There are many of the best places to visit in California in February, as winter is always a fantastic time to spend time in California. From skiing in Northern California to the amazing restaurants to dine at, February offers some slightly cooler weather. It is a great state to spend Valentine’s Day or President’s Day weekend, too.
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Where to Stay in California
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Best Places to Visit in California in February: Northern California
San Francisco
By Victoria of Guide Your Travel
San Francisco is one of the best places to visit in California in February, offering unique experiences and budget-friendly options. The City by the Bay is known for its mild winter weather, making it an ideal getaway for those looking to escape colder climates. I recommend spending at least three to five days in San Francisco to appreciate its diverse attractions fully.
Getting to San Francisco is convenient; you can fly to San Francisco International Airport or Oakland International Airport. A car is optional once in the city, as it has an excellent public transportation system, including buses, trams, and cable cars. For budget-friendly accommodation, consider staying in neighborhoods like Union Square, Fisherman’s Wharf, or the Mission District, where you can find affordable hotels and hostels.
San Francisco boasts a plethora of attractions that won’t break the bank. Explore iconic landmarks such as the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and Lombard Street. Wander around the vibrant neighborhoods, like Chinatown and Haight-Ashbury, for a taste of local culture. Visit free-admission museums like the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park and the Cable Car Museum.
As for food, try affordable yet delicious options in the city, from food trucks to seafood shacks. San Francisco offers a budget-friendly escape with stunning views and unforgettable experiences.
Big Sur
By Alisha of Travel Today, Work Tomorrow
Big Sur is famous for its dramatic rocky cliffs, picturesque coastline, lush redwood forests, and iconic coastal drive along the PCH. Big Sur is a year-round destination. However, February is the perfect time to visit if you want fewer crowds and cheaper accommodations.
February is also a great time to visit to spot some wildlife, including gray whales and elephant seals. It is important to note that February is part of Big Sur’s rainy season, which can cause mudslides, so check for road closures before your road trip.
Located on the rugged central coast of California, the best way to get to Big Sur is by car. It is one of the most scenic and renowned routes in the country. If you can, a weekend is the ideal time to spend exploring Big Sur.
Hiking the Waterfall Overlook Trail at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park is a must-have thing to do! The trail features McWay Falls, an 80-foot waterfall that cascades onto a pristine sandy cove and flows directly into the Pacific Ocean. Another top thing to do is visit Pfeiffer Beach, also known as the purple sand beach. This one-of-a-kind beach features epic rock formations, tide pooling, and, after a rainstorm, unique purple sand.
Plan your stay at the Big Sur Lodge. The lodge is nestled in the Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, providing access to miles and miles of hiking trails in the redwood forest. The lodge also offers numerous amenities and is a great option for families. No matter what, Big Sur is one of the best places to visit in California in February.
Monterey
By Samara of FC World Travel
The beautiful coastal town of Monterey, California, is one of the best hidden gems in the United States. Just 2 hours south of San Francisco, this seaside town makes for the perfect weekend getaway. With warm temperatures sitting around 62℉ (17℃) in February, you can comfortably enjoy all this town has to offer.
Experience the best of the California coast with the small town of Monterey offering multiple beaches to explore with great surfing and scuba diving. The Old Fisherman’s Warf is a great area to see seals and do some shopping.
If you’re a golf lover (or just like spotting celebrities), February is a great month to visit Monterey, thanks to the annual AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am event. February is also a great month to spot gray whales off the coast of Monterey.
The town is incredibly transit-friendly, allowing you to see most sights without a car. You can even travel to the sister town of Carmel by the Sea with transit. Once you are in town, renting a bicycle to explore the coastal scenery is a great way to see the area. The city is also incredibly car-friendly, with lots of great pullouts to access the beaches, and a drive down Ocean View Boulevard offers incredibly rewarding views.
The town itself is fairly in line with the rest of California’s pricing -another reason it is one of the best places to visit in California in February. There is a good mix of budget and luxury hotels offered here. For those looking for a deal, Sunset Inn is a great option that doesn’t compromise on comfort, offering a Jacuzzi on-site, which is perfect for a February visit.
Best Places to Visit in California in February: Central California
Yosemite National Park
By Jamie of Photo Jeepers
Yosemite National Park is easily one of the best places to visit in California in February. After all, February is a quiet month at this iconic national park. Therefore, you will likely have the park all to yourself. Plus, you’ll enjoy year-round access to Yosemite Valley and Wawona. Just be aware that Tioga Road will definitely be closed and won’t open up again until spring.
So, if you decide to fly into either San Francisco or Los Angeles, rent a car and drive to the park. Once there, visitors coming from San Francisco will use the Arch Rock/Big Oak entrance, while visitors from LA will use the South Entrance.
Now, because you will be unable to use Tioga Road to enter the park, your trip to this park will be a bit longer. As a result, try to spend at least 2-3 days in the park. This way, you will have plenty of time to try skiing at Badger Pass, ice skating at Curry Village with Half Dome in the background, and exploring the Yosemite Museum. You can also book a fun snowshoeing tour through Yosemite Valley and the Giant Sequoias since hiking at this time of year can be difficult.
In general, though, plan on spending around $160.00 per day. However, that price will vary based on the activities you want to do. Finally, book a room at the Yosemite Valley Lodge. It’s a lovely little place near Yosemite Falls that has a couple of restaurants on-site, too.
Mammoth Lakes
By Michelle of The Trav Nav
Mammoth Lakes is a winter paradise because of the massive snow accumulation that usually occurs by February. It is one of the best places to visit in California in February. Whether you are a hardcore skier or enjoy the white-dusted trees, Mammoth offers endless snow-based activities.
A visit to Mammoth Lakes should be at least three days. Angelenos often drive five hours north for the weekend to get in a few days of skiing before heading home. Visitors can also fly into Bishop and drive 45 minutes or fly into the Mammoth private airport. Those flying into Bishop will want to rent a car. Otherwise, it can be a little difficult to get around town.
For lodging, The Village Lodge in the center of town is popular, as is The Westin Monache Resort. Both are within walking distance of shops, restaurants, and the gondola at Mammoth Mountain. There are also numerous homes available to rent.
The most popular activity in Mammoth is skiing or snowboarding at Mammoth Mountain, where there are 175 named trails, 25 trail lifts, and a terrain park. Mammoth Mountain is a world-class ski resort that is approachable for every skill level. If you are not ready to hit the slopes, other popular activities in Mammoth include snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing.
While in Mammoth, check out some of the local restaurants like Noodle-Ly, Gomez, and Side Door Wine Bar & Café.
Santa Barbara
By Taylor of Taytrum Travels
Santa Barbara is a beautiful, ocean-front city on the American Riviera, and it is one of the best places to visit in California in February. It is full of great restaurants, museums, and outdoor adventures. There are plenty of things to do in Santa Barbara to fill a weekend getaway. Santa Barbara is easily reached by car two hours north of Los Angeles or by flight to the Santa Barbara Airport.
February is a great time to visit as the temperatures are temperate and comfortable. Home to many preserved, unique theaters, visitors can experience the Santa Barbara International Film Festival in February. During the festival, there are celebrity tribute events, special guests, and more than a week of special movie screenings. For Valentine’s Day, many of the restaurants offer a special fixed menu. One of the best spots for a romantic Valentine’s Day meal is Zaytoon.
Santa Barbara has a lovely, walkable downtown area along State Street, the main avenue. This is where the main buzz of restaurants and shopping happens. It is also the best place to stay. Hotels like Drift or the Californian are great options.
To spend your time, you could start at Chase Palms Park, where you’ll also find a popular biking and walking trail. It is a beachfront trail that passes by Stearns Wharf and the bright Chromatic Gate. If you head out on the pier, you can watch the kayakers, boaters, pelicans, seals, and more.
The Museum of Art and of the historic Spanish Mission are also both popular activities for locals and visitors alike. In the evening, head to the Funk Zone for fun wine bars, breweries, and wall art. All of these options are at little to no cost, which helps balance the budget out, as dining and lodging in Santa Barbara is expensive.
Death Valley
By Catherine of Day Trip Nomad
February is one of the few pleasant months to visit Death Valley National Park, the lowest, driest, and hottest place in North America. During this time of year, the weather conditions are ideal for venturing into this vast Eastern California desert expanse. The temperatures are warm without being excessively hot, and winter is the only time of the year when hiking is actually possible.
While it is possible to get a good overview of Death Valley in one day, given its status as the largest national park in the contiguous USA, spending 2-3 days is ideal to see all the landmarks. This way, you won’t feel rushed hiking and driving and don’t have to be torn between two magnificent sunset spots.
Reaching Death Valley is most convenient by car, given its remote location, but it is still one of the best places to visit in California in February. The park is roughly a two-hour drive from Las Vegas and around four hours from Los Angeles. Just make sure to fill up your tank before entering!
There’s plenty to do in Death Valley, from summiting the Mesquite Sand Dunes to driving the Artist’s Palette loop to stargazing at an International Dark Sky Park. Walk on the salt flats of Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America, and make sure to watch the sunset at Zabriskie Point.
Park entry is priced at $30 per vehicle for a 7-day pass, or you can get the $80 annual America the Beautiful National Park pass. Additionally, most people opt to camp within the park, although lodges within park boundaries are available too. For a central location, Stovepipe Wells is the prime area to stay in the park.
San Luis Obispo
By Jess from Travel + Tannins
San Luis Obispo is a college town in one of the most versatile locations in California. Everything you could ask for in a California town is within 15 minutes of each other, from wineries to incredible hikes to the beach to an adorable downtown. While you could truly visit San Luis Obispo during any month of the year and have an awesome time, February is a special month because of several fun festivals!
SLO Craft Beer Fest is one of the best festivals in San Luis Obispo each year, and it always happens in February. You can sample hundreds of beers both locally and regionally from some of the best microbreweries and well-known breweries. There are also several art festivals and performances, such as an annual Jazz Festival and shows that specifically come through San Luis Obispo in February.
You should plan to spend at least a weekend in San Luis Obispo, as there are also many incredible free things to do in San Luis Obispo that should be incorporated into your trip, too! It is recommended to have a car while in San Luis Obispo, as public transportation is not well established here.
The best place to stay in San Luis Obispo is the famed Madonna Inn. This unique hotel offers a fun experience while you are staying there and also has some of the best cake you will ever taste!
You can budget ~$400-500 for a weekend trip here for two people to have ample money to experience the food scene and visit a winery (or two!), but there are many outdoor activities, such as hiking, that will not cost you a penny. Either way, it is one of the best places to visit in California in February.
Best Places to Visit in California in February: Southern California
San Clemente
By Kara of TryingToUnwind
San Clemente, often referred to as the “Spanish Village by the Sea,” is definitely one of the best places to visit in California in February. The mild weather is perfect for exploring the town’s stunning architecture or strolling along the beautiful beaches.
You don’t have to break the bank to enjoy an Orange County beach vacation thanks to affordable beachside camping at multiple State Park campgrounds close to town.
San Clemente State Park offers the best beach and campground combination but fills up quickly. Plus, with your $30 per night camping fees, you get access to all California State Parks including multiple pristine southern California beaches. If cooking at your campsite doesn’t fit your weekend plans and your budget allows, then check out Rocco’s Pizza or grab a pint at Artifex Brewing.
Orange County is a premier surfing destination and is a glorious location for just relaxing on the beach. Touring the Casa Romantica or the Surfing Heritage Center are just a few of the many recommendations in the San Clemente Guide.
For those who prefer more rugged adventures, the Peaceful Valley trail system offers mountain biking and hiking opportunities that cut through the scenic California hills. San Clemente is perfect for a weekend beach getaway. Two nights is enough time to explore the area but more time could be added if you are a beach lover.
Carlsbad
By Kyra of Sea to Sequoia
Carlsbad is a great place to visit year-round, but it is one of the best places to visit in California in February. While the weather might not be quite hot enough to swim at the beach, it’s still pleasant, so you can comfortably spend time outside exploring the area. February is also the off-season in Carlsbad, so you won’t have to deal with crowds.
There are a ton of fun things to do in Carlsbad, especially for people who love being outdoors. Consider spending some time biking or walking along the Carlsbad Beach Boardwalk. There are also great easy hiking spots in the area, such as the Agua Hedionda Lagoon Northside Trail.
Additionally, you’ll want to stroll through Carlsbad Village, which is the charming downtown area. There are tons of great restaurants and bars, as well as local shops. Beer lovers should stop by Pure Project for a taste of the San Diego beer culture.
I recommend spending two to three days in Carlsbad. When it comes to accommodations, it’s best to stay in Carlsbad Village, as you’ll be within walking distance of the beach and all of the best eateries and shops. The Best Western Plus Beach View Lodge is a top-rated hotel and is one of the least expensive options that’s right by the beach. You can also find more budget-friendly hotels a bit more inland, such as the Days Inn by Wyndham.
The more affordable hotels tend to fall in the range of $100 to $200 per night in February. Since there are plenty of free things to do, you can easily visit and just spend money on food and accommodations.
A car can be helpful if you plan on exploring beyond the Carlsbad Village area, but the village itself is very walkable. You can also take the train directly into Carlsbad Village from Downtown San Diego, making it an easy destination to get to for those flying in.
Long Beach
By Kitty of Kitty Meets World
Long Beach is one of the best places to visit in California in February. Prices are lower, there are no crowds, the weather is usually good, and on the odd rainy day, there are plenty of indoor attractions to keep you entertained.
While many think of Long Beach as an extension of Los Angeles, it is actually the 43rd most populous city in the US, with almost 500,000 inhabitants. And its two biggest attractions, the Aquarium of the Pacific and the retired ocean liner Queen Mary are world-famous.
Long Beach is easily accessible both by car and public transit. The city even has its own airport! And while a car is always handy in California, it isn’t strictly necessary in Long Beach. Not only are most of the attractions walkable, but the City of Long Beach runs Passport, a free bus shuttle connecting all the main points of interest.
Two or three days are ideal for a trip to Long Beach. Learn more about sea life at the Aquarium (as February is still migration season for Gray Whales, you could even add in a whale-watching cruise) on one day. Spend the afternoon and evening exploring shops and restaurants at Shoreline Village.
On the second day, take a tour of the Queen Mary with her illustrious (and haunted) history. And a sunny day in February is perfect for a visit to Catalina Island without the masses. The Catalina Express leaves right from Long Beach.
You will find plenty of business hotels in Downtown Long Beach and near the waterfront. But a definite highlight is an overnight stay on the iconic Queen Mary! As far as budget is concerned, a hotel room will run you around $200-250 per night. For tours and activities, $100 to 200 should be enough, depending on what you plan to see and do.
Los Angeles
By Janelle Axton of Make the Trip Matter
Los Angeles is a quintessential part of California and one of the best places to visit in California in February with its mild weather and never-ending list of attractions and activities. A visit during this time of year allows you to enjoy the city’s attractions without the stifling summer heat or the peak tourist influx.
In February, make sure to explore the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame, visit the Griffith Observatory for stunning views, and take advantage of the cooler weather to hike in the scenic Runyon Canyon Park. Explore the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) or take part in the festive Chinese New Year celebrations in the bustling Chinatown district.
It’s recommended to spend at least 4-5 days in LA to fully immerse yourself in the diverse offerings of the city. While Los Angeles does offer a public transportation system (it’s fairly mediocre) and Uber or Lyft, having a car can significantly enhance your flexibility in exploring its expansive neighborhoods and nearby attractions.
For a convenient stay, consider looking for accommodation in the centrally located Hollywood area. Here, you’ll find a variety of options that cater to different budgets, with easy access to major attractions and the nightlife scene.
When it comes to budget, Los Angeles can cater to both budget-conscious travelers (enjoy free activities like strolling along the Venice Beach Boardwalk or window-shopping in Rodeo Drive) and those seeking luxurious experiences (think fine dining and high-end shopping).
Los Angeles also makes for an excellent base for day trips to nearby attractions, including Disneyland for a dose of magic or even Big Bear for an escape to the snow-covered mountains of Southern California. With its blend of urban and cultural attractions, lovely weather, and natural beauty, Los Angeles in February is an unforgettable experience for every type of traveler.
San Diego
By Goya of Goya Galeotta
San Diego beckons in February with mild weather and a relaxed vibe, making it an ideal escape from winter. Enjoying an average of 65°F (18°C), the city allows for exploration without the summer crowds and provides the perfect setting for outdoor activities and exploring the city’s stunning landscapes —best experienced during a 4 to 5-day stay.
February in San Diego is packed with activities. Nature enthusiasts can delight in spotting baby seals at La Jolla Cove or embark on whale-watching excursions along the coast. Cultural aficionados have the opportunity to join Lunar New Year celebrations or immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of Mardi Gras festivities. For those with a passion for music, the San Diego Jazz Party promises an enjoyable experience, while film buffs shouldn’t overlook the Oceanside International Film Festival for a cinematic treat.
Another highlight of February is Museum Month, with over 60 museums, gardens, and zoos/aquariums providing a 50% discount on admission, making it the perfect time to explore the rich cultural landscape of San Diego for solo travelers, families, and couples alike.
Now the practical bits… Getting there? San Diego International Airport facilitates easy access, and while public transportation and rideshare services are available, renting a car offers more flexibility to explore the city and its surrounding areas.
Downtown is great for those who enjoy city life, while La Jolla offers a more laid-back beach town vibe. If you’re traveling with family, staying near Balboa Park or the San Diego Zoo can be a good option. Budget? Daily expenses for meals and attractions range from $50 to $150 per person, ensuring options for various budgets.
Pack layers for cooler evenings and get ready to embrace a city that caters to every taste—whether you’re a beach enthusiast, a history buff, or a culinary explorer, San Diego makes for one of the best places to visit in California in February and promises an unforgettable Californian escape!
Disneyland
By Lauren of The Traveling Moore
Disneyland is known as the happiest place on earth all year round. However, one of the best times to visit is in February. For one, students are often in school (besides Presidents Day weekend), which means smaller crowds, shorter lines, and less expensive prices.
In addition, the February weather in California is very moderate. You can comfortably explore the Disney parks for a full day in a t-shirt or sweatshirt. This is much more bearable than the super-hot summer. Finally, February is a great time to visit Disneyland because there are fun events such as Lunar New Year and Valentine’s Day.
The best way to get to Disneyland is by flying into Orange County (John Wayne Airport) or LA (LAX). From there, take an Uber or taxi to your hotel near the theme park. I recommend staying on property at Disneyland at the Grand Californian if you are willing to splurge. Alternatively, the Best Western or Hyatt House are just across the street and offer great rates.
If you stay within walking distance of Disneyland, I do not recommend getting a rental car since it will cost money to park, and you really won’t need it.
During your time at Disneyland, I recommend spending at least one full day in each park. Visit the top attractions such as Space Mountain, Rise of the Resistance, Radiator Springs Racers, and other fun rides. In addition, eat a ton of great Disney food and interact with the characters. You will not be sorry as Disneyland is one of the best places to visit in California in February.
Mojave National Preserve
By Jess of Uprooted Traveler
The Mojave National Preserve offers a stunning desert landscape with rugged mountains and unique flora and fauna, like cholla cactuses and Joshua trees. February is a lovely time to visit, given that the crowds are low, the temperature is cool and pleasant, and, towards the end of the month, you’ll even get to see springtime flowers in bloom.
There’s plenty to keep you busy in the National Preserve for a weekend and it makes for one of the best places to visit in California in February. For example, you can explore the preserve’s impressive number of Joshua tree groves—it actually has the highest population of them on the planet! The best place to see them is along Clima Road, which has the world’s largest forest of Joshua trees.
Additionally, bake in some time to explore the preserve’s unique hiking trails, like the Kelso Dunes. This short but steep trail takes you to the top of a towering sand dune, providing you with panoramic views of the surrounding desert and mountains. Be sure to stay in the park once the sun sets—the limited light pollution means you’ll get to enjoy some of the best stargazing in the country.
The best way to get to the Mojave National Preserve is by car. Located just one-hour southwest of Harry Reid International Airport in Nevada, it’s an excellent addition to any Las Vegas itinerary. Alternatively, it’s a three-hour drive east of Bakersfield or a three-and-a-half-hour drive northwest of Los Angeles.
The preserve has several excellent campgrounds, but if you prefer a more solid roof over your head, consider a stay at the sleek and hip Mojave Sands Hotel.
Lake Arrowhead
By Jen of Jen on the Run
Lake Arrowhead is a great place to visit in California, especially in February. The charming winter weather is perfect for sitting by the fire with a hot chocolate. If you’re lucky, you’ll see the beautiful trees surrounding the lake covered in snow, giving you a picturesque view that you wouldn’t expect in California.
At an elevation of 5,175 feet, Lake Arrowhead is one of California’s hidden gems. It’s perfect for winter sports enthusiasts, such as skiing, ice skating, snowboarding, and winter hiking. You can reach this location from Los Angeles or San Diego in just over two hours by car, making it a great weekend getaway from these Southern California cities. You can easily spend 2-3 days here as there is plenty to do.
There are many Airbnbs in the area within walking distance of Lake Arrowhead’s village, but it’s recommended to bring a car for easier access to the slopes, restaurants, and other places of interest. You could also take a 45-minute trip to Big Bear, another popular destination, if you have extra time.
Overall, for a trip to Lake Arrowhead, you should budget at least $120 to $160 per day, which includes car rental, lodging, food, and activities. If you’re traveling on a budget and looking to save on lodging, you could opt to stay in neighboring Cedar Glen, which is under 3 miles from Lake Arrowhead.
The Best Places to Visit in California in February
California has so many amazing places to visit in February. Some other best places to visit in California in February include Joshua Tree National Park, Laguna Beach, and Sacramento, or check out some of the best wine regions California has to offer, like Paso Robles. Also, make sure to see all of the fun winter activities Los Angeles has to offer.
