5 Amazing West Coast Weekend Getaways You’ll Love (And Why You Should Go!)
If you’ve ever heard the phrase “West Coast, Best Coast,” you probably already have an idea why travelers and locals alike are drawn to this slice of the U.S. From sandy beaches and dramatic coastlines to snow-dusted peaks and vibrant cities, the West Coast is a dream destination—especially for weekend getaways.
Whether you’re looking for a quick romantic escape, a family-friendly adventure, or a chill wine-filled weekend with your besties, we’ve got you covered. These are our favorite picks for quick weekend trips on the West Coast—and why they deserve a spot on your travel bucket list.
1. Lake Tahoe, CA/NV: Outdoor Adventures + Cozy Charm
Perfect For: Nature lovers, couples, and anyone needing a digital detox.
Tucked into the Sierra Nevada mountains on the border of California and Nevada, Lake Tahoe offers some of the best outdoor recreation in the country. It’s an all-season destination with crystal-clear waters in the summer and powdery snow in the winter.
Why We Love It:
🌲 Hiking, kayaking, and skiing: Whether you're snowboarding in Heavenly or paddleboarding on the lake, there’s no shortage of activities.
🃏 A little nightlife: Feeling lucky? The Nevada side of the lake is home to casinos and nightlife.
🏡 Small town feel: South Lake Tahoe has cozy lodges, breweries, and a charming downtown perfect for lazy mornings and evening strolls.
2. San Diego, CA: Sunshine, Family Fun, and Laid-Back Vibes
Perfect For: Families, foodies, and beach lovers.
San Diego is the kind of place that makes it easy to relax. With perfect year-round weather, stunning beaches, and some of the best tacos you’ll ever eat, it’s a no-brainer for a short weekend trip.
Top Things to Do:
🦁 Visit the San Diego Zoo – One of the top-rated zoos in the world and perfect for all ages.
🏝️ Explore Coronado Island – Take the ferry and stroll through this idyllic beach town.
🎨 Balboa Park – Museums, gardens, and performances all in one place.
Local Favorites:
Grab fish tacos from Oscar’s Mexican Seafood.
Catch a sunset at Sunset Cliffs Natural Park.
Head to La Jolla to see the sea lions (and maybe do a little boutique shopping).
3. Los Angeles, CA: Where City Meets Beach (and Traffic)
Perfect For: Pop culture lovers, first-time visitors, and the “do-it-all” traveler.
Los Angeles is one of those places you either love or love to complain about—but either way, it’s iconic. From the glitz of Hollywood to the laid-back surf towns like Venice and Santa Monica, there’s no shortage of things to do, eat, or photograph.
Must-See Spots:
🎥 Hollywood Walk of Fame & Griffith Observatory – Yes, it’s touristy, but it’s also legendary.
🎢 Theme parks – Universal Studios Hollywood and Disneyland (just a short drive away in Anaheim).
🌴 Beaches – Malibu, Venice, and Santa Monica are all worth visiting.
Food Scene:
Don’t miss the food trucks! Try Korean BBQ tacos from Kogi or a late-night burrito from Tacos Leo.
Check out Grand Central Market downtown for tons of diverse options in one spot.
Keep in Mind:
Yes, the traffic is real. Build in buffer time between destinations, especially if you’re trying to squeeze a lot into a short trip.
4. Sedona, AZ: Desert Beauty Meets Spiritual Vibes
Perfect For: Girls’ trips, romantic escapes, and outdoor enthusiasts.
While not technically coastal, Sedona is still a top pick for West Coast travelers due to its proximity and unforgettable views. Known for its stunning red rock formations, vortex energy centers, and spiritual retreats, Sedona is both healing and fun.
Highlights:
🧘♀️ Energy vortex hikes – Try Cathedral Rock or Bell Rock.
🖼️ Art galleries & shopping – The Tlaquepaque Arts Village is the perfect place to shop for unique pieces.
🌅 Sunset views – Catching a sunset from Airport Mesa is a must.
Budget Tip:
Sedona has several affordable spa resorts and mid-range hotels, especially off-season. You can feel luxe without spending a fortune.
5. Willamette Valley, OR: Underrated Wine Country
Perfect For: Couples, wine lovers, and quiet weekend escapes.
If Napa is out of budget—or just a little too busy—Willamette Valley in Oregon is an incredible alternative. It's Oregon’s oldest wine region, known especially for its world-class Pinot Noir and beautiful scenery.
What to Do:
🍷 Go wine tasting – Over 700 wineries call the valley home. Start in Newberg, Dundee, or McMinnville.
🧺 Enjoy a picnic – Many wineries offer picnic baskets or welcome BYO snacks.
🚗 Explore scenic drives – The countryside is postcard-perfect year-round.
Why It's Special:
Willamette feels much more relaxed than other wine regions—less commercial, more intimate. The tasting rooms often have winemakers pouring the wine themselves!
Bonus Tips for Planning a West Coast Weekend Trip
If you’re plotting your next quick getaway, here are a few pro tips to make it as smooth and fun as possible:
✈️ Book Flights Early
West Coast destinations can get pricey last-minute. For the best fares, book domestic flights 1–2 months in advance and international flights 2–3 months out if you're traveling farther afield.
🧳 Pack for Layers
From San Diego’s coastal breeze to Sedona’s dry heat, the West Coast covers a range of climates. Always bring layers, especially in spring and fall.
🚗 Rent a Car
Outside of big cities like LA or San Diego, having a car gives you freedom to explore hidden gems—especially in places like Willamette Valley or Lake Tahoe.
📅 Avoid Peak Times
If possible, skip the long holiday weekends. Traveling mid-week or in shoulder seasons (late spring or early fall) can help you save on both accommodations and crowds.
Final Thoughts: Why the West Coast Is Perfect for Weekend Travel
The West Coast is a diverse and dynamic region that offers something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re after adventure, relaxation, wine, waves, or winding roads, a quick trip can be just what you need to recharge.
🌄 From the snowy serenity of Lake Tahoe
🏖️ To the sunny shores of San Diego
🍷 To the rolling vineyards of Oregon wine country...
...the West Coast is packed with magic, and weekend getaways are the perfect way to experience it all.
What’s your favorite West Coast weekend trip? Drop your go-to spots or dream destinations in the comments below—we’d love to add them to our list!
