17 Places California Locals Actually Go For Winter Getaways (Hint: It’s Not Where Tourists Go)
Winter in California isn’t just about snow-packed resorts and overbooked mountain towns – it’s about knowing where not to go.
While tourists crowd into the same predictable destinations, locals quietly disappear to places that feel untouched, relaxed, and refreshingly real.
These are the winter escapes whispered about between friends, where mornings begin with misty coastal views, afternoons soak away stress in natural hot springs, and evenings unfold without long lines or packed parking lots.
From tranquil desert hideaways to cozy seaside towns that slow down once the crowds leave, California’s hidden winter gems offer something rare: space to breathe.
These destinations aren’t flashy or overhyped – they’re authentic, peaceful, and full of character.
Whether you’re craving warmth, solitude, or a change of pace, these under-the-radar getaways prove that the Golden State still has secrets worth discovering.
Winter is when they shine brightest, rewarding those willing to venture off the beaten path with unforgettable experiences and a deeper connection to California’s quieter side.
1. Calistoga’s Hot Springs And Mud Baths
Nestled at the northern end of Napa Valley, Calistoga transforms into a peaceful sanctuary during winter months. Located at 1006 Washington St, Calistoga, CA 94515, this charming spot offers volcanic ash mud baths and natural hot springs that soothe tired muscles.
Locals love visiting when the weather turns cooler because the contrast between chilly air and warm mineral water feels absolutely magical.
The town’s geothermal activity creates naturally heated pools that stay inviting year-round. Many resorts feature steam rooms and massage services alongside their mineral baths.
Winter brings fewer crowds, so booking spa appointments becomes much easier.
Beyond wellness treatments, Calistoga’s downtown area offers cozy wine tasting rooms and farm-to-table restaurants. The Saturday farmers market continues through winter, showcasing seasonal produce and artisan goods.
Strolling the quiet streets while wrapped in a warm jacket captures the essence of a true local getaway.
2. Nevada City’s Gold Rush Charm
Victorian architecture lines the streets of this Sierra Nevada foothills town, creating a storybook setting that feels frozen in time. The historic downtown sits at a location, where brick buildings house independent bookstores, coffee shops, and galleries.
Winter dusts the surrounding hills with occasional snow, adding extra charm to an already picturesque scene.
Empire Mine State Historic Park offers 14 miles of trails perfect for winter hiking when temperatures stay mild. The historic mining structures and equipment tell California’s Gold Rush story without the summer heat.
Locals appreciate how the cooler months make outdoor exploration more comfortable.
Downtown shops stay open year-round, offering handmade crafts and vintage finds. Several restaurants serve hearty comfort food that hits differently on chilly evenings.
The community theater and local music venues keep cultural activities alive throughout the winter season.
3. Point Reyes National Seashore
Dramatic coastal cliffs meet crashing waves at this stunning peninsula just north of San Francisco. Point Reyes Station, located at 1 Bear Valley Rd, Point Reyes Station, CA 94956, serves as the gateway to miles of windswept beaches and hiking trails.
Winter brings migrating gray whales close to shore, making the lighthouse overlook a prime viewing spot.
The weather stays cool and often foggy, creating moody landscapes that photographers adore. Fewer visitors mean peaceful walks along Drakes Beach and Limantour Beach.
Harbor seals gather at designated viewing areas, raising their pups on protected shores.
The small town of Point Reyes Station offers oyster farms, local bakeries, and casual eateries. Stopping for fresh oysters after a morning hike has become a local tradition.
The national seashore provides free entry, making it an affordable escape that feels worlds away from city life.
4. Mendocino’s Coastal Solitude
Perched on bluffs above the Pacific, Mendocino resembles a New England village transported to California’s coast. The main village center features weathered Victorian homes and art galleries with ocean views.
Winter transforms the area into mushroom foraging territory, celebrated annually with a dedicated festival.
Storm watching becomes a favorite activity as powerful waves crash against offshore rock formations. The cooler months bring dramatic skies and moody lighting that artists find irresistible.
Local bed and breakfasts offer cozy fireplaces and hot breakfasts that warm you after morning coastal walks.
Anderson Valley wineries sit just inland, providing intimate tasting experiences without summer crowds. Pinot Noir and sparkling wines thrive in this cool climate.
The drive through redwood groves connecting Mendocino to the valley creates a memorable journey that showcases Northern California’s natural diversity.
5. Cayucos Beach Town Vibes
This unassuming San Luis Obispo County beach town flies under most tourist radars, which is exactly why locals love it. Downtown Cayucos is where the historic pier extends into the Pacific.
Winter swells bring surfers to Cayucos State Beach, while calmer days invite long walks along the sandy shoreline.
The main street features antique shops, a beloved old-school tavern, and family-owned restaurants. Brown Butter Cookie Company at 897 Higuera St, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 draws visitors for fresh-baked treats that taste even better on foggy mornings.
The town maintains an authentic, unhurried atmosphere that feels refreshingly genuine.
Estero Bluffs State Park at 750 Hearst Castle Road, San Simeon, CA 93452 offers easy coastal hiking with spectacular sunset views. Tide pools emerge during low winter tides, revealing starfish and anemones.
The lack of major hotel chains and tourist infrastructure keeps Cayucos feeling like a true local secret worth protecting.
6. Big Bear Lake Mountain Retreat
San Bernardino Mountains cradle this alpine lake community that locals visit for a different kind of winter experience. Big Bear Village offers mountain town amenities without the pretension of major ski resorts.
The lake itself becomes a stunning focal point, sometimes freezing partially during particularly cold winters.
Snow blankets the surrounding forests, creating postcard-perfect scenery. While skiing and snowboarding attract some visitors, many locals prefer snowshoeing through quiet pine forests.
The crisp mountain air and slower pace provide a complete reset from coastal or city living.
Cozy cabins with fireplaces become winter sanctuaries where families gather for board games and hot chocolate. Village restaurants serve comfort food that pairs perfectly with cold weather.
The area maintains a welcoming, unpretentious vibe that makes everyone feel like a regular, even on their first visit.
7. Ojai Valley’s Peaceful Energy
Tucked into Ventura County’s mountains, Ojai radiates a calm energy that draws those seeking relaxation and reflection. At Downtown Ojai, the iconic arcade and tower anchor a walkable shopping district.
Winter brings cooler temperatures perfect for hiking in Los Padres National Forest without the summer heat.
The valley’s famous pink moment occurs at sunset when mountains glow with alpenglow. Locals time evening walks to catch this natural phenomenon that happens year-round but feels especially magical in winter’s clear air.
Art galleries and metaphysical shops reflect the town’s creative, spiritual community.
Several spas offer treatments using local botanicals and healing traditions. The Sunday farmers market continues through winter, showcasing Ojai pixie tangerines and other regional specialties.
Staying in one of the valley’s small inns or vacation rentals provides a home base for exploring this unique pocket of California.
8. Solvang’s Danish Winter Wonderland
Half-timbered buildings and windmills create a slice of Denmark in California’s Santa Ynez Valley. The main village area becomes especially charming during winter when holiday lights extend the festive season.
Danish bakeries serve aebleskiver and pastries that taste perfect alongside hot coffee on chilly mornings.
Winter brings fewer crowds to the tasting rooms of nearby Santa Ynez Valley wineries. The region produces excellent Pinot Noir and Chardonnay in a landscape of rolling hills.
Many wineries offer cozy fireplaces and indoor tasting spaces that feel welcoming during cooler months.
Horse-drawn carriage rides through town add to the storybook atmosphere. Local shops sell imported Danish goods, handmade crafts, and Christmas decorations year-round.
The combination of European charm and California wine country creates an unusual but delightful winter destination that feels both foreign and familiar.
9. Julian’s Apple Pie And Mountain Air
This historic mountain town in San Diego County’s backcountry offers small-town charm and famous apple pies. At Main Street Julian, multiple pie shops compete for the title of best in town.
Winter occasionally brings snow to this elevation, transforming the area into Southern California’s closest approximation of a white Christmas.
The surrounding Cuyamaca Mountains provide hiking opportunities through oak woodlands and pine forests. Cooler temperatures make trails more enjoyable than during summer heat.
Gold mining history comes alive at the Eagle and High Peak Mine, where tours reveal underground tunnels and equipment.
Bed and breakfasts in restored Victorian homes offer overnight stays with country breakfasts. Local cideries and meaderies provide tasting rooms for those seeking alternatives to wine.
The genuine friendliness of shop owners and the lack of chain stores create an authentic experience that feels increasingly rare in modern California.
10. Cambria’s Artistic Coastal Haven
Monterey pines frame this artistic community perched along San Luis Obispo County’s coast between Big Sur and Morro Bay. The village center features galleries, antique shops, and locally owned restaurants.
Winter brings dramatic storm watching opportunities as waves pound the rocky shoreline at Moonstone Beach.
The boardwalk along Moonstone Beach offers level walking with constant ocean views and chances to spot sea otters. Driftwood sculptures and unique rock formations create natural art installations.
Cooler weather makes the walk comfortable while providing front-row seats to nature’s power.
Hearst Castle sits just minutes north at 750 Hearst Castle Rd, San Simeon, CA 93452, offering tours of the historic estate with smaller winter crowds. Cambria’s restaurant scene emphasizes fresh seafood and locally sourced ingredients.
The town maintains a low-key sophistication that appeals to artists, writers, and anyone seeking creative inspiration alongside coastal beauty.
11. Idyllwild’s Mountain Village Escape
Pine-scented air and artistic spirit define this San Jacinto Mountains community beloved by Southern California locals. The town center offers galleries, quirky shops, and mountain lodges with fireplaces.
Winter transforms the village into a snow globe scene when storms dust the towering pines with white.
Hiking trails ranging from easy nature walks to challenging mountain climbs surround the village. The cooler months make outdoor exploration pleasant without summer’s intense heat.
Wildlife sightings increase during quieter winter periods when fewer visitors venture into the forest.
Local coffee shops and restaurants provide gathering spots where conversation flows easily among regulars and newcomers alike. The Idyllwild Arts Academy at 52500 Temecula Rd #38, Idyllwild-Pine Cove, CA 92549 brings cultural programming including concerts and exhibitions.
Renting a cabin for a long weekend allows time to fully disconnect and embrace the mountain lifestyle that locals cherish year-round.
12. Morro Bay’s Quiet Waterfront
The iconic Morro Rock anchors this working fishing village that maintains authenticity despite its stunning location. The Embarcadero waterfront features seafood restaurants where fishing boats unload daily catches.
Winter brings calmer days perfect for kayaking in the bay’s protected waters alongside playful sea otters.
Morro Bay State Park offers hiking trails through eucalyptus groves with bay views. The natural history museum provides indoor activities when weather turns stormy.
Birdwatchers flock here year-round as the estuary attracts hundreds of species.
Downtown shops sell maritime antiques, local art, and practical fishing gear without tourist kitsch. Several restaurants serve clam chowder and fish and chips in casual settings where locals actually eat.
The combination of natural beauty, working waterfront character, and lack of overdevelopment makes Morro Bay feel like coastal California from an earlier, simpler era.
13. Paso Robles Wine Country Warmth
Rolling hills covered in vineyards create a picturesque inland wine region with a more relaxed vibe than Napa. At Downtown Paso Robles, the historic park square hosts farmers markets and community events.
Winter brings welcome rain that greens the landscape while tasting rooms remain cozy and inviting.
Over 200 wineries dot the region, producing bold Zinfandels and Rhone varietals in the warmer eastern areas. The Westside wineries craft elegant Bordeaux blends in cooler microclimates.
Many tasting rooms offer casual, friendly experiences without pretension or reservation requirements.
Natural hot springs at several local resorts provide relaxation after wine tasting adventures. Downtown restaurants serve farm-to-table cuisine showcasing regional ingredients.
The combination of excellent wine, comfortable accommodations, and genuine hospitality makes Paso Robles a winter destination where locals can truly unwind without breaking the bank.
14. Carmel Valley’s Sunny Microclimate
Just inland from foggy Carmel-by-the-Sea, this valley basks in sunshine while coastal areas stay socked in. At Carmel Valley Village, tasting rooms and casual restaurants line the main road.
Winter temperatures stay mild, making outdoor dining and wine tasting comfortable when the coast feels too chilly.
Boutique wineries specialize in Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grown in the valley’s unique terroir. Many offer picnic areas where visitors can relax with a bottle and cheese plates.
The relaxed atmosphere contrasts sharply with the formality found in some wine regions.
Hiking trails wind through Garland Ranch Regional Park at 700 W Carmel Valley Rd, Carmel Valley, CA 93924, offering views of the Santa Lucia Mountains. The Carmel River flows through the valley, creating riparian habitat that attracts wildlife.
Locals appreciate how Carmel Valley provides sunshine and warmth while remaining just minutes from the coast’s dramatic beauty.
15. Ferndale’s Victorian Time Capsule
Humboldt County’s dairy country cradles this impeccably preserved Victorian village that feels untouched by time. Main Street Ferndale showcases colorful Victorian storefronts housing galleries, shops, and cafes.
Winter brings lush green to surrounding pastures where dairy cows graze beneath often-gray skies.
The entire downtown functions as a living museum where historic buildings maintain original architectural details. Local artisans sell handmade goods in shops that have operated for generations.
Walking the quiet streets on a winter afternoon creates a meditative experience far removed from modern hustle.
Nearby Lost Coast beaches offer wild, windswept scenery for those willing to drive winding roads. The Eel River valley provides scenic drives through redwood groves and farming communities.
Ferndale’s genuine preservation and lack of tourist commercialization make it a special destination for those seeking authentic California history and small-town tranquility.
16. Lone Pine And Alabama Hills
The eastern Sierra Nevada creates a dramatic backdrop for this small town that serves as gateway to mountain adventures. At Downtown Lone Pine, outfitters and cafes serve outdoor enthusiasts.
Winter brings snow to the high peaks while the valley floor remains accessible, creating stunning photographic contrasts.
Alabama Hills’ rounded granite formations glow golden during sunrise and sunset. These rocks have appeared in countless Western films and commercials.
Winter’s lower sun angle creates even more dramatic lighting than summer months.
Mount Whitney, California’s highest peak, dominates the western horizon. While winter climbing requires serious mountaineering skills, simply viewing the snow-covered summit from the valley feels awe-inspiring.
The combination of desert landscape, granite formations, and towering peaks creates scenery unlike anywhere else in California, and locals know winter offers the clearest views.
17. Sausalito’s Bayside Charm
Just across the Golden Gate Bridge from San Francisco, this hillside town offers waterfront beauty without the city crowds. The main waterfront area features restaurants with bay views, galleries, and shops.
Winter brings quieter streets where locals reclaim their town from summer’s tourist rush.
Houseboats bobbing in Richardson Bay create a unique neighborhood worth exploring on foot. The bayside path offers level walking with constant water views and chances to spot harbor seals.
Ferries connect Sausalito to San Francisco, making car-free visits easy.
Several restaurants serve fresh seafood with outdoor heating for cooler days. The Marin Headlands rise behind town, offering hiking trails with Golden Gate Bridge views.
Winter’s clear days after storms provide the best visibility for photography and simply soaking in the natural beauty that makes the Bay Area special to those who call it home.
