7 Romantic Getaways in Northern California
Looking for a romantic weekend getaway in Northern California? There are plenty of romantic places to choose from! Whether you’re looking to escape to mountain views or views of the Pacific Ocean, these 7 romantic getaways in Northern California have it all.
As you plan where to go, make sure you check out these Romantic and Fun Northern California Date Ideas for the most unforgettable trip!
Know you want to go to northern California, but can’t decide where to stay?
Welcome! We’re here to provide you with Northern California’s top romantic destinations — cookie-cutter options not included. This list is curated based on first-hand experience, so you’ll know exactly what to expect, with all the personal details to help you choose the ideal place for you and your beau. So take some notes! You’ve hit the romantic getaway jackpot.
In this Article:
1. Squaw Valley Lodge, Lake Tahoe
Squaw Valley Lodge offers deluxe studios and premium suites in the heart of Lake Tahoe. The hotel offers special packages if you feel like kayaking or paddle boarding in the summer. And they offer snowboarding and skiing packages in the winter.
Tahoe makes for great weekend trips if you’re both nature lovers. It offers some of the best places to go hiking, mountain biking, and lake scenery. If you go when it’s snowing, you can either cuddle up indoors by a fire or go play in the snow! It’s the perfect place to spend quality time with your loved one, whether it’s summer or winter!
2. Post Ranch Inn, Big Sur
Big Sur is a popular destination in Northern California because of its popular beaches, redwood forests, and stunning views all around. Say goodbye to technological distractions at Post Ranch Inn. They proudly share that they don’t keep alarm clocks or televisions in their rooms. It’s all about spending time with who you’re with!
There are various suites and houses you can choose from. You can get a view of the ocean or the beautiful redwoods. “The Tree House” will be the cabin of your dreams, nestled amongst the forest trees with a fireplace you can snuggle up next to! They also offer a fine dining experience that overlooks the ocean, along with an extensive wine cellar, so you’re guaranteed to get exactly what you want.
3. Candlelight Inn, Napa Valley
The guest rooms at Candlelight Inn are one of many romantic places to stay in Napa, but this one is our personal favorite! It has the charming quality you might expect from a highly-rated bed and breakfast. They offer breakfast, an outdoor pool, and a concierge staff that can help you book an in-room massage and more. They even offer accessible bathrooms, doorways, and ramps to accommodate those who might need them too.
While you likely won’t be short of things to do given the many renowned wineries, you’ll be able to visit, if you’re curious, other fun cities nearby as well. Take a short drive down to Sonoma County if you’re fond of antique shopping and even more winery options! Between Napa and Sonoma County, there are plenty of tasting rooms for endless wine tasting.
Have you ever been curious about hot air balloons? This location offers special packages to do just that! Enjoy a glass of wine miles high in the sky while you enjoy all of the views Napa County has to offer. A hot air balloon ride will be an unforgettable experience that both you and your partner won’t soon forget!
4. Timber Cove, Jenner
Timber Cove Resort has been nominated for Conde Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards multiple times! That’s because it’s the perfect destination for the most pristine views of the coastline! Book a room with an ocean view or a cove view—whichever you prefer. Each room comes with Crosley record players, where you can listen to one of the many records from our vinyl library. You and your partner can dance the night away without even having to leave the room!
Timber Cove offers live music and wine nights during the week, so be sure to ask for their event schedule before you go to include those options in your trip itinerary. They also offer wine tasting, stargazing, and an ocean-side fireplace. There is local beach access if you like to walk along the water and so much more. If you choose to leave the room, you won’t be short of both land and water activities to choose from!
Most important tip: Make sure you try Northern California’s popular French, Italian, and Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, as well as fresh seafood dishes. Northern California is known for its high-quality and diverse food options, as well as its world-renowned wineries and vineyards.
5. The Lodge at Bodega Bay, Bodega Bay
It doesn’t get much better than quiet seaside towns like Bodega Bay.
Enjoy the sandy beaches without the same amount of tourism you’ll find in Southern California. The Lodge at Bodega Bay offers rooms with private patios where you can enjoy bay views. Lounge around and relax in plush robes and fall asleep to the “sleep sound” machines they offer for your convenience.
Bodega Bay has hiking and biking trails for those who love to be active together. There are horseback riding options, too. They even have two kite shops if you’d like to do something whimsical on the beach while you have a nice picnic. You can also go kayaking if it isn’t too cold as well as whale watching. Given The Lodge is nestled along the bay, you are sure to find plenty of seafood dining spots to indulge in the bay area’s finest!
6. Mendocino Seaside Cottage, Mendocino
When you think of a seaside cottage, that’s exactly what you’ll get when you stay at Mendocino Seaside Cottage. Many rooms have a view of the seaside, but what makes this location unique is that even some of the bathrooms have those great views, too! Not only are there spectacular views, but rooms come with spa tubs as well, so you can soak until your heart’s content. They also offer romantic fireplaces to cuddle up next to as well!
This location is just a short walk into Mendocino Village, where you will find fine dining options, winery and brewery tours, and hiking options. You can also visit Point Cabrillo Light Station, a California State Historic Park, where you can visit their museum and marine science exhibit. Walk along the water and enjoy the views. If a romantic retreat by the sea is what you’re looking for, these charming cottages are sure to be a strong contender.
7. Tradewinds Carmel, Carmel
Tradewinds Carmel is the perfect destination for enjoying the fresh breeze of sea air and calming ocean views. They offer a beautiful meditation Zen garden with plenty of bamboo and tropical plants to help create a calm and relaxing environment. Sit by a bonfire with your loved one and enjoy the view.
Fun, nearby destinations to explore include Pebble Beach and Monterey Bay Aquarium. There are whale-watching tours and wine-tasting options too. It’s a great place to go if you’re open to exploring various romantic dinner spots along the Monterey Peninsula and more.
Check out our post, Planning Your Romantic Weekend in Carmel-by-the-Sea, for more great tips and ideas during your time here!
FAQ
What is the best time to visit Northern California?
It’s a tough question, and the answer really depends on what kind of activities you want to do. If you’re looking for warm days and cool nights perfect for outdoor recreation, summer is your best bet.
Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, winter offers plenty of snow-capped mountains, great for skiing or snowboarding! Fall is ideal for wine-tasting tours in the Napa and Sonoma valleys, while spring provides wildflower hikes. So, no matter when you decide to come, Northern California has something special for everyone!
How to travel on a budget in Northern California?
Traveling to Northern California doesn’t have to be expensive if you plan ahead! Here are some tips to help you save money while still making the most of your trip:
– Book flights in advance to get the best deals.
– Factor in tax AND tip for all food and services to avoid any surprises.
– Portion sizes in Northern California can be huge, so don’t over-order.
– Book a hotel or campsite instead of AirBnB as it’s often cheaper.
What is Northern California most known for?
Northern California is known for its stunning natural beauty. From the rolling hills dotted with redwood trees to the picturesque coastline along the Pacific, Northern California is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise.
Not to mention, it’s also home to some of the most iconic landmarks in America, like the Golden Gate Bridge and South Lake Tahoe. And of course, there’s Yosemite National Park, where you can find some of the most amazing views in the world. So if you’re looking for an adventure, Northern California is a great place to start!
Pack Your Suitcase…
Now that you’ve learned about some of the most romantic destinations the Bay Area and beyond has to offer, which sounds most appealing to you? There are endless romantic getaways in Northern California to be had in the Golden State. Between natural beauty, national parks, and beautiful beaches, you won’t be short of options to choose from!
