Our favourite experiences and hotels for a luxury honeymoon in California
California. Known to many as the Golden State – and with good reason; everything about this sun-kissed state carries a little added shine. But there’s so much more to California than swaying palm trees fringing golden beaches and sunsets dipping into the Pacific Ocean. Take a step back from the beach and into the snow-capped Sierra Nevada Mountains and the towering Redwood forests and discover a hefty helping of the great outdoors.
Where the stars don’t shine, city lights twinkle in their place for those who prefer the bright lights, and these bright lights belong to cities famous the world over. Wind your way up Lombard Street in San Francisco, walk the Walk (of Fame) in L.A. and let gas lamps light your way in San Diego.
Whether it’s the latest tech update, the newest blockbuster or a must-eat dish, California will keep you on your toes. From Silicon Valley to the Hollywood Hills, there’s always something new and exciting here – and you can guarantee it will be happening here first.
Read on to find out our favourite California hotels and experiences, or browse all our other top honeymoon destinations here.
Luxury honeymoon experiences in California
Hot air balloon over Napa Valley
As sunlight floods in over the horizon, the vines of Napa are transformed to take on a beautiful golden hue worthy of their place in the Golden State. But to really appreciate this beautiful spectacle? Take to the skies and float serenely over it all on a sunrise hot air balloon flight. Drift back down to earth in time for a champagne breakfast in what is a truly enchanting start to your luxurious honeymoon.
Follow an urban wine trail in Santa Barbara
California is the original wine country – but Napa and Sonoma can’t be left to do all the hard work. In Santa Barbara, discover a whole new side to the wine industry on the Urban Wine Trail. Stroll through this laid back city to discover the crispest whites and most mellow reds, all within a few blocks of each other. Add to that beautiful Hispanic architecture and the Pacific Ocean as your backdrop and you’ve got the ultimate pairing.
Horse ride to the Hollywood sign
No trip to Tinseltown would be complete without a photo-op in front of the Hollywood sign. But instead of hiking up Mt. Hollywood like everyone else, take things at a more leisurely pace (this is California after all) and enjoy a romantic horseback ride at sunset through the stunning landscapes of Griffith Park, up to the top, where you’ll be treated to monumental views over a dusky downtown Los Angeles.
Luxury hotels in California
Relax at The Post Ranch Inn
If you’re looking for a room with a view, this is the place for it. Clinging to the Big Sur coastline, Post Ranch Inn sits snugly between the Pacific Ocean and Ventana Mountains and guarantees stunning views in every direction. Secluded and oozing romance, the houses here are a real escape from reality as you snuggle up in front of roaring log fires beneath star-lit skies. We can’t get enough of the 360° views from every single glass window, and we you know you’re going to love it too.
Shutters on the Beach
At Shutters on the Beach, life is quite literally a beach. Epitomising 1930s beach-house chic, Shutters On The Beach take it easy and enjoy a taste of the California good life. Whether that’s by pounding the waves in a surf lesson, cruising by on a bike ride to Venice Beach or swaying along to a spot of jazz in the evenings – you can’t go far wrong here.
Behind the vines at Farmhouse Inn
Tucked amid the sprawling vines of Sonoma, Farmhouse Inn makes for the perfect romantic getaway. World class wines, gourmet dining, and a beautifully rustic spa; it’s indulgence and relaxation all wrapped up in one perfect package. Cosy up in one of the homely farmhouse rooms and enjoy all that comes with it – especially the evening marshmallows and cookies.
Searching for the perfect honeymoon destination?
Whether you’re looking for a luxury honeymoon to the California, or you have your eyes set on the azure waters of the Maldives, we’ve got you covered. Check out all our honeymoon destinations and speak with us to get planning your special trip.