If you want to splash out on luxury on your next holiday, California is the place to be. It’s home to the rich and the famous and has everything elite travelers seek in a vacation. We’ve covered lots of places to travel in California, but in this post – we’ll focus on destinations in California for Luxury Vacations. From Michelin-star dining to eco-friendly wellness retreats and high-end shopping, there are luxuries in every corner of the state. Below, check out the best destinations in California for luxury vacations.
1. Los Angeles
Los Angeles is a sprawling city that can be daunting to explore. But if you know where to go, you’ll be rewarded with incredible experiences, especially if you are here for a luxury holiday. You can explore West Hollywood, venture into Marina del Ray, or dine at the Michelin-starred restaurants in the city.
Los Angeles is undergoing a hotel boom so you will have plenty of options for luxury accommodation, from boutique-style properties to high-end resorts like the iconic Chateau Marmont, renowned for its bungalows with private pools, and the hordes of paparazzi waiting outside for some celebrity sightings!
One of the most luxurious ways to explore Los Angeles is on a private helicopter tour. These flights include free-flowing champagne for guests to sip as they soak up the aerial views of LA’s sights, such as the Griffith Observatory, Downtown LA, and the Dodger Stadium.
Watch this video to get a glimpse:
When it’s time to shop, take advantage of the concierge services at Westfield Century City, with on-call and ready-to-assist staff. They can handle everything on your behalf, including arranging transportation, restaurant reservations, and more.
2. San Francisco
San Francisco has something for everyone, especially those seeking luxurious experiences. It boasts iconic sights, excellent dining, and numerous entertainment options. The usual travel highlights include the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island. But for those who want to explore San Francisco the VIP way, plenty is waiting for you.
Visitors can stay in one of the many luxury hotels in the city, making it an ideal place for those who want to explore San Francisco’s top sights. When it’s time to explore, book a VIP sightseeing tour to explore the city’s picturesque neighbourhoods, admire impressive architecture, and discover the city’s highlights, including the world-famous Golden Gate Bridge.
Visit the bustling Fisherman’s Wharf, one of San Francisco’s busiest neighborhoods, renowned for its delectable seafood. Enjoy a scenic stroll, and check out the waterfront stalls, selling everything, from lobster rolls to clam chowder and breaded calamari.
Watch this video to learn more:
After your sumptuous seafood feast, ride San Francisco’s iconic cable cars considered the last manually operated cable car system. It’s a fun way to navigate your way across the hilly city. While the queues are sometimes long, take the cable car from the waterfront, where you can hop on quickly.
3. Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara has plenty to delight visitors, from the endless blues of the Pacific Ocean to the majestic Santa Ynez Mountains and the impressive Mediterranean-style buildings. Nestled along the California Coast, it boasts some of California’s most beautiful beaches. The balmy destination is also brimming with lush botanical gardens, stellar museums, and family-friendly attractions.
Those looking to splurge will find indulgences, private experiences, and tailor-made tours to elevate your sightseeing experiences. Charter a boat for a private cruise of Santa Barbara’s coast, venturing beyond the Santa Barbara Channel and into the spectacular Channel Islands National Park. Choose from a range of luxury boats, from charming sailboats to sleek yachts. The guided sailing tours are perfect for families, groups of friends, or couples on a romantic date.
Savour Santa Babara’s delicious gastronomy on an exclusive food tour. Go behind the city’s culinary scene and enjoy a little VIP service. Along the way, you will learn about the history of each place you visit, and you’re guaranteed to leave with lots of knowledge and a full belly. If you prefer to drink than dine, go on a wine tour to Santa Ynez Valley, where you’ll sample the region’s finest wine.
Watch this video to learn some more things you can do in Santa Barbara:
4. Santa Cruz
Synonymous with sea, sun, and sand, the charming coastal city of Santa Cruz makes for an incredible destination for your luxury California vacation. Nestled on the north shore of Monterey Bay, it has lovely scenery and a sparkling Californian coastline to delight travelers of all kinds.
Nicknamed the “Surf City,” Santa Cruz is renowned for its laidback lifestyle. While the sun-kissed beaches are the highlight of your visit, you can also find other fun things to do, such as glamping, where you sleep in a luxury accommodation surrounded by stunning views. There are numerous incredible glamping options in California, with many of them situated along the coast of Santa Cruz.
Watch this video to get a glimpse:
You’ll likely spend most of your time at the beach in Santa Cruz. If you only have time for one beach, make it Cowell Beach. It sits right next to the main beach of Santa Cruz, separated by the harbor. Aside from the incredible waves and breaks, it boasts swathes of golden sands with phenomenal views.
Those who love nature will find the Wilder Ranch State Park a fantastic place to visit. It offers numerous options for outdoor adventures and is a popular place for nature lovers and those fond of exploring the great outdoors. You can hike in its over 50 kilometers of hiking trails or cycle if you prefer.
5. San Jose
San Jose may not top the list of the most visited destinations in California, but it does have something to offer travelers seeking luxurious experiences. While it mostly appeals to the tech-minded culture, it has its share of historical landmarks and fun attractions.
Staying in a luxurious hotel is perfect for those seeking upscale experiences in San Jose. The city is home to some of California’s most iconic hotels, so you won’t have to search hard enough to find the property to suit you.
Once you’ve settled in your luxury accommodation, you can start exploring. Begin at the Winchester Mystery House, a sprawling 7-storey mansion with a rich history. Next, check out Tech Interactive to learn more about the Silicon Valley innovators. Before calling it a day, visit Santana Row, a charming neighbourhood with tree-lined streets, home to world-class restaurants and luxury brand shopping options.
Watch this to see more of the best things to do in San Jose:
To Conclude…
In the world of luxury travel, California stands as a beacon of opulence, offering an eclectic mix of glamorous city escapes and serene coastal paradises. From the star-studded streets of Los Angeles to the tech-inspired allure of San Jose, each destination presents a unique canvas for travelers seeking indulgence.
As the hospitality industry adapts and evolves, the trend toward tailored VIP experiences, personalized services, and exclusive offerings continues to redefine luxury travel in the Golden State. California remains a playground for the elite, where Michelin-star dining, private tours, and lavish accommodations converge to create unforgettable experiences for those seeking the epitome of luxury.
