California, known for its year-round pleasant climate, is a popular destination for tourists and travelers alike. December is one of the best times to visit California, with mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and a plethora of exciting events and activities to enjoy. From the snow-capped mountains to the sun-kissed beaches, California has something to offer for everyone. In this article, we will explore the top places to visit in California in December, covering a range of interests, from outdoor enthusiasts to foodies and culture lovers.
Get ultimate traveler plannerWinter Wonderland in the Sierra Nevada Mountains
The Sierra Nevada mountains offer a winter wonderland experience in December, with snow-covered peaks, frozen lakes, and picturesque villages. The ski resorts in the Sierra Nevada mountains are a must-visit in December, with world-class skiing and snowboarding facilities. Some of the top ski resorts in the Sierra Nevada mountains include:
- Squaw Valley Ski Resort: Located in Lake Tahoe, Squaw Valley is one of the largest ski resorts in the United States, with over 3,600 acres of skiable terrain.
- Heavenly Mountain Resort: Located on the California-Nevada border, Heavenly Mountain Resort offers breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe and over 4,800 acres of skiable terrain.
- Mammoth Mountain Ski Area: Located in the Eastern Sierra, Mammoth Mountain is one of the largest ski resorts in California, with over 3,500 acres of skiable terrain.
Other activities to enjoy in the Sierra Nevada mountains in December include:
- Snowshoeing: Explore the snow-covered trails on snowshoes, a fun and easy way to experience the winter wonderland.
- Ice Skating: Enjoy ice skating at one of the many outdoor ice rinks in the Sierra Nevada mountains, such as the outdoor ice rink at Squaw Valley.
- Sleigh Rides: Take a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the snow-covered mountains, a romantic and festive experience.
Beachside Getaways in Southern California
Southern California offers a range of beachside getaways in December, with mild temperatures and plenty of sunshine. Some of the top beach destinations in Southern California include:
- Los Angeles: Enjoy the sun-kissed beaches of Los Angeles, such as Santa Monica Beach and Venice Beach, with plenty of amenities and activities.
- San Diego: San Diego offers a range of beautiful beaches, including La Jolla Cove and Coronado Beach, with plenty of opportunities for surfing, swimming, and sunbathing.
- Orange County: Orange County offers a range of beautiful beaches, including Huntington Beach and Newport Beach, with plenty of opportunities for surfing, swimming, and sunbathing.
Other activities to enjoy in Southern California in December include:
- Whale Watching: Take a whale-watching tour from San Diego or Los Angeles to spot gray whales migrating through the area.
- Surfing: Catch some waves at one of the many surf spots in Southern California, such as Malibu Beach or Trestles.
- Beachside Festivals: Enjoy beachside festivals and events in Southern California, such as the San Diego Bay Parade of Lights and the Huntington Beach Christmas Parade.
Food and Wine in Napa Valley
Napa Valley is a world-renowned wine region, with over 400 wineries and vineyards. December is a great time to visit Napa Valley, with mild temperatures and plenty of festive events. Some of the top wineries and vineyards in Napa Valley include: (See Also: Where to Visit in Italy? Ultimate Guide)
- Opus One Winery: A collaboration between Robert Mondavi and Baron Philippe de Rothschild, Opus One Winery produces some of the world’s finest wines.
- Domaine Carneros: A sparkling wine producer, Domaine Carneros offers stunning views of the vineyards and a range of delicious wines.
- Castello di Amorosa: A castle winery, Castello di Amorosa offers a range of wines and a unique castle experience.
Other activities to enjoy in Napa Valley in December include:
- Wine Tastings: Take a wine-tasting tour at one of the many wineries and vineyards in Napa Valley, such as the Silver Oak Cellars or the Duckhorn Vineyards.
- Food and Wine Pairings: Enjoy food and wine pairings at one of the many restaurants in Napa Valley, such as the French Laundry or the Restaurant at Meadowood.
- Hot Air Balloon Rides: Take a hot air balloon ride over the vineyards of Napa Valley, a breathtaking and romantic experience.
Theme Parks in Southern California
Southern California is home to some of the world’s most famous theme parks, including Disneyland, Knott’s Berry Farm, and Universal Studios Hollywood. December is a great time to visit these theme parks, with festive decorations and events. Some of the top theme parks in Southern California include:
- Disneyland Resort: A world-famous theme park, Disneyland Resort offers a range of attractions, shows, and experiences for all ages.
- Knott’s Berry Farm: A classic theme park, Knott’s Berry Farm offers a range of roller coasters, water rides, and family-friendly attractions.
- Universal Studios Hollywood: A behind-the-scenes look at the movie industry, Universal Studios Hollywood offers a range of attractions, shows, and experiences.
Other activities to enjoy in Southern California theme parks in December include:
- Festive Decorations: Enjoy the festive decorations and lights at the theme parks, such as the Disneyland Resort’s holiday decorations.
- Special Events: Attend special events at the theme parks, such as the Disneyland Resort’s holiday parade and the Knott’s Berry Farm’s Ghost Town Christmas.
- Character Meet-and-Greets: Meet your favorite characters at the theme parks, such as Mickey Mouse at Disneyland Resort or the Minions at Universal Studios Hollywood.
Recap of Top Places to Visit in California in December
California offers a range of exciting places to visit in December, from the snow-capped mountains to the sun-kissed beaches. Some of the top places to visit in California in December include: (See Also: Where to Visit in the Azores? Hidden Gems Revealed)
- Sierra Nevada mountains: Enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and winter wonderland activities in the Sierra Nevada mountains.
- Southern California beaches: Enjoy sunbathing, surfing, and beachside festivals in Southern California.
- Napa Valley: Enjoy wine tastings, food and wine pairings, and hot air balloon rides in Napa Valley.
- Southern California theme parks: Enjoy festive decorations, special events, and character meet-and-greets at the theme parks.
We hope this article has helped you plan your trip to California in December. Whether you’re interested in outdoor activities, food and wine, or theme parks, California has something to offer for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best time to visit California in December?
The best time to visit California in December depends on your interests and preferences. If you’re interested in skiing and snowboarding, the Sierra Nevada mountains are a great destination. If you’re interested in sunbathing and beachside activities, Southern California is a better choice. If you’re interested in food and wine, Napa Valley is a must-visit destination.
Q: What are the top ski resorts in California?
The top ski resorts in California include Squaw Valley Ski Resort, Heavenly Mountain Resort, and Mammoth Mountain Ski Area. These resorts offer world-class skiing and snowboarding facilities, as well as a range of other winter activities.
Q: What are the top beaches in Southern California?
The top beaches in Southern California include Santa Monica Beach, Venice Beach, La Jolla Cove, and Coronado Beach. These beaches offer a range of activities, including surfing, swimming, and sunbathing.
Q: What are the top wineries and vineyards in Napa Valley?
The top wineries and vineyards in Napa Valley include Opus One Winery, Domaine Carneros, and Castello di Amorosa. These wineries and vineyards offer a range of wines and a unique experience. (See Also: Where to Visit in Rome Italy? Top Hidden Gems)
Q: What are the top theme parks in Southern California?
The top theme parks in Southern California include Disneyland Resort, Knott’s Berry Farm, and Universal Studios Hollywood. These theme parks offer a range of attractions, shows, and experiences for all ages.
