1. Good rule of thumb nowadays is to get a COVID-19 PCR or rapid test before you go and when you return home. While we have made great progress, many states and countries are experiencing increasing levels of transmission and increasing travel from other states and countries is expected during this winter season. Explore the history, culture and cuisine of the U.S. while cruising along the Mighty Mississippi. Current safety measures - Coronavirus COVID-19 Response - California The Omicron variant is likely to spread more easily than the original SARS-CoV-2 virus and the Delta variant and has been detected throughout the United States and the world. Fabulous But Fastidious: Planning The Perfect California Road - Forbes Disneyland Resort is the star attraction and the main reason why travelers make the nearly 30-mile trek here from Los Angeles. Everyone should honor masking and distancing rules in place at private businesses. relax. Sacramento, CA 95899-7377, For General Public Information: A $300-million (minimum) gondola to Dodger Stadium? South of town, take lovely, two-lane Foothill Road (California 192) between Santa Barbara and Carpinteria. Meanwhile, the Malibu Pier is a great place to grab a bite to eat and enjoy the view. Whether you're planning a daytrip or a relaxing weekend getaway, there are countless ways to spend your time here, from zip lining and snorkeling to sipping cocktails on the beach. Cyclists, walkers and a skateboarder enjoy the Manhattan Beach Pier. Its vacation rentals are made for social distancing: no need to visit reception or deal with any humans at check-in; a keycode for entry; and miles of nearby hiking and biking trails that wind their way into Mammoth itself. Yes. Following the California coastline, the iconic State Route 1or Highway 1is one of the best road trips in the world. Pack your bags and leave the kids behind for your next cruise adventure. Take a rollicking ride through Sedona's natural beauty in a rugged SUV. Here, culled from recent L.A. Times stories, is a collection of options, all outdoorsy or car-based. The southern endpoint is Torrance County Beach. As remote as you can feel within an hours drive of San Francisco, the hotel's dozen beautifully appointed cottages (all with views, many set right over the bay) each feel like an independent retreat, with private entrances and outdoor spaces. Most individuals with certain kinds of immunocompromise who have received a bivalent COVID-19 vaccine may receive a single additional dose of a bivalent COVID-19 vaccine at least 2 months . Search, compare and buy the best travel insurance for the lowest price. Any information published by Cond Nast Traveler is not intended as a substitute for medical advice, and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional. Up in Calistoga, Solage Resort and Spa, Auberge Resorts Collection, has just completed a $30 million redesign featuring restyled suites and studios, appealing pool cabanas, and a new poolside restaurant, Picobar, with modern takes on Mexico City-style street food. Please turn on JavaScript and try again. Here are nine California weekend getaways within just a few hours drive of San Francisco, Los Angeles, or San Diego. ), scenic campgrounds (more than 2,200! Holly Johnson and Marisa MndezApril 28, 2023, Gwen Pratesi and Rachael HoodApril 27, 2023, Kyle McCarthy and Ann HensonApril 25, 2023, Brittany Chrusciel and Gwen PratesiApril 21, 2023, Gwen Pratesi and Timothy J. ForsterApril 21, 2023, With a state as large and varied as California, trying to narrow down, Travelers looking for an outdoor escape should consider visiting Southern California's. The downtown main drag has been reborn as the car-free State Street Promenade, a now-permanent walking zone with bars and restaurants spilling out onto the street. Napa Valley, well known for its robust cabernet sauvignon, reigns supreme as one of the best wine destinations in the world. If youre new to the South Bay, Manhattan Beach is the priciest of these places, Hermosa is more casual and rowdy, and the Redondo Pier and King Harbor Marina are often more diverse. Youll find houseboats floating in places you may not expect, such as a private lake in Virginia or a glampsite on the Mississippi River. Beyond Main Beach (and its landmark blue-and-white lifeguard tower) in downtown Laguna, a path leads from Treasure Island Park (just south of the Montage Laguna Beach resort) to Treasure Island Beach (good for families, tide-pooling and snorkeling). If youre looking for intimacy, authenticity, and the quintessential Northern California bougie barefoot experience, it doesnt get any better than this. Suttle Lodge in Central Oregondesigned by the folks behind Portlands Ace Hotelis a lakeside lodge thats smack in the middle of Deschutes National Forest. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content. Even a drive-through trip requires advance reservations; every vehicle entering the park needs to book a pass, and day passes disappear quickly. It's also home to the Monterey Bay Aquarium, one of the best aquariums in the country. RV rentals increased a staggering 1,000 percent from April to June nationwide last year, according to RVShare.com, the largest peer-to-peer RV rental marketplace. We're offering 90-day cancellation on unused passes. AFAR may earn a commission if you book through our links, which helps support our independent publication. A flock of black skimmers flies over a pool of water in Santa Barbara. Though not mandatory, the CDC's latest guidelines state that in a majority of California counties, all people, both vaccinated and unvaccinated, should wear masks in public indoor spaces.(The most current local guidelines are available here.). If you love film and TV, save time for touring Paramount Pictures Studios and Warner Bros. Local ski resorts keep snow within reach. Cyclists ride along the Strand, a beachfront route that spans Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach and Redondo Beach. Other can't-miss amusement parks in the area include Knott's Berry Farm (a local favorite) and Adventure City (a more budget-friendly option). Note:These guidelines are outdated and for historical purposes only. Most Beautiful Places to Visit in California: Scenic Trip Ideas to See (About 3 hours from San Francisco, 6 hours from Los Angeles). The Bridgeway Promenade is where you'll find the bulk of Sausalito's shops, restaurants and art galleries. If youre looking to beat the crowds, plan to visit lesser-known, locally loved gems like Grand Central Market and Griffith Park. Some are permanently docked in marina neighborhoods, like those in Seattle and Sausalito. Get one with a firepit, and dont miss the very tempting gift shop. You'll also stumble upon the General Sherman Tree, the largest tree in the world by volume. For a fancy dinner, you might try Georges at the Cove, a longtime Prospect Street mainstay whose Level 2 and Ocean Terrace dining areas are open. The goal of this boutique hotel is to honor the buildings history as a nonchalant innkeepers humble abode, which sounds like the ideal spot to ride out this pandemic. The Best Weekend Getaways in California - Cond Nast Traveler California recommends travelers be vaccinated before visiting, but it is not mandatory. Others cruise freely in popular houseboating destinations like Lake Powell, Lake Mead, and Lake Havasu. Heres a chance to glimpse hints of the French countryside and take a hearty hike without leaving Los Angeles. Whether your travel is domestic or international, follow CDC travel guidelines for testing, masking, and quarantine: Delay travel until you're vaccinated and boosted; . For a break from the sun, pop into one of downtown's art galleries or boutiques. For a quiet reprieve from city life, check out the quaint coastal community of Half Moon Bay, which lies approximately 30 miles south of San Francisco. A Humboldt penguin goes for a swim at the Santa Barbara Zoo. Its interior was closed as of Sept. 15, but the grounds are accessible and you can walk along the bluffs. With our 90-day cancellation policy, you can obtain a refund for unused passes for up to 90 days from purchase, giving you greater security when planning . The Post Ranch Inn sets the gold standard for understated-rustic luxury and pure escapism, perched 1200 feet above the ocean. As such, the State is issuing the following recommendations, which supersede all prior Travel Advisories: PO Box 997377 California's diverse cultural and geographical offerings, vibrant cities and critically acclaimed culinary scenes are truly the gold standard for travelers. Consider these U.S. alternatives for classic European summer holiday destinations. The grounds and view from Wayfarers Chapel in Rancho Palos Verdes. In NYC, you may be charged a COVID surcharge of up to 10 percent of your pre-tax bill at restaurants, to help cover costs incurred during the pandemic. What the Experts Think, Have a Trip to Paris Planned? It looks like your browser does not have JavaScript enabled. READ MOREHow an Unplanned Road Trip Helped a California Family Reclaim the Van, What Camping During COVID Is Actually Like. Laguna Beach, with its gorgeous stretch of sand, cliffs and rockscapes, once was an artists colony. From hiking and rock climbing to bird-watching and. One of the country's most popular national parks can be found about 170 miles east of San Francisco. San Francisco brims with life everywhere you go. Located in central California about 40 miles south of Santa Cruz, Monterey is awash with picture-perfect beaches and charming seaside neighborhoods. Book a private vacation rental to limit interactions with others. Not only is the valley filled to the brim with impressive hotels, but you'll also find a number of Michelin-starred dining establishments. Later, watch the sun set over the Pacific Ocean at Sunset Cliffs Natural Park or on a whale watching tour. Miles from DTLA: 112 for La Jolla, 50 for Laguna Beach. Paso's vineyards should not be overlooked for the better known wine countries up north. Note: All of the properties mentioned in this story are open as of publishing, and weve noted states with quarantine and testing restrictions in place. Holly Johnson|Marisa MndezApril 28, 2023, Brittany Chrusciel|Gwen PratesiApril 21, 2023, Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. ForsterApril 21, 2023, Lyn Mettler|Timothy J. ForsterApril 20, 2023. While Northern California has the states best-known wine regions of Napa and Sonoma, Paso Robles, near the Central Coast, has just as much to offerone part scenic, rolling-hill vineyards, one part laid-back horse country. The city, which is nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Ynez Mountains, offers mild weather year-round that's perfect for soaking up some sun on its palm tree-lined beaches. Monterey's stunning natural beauty and small-town soul are what keep travelers coming back again and again. Check the aurora borealis off your bucket list. The state's official tourism body, Visit California, says that COVID-19 travel restrictions due to the coronavirus pandemic " still allow travel in California, and many tourism assets have reopened." They also urge you to consider the impact of wildfires in the state on your plans. After a busy day of exploring top sights like Fishermans Wharf and Alcatraz Island, head to the beautiful and tranquil Golden Gate Park to relax. Enjoy the efficiency of an organized tour led by experts who bring Rome's history to life. At night . (About 2-3 hours from Los Angeles or San Diego). Past restrictions COVID-19 Disease Control & Prevention. Beachgoers frolic in the water in front of a tower at Victoria Beach in Laguna Beach. This beachfront city is equipped with ample hotels, restaurants and shops in addition to its star attractions: Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier (an oceanfront amusement park), and the family-friendly Santa Monica State Beach. Check the aurora borealis off your bucket list. (About 3.5-4 hours from Los Angeles or San Francisco), No matter where you go in the area, a trip to Ojai is like a wellness retreat; its nearly impossible to visit and not be inspired to get out into nature. Become one with nature at these amazing treetop retreats. But as mentioned, CDC travel requirements are still in effect, which means all international air passengers to the U.S. are required to have a negative COVID-19 test result or documentation of recovery. 11 AFAR-approved houseboats you can rent across the U.S. My Family Vacation to the Chesapeake BayDuring COVID. Become one with nature at these amazing treetop retreats. As of June 1, 2021, adults can check into one of 12 free-standing homes on property, the new Green O. 1-833-422-4255. Staying there is like trying on the SoCal life for a weekend: Youre within easy access of vegan restaurants and cool little shops, and Airstreams themselves are spacious (and kid and pet friendly). Set amongst the thick pines of North Lake Tahoe, the Ritz-Carlton is a tried-and-true . . With some exceptions (see bulleted list below), the mask requirement for vaccinated individuals has been lifted. You might hike in Malibu Creek State Park (parking is limited; Rock Pool and Century Lake are closed). below) and non-vaccinated visitors (see Are masks still required indoors? This includes state and national parks, campgrounds, amusement parks, beaches, museums, sports venues, movie theaters, retail establishments, hotels, restaurants, bars, and wineries. This small town is best known for its laid-back atmosphere and colorful houseboats, some of which were built during World War II. As work from home and homeschooling became a reality and travelers sought ways to safely hit the road, RVs offered the kind of seclusion and social distancing many of us craved. In Vermont near Mount Snow, look to Treehouse Village Inn where you can book a luxury A-frame treehouse on sweeping grounds and enjoy the perks of a B&B and the region (lakes, waterfalls, hikes, and IPA for days). Another AFAR favorite in Los Angeles, the Santa Monica Proper Hotel, is blocks from the beach and has impeccable Kelly Wearstlerdesigned rooms that are vacated 24 hours before you arrive. Is it Safe To Travel To California Right Now During Covid? (December And take a break from wine at the California Brandy House; grape brandy has a rich history in the state, and well-priced flights in the stylish downtown Napa space include gems like the Germain-Robin XO. 2023 Cond Nast. Here are some family friendly experiences you can enjoy together that promise to make your trip a blast: Holcomb's Lost Gold - Old West Escape Room. Bring your to-go meal from the Boathouse to the dock or down by the lake and finally . Outdoor adventures abound including hiking fern-laden redwood groves and dramatic coastal bluffscheck out Van Damme and Russian Gulch State Parksand kayaking wondrous sea caves. Sitting about 22 miles off the coast of Los Angeles, this island paradise isn't hard to reach the Catalina Express will get you here in an hour from Long Beach but it will be hard to leave. Mountains, ocean, starkly beautiful desert: The Golden State sets the standard for quick road trips. Availability of Campgrounds Open During COVID-19. Prepare for the unexpectedand pack for it, too. A paraglider takes flight at sunset over the ocean at Torrey Pines Gliderport in La Jolla . PO Box, 997377, MS 0500, Sacramento, CA 95899-7377. Or go tide-pooling or picnicking along Coast Boulevard near Childrens Pool Beach. Youll find us in the garden lounge by the fire pit. Local outfitter Blue Waters Kayaking will literally meet you on the deck of your cottage (if youre lucky enough to secure one of the rooms on the water) and show you the magic of the area, the true way it needs to be seenfrom the water. Laguna Beach is the perfect destination if you're looking for a small-town, Southern California experience. Because your mileage will vary depending on where you live, weve included some borderline cases (such as San Diego). The park's most famous tree is the General Grant Tree, the second-largest tree in the world by volume. You can take a self-guided tour among the works of art at the Stuart Collection and and check out the striking academic architecture, including the otherworldly Geisel Library (interior closed) and the crooked little house atop the engineering building. Keep an eye out for more restaurant openings later this summer: long-anticipated tri-level The Matheson, from local talent Dustin Valette, and vegetarian restaurant Little Saint, from the team behind triple Michelin-starred SingleThread. 15 Top Weekend Getaways in California - US News & World Report However, when you book something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission. Sitting less than 20 miles west of Santa Monica, Malibu offers gorgeous stretches of sand, such as Zuma Beach and Surfrider Beach, which appeal to both sunbathers and surfers. Always a dining destination, Healdsburgs newer culinary hits include bakery hotspot Quail & Condor, the impressive Asahi Sushi & Kitchen, and the phenomenal Hazel Hill up the road at the Montage; worth a drive even if youre not booked in at the resort. READ MORE11 Places in the United States That Feel Like Europe, How to Recreate Your Canceled Europe Trip at Home, Pretend Youre in Paris With This Itinerary. A historic cottage at Crystal Cove State Beach, a popular site for the film industry since the 1920s. Regardless of when you visit, you'll find ample ways to enjoy the outdoors. Mount San Jacinto State Park Idyllwild At the top of the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, you'll find the magnificent Mount San Jacinto State Park. Miles from DTLA: 17. But California is famously resilient, and Napa in particular is ready for your return. But why rent a house near the water when you can actually stay on the water? The restaurant takes reservations and also serves early dinner; the cafe is first come, first served. Reaching the cliff-hugging town isnt the easiest trip; whether youre coming from Northern or Southern California, youll arrive by the infamous twists and turns of Highway 1, also known as the Pacific Coast Highway (or the PCH), which winter rains have a tendency to shut down for months on end. Its always busy, so its best to try this early in the day, preferably a weekday. All travelers who test positive or develop symptoms of COVID-19 should isolate and follow public health recommendations. At present, 63% of Californians 12 years of age and older are fully vaccinated with an additional 10% partially vaccinated. Be patient and tip well. The Andreas Canyon trail in Indian Canyons in Palm Springs has lush palm trees on the left and dramatic rock formations on the right. The Mountain Escape: The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe. California's Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) Start: Dana Point (Orange County) End: Leggett (Mendocino County) Distance: 656 miles. What it does have, in spades? The best advice is to pick one area or region to explore and then plan to come back for more. below). Guests can sample local wines and cheeses by an ocean-facing firepit. A little farther north in the Berkshires in Massachusetts, seek refuge at Tourists, a former midcentury motor lodge turned 48-room resort, which reopened for Thursday-Sunday stays with new COVID safety measures. Some counties (Los Angeles, San Francisco, Alameda, Contra Costa) are requiring proof of vaccination for indoor dining or to attend indoor events or large outdoor events. Bring extra masks, hand sanitizer, and wipes. ), Over at Sound View Greenport (pictured) on Long Islands North Fork, guests can book one- and two-bedroom suites with full kitchens and private outdoor decks overlooking the ocean. Travel Alerts | Visit California All of those impossibly fresh local meals are now included in an overnight stay, and only resort guests have access to the Sur House with its elevated patio dining (literallyit seems to soar over the Pacific). Travel experts agree there are several advantages to hiring a vacation planner. 8 day trips that fit California COVID travel guidelines - Los Angeles Times M-F 8AM-8PM, Sa-Su 8AM-5PM From airports to resorts to restaurants, this episode of the California Now Podcast explores how different segments of the travel industry are innovating to put consumers at ease California Now Podcast Safe Travels During the Pandemic 30 00:00:00 30 Podcasts Safe Travels During the Pandemic Food & Drink Craft Beer & Breweries Aside from admiring Kings Canyon's sequoias, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, horseback riding and rock climbing, among other activities. In addition to private homes and safari-style glamping tents, guests can still go horseback riding, fly fishing, and mountain biking. But no visit would be complete without exploring the surrounding area. Sample a few natural wines at the 60s-inspired Venus in Furs before venturing around the corner to La Paloma Caf. Find relaxation and natural beauty at Nicks Cove, set on Tomales Bay, across from Point Reyes National Seashore in northern California. Travel north across the Golden Gate Bridge and you'll discover Sausalito, a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of San Francisco. The City of Angels is really as dreamy as they say. Search, compare and buy the best travel insurance for the lowest price. So its an ideal summer for a road trip. Start in Redondo Beach and follow Palos Verdes Drive as it loops around the dramatic peninsula to San Pedro. State of CaliforniaHealth and Human Services Agency Ad Choices. But theres nowhere better to appreciate Californias wild, dramatic coast, and road repairs completed in April have the town newly accessible by either route. Downtown, theres plenty of window-shopping among the galleries and shops. Stop at the Point Vicente Interpretive Center. Use apps such as Hipcamp and the Dyrt to find off-the-beaten-path RV and glamping sites instead. Book dinner Wednesday through Saturday or weekend brunch. at Caravan Outpost, a glamping garden oasis in downtown Ojai. Thats in addition to a state mandate that forbids overnight stays on nonessential trips, whether in hotels or short-term rentals. Bearing the exclusive title of the lowest, hottest and driest place in the United States, Death Valley National Park deserves a spot on every traveler's bucket list. If so, consider Hadley Fruit Orchards in Cabazon or Shields Date Garden in Indio, which is surrounded by date palms. (K.C. But even in peak summer, Palm Springs, with its vibrant art scene, top-notch dining, and mid-century glamour, is a worthy destination. You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times. We were also eyeing socially distanced stays with our friends at the cottages at LAuberge de Sedona; suites or casitas at Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain Resort and Spa and JW Marriott Camelback Inn Scottsdale Resort and Spa; and the studio suites at Mountain Shadows Resort Scottsdale. Tag #VISITCALIFORNIA on Instagram to have your trip featured on our page. ). Since the lifting of the Regional Stay at Home Order in January 2021, State Parks has reopened the majority of campground sites throughout the State Park System. If you have kids with you in wine country, Marriott now rents out homes and villas, like this farmhouse chic (aka beautiful) four-bedroom in Sonoma complete with a hot tub and basketball court. On Saturday, September 18, 24.99 new cases were registered per 100,000 inhabitants. The dome on Pasadena City Hall is 206 feet high, just 82 feet short of the Capitol dome in Washington, D.C. Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information, See 16 of Pasadenas architectural gems in one easy drive, This driving tour of Wilshire Boulevard reveals landmarks hidden in plain sight, La Jolla, Laguna Beach and other dramatic meetings of land and water, The magical new Chinese Garden at the Huntington may be the 11.5-acre getaway you need, Explore an old winery site on a La Crescenta ramble, This writer/hiker set out to find 57 cool walks in L.A., each at least 10,000 steps. Yosemite National Park offers every adventure activity you can possibly think of, from low-impact activities like fishing and bird-watching to daredevil pursuits, such as rock climbing and rafting. Opened in October, this immaculately pruned haven is the latest phase in many years of development at the Huntington Library, Art Museum and Gardens in San Marino. Numerous Kampgrounds of America (KOA) sites are also open and taking bookings. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content. We also love the family-friendly Snowcreek Resort in Californias Mammoth Lakes. 9 Best Weekend Getaways in California to Escape LA, San Francisco, and San Diego | Cond Nast Traveler SALE: SUBSCRIBE AND GET 1 YEAR FOR $21.99 $5 North America United States California Getty. This collection of historic buildings includes Neo-Gothic, Art Deco and Midcentury Modern designs. It will be about a thousand degrees here, which explains why youll find lots of room. Miles from DTLA: 45 to 110. About 2 miles east, past Terranea Resort (which reopened in June) and across the street from Wayfarers Chapel (visitor center closed), you can walk the pebbly shores and bluffs of Abalone Cove Park in Rancho Palos Verdes (parts of the beach are closed). How to avoid leaving money on the table, 17 SoCal hiking trails that are blooming with wildflowers (but probably not for long! 15 Best Places to Visit in California Right Now - Time Out (Its awkward, we know, but err on the side of caution as much as possible.). 9 Best Things to Do in San Jose, CA | U.S. News Travel If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. Whatever you choose to do, don't leave without exploring can't-miss sites like Tunnel View overlook, Half Dome and Vernal Fall. Point Reyes National Seashore's 70,000-plus acres beckon to wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. California, which was the first state to report 2 million coronavirus cases in December 2020, is now a state with the lowest COVID-19 incidence, according to data collected by Johns Hopkins University. No. Head to Kings Canyon National Park if you want to see more of California's famous sequoias after visiting Yosemite and Sequoia national parks. Co-owner Michael Luscomb said La Jolla Kayak ([858] 459-1114, lajollakayak.com) resumed rentals in late May, tours in early June.