16 Romantic Places to Honeymoon in California: Best Hotels & Things To Do

One of the most underrated honeymoon destinations in the world has got to be, without a doubt, California. Right here in the US of A. California is known for its beaches, hikes, amazing city life, and bougie AF resorts.

So why don’t we immediately think of California when it’s time to celebrate weddings? 

It probably has to do with influencer culture, and the idea that you just absolutely have to go to Paris or Corsica for a dream romantic getaway. Nothing wrong with that, but I think we need to push back against this– if you save money on flights, you can splurge on a luxury resort instead.

Besides bang for your buck, there are a couple other key reasons to stick in the US and hit up the Golden State for your honeymoon with our favorite honeymoon in California sports (hotels and towns!) 

For one, California is absolutely huge, so there is something for every type of honeymooner. Hiking, lounging, sun bathing, skiing, beaching, it’s the most diverse state in terms of vacation options. 

Also, as a gay person, I am always slightly hesitant to leave the US out of safety concerns. If there’s one time you don’t want to be worrying about PDA and romantic gestures, it’s got to be on your honeymoon. 

And if you decide there’s more than one location you want to see, you can rent a car and road trip with your brand new spouse. The Pacific Highway is one of the most romantic drives in the world, and is an activity in it of itself. 

16 Romantic Places to Honeymoon in California: Best Hotels, Towns & Things To Do

From tip to tip, California has some of the most beautiful views and dreamy hotels in the world. Whether you’re booking  a flight to get here or staying right in your backyard, here are some of the best hotels and places for a honeymoon in California. 

Cost Parameters 

In addition to a description of what makes each hotel special, I’ve included a price guide on the listed options to give you an idea of what you’re getting into. 

A California honeymoon is accessible no matter who you are or where you’re coming from, especially with the range of options on this list. 

1. Inn at Newport Ranch

Cost: $$$$

City: Mendocino

This Stay in a Nutshell: 

• Uniquely intimate experience
• The amenities
• Cattle on property

The Inn at Newport Ranch was on my hotel bucket list for quite some time now. This is one of the best California honey hotels and is a property I still dream of. It’s got everything you’d want for the perfect romantic getaway: a dramatic ocean view, a rooftop terrace, in-house restaurants, and of course, a very private experience. 

Located a ways away from San Franciso, the vibes are NorCal chic, miles away from any type of city life. This is the kind of honeymoon stay if you and your partner just want to GTFO of town and away from the insanity of your friends and family post-wedding. 

The privacy and one-on-one time at The Inn is pretty much unmatched. They don’t even have TVs in the rooms, just to inspire more screenless relaxation time. 

Don’t worry though– you won’t be bored. There are a ton of amazing amenities (hiking, horseback riding, ATVing– all on property),  in addition to adorably unique, cozy rooms that each have their own quirky NorCal designs. I am partial towards the dining room, which serves sustainable farm to table meals each night.

You’ll want to check availability ASAP– the hotel only has ten rooms total, so booking early is the only way to do it. I highly recommend the Captain’s Quarters, which overlooks the ocean for amazing sunrise and sunset views. Plus it’s right next door to that epic Hot Tub… read my full Inn at Newport Ranch feature for more. 

2. Greenhorn Ranch

Cost: $$$$

City: Quincy 

This Stay in a Nutshell:  

• Ranch activities 
• The insane Sierra Nevada views

I used to think Yosemite National Park was the only cool hiking spot in California (I grew up in Jersey). I had zero experience with national parks, and didn’t even know the Sierra Nevadas existed.

The first time I visited the Sierra Nevada Mountains, I became certain it’s what heaven must look like. Mountains and trees as far as the eye can see, stretches of lakes, it’s unbelievable. 

At Greenhorn Ranch, you get all the Sierra Nevadas have to offer while living like a local. This is the full dude ranch experience, from horseback riding to eating out under the stars. 

I think of all the honeymoon hotels in California, Greenhorn is definitely the most interactive. If you are looking for less of a sit-by-the-pool honeymoon and more of a fly fishing, horseback riding, archery shooting extravaganza, than definitely consider Greenhorn. 

Plus, there is absolutely no cell service. It’s the perfect excuse to completely focus your honeymoon time on your brand new spouse!

3. Whimsy Homes Cabin 

Cost: $$

City: Arnold

This Stay in a Nutshell: 

• Outdoor jacuzzi with a top tier view
• Unique and expansive amenities list

Maybe I’m biased, but the Whimsy Homes Cabin is the absolute best AirBnB honeymoon destination in California. Besides the super cute retro design, jacuzzi overlooking the pines, and privacy, there’s so much more.

It’s a total nod to nostalgia, with inclusions such as a record player, VHS tapes, GameCube, and vintage games to play. 

Calaveras County is sandwiched between wine tasting country and skiing. There is some super epic skiing/boarding in this area, if that’s what you’re looking for on your honeymoon. Wine tasting is super nearby too, if whites and reds are more important than blues and black diamonds.

In addition, Whimsy Homes Cabin comes with some amazing amenities that make it such a bang for your buck stay. In addition to HOA amenity access (access to Fly-In Acres Lake and Blue Lake Springs Lake and Rec Center with swimming pool), you can also use the hosts’ California Poppy State Park Pass to enjoy the trees.

If you’re thinking of skipping honeymoon resorts in California for an AirBnB instead, look no further. Book direct here. 

4. Beverly Hills Hotel 

Cost: $$$$

City: Los Angeles 

This Stay in a Nutshell:

• The Gliz & Glam Beverly Hills experience 
• Spas, pool, and a whole lot of relaxing

If you’re looking for a California honeymoon that oozes Hollywood, LA, and a life of the stars, then you need to think about the Beverly Hills Hotel. 

This is one of the most famous hotels in all of California in the heart of Hollywood. Seriously– you’re a five minute walk from the Hollywood Walk of Fame and Rodeo Drive. I am a big movie nerd, so this is kind of my dream scenario. 

Besides the access to the ~vibes~ of Los Angeles, this hotel is also just so good, you might not want to leave the property. The rooms are luxurious and famously gorgeous. The outdoor spacs are one of the prettiest I’ve seen (bungalows, terrace patios, city-landscape facing outdoor seating). And the spa is one of the top-rated in the city.

Basically, the Beverly Hills Hotel doesn’t mess around. This is a great stay if you’re looking to explore a new city in the lap of luxury. Or! If you’re an Angelano who’s been dying to check out this hotel! What better excuse than your honeymoon?

Plus, you’re in SoCal. So close to the beach! I am a big fan of Laguna Beach, which is just about an hour’s drive away. Or you can take a romantic stroll or ride on the ferris wheel at Santa Monica Pier! 

5. Just INN Hotel in Paso  

Cost: $$

City: Paso Robles

This Stay in a Nutshell:

• Justin Winery
• Beautiful views at an affordable price

There is something so freaking romantic about a vineyard honeymoon. It’s Under the Tuscan Sun, Hal from Parent Trap vibes. Of all the Paso Robles Wineries, Justin Winery is one of the absolute best. Staying here is a complete bonus. 

In addition to being a top notch, top rated winery, this is one of the best California honeymoon hotels! You have access to all of the winery trails, and you’re able to walk them all times of day. Like I said, Hal from Parent Trap vibes.

This is one of the best bang for your buck hotels on the list. The rooms are clean and modern, and the alfresco dining room features an open double door to the vineyard. 

You should go check out other vineyards in addition to Justin Winery and make it into a honeymoon wine tasting extravaganza. What a perfect way to start your marriage.

6. Cavallo Point Hotel  

Cost: $$$

City: Sausalito 

This Stay in a Nutshell:

• Spa & pool amenities 
• Alfresco dining (or any of the other amazing restaurants in town) 

Okay, hot take. Sausalito is the MOST underrated city in all of California. I know it’s a major claim, but it’s one I stand by! We hear about Big Sur, Carmel, SF, LA, San Diego, Santa Barbara… Where’s all the love for Sausalito? 

During the years I lived in San Francisco, my girlfriend and I went on so many day trip days to Sausolito. I think this is one of the best places to honeymoon in California for a ton of different reasons. Sausalito is such a chill surfer town, and for me, that’s all I want out of a honeymoon or romantic getaway. 

Plus, the food in Sausalito is INSANE. Everywhere we ever went was among the best meals of our life. Even a gas station sandwich, I’m so serious. 

This hotel is the cherry on top of the Sausalito sundae. The interiority of Cavallo Point is straight out of a mid century modern magazine, and the rooms are the peak of style and luxury. The view from the rocking chair covered porch is a stunning look at the Golden Gate Bridge, and the workout facilities and spa are phenomenal. 

You’re only about forty-five minutes from the city, too. So if you need a little break from the slow life, you know where to go. 

7. Palm Springs

Cost: $$-$$$$

City: Palm Springs

Places to stay:

• Parker Palm Springs($$$)
• Trixie Motel ($$)

Zooming out from specific hotels to a city, Palm Springs is fun AF. It’s also one of the more unique honeymoon spots in California, mostly because it’s just the weirdest place on planet Earth. So much to unpack here. 

First of all, if you’re gay, I cannot express enough how fun Palm Springs is. The first time my girlfriend and I visited Palm Springs, we were completely unaware how gay this city is. There are tons of gay bars, gay stores, gay restaurants… It’s just very gay.

Streetbar was our favorite. It’s been around for 31 years, and has a weekly karaoke night. We felt totally comfortable in Palm Springs, and it would be a great destination for a honeymoon for us. 

If you’re not gay, it’s still an amazing destination. Palm Springs has so much to do: hiking in Joshua Tree National Park just a short drive away, dipping in desert hotsprings, visiting the botanical gardens, you will not run out of activities. 

And if activities aren’t what you care about, then pick a resort focused on spa living and private time. 

8. San Diego Hotel Del Coronado 

Cost: $$$

City: San Diego

This Stay in a Nutshell:

• Big Resort Energy
• Beach Access, Pool Access, Spa Access

Sometimes I forget San Diego is a real place. It feels insane to me that it actually exists, mostly because of how amazing it is. 

The Del Coronado is among the best Southern California honeymoon destinations. This is like…. Glamour glamour. The lobby looks like a ballroom. There are multiple restaurants throughout the property, and beach and pool access. There’s literally a gift shop.

In terms of privacy, that’s not what you’ll get from Del Coronado. It’s a very large complex, and it’s usually very full and booked. Of all the California honeymoon resorts on this list, Del Coronado is probably the largest.

So long as the presence of other people doesn’t bother you (maybe you had a small wedding), then this is a slam dunk. The epitome of best California honeymoon destinations. 

9. Pismo Beach

Cost: $-$$ 

City: Pismo Beach

Places to Stay: 

• Beachcomber Inn($)
• Sandcastle ($$)

Pismo is such an amazing beach town, and is seriously underrated. Because it’s so underrated, if your honeymoon ideas center around privacy, Pismo Beach could be an awesome option for you. You won’t be fighting through crowds the same way you might in peak season at San Diego, LA, or SF.

Pismo is amazing for so many reasons. First and foremost, the sand dunes are super famous for stretching miles down the coast. They look like something out of Aladdin, and they’re right here in California. 

The town of Pismo Beach itself is super laid back and chill. There are a lot of cute stores and restaurants to pop into, as well as a boardwalk pier on the beach. Beach days are definitely the vibe, and if you’re looking to honeymoon in California on a budget, Pismo is your go to. So much of the activities are sight-seeing (AKA totally free). 

This is the perfect, low-key beach town for a private honeymoon filled with hiking, beaching, and watching sunsets. Plus, it’s driveable to other areas. You’ll be only about an hour and a half from Santa Barbara, and about the same distance to wine tasting in Paso Robles.

10. Carmel & Big Sur 

Cost: $$-$$$$

City: Carmel & Big Sur

Where to Stay:

• Hyatt Highland Inn ($$$) 
• Ventana Inn ($$$$)
• Hotel Carmel ($$)

If you’ve seen Big Little Lies, then you know how beautiful the Monterey area is. Sprawling fields, cliffs overlooking the ocean, the famous Bixby Bridge– there is a lot to look at and do in this romantic honeymoon destination.

Monterey, Big Sur, and Carmel By the Sea are all among the best honeymoon in Northern California Destinations. 

As far as hotels go, the two options I’ve listed are both awesome, but very different. The Hyatt Highland is definitely a luxury hotel, and is one of the only stays in the Carmel area that I would label as a boutique hotel. I’m a big fan of boutiques, but if you want something with a bit more of the wow factor with luxurious suites, the Hyatt is a great option. 

I stayed at Hotel Carmel a few years back and had an absolutely amazing experience. My girlfriend and I were here just for a long weekend, but Hotel Carmel made it feel like we were there for a week due to the access we had.

It’s close to the beach and town, and the accommodations were adorable. Definitely recommended if a fancy hotel is not a concern.

11. Fairmont San Francisco 

Cost: $$

City: San Francisco 

This Stay in a Nutshell:

• Location, location, location
• Rooftop terrace view of the city

San Francisco is for lovers. How many love songs mention San Francisco?? I don’t have the exact numbers, but it’s a lot! 

San Francisco is a great honeymoon city because it has access to two very important aspects of any romantic trip: nature and access to great outdoor dates. As much as I love living in New York City now, the ability to plan romantic stuff to do with my girlfriend was much easier when we lived in San Francisco. 

Mostly because of the variety– you can go for a hike as easily as you can try a Michelin Star restaurant. 

My biggest bit of advice when booking for a SF honeymoon would be to be careful of where you book in the city. After all, it’s just that– a city. You don’t want to get caught in the hustle/bustle part of town, or anywhere unsafe. 

The Fairmont is perfect because it’s in a top-notch location (Nob Hill has a neighborhood vibe and is close to the water), and it is known for being one of the most luxurious hotels in the city. But if you’re looking for more places to stay in San Francisco, check out this list!

But we love The Fairmont for the rich history, amazing views, great staff and the tikibar downstairs. 

12. Napa Valley

Cost: $-$$$

City: Napa Valley

Where to Stay: 

• Carneros ($$$) 
• Calistoga Motor Lodge ($)

Wine makes anything romantic. And Napa Valley Wine Country is the best wine California has to offer (sorry Sonoma). 

I think what I enjoy best is how create-your-own-adventure Napa Valley tends to be. You can do this trip on a shoestring, or you can ball the hell out. It is a score either way. Whether you wine tour, wine taste, or hot air balloon ride away, there’s many options for a Napa Valley honeymoon. 

Some of my Napa trip highlights have included Peju Winery and the Angéle Restaurant. While these visits were on girls’ trips, we had such an amazing and relaxed time. I would check out our honeymoon guide specifically catered to Napa for more ideas on where to go/what to do. 

As far as hotels go, the two options provided above are the perfect poles in terms of cost. Read Kara’s full Carneros Resort review here and Calistoga Motor Lodge review here. 

13. Santa Barbara Ritz Carlton

Cost: $$$$

City: Santa Barbara

This stay in a nutshell: 

• Gorgeous pool views
• Hotel-inclusive, couple friendly activities

I like to plug Santa Barbara hard as a destination for couples. To me, the best vacations I’ve had with my partner have been trips and destinations with options. Hiking, lounging, shopping, tanning, and eating are the most important to us. 

Santa Barbara is such an awesome city to do any and all of those things. It’s a large, legit city with an amazing history that just so happens to be on one of the most beautiful beaches in the state. You really can’t lose here. 

The Ritz Carlton is such a unique experience, and the perfect stay for a honeymoon. There are so many romantic inclusions such as outdoor couples massages, a coastline beach view, daily breakfast buffets, and a gorgeous fire pit lit poolside bar. 

While the city is amazing, I probably wouldn’t leave the hotel much if I was staying at the Ritz. 

This is definitely one of the more expensive options on my list, but if you are a hotel person, the Ritz is worth it. For some people, the hotel is part of the experience of the trip as much as the city itself. I am one of those people for certain. 

In addition to being all around gorgeous, the Ritz offers a ton of different activities to partake in during your stay. Some of the most notable include parasailing, windsurfing, golf, and a gorgeous spa with add-on treatments. 

Off-property, there is so much to do in the city itself. It just so happens that my girlfriend and I are going to Santa Barbara in March, so I am looking forward to exploring and biking around the city very soon. 

14. Lake Tahoe 

Cost: ($-$$$)

City: Lake Tahoe

Where to Stay: 

• Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort ($$)
• The Coachman Hotel ($$)

Tahoe is one of my favorite places in California because it really doesn’t have an off season. Whether you visit in the winter or the summer, there are so many outdoor activities to enjoy. And about a million gorgeous hotels to do it from. 

What makes Lake Tahoe so special as a honeymoon destination is the beauty of it. Situated on a lake (it’s right there in the name), you have access to water, ski, and mountain in a way that exists not many places elsewhere.  

Retreat up to North Lake at the Hyatt for easy lake access and sailing, or our favorite boutique hotel, The Coachman, in South Lake. 

If you visit in the summer, your activities are likely going to be very lake centered, regardless of where you end up staying. September is the warmest month of the Tahoe calendar, so if you are interested in paddle boarding, kayaking, swimming, or any other water activity, I would suggest an August/September visit.

If skiing and snowboarding are what you and your partner have in mind, then the winter should be best. The Palisades have some of the best mountain activities in the country. The winter Olympics was hosted here once, so it’s very fitting. 

Even if you are not quite a winter athlete, the winter can still be a fantastic experience in Tahoe. I would suggest you consider the winter wonderland anyways for brewery hopping, ice skating, snow shoeing, and enjoying a relaxing spa day. All very lovey-dovey activities, I might add! 

Or, if you are honeymooning in the fall, consider a visit to nearby Hope Valley’s glamping yurts for a unique stay amongst all the colorful leaves. 

15. Catalina Island 

Cost: $$-$$$ (including transportation cost)

City: Catalina Island

Where to Stay:

• Aurora Hotel ($$)
• Catalina Island Hotel ($$)

Full disclosure: I have never been to Catalina Island. However, it has been on my bucket list of Southern California romantic things to do for SO long. Despite mostly having seen Catalina Island from TikTok and my own wishful thinking, I think it is the perfect honeymoon destination.

Just off the coast of San Diego, Catalina Island is known for stunning island views, turquoise water, and an Italian flair for food and design, I am dying to visit. 

One of the things that makes Catalina Island such a unique California destiantion is that, as I’ve seen it, you feel more like you are in Europe than the United States. 

If California domestic travel is appealing but you still want that Euro flavor, Catalina is an amazing option. It looks so much like the Amalfi Coast in Italy. 

This is very much a vacation-vacation. It is beach tanning, spa days, putzing around the town, and enjoying whichever resort you decide to stay in. The vibes at Catalina are super laid back and chill, so you will be able to unplug after all that wedding planing.

One of the biggest pulls is the Casino, which is situated right on the water in an amazing coliseum style building. Apparently the interior is decorated with murals, old pipe organs, and is referred to by locals as “the most romantic place in Catalina.” Not bad for a honeymoon! 

One quick note– Catalina can be difficult to get to. You have to either helicopter in for about $300 a person, or take the Catalina Express from Long Beach, Dana Point, or San Pedro.

My mom used to say anywhere worth going to is tough to get to (an attempt to justify the impossible journey to Martha’s Vineyard each summer), and I think that same rule definitely applies to Catalina. 

This is the best list for a honeymoon in California for couples who enjoy more than just tanning and spa days. Don’t get me wrong– spa days and tanning are a quintessential part of relaxing and unwinding from the stress and pressure of wedding planning. 

It’s just that these California options have BOTH.

I would be a bit bored if every day was the exact same throughout my entire honeymoon. It’s giving season 1 of White Lotus. That’s why California is so ideal as a honeymoon destination. You really do have the best of both worlds, and you can tailor the trip to your budget too. 

16. Heritage House 

Cost: $$$$

City: Mendocino

I still have yet to visit this hotel, but I drive by it everytime we visit the charming coastal town of Mendocino and it looks amazing. 

The Heritage House features luxury hotel rooms right on the bluffs with epic sunset views. They have an onsite restaurant for meals and while it’s close to Little River and Mendocino for shopping and more eats, you really won’t want to leave. 

Living in California and traveling up and down the coast was the best adventure of my life. My girlfriend and I had some of our best trips, dates, and evenings out while exploring all things California– from big cities like San Diego to tiny beach towns like Pismo Beach. 

I think when planning your honeymoon, whether you’re in California, the South of France, or Ohio, you will find a way to enjoy yourself. After all, when else in your life are you newly married. 

Wherever you decide to go (I hope it’s California), enjoy your honeymoon! After all that wedding planning, you deserve it.