7 Winter Vacation Ideas in California that You Must Try

As freezing weather looms across much of the country many Americans are exploring a wide selection of winter vacation ideas in California. Explore 7 unique winter vacation ideas in California that are simply awe inspiring and magical.

Winter Vacation in California Idea #1: Go on a road trip to Ventura County Coast.

Winter Road Trip Itinerary

1. Take a Winter Roadtrip

Winter road trips to California are the perfect way to escape cold weather while taking in absolutely stunning scenery. Ventura County Coast offers an endless selection of mountain and ocean views that will simply blow your mind. Check out our California Winter Roadtrip itinerary to learn more about exploring this as a winter vacation idea to California.

2. Take Sightseeing to a New Level

The Ventura County Coast is filled with sightseeing tours with fewer crowds than the peak summer season. Here’s a few of the top sightseeing destinations on the coast.

Malibu Coast
Channel Islands National Park
Port Hueneme Beach
Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area
Los Padres National Forest
Channel Islands Harbor
Silver Strand Beach
Ventura Harbor Village
Ventura Pier
Downtown Ventura

Winter Vacation in California Idea #2: Go Sightseeing

Must See Views

Outdoor Lovers

3. Escape the City Life

Just a short drive from Los Angeles and Orange Counties lies an oasis of laid back vibes and small crowds. The Ventura County Coast boasts a plethora of wide open spaces and spectacular views that will win a special place in your heart. Its no wonder why people from all over the country choose the Coast as a top winter vacation destination in California.

4. Go on an Adventure

Winter Vacations in California are perfect for adventure seekers. With cooler temperatures than summer, the region makes for amazing outdoor adventures without the dog days of summer. Ventura County Coast features many dog friendly parks, trails, and beaches that every family member will love!

Go on an Adventure

Winter Vacation Idea in California #5: Point Mugu State Park. Camping on Highway in California

See PCH Camping Guide

5. Go Camping on Pacific Coast Highway

Winter provides amazing camping opportunities along California’s legendary Highway 1. Campsite availability is open during the colder months which make this an affordable winter vacation idea for the entire family. The Ventura County Coast is dotted with amazing places to go camping on the Malibu Coast, Point Mugu, Oxnard, and Ventura.

6. Go on a Surfari

Love to surf? Then a Surfari will make for an unforgettable winter vacation to California. During the winter months, the Coast turns into a surfer’s paradise. Storm swells from the Northwest filter into the coast to create some of the best surf in the entire region. The Ventura County Coast is chock full of amazing surf spots for all skill levels. Check out our top 11 Surf Spots to help inspire your winter vacation on the California coast.

See Surf Guide

Winter Vacation Idea 7: Affordable Winter Vacation at the beach.

Discover Beaches

7. Go on an affordable Beach Vacation

While inland regions go from warm to freezing, the Ventura County Coast’s climate remains fairly cool but not cold. Coastal average temperatures in the region hover around 65F (18c) throughout the winter months. The cooler climate makes for a perfect winter escape without the excessive heat from tropical winter destinations.

Looking for More Winter Vacation Ideas in California?

Surrounded by natural beauty from the mountains to the sea, the Ventura County Coast is one the best places to plan an unforgettable winter vacation in the USA.

Plan Your Trip

So where are you starting first? Take a trip to Ventura County Coast to stir up an unforgettable and delicious cocktail adventure.

Tag your Ventura County Coast photos with #VCCVibes for a chance to be featured!

Ventura County Coast

Ventura County Coast is a string of four communities that radiate warmth from welcoming people and California sunshine. The region embodies the casual and active spirit of classic, where the seafood is fresh, the beer is handcrafted and the weather is the kind you dream about. Spend the day exploring miles of beaches, incredible harbors or lush green golf courses. Hop on a boat for a day trip to the Channel Islands National Park, where you can see breathtaking views of the Southern California coastline. With a bustling culture, high end and vintage shopping, a lively culinary spirit and beautiful outdoor experiences, Ventura County Coast calls on every visitor to find their vibe. From hiking and biking to sailing and snorkeling, from shopping and dining to just plain relaxing, Ventura County Coast will fill your days with a lifetime of memories.

Camarillo

An hour north of Los Angeles, Camarillo is nestled at the base of the Conejo foothills surrounded by verdant green fields and cool ocean breezes. With more than 300 days of sunshine a year, enjoy Camarillo alfresco. From outdoor shopping and concerts, to delicious dining and fun events, Camarillo has it all. With small town charm and a rich history, it is the place for romantic weddings and corporate venues. Visit the historical sites and museums during the day, and walk along Old Town for dinner and drinks at night. A great getaway for everyone, Camarillo is the ideal place to Come for the Sun, Stay for the Fun.

Learn More

Oxnard

Rally your tribe and head for the Central Coast. California cool, panorama-perfect, culturally authentic and vibrant beyond measure. Oxnard is home to miles of pristine white sand beaches, electric nightlife, some of the best taquerias in the state, historic Victorian era architecture, the California Strawberry Festival, and an expansively picturesque harbor that serves as the closest access point to the Channel Islands National Park. Just sixty miles northwest of LAX and in close proximity to Santa Barbara and other major destinations, Oxnard is one of California’s best kept secrets.