California Thanksgiving Getaway

Huntington Beach is a mecca for surfers. Home to the International Surfing Museum, this is the official heart of Surf City, USA! Expect balmy weather in the 70s and plan a relaxing sun and sand adventure. With 10 miles of uninterrupted white sand, Huntington Beach delivers the beach sunset of your dreams. If you're traveling with small children, space abounds for them to play in.

Enjoy this one-mile strip of beach in the San Diego area, which offers a child-friendly beach experience with gentle waves and lifeguards on duty. For indoor entertainment, pay a visit to the nearby La Jolla Underwater Park Ecological Reserve. Finally, enjoy fresh seafood at a waterfront restaurant to top off a day in the sun.

This peaceful and secluded beach in San Simeon features a charming wooden boardwalk and quaint restaurants. Tide pools offer safe beach play spots for young children, so adults can enjoy sun-filled days. Bring your binoculars and you might catch a glimpse of harbor seals swimming on the horizon!

Visit the famous Lake Tahoe area, the largest Alpine village in North America, for fun family skiing adventures. Accommodations for all levels of ski experience are available. For skiers at the intermediate level, Northstar is reported to be the best resort, with solid protection from the November winds.

Explore this cluster of protected areas featuring magnificent ancient redwood trees. Elk Prairie is the place to spot grazing Roosevelt elk, while spectacular Fern Canyon features high foliage-covered rock walls. Take some unforgettable family photos to make memories you will treasure for a long time to come.

Discover Disneyland's lesser-known cousin, combining entertainment with lessons on California's history and culture. Your family can experience the history of Route 66, a 1920s-era Los Angeles movie theater, and the rugged High Sierras, all in one park. Of course, for some families, a visit to the iconic Disneyland can't be missed!

Visit the city by the bay for history, culture, and scenery, an ideal mix for the perfect California Thanksgiving getaway for a long weekend. The iconic Golden Gate Bridge offers unmatched photo opportunities to remember your unique holiday, and Union Square offers restaurants and shopping aplenty. Alcatraz Island is home to the infamous former prison, which offers day and night tours for visitors. And finally, don't forget to take at least one ride in a San Francisco cable car.

San Diego lies at the southern end of the Golden State. Visit the immense Balboa Park, home to the spectacular San Diego Zoo as well as restaurants, museums, and art studios. Solo travelers, couples, and families can all enjoy memorable days and evenings spent here. At the northern end of San Diego's downtown area, you'll find Little Italy – head here if you're hungry for authentic Italian food. And for a night out, visit the historic Gaslamp District's restaurants and bars.

The city of angels offers a wide array of experiences for your California Thanksgiving trip. Movie buffs can take a tour of Hollywood, passing by the homes of your favorite stars and strolling the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Enjoy LA nightlife, including restaurants and clubs, wine bars, brewpubs, and more. Leimert Park is a vibrant hub of music and culture, while Beverly Hills offers the chance to window-shop and celebrity-spot. Finally, downtown LA is home to an eclectic mix of restaurants, shopping, museums, and bars.