It may be only January, but we're trying to put winter behind us. 2020 means all things new and why can't that include a dreamy vacation with your girlfriends? The Golden State is calling and the best spring break destinations in California have your name all over them.
Whether you're in the mood to sip spicy margs beachside with your BFFs, go swimming in a magical oceanside pool that's fit for a mermaid, or explore all the roadside attractions en route to the Hollywood Walk of Fame, there's something on this list for every type of traveler.
It's time to pack your bags and enjoy the vacation you deserve.
Rent a Dreamy Airbnb in Palm Springs
Price: $235 per night for up to 8 guests - that's only $29.38 per person.
Location: Palm Springs, California (exact location revealed after booking)
Why You Should Go: This colorful oasis in the desert is just the place you need to unwind after bar crawls in the city. There's a beautiful swimming pool, hot tub, and a large TV to binge-watch your favorite flicks. Could this place get any cuter?
Swim in an Enchanting Oceanside Pool
Price: Free
Location: Victoria Beach, Laguna Beach, California
Why You Should Go: At the right time of the year, you can swim in a natural saltwater pool overlooking the ocean and explore an old lighthouse on the beach from the 1920s.
Have Drinks at a Secret Speakeasy by a Cemetery
Price: Varies by purchase; no entry fee.
Location: Inside of Tahona Bar, Oculto 477, 2414 San Diego Ave, San Diego, CA 92110
Why you should go: You can sip prohibition-style cocktails inside a super-cool speakeasy that's right next door to a cemetery! It's lit by 477 candles to honor the dead. Oculto 477 is Spoookyyy.
Disneyland
Price: Varies by park and passes. See the full price list here.
Location: Anaheim, California
Why You Should Go: If you take a vacation to California without visiting The Happiest Place on Earth, did you really even go? Plus, the new Star Wars Rise of the Resistance ride will open on January 17.
Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve
Price: $10 per vehicle parking fees
Location: 15101 Lancaster Rd, Lancaster, California
Why You Should Go: These magical poppy fields are so colorful, you’ll feel like you’re in the Wizard of Oz. The best time to go is during peak season from mid-March through mid-April. Make sure to stay on the path, so the flowers don't get trampled.
Artist’s Palette
Price: Free
Location: Artist’s Drive, Death Valley, California
Why You Should Go: You can drive through 9 miles of beautiful rainbow-colored mountains.
Aztec Falls
Price: There is a $5 fee at Splinter’s Cabin Trailhead unless you show a valid California Adventure Pass or Interagency Pass in your car.
Location: Pacific Crest Trail, California
Why You Should Go: This waterfall oasis in the desert is the perfect adventure you would never expect to find near San Bernardino.
Explore the Natural Beauty of Lake Tahoe
Price: Varies by the park.
Location: Lake Tahoe, California
Why You Should Go: You can swim in enchanting crystal clear natural pools surrounded by a lush, green forest.
We strongly advise that before you go swimming or visit any location, you check the most recent updates on potential hazards, security, water quality, and closures. If you do plan to visit a location, respect the environment.
Federal Health Marjorie Michel speaks during a press conference in the Foyer of the House of Commons on Parliament Hill in Ottawa, on Thursday, May 28, 2026.
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Prime Minister Mark Carney is greeted by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen as he arrives to address the European Parliament in Strasbourg, France, on Thursday, Sept. 17, 2026.
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Prime Minister Mark Carney announces a new federal heat pump rebate program while visiting Dettson, a manufacturer of residential and commercial HVAC systems in Sherbrooke, Que., on Thursday, Oct. 8, 2026.
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Voters arrive to cast their referendum vote at an advance polling station in Calgary, Tuesday, Oct. 13, 2026.
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