6 Top California Spring Break Destinations for 2025

California spring break destinations offer everything you could want: sun, sand, adventure, and vibrant city life. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach getaway, an action-packed hiking trip, or the chance to explore world-class cities, California has something for everyone. From the iconic Pacific coastline to the rugged mountains, the Golden State is packed with places to make your vacation unforgettable.

San Diego tops the list for many travelers with its warm weather and beautiful coastline. Palm Springs is your ideal destination if you’re after something more luxurious, and those who prefer enjoying crisp spring air and spending time in nature should head to Joshua Tree National Park.

For a more coastal experience, head up to the picturesque city of Monterey. Huntington Beach is the ultimate spot for beach lovers and surfers with its laid-back atmosphere. And Laguna Beach offers a more artsy and scenic vibe with its gorgeous dramatic cliffs.

This post on California spring break destinations is a collaboration with other travel bloggers to give you first-hand experience and tips on the top places to travel during this season.

Whichever destination you choose, California offers a variety of experiences that will make your vacation memorable.

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you buy something through them—at no extra cost to you. It helps support my blog and lets me share real, first-hand travel tips. Learn more

Tips for planning your California spring break 2025

Prepare for California weather

California in spring is ideal for anyone looking to escape the winter chill. With mild temperatures, abundant sunshine, and various climates, it’s one of the best times to visit the Golden State. Whether you’re headed to the beach or the mountains, you can expect comfortable, pleasant weather that makes exploring easy and enjoyable.

In Southern California, spring means warm days with temperatures typically ranging from the mid-60s to the low 70s. Cities like San Diego enjoy plenty of sunshine, while the coastal breeze keeps things from getting too hot.

Further inland, places like Palm Springs start to warm up during spring, with temperatures often reaching the mid-80s. While it’s hot, the dry air and low humidity make it pleasant—ideal for city exploration or the lounging by a pool.

Book flights, hotels, and tours before

Some of the best spring break destinations in California can get quite crowded and busy, similar to popular spots in Mexico but unlike some quieter areas in Texas. Planning ahead is crucial to secure the best deals on accommodations, tours, and flights. In California, particularly along the coastline, prices tend to surge if you book at the last minute due to increased demand.

When traveling to California or anywhere else in the U.S., tools like Skyscanner or WayAway are great for finding affordable flights from your city. WayAway even offers a membership plan with cashback on bookings made through their platform. You can learn more about how WayAway works by checking out my detailed review.

For stylish and boutique hotels, condos, apartments, or villas, I recommend using Vrbo or Booking.com. Booking early ensures you get the accommodation you want without facing inflated prices or limited options as the trip date approaches.

I prefer organizing everything well in advance, spreading out expenses over several months. If you’re interested in exploring your chosen destination’s cultural and historical aspects, platforms like Viator or GetYourGuide offer a range of walking and food tours, boat rides, adventure activities, and skip-the-line tickets for museums and attractions.

WelcomePickups is my go-to for airport pickups because of its reliable service and professional drivers. If I need a rental car to explore nearby towns, I turn to DiscoverCars, which offers a wide selection of vehicles.

Be smart when packing for your California spring break

Packing for California can be a breeze if you know what to expect. The state’s diverse climates and landscapes mean you’ll want to be prepared for everything from coastal coolness to inland warmth. Packing smart is essential to enjoy your trip to the fullest.

Backpack or suitcase: Whether you go for a backpack or a suitcase is entirely up to your travel style. I personally love my Osprey Farpoint backpack because it’s so comfortable and easy to carry (check it on official website or on Amazon).

But if suitcases are more your thing, you might want to check out this Samsonite, which comes in a variety of sizes and sets, or another option that also offers different sizes to suit your needs.

Layered outfits: California’s spring weather can vary, especially between morning and evening. Pack lightweight tops, colorful dresses, or skirts for sunny days, and layer them with sweaters/cardigans or light jackets for cooler mornings and nights.

Jeans and shorts: Jeans are perfect for city outings and cooler coastal days, while shorts are ideal for warmer inland areas like Palm Springs or hiking trips.

Swimwear: Whether you’re lounging on the beaches or enjoying a pool day, swimwear is a must. Don’t forget the cover-up and wet bags.

Footwear: Bring comfortable walking shoes for exploring urban areas and hiking boots or sturdy sneakers for outdoor adventures. I love my Teva walking shoes for city wanderings. Pack sandals or flip-flops for beach days.

Rain jacket or umbrella: While California is known for its sunshine, spring showers can occur, especially in Northern California. A lightweight compact rain jacket or an umbrella will keep you dry.

Sun Protection: The California sun can be intense even in spring, so pack sunglasses, a fedora hat, and sunscreen to protect against UV rays.

Beach towel: Bringing your beach towel can make your trip more comfortable and convenient. I prefer a Turkish pestemal because it’s versatile, lightweight, and dries quickly. They are perfect for lounging on the beach and can also be used as a wrap or even a picnic blanket if needed.

Packing cubes: Packing cubes has been a game-changer for me in staying organized. They help me separate clothing into different categories, making it easier to find what I need without rummaging through my entire bag. This is what I have at the moment.

External charger: An external charger or power bank is essential to keep your devices charged throughout your trip, especially if you plan to capture the beautiful California landscapes and your vacation memories. My recent charger is Anker MagGo.

Reusable water bottle: My Stojo collapsible water bottle is eco-friendly and incredibly convenient. When empty, it collapses into a small size, making it easy to carry in your bag. Additionally, having a Stojo collapsible coffee cup for my iced coffees or juices is a great way to reduce waste while enjoying my favorite beverages on the go.

Daypack: A daypack is perfect for carrying essentials during day trips or city explorations. It’s useful for holding items like water bottles, sunscreen, snacks, and any souvenirs you pick up. I’ve used the Driibe City Backpack for over two years, and it’s still in excellent condition. Read my detailed review.

Most popular California spring break destinations

San Diego

San Diego has everything necessary for the perfect spring break in California. It is ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities, with daytime temperatures in the high 60s or low 70s.

One of the popular Southern California spring break destinations, San Diego, has something for everyone! The city has diverse neighborhoods, each with its own personality, from restaurants to scenery. San Diego food tours are a great way to learn about the different areas and sample the local eateries.

You’ll find La Jolla, the jewel on the northern coast. With an upscale coastal village with amazing views of the Pacific Ocean and surrounding cliffs, this town lives up to its name. Take the coastal walk here, and you’re guaranteed to see sea lions in their natural habitat.

A bit further south, Mission Bay is like a big playground for kayaking, windsurfing, volleyball, and biking enthusiasts. The nearby amusement park makes it an extra fun place for families.

Inland, you can’t miss Balboa Park, home to one of the most famous zoos in the country. But there is so much more—museums, botanical gardens, restaurants, and an international village.

Downtown is home to the largest Little Italy in the U.S. The area is steeped in history, and there is no shortage of authentic Italian food. If it’s nightlife you’re after, the Gaslamp District adjacent to Little Italy is the spot to be.

Recommended by Chef Denise 

Palm Springs

Palm Springs is an ideal sunshine-filled spring break destination in California. This popular resort city is located among breathtaking desert landscapes and is perfect for all kinds of travelers. It offers a mix of upscale relaxation and adventure in one stunning location.

Take a day to relax in a natural hot spring. Play a round of golf at one of more than 100 golf courses in greater Palm Springs – many designed by golf legends like Jack Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer. Tour art museums and galleries. Shop at chic boutiques.

For impressive views of the Coachella Valley, take the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway up 8,000 feet to Mount San Jacinto State Park. Another perk is the town’s proximity to Joshua Tree National Park, a nature lover’s paradise and an easy drive from Palm Springs.

When your adventures are done for the day, enjoy a meal at one of Palm Springs’ charming restaurants with a beautiful outdoor patio.

Getting to Palm Springs is easy. You can conveniently fly into Palm Springs International Airport or make the 2.5-hour drive from either Los Angeles or San Diego.

And since spring is a great time to visit (temperatures can soar in the summer), book your spring break vacation far ahead!

Recommended by Scenic and Savvy

Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara, with its ocean views and attractions, is an excellent choice for California spring break destinations for families and couples.

It’s 95 miles north of Los Angeles, making it a popular choice for road trips and weekend getaways. You can rent a car or take the Amtrak train along the famous PCH to access this Southern California gem.

Known for its Spanish roots, the city’s red-tiled Mediterranean roofs and rolling Santa Ynez hills create a romantic atmosphere, further influenced by the nearby wineries and historic downtown.

If you’re traveling with a significant other, relax by the beach or pool at a 5-star or boutique hotel. Popular beaches include Butterfly Beach, East Beach, and Leadbetter Beach.

For nightly entertainment, stroll downtown Santa Barbara to sample Mexican cuisine or enjoy a drink at a brewery or wine bar. Nature lovers will enjoy the trails and hot springs in the nearby canyon, offering an easy escape from the bustling city life.

If you’re traveling with your family, take them to the Santa Barbara Zoo, one of the world’s most beautiful zoos located on lush grounds overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Popular animals include giraffes, wallabies, lions, and California condors. It’s a small, intimate zoo you can tour in about two hours.

Alternatively, take your kids to the Old Mission in Santa Barbara for a history lesson. It was built in 1786 by Franciscan Friars and is open daily to visitors. They will also enjoy the downtown area, with several restaurants and ice cream.

Recommended by Travel & Couture

Monterey

Monterey is one of the fantastic California spring break destinations located on the northern coast, around 2.5 hours south of San Francisco. It features excellent seafood restaurants, marine life-watching opportunities, and miles of rugged coastline.

In Monterey, you can visit the world-class Monterey Bay Aquarium, go on a whale-watching tour, and stroll around Cannery Row and Old Fisherman’s Wharf. The city has a long history in the fishing industry and is dotted with fantastic seafood restaurants.

From the south end of Monterey’s peninsula, you can begin the scenic 17-mile drive through the gated community of Pebble Beach. This scenic drive along the coast passes mansions, golf courses, and beautiful vistas like the famous Lone Cypress Tree.

Flying into the San Jose airport and renting a car to get to Monterey is the best option, as this airport is only an hour’s drive from the city and typically has the best flight deals.

The best area to stay in Monterey is around Cannery Row and Old Fisherman’s Wharf. You’ll be within walking distance of the aquarium, shops, restaurants, and marina, where you can spot seals and sea lions! Other places worth checking out within an hour’s drive are the charming beach town of Carmel, Point Lobos Marine Reserve, and Big Sur’s iconic Bixby Bridge. 

Recommended by Layla’s Lens

Huntington Beach

Orange County is a great place to visit any time of year, but the coastal town of Huntington Beach is the perfect spring break destination as temperatures begin to rise (it can still be chilly, though), rainfall averages are relatively low, crowds aren’t as bad as summer, and the winds are typically pretty favorable for surfing.

Huntington Beach isn’t always the easiest place to learn to surf, but it is one of the most incredible places to surf, as this little beach town is known as Surf City USA. There are plenty of options for surfing lessons if you’re a beginner, and a wetsuit will be necessary during this time of year (and honestly, any time of year here in the Pacific).

Outside of actually surfing, Huntington Beach has a cool surf vibe with lots of shops and California-surf-type food (tacos, burritos, burgers, etc.). There is also a nice boardwalk along the beach where you can ride cruisers, walk, or skate, and there are plenty of other beach activities like volleyball, kites, or even the Huntington Beach International Surfing Museum.

Huntington Beach is one of the closest coastal towns to the John Wayne airport, so you don’t have to bother with the busy and crazy LAX airport. Hotel prices should also be more reasonable during spring than the busy summer.

Recommended by Adventure Evermore

Laguna Beach

Laguna Beach is a seaside spring break destination in California, perfect for travelers seeking relaxation and adventure. Surrounded by a greenbelt with countless hiking trails, this town offers a nice mix of beauty and charm.

Laguna’s coastline is among the most stunning in California, with its sandy beaches, hidden coves, and dramatic cliffside viewpoints. World-class restaurants, unique boutiques, and renowned art galleries complement the picturesque village vibe.

Getting to Laguna Beach is easy—take Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) for breathtaking ocean views or arrive via scenic Laguna Canyon Road (CA-133), which winds through rolling hills before delivering you directly to the center of town.

Once you arrive, you’ll find plenty to do. Explore the tide pools at Main Beach, take a stroll through the village, enjoy a sunset picnic at Crescent Bay, or arrange for a bonfire and smores at Aliso Beach.

Art fans will love the town’s many galleries, while foodies can indulge in various cuisines, from casual beachside cafes to fine dining.

Book early for an unforgettable California spring break, especially if you’re considering Laguna’s beachfront accommodations. Parking can be limited, so plan to arrive early or use the city’s trolley service. 

Recommended by Laguna Liz