the holiday season with lights, ornaments, and other decorations. You can attend holiday parades, see Christmas trees, and even take a ride on a holiday-themed train.

Cultural Events

California is home to a diverse range of cultures, and December is a great time to experience some of them. You can attend events like the Festival of Lights at the Mission Inn in Riverside, which features over 5 million lights and festive decorations. Or, you can check out the San Francisco Ballet’s Nutcracker, a classic holiday performance that has been running for over 75 years.

In summary, California in December offers mild weather, a festive atmosphere, and cultural events that make it an excellent destination for winter travel.

California in December: Weather

December in California is a unique time of year. The weather varies depending on the region of the state, but generally, it is mild and pleasant. California is known for its Mediterranean climate, which means it has dry summers and mild, wet winters.

In Southern California, the weather is usually sunny and warm, with temperatures ranging from the high 60s to low 70s Fahrenheit. The nights can be chilly, so make sure to bring a light jacket or sweater. The beaches are still enjoyable, and you can even go surfing if you’re brave enough to face the cold water.

In Northern California, the weather is more relaxed and wetter, with temperatures ranging from the mid-40s to low 50s Fahrenheit. The rainy season starts in November, so it is possible to have cold, rainy days in any part of California in December. But when it’s not raining, you can expect temperatures in the upper 50s or 60s in most places.

If you’re planning to visit California in December, check the weather forecast before you go. Bring layers of clothing, including a light jacket, sweater, and raincoat, as the weather can be unpredictable. Overall, December is a great time to visit California, with mild weather and fewer crowds than in the summer months.

In summary, California’s weather in December is mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from the 40s to 70s Fahrenheit, depending on the region. It’s a great time to visit the state, with fewer crowds and enjoyable outdoor activities.

Best 25 Places to Visit in California in December

1. Visit Beaches

California is known for its beautiful beaches, and December is a great time to visit them. The crowds are smaller, the weather is mild, and you can enjoy long walks on the beach without the summer heat.

Where in Beaches to Stay

If you’re looking for a place to stay near the beach, Santa Monica and Laguna Beach are great options. Santa Monica is known for its iconic pier and boardwalk, while Laguna Beach is a charming seaside town with beautiful beaches and art galleries.

2. Explore National Parks

California is home to some of the most stunning national parks in the country. In December, you can enjoy the parks without the summer crowds and see them covered in snow.

Where in National Parks to Stay

If you’re planning to explore the national parks, Yosemite and Joshua Tree are two of the best options. Yosemite is known for its stunning waterfalls and granite cliffs, while Joshua Tree is a unique desert landscape with stunning rock formations.

3. Go Wine Tasting

California is home to some of the best wineries in the world, and December is a great time to go wine tasting. The vineyards are less crowded, and you can enjoy the beautiful winter scenery.

Where in Wine Tasting to Stay

Napa Valley and Sonoma are two excellent choices if wine tasting is your goal. Though Sonoma offers a more relaxed option with gorgeous countryside and quaint towns, Napa Valley is renowned for its world-class wineries and opulent resorts.

4. Visit San Francisco

San Francisco is a vibrant city with plenty to see and do. In December, you can enjoy the festive holiday decorations and events.

Where in San Francisco to Stay

If you’re planning to visit San Francisco, Union Square and Fisherman’s Wharf are two great options. Union Square is the heart of the city and is known for its luxury shopping and hotels, while Fisherman’s Wharf is a popular tourist destination with great seafood and attractions.

5. Explore Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a sprawling city with something for everyone. In December, you can enjoy the mild weather and festive holiday events.

Where in Los Angeles to Stay

Santa Monica and Beverly Hills are excellent choices if you want to explore Los Angeles. Known for its plentiful shopping and celebrity sightings, Santa Monica is a quaint beach town with excellent attractions and beaches.

6. Visit San Diego

San Diego is a laid-back city with beautiful beaches and great weather year-round. In December, you can enjoy the mild weather and festive holiday events.

Where in San Diego to Stay

If you’re planning to visit San Diego, La Jolla and Coronado Island are two great options. La Jolla is known for its stunning coastline and upscale shopping, while Coronado Island is a charming island town with great beaches and attractions.

7. Go Skiing

California is home to some fantastic ski resorts, and December is a great time to hit the slopes. You can enjoy the fresh powder and beautiful winter scenery.

Where in Skiing to Stay

Big Bear and Lake Tahoe are excellent choices if you want to go skiing. While Big Bear offers a more relaxed alternative with excellent skiing and snowboarding, Lake Tahoe is a breathtaking mountain resort with excellent skiing and winter activities.

8. Visit Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is a charming seaside town with beautiful beaches and great weather year-round. In December, you can enjoy the mild weather and festive holiday events.

Where in Santa Barbara to Stay

If you’re planning to visit Santa Barbara, Montecito and Downtown are two great options. Montecito is a more upscale option with luxury resorts and beautiful beaches, while Downtown is a more affordable option with great shopping and dining.

9. Explore Monterey

Monterey is a charming seaside town with great beaches and attractions. In December, you can enjoy the mild weather and festive holiday events.

Where in Monterey to Stay

Two excellent places to visit in Monterey are Carmel-by-the-Sea and Pacific Grove. While Pacific Grove is a more cost-effective choice with excellent beaches and attractions, Carmel-by-the-Sea is a charming town with excellent dining and shopping.

10. Go Whale Watching

Whale watching is a popular activity in California in December. You can see gray whales, humpback whales, and blue whales. Some of the best places to go whale watching are Monterey Bay, San Diego, and Santa Barbara. You can book a tour with a reputable company and enjoy the beautiful ocean views.

Where in Whale Watching to Stay

If you’re looking for a place to stay while whale watching, there are many options available. In Monterey Bay, you can stay at the Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa or the Spindrift Inn. In San Diego, you can stay at the Hotel del Coronado or the Hilton San Diego Bayfront. In Santa Barbara, you can stay at the Four Seasons Resort, The Biltmore Santa Barbara, or the Hotel Californian.

11. Visit Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe is a beautiful place to visit in December. You can go skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and snowshoeing. You can also enjoy the beautiful scenery and take a hot air balloon ride. Some of the best ski resorts in Lake Tahoe are Squaw Valley, Alpine Meadows, and Heavenly.

Where in Lake Tahoe to Stay

If you’re looking for a place to stay in Lake Tahoe, there are many options available. In Squaw Valley, you can stay at the Resort at Squaw Creek or the Squaw Valley Lodge. In Alpine Meadows, you can stay at the Alpine Meadows Lodge or the River Ranch Lodge. 

12. Explore Big Sur

Big Sur is a beautiful place to visit in December. You can explore the beautiful coastline, go hiking, and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Some of the best places to visit in Big Sur are Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, and Andrew Molera State Park.

Where in Big Sur to Stay

There are lots of options available if you’re looking for lodging in Big Sur. The Ventana Big Sur and the Post Ranch Inn are your options for lodging. Alternatively, you could stay at Glen Oaks Big Sur or the Big Sur River Inn.

13. Visit Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a beautiful place to visit in December. You can enjoy the beautiful weather, go golfing, and relax by the pool. Some of the best places to visit in Palm Springs are Joshua Tree National Park, the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, and the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens.

Where in Palm Springs to Stay

If you’re looking for a place to stay in Palm Springs, there are many options available. You can stay at the Parker Palm Springs or the Ritz-Carlton Rancho Mirage. You can also stay at the Ace Hotel & Swim Club or the Korakia Pensione.

14. Go Hiking

Hiking is a popular activity in California in December. You can enjoy the beautiful scenery and get some exercise. Some of the best places to go hiking are Mount Tamalpais State Park, Point Reyes National Seashore, and the Santa Monica Mountains.

Where in Hiking to Stay

If you’re looking for a place to stay while hiking, there are many options available. In Mount Tamalpais State Park, you can stay at the Mountain Home Inn or the Mill Valley Inn. In Point Reyes National Seashore, you can stay at the Point Reyes Seashore Lodge or the Olema Inn & Restaurant. 

In the Santa Monica Mountains, you can stay at the Malibu Beach Inn or the Calamigos Guest Ranch & Beach Club.

15. Visit Sonoma

Sonoma is a beautiful place to visit in December. You can go wine tasting, enjoy the beautiful scenery, and visit the historic sites. Some of the best places to visit in Sonoma are the Sonoma Plaza, the Sonoma Valley Wine Trolley, and the Sonoma State Historic Park.

Where in Sonoma to Stay

There are two options for accommodations: the MacArthur Place Hotel & Spa and the Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa. Additionally, you can book accommodations at Sonoma Renaissance Resort & Spa’s Lodge or El Dorado Hotel & Kitchen.

16. Explore Redwood Forest

The Redwood Forest is a must-see destination in California, especially in December. The forest is home to some of the tallest trees in the world, and the scenery is simply breathtaking. You can explore the forest on foot, by bike, or on horseback. 

There are also plenty of hiking trails to choose from, ranging from easy to challenging. Make sure to visit the Avenue of the Giants, which is a scenic drive that takes you through some of the most beautiful parts of the forest.

Where in Redwood Forest to Stay

If you’re planning to visit the Redwood Forest, there are plenty of great places to stay. Some of the best options include the Benbow Historic Inn, which is a charming hotel with a spa and golf course, and the Redwood Riverwalk Hotel, which is located on the Eel River and offers stunning views of the forest.

17. Visit Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is a great place to visit in December, with plenty of fun activities for the whole family. You can explore the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, which is a classic seaside amusement park with plenty of rides and attractions. You can also visit the Santa Cruz Wharf, which is home to plenty of shops, restaurants, and entertainment.

Where in Santa Cruz to Stay

If you’re planning to visit Santa Cruz, there are plenty of great places to stay. Some of the best options include the Dream Inn, which is located on the beach and offers stunning ocean views, and the Chaminade Resort and Spa, which is a luxurious resort with plenty of amenities.

18. Go Surfing

California is known for its great surfing, and December is a great time to hit the waves. Some of the best surfing spots in California include Huntington Beach, Rincon Point, and Mavericks. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced surfer, there’s a spot for you.

Where in Surfing to Stay

There are many fantastic places to stay in California if you intend to go surfing. Among the best choices are the Montage Laguna Beach, an opulent resort with an abundance of amenities, and the Surf and Sand Resort in Laguna Beach, which is situated directly on the beach.

19. Visit Yosemite

Yosemite is one of the most beautiful national parks in the United States, and December is a great time to visit. The park is home to stunning waterfalls, towering cliffs, and plenty of hiking trails. You can also go ice skating in Yosemite Valley, which is a fun activity for the whole family.

Where in Yosemite to Stay

If you’re planning to visit Yosemite, there are plenty of great places to stay. Some of the best options include the Majestic Yosemite Hotel, which is a historic hotel with stunning views of the park, and the Yosemite Valley Lodge, which is located in the heart of the park and offers plenty of amenities.

20. Go to Mammoth Mountain

Mammoth Mountain is a great place to visit in December, especially if you love skiing or snowboarding. The mountain is home to plenty of ski runs, ranging from beginner to expert. You can also go snowshoeing, snowmobiling, or take a scenic gondola ride.

Where in Mammoth Mountain to Stay

If you’re planning to visit Mammoth Mountain, there are plenty of great places to stay. Some of the best options include the Mammoth Mountain Inn, which is located right on the mountain and offers stunning views, and the Westin Monache Resort, which is a luxurious resort with plenty of amenities.

21. Visit Alcatraz Island

Alcatraz Island is a must-see attraction in San Francisco, especially during December. You can take a ferry to the island and explore the former prison, which is now a national park. During the holiday season, the island is decorated with festive lights, and there are special events and activities for visitors to enjoy.

Where in Alcatraz Island to Stay

If you want to stay near Alcatraz Island, you can find plenty of options in the nearby Fisherman’s Wharf. The Argonaut Hotel, Club Quarters Hotel, and Palace Hotel are all great options that offer easy access to the island.

22. Explore Muir Woods

Muir Woods National Monument is another great place to visit in December. The park is home to some of the tallest trees in the world, and during the holiday season, the park is decorated with festive lights. You can take a hike through the park and enjoy the natural beauty of the redwood forest.

Where in Muir Woods to Stay

If you want to stay near Muir Woods, you can find plenty of options in nearby Mill Valley. The Mill Valley Inn, Acqua Hotel, and Waters Edge Hotel are all great options that offer easy access to the park.

23. Go Chinatown

Chinatown in San Francisco is a great place to visit in December, especially during the Chinese New Year celebrations. You can explore the colorful streets, enjoy traditional Chinese food, and watch dragon dances and other performances.

Where in Chinatown to Stay

Plenty of lodging options are available in nearby Union Square if you want to stay close to Chinatown. Three excellent choices that provide easy access to Chinatown are the Fairmont San Francisco, Four Seasons Hotel, and Loews Regency.

24. Visit the Golden Gate

The Golden Gate Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in San Francisco, and it’s a great place to visit in December. You can take a walk across the bridge and enjoy the stunning views of the city and the bay.

Where in Golden Gate to Stay

If you want to stay near the Golden Gate Bridge, you can find plenty of options in nearby Presidio. The Inn at the Presidio, Lodge at the Presidio, and Presidio Officers’ Club are all great options that offer easy access to the bridge.

25. Explore Sonoma County

Sonoma County is a great place to visit in December, especially if you’re a wine lover. You can explore the vineyards, enjoy wine tastings, and take in the beautiful scenery.

Where in Sonoma County to Stay

Santa Rosa, which is close by, offers a wide range of lodging options if you’d like to stay in Sonoma County. Great options with easy access to the vineyards include Vintners Inn, Hyatt Regency Sonoma Wine Country, and Flamingo Conference Resort and Spa.

Overall, California is a great place to visit in December, with plenty of things to do and see. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or just a relaxing getaway, there’s something for everyone.

Travel Tips

Transportation

When visiting California in December, it is crucial to plan your transportation ahead of time. If you’re flying in, make sure to book your flights early to get the best deals. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and San Francisco International Airport (SFO) are the two major airports in the state. Once you arrive, you can rent a car or use public transportation to get around. 

California has an extensive public transportation system that includes buses, trains, and light rail. The Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) and Los Angeles Metro are two popular options for getting around the cities. If you’re planning to drive, be aware that traffic can be heavy during peak hours, so plan your route accordingly.

Packing Tips

It is imperative that you take the weather into account when packing for your December trip to California. Despite its reputation for having beautiful weather, California can get very cold in the winter. Don’t forget to bring warm clothes, such as a hat, sweater, and jacket. If you intend to visit the mountains, pack warm clothing and snow boots. 

Remember to pack sunscreen and sunglasses, as the sun can still be intense during the winter months. If you plan to do outdoor activities such as hiking or skiing, bring appropriate gear and footwear. Lastly, make sure to bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout your trip.

Following these travel tips, you can ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trip to California in December.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are some winter wonderlands to visit in California?

California has many winter wonderlands that are worth visiting. Some popular ones include Lake Tahoe, Yosemite National Park, Mammoth Lakes, and Big Bear Lake. These places offer a variety of winter activities, such as skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and ice skating. You can also enjoy the beautiful winter landscapes and cozy cabins.

What are some fun places to go in December near California?

Las Vegas and Phoenix are great options if you are looking for fun places near California in December. Las Vegas offers a variety of entertainment options, such as shows and shopping. Phoenix has warm weather and outdoor activities such as hiking and golfing. Another option is to visit nearby beach towns such as La Jolla or Santa Barbara.

What are the best places to visit in California during winter?

California has many beautiful places to visit during winter. San Francisco is an excellent option with its festive holiday events, museums, and attractions, such as the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island. Los Angeles has many attractions, such as Universal Studios Hollywood, Disneyland, and the Griffith Observatory. Other options include wine country in Napa Valley and the scenic Pacific Coast Highway.

Is it worth visiting San Diego in December?

Yes, San Diego is worth visiting in December. The city has many holiday events, such as the San Diego Bay Parade of Lights and the December Nights festival in Balboa Park. The weather is also mild and pleasant, making it a great time to visit the beaches and outdoor attractions such as the San Diego Zoo and SeaWorld.

Conclusion

California is a fantastic destination to visit in December. From the snowy mountains to the sunny beaches, the state offers various activities and events that cater to all interests. Whether you are looking for a family-friendly vacation or a romantic getaway, California has something for everyone.

During your visit, make sure to check out the holiday light shows, parades, and festivals that take place across the state. From the Winter Fest OC to the Festival of Lights at the Mission Inn, there are plenty of opportunities to experience the festive spirit and holiday cheer.

Enjoy the mild winter weather and explore the state’s natural wonders. Joshua Tree National Park and Death Valley National Park are perfect December getaways into nature, and you can even do a California deserts road trip.

Overall, California in December is a unique and unforgettable experience you don’t want to miss. So start planning your trip today and prepare to create memories that will last a lifetime.