Modern couples are choosing to forgo long, expensive honeymoon vacations for shorter “mini-moons” closer to home. For those of us living in Southern California, the state offers plenty of amazing quick honeymoon destinations near Los Angeles. These five locations will provide you and your new spouse all the romance of a honeymoon, close to home.
Laguna Beach – 1 hour via car
The honeymoon of your dreams is waiting for you here in Laguna Beach. Whether you seek absolute seclusion and serenity, or a bustle of daily activity, Laguna Beach caters to every bride and groom beginning their lives together.
Spend a romantic weekend taking in the sights of Laguna Beach. Be sure to book a room at one of the area’s luxury hotels. We love Surf & Sand Resort’s oceanfront balconies, Casa Laguna’s historic charm, and The Inn at Laguna Beach’s central location.
While you are there you can fit in a few holes of golf at The Ranch at Laguna Beach’s outstanding course. Then book at table at Montage for a romantic dinner.
Catalina Island – 1 hour via ferry
Catalina is the perfect romantic getaway for everyone from new love birds to couples who have been returning for ages.
Catalina Island is a popular honeymoon locale for good reason! The island is home to luxury hotels like the Mediterranean-style Hotel Vista del Mar, the iconic Avalon, and the cozy Portofino Hotel.
Catalina provides plenty of adventures for newlyweds. Hop in a Hummer and take a historical tour of the island or propel down ziplines criss-crossing the island. If you are looking for a more laid back stay, rent a cabana at the Descanso Beach Club.
Santa Ynez Valley – 2 ½ hours via car
The Santa Ynez Valley offers six unique communities to explore, a multitude of gorgeous vineyards and wineries, delicious restaurants and much more.
Wine lovers will remember a honeymoon to the Santa Ynez Valley fondly. For a lush and luxurious stay, book a room at the four-diamond Santa Ynez Inn. If you would prefer more contemporary accommodations, Solvang Hotel might be more your taste.
The Santa Ynez Valley boasts more than 120 wineries in the area. Choose one of the several local wine tours or ask your hotel if they offer packages which include winery tastings.
Big Sur – 6 hours via car
Wildflowers always seem to be blooming, California Condors are flying overhead throughout Big Sur. California Sea Otters are rafting in the kelp beds. These are just a few of the natural wonders that make Big Sur a great place to visit.
Couples who love spending time in nature will feel right at home with a honeymoon in Big Sur. The romantic natural beauty of the area makes the road trip feel like part of the vacation. Hike through one of the area’s several state parks or take a tour of the Point Sur lightstation.
Book a serene oceanside room at the Post Ranch Inn or a cozy cabin at Glen Oaks. For a truly unique experience, reserve a yurt or autonomous tent at the Treebones Resort.
Coronado – 2 ½ hours via car
While Coronado offers plenty of choices for honeymoon accommodations, to get the true Coronado experience you must stay at the Hotel del Coronado. The hotel’s history is indelibly linked with the history of the area.
Fulfilling dreams of California surf, sand and sun for over a century, the iconic Hotel del Coronado is an adventurous world all its own, where beach-lovers from near and far write their stories on sands that sparkle like gold.
Book a room or suite in the luxury hotel to have central access to the hotel’s many amenities. Visit the seaside spa, attend a beach bonfire, or rent a boat and explore the bay. Take your meals at one of the hotel’s half dozen bars and restaurants.
Plan your mini-moon today with a quick trip from Los Angeles to one of these gorgeous areas.
