First time in California

Question

Hi. This is a big ask but I’m hoping someone here will be able to help. My husband and I are coming to LA (from the UK) for an event at the end of October and once that’s done would like to make a holiday of it for a couple of weeks.

We figure we could fly home from San Francisco and take in whale watching, try a winery, and visit Yosemite along the way (we don’t mind that it’ll be cold early November!). Is this outrageous or very doable? Does anyone have any recommendations or tips or advice - definitely dos and definitely don’t dos? Any steer would be very welcome to get us started with planning. We’re both first timers to California. So far we’re considering Santa Barbara for a stay and maybe somewhere in the Fresno area for the wine to stop on the way to Yosemite. Big Sur also looks beautiful and Monterey (maybe for the whales?) but we have no idea if it’d be worth it at that time of year. Many thanks

Answer

Your plan for a couple of weeks in California sounds very doable and could be an incredible experience! With a well-thought-out itinerary, you’ll be able to enjoy many of California’s iconic destinations. Here's some advice and suggestions to help you plan your trip:

1. Timing & Weather:
Late October and early November can be a bit chilly, especially in Yosemite and Northern California. Expect temperatures to drop, particularly in the evenings, so be sure to pack layers. While it's cold in some places, the weather is generally mild in cities like LA, Santa Barbara, and Monterey. As you’re traveling to both coastal and inland areas, be prepared for varying climates.

2. LA to San Francisco Road Trip:
The drive from LA to San Francisco is one of the most scenic in the world, and you have a great list of destinations planned! Here's a suggested route:

Santa Barbara: A charming stop along the coast. The town is known for its Mediterranean feel and beautiful beaches. Spend a night or two here and enjoy its relaxing vibe. The wine country around Santa Barbara (Santa Ynez Valley) offers some excellent wineries to explore.
Big Sur: This drive along California’s Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is legendary. Expect jaw-dropping coastal views, cliffs, and misty forests. November might be cooler and foggier than summer, but it can still be breathtaking. If you’re short on time, a quick stop at McWay Falls or Bixby Creek Bridge is a must.
Monterey & Carmel-by-the-Sea: Both beautiful places to visit and great for whale watching, even in November. The whales migrate along the coast, and while the peak season is usually between December and April, you can still have a good chance of spotting them. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is world-class, and the town of Carmel is very charming.
Fresno/Sequoia National Park: You’ll pass through this area on your way to Yosemite. While the wineries near Fresno aren’t as famous as those in Napa, the region still has excellent options. You could plan a short visit to Sequoia to see the giant trees, though do note that Yosemite is your primary destination for natural beauty.

3. Yosemite National Park:
Yosemite will be spectacular in early November, though some higher elevation roads (like the Tioga Pass) could be closed due to snow. You should definitely focus on the valley floor, which is open year-round. Must-see spots include:

Yosemite Falls
Glacier Point (check road conditions before visiting)
El Capitan and Half Dome views
Mariposa Grove (home to giant sequoias)

Since you're visiting in the off-season, you’ll encounter fewer crowds, making it an ideal time for a more peaceful experience. Just be prepared for shorter daylight hours, as it can get dark early in November.

4. Whale Watching:
November can be a good time for whale watching in California, particularly along the coast. While the peak season is generally from December to April, gray whales start migrating in November. You can find whale watching tours from places like Monterey, Big Sur, or Santa Barbara. Just check availability and weather conditions as it can be a bit cooler at sea.

5. Wine Country:
While Napa and Sonoma are famous wine destinations, you’re right to look at Santa Barbara and the Santa Ynez Valley for wineries as they offer excellent wines, especially pinot noir and chardonnay. Some great wineries to consider near Santa Barbara include:

Fess Parker Winery
Sunstone Vineyards & Winery
Santa Barbara Winery

It’s a great time of year to visit wine country as the harvest season will just be wrapping up. Expect to see fewer tourists and plenty of beautiful vineyard views!

6. Dos and Don’ts:
Here are a few general dos and don'ts to keep in mind:

Do: Take your time driving along the coast, as the scenery is one of California’s main attractions.
Do: Check road conditions for Yosemite and Big Sur, as closures may happen due to weather or maintenance.
Don’t: Rush through Yosemite. Spend a full day or more in the park to fully enjoy the landscapes and beauty.
Don’t: Underestimate the temperature changes. Pack warm clothes for Yosemite, even if it’s warm in LA or Santa Barbara.
Don’t: Expect to do everything at once. California is vast, so prioritize your top interests (nature, wine, etc.) and pace yourself.

7. Final Thoughts:
Overall, your trip is absolutely doable! The combination of coastal beauty, wine tasting, and Yosemite’s natural wonders will give you a comprehensive and enjoyable introduction to California. Don’t forget to book tours or accommodations in advance, as spots can fill up, especially in Yosemite. You’ve chosen some wonderful destinations that will offer a blend of relaxation, adventure, and scenic views—perfect for your first time in California!

First time in California

More California (CA) Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions