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Key takeaways
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Quiet beaches, whale watching, small crowd
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Spring:
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Wildflowers, festivals, mild weather
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Summer:
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Warm sun, active beaches, events
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Fall:
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Autumn colors, harvest festivals, deals
For many, California is a year-round destination with its sunny beaches and stunning natural landscapes. Whether you plan to soak in the coastal views or explore popular tourist spots during a shore excursion, Princess offers a unique way to experience the Golden State.
Since California is the home of Princess Cruises, you can anticipate expert insights and some of the best stops. Ready to find out the best time to go to California for your next at-sea adventure? Discover more about what California is known for, as well as the perks of visiting during each season.
When is the best time to visit California?
As you plan your California cruise, your vacation dates will depend on what you want to experience in the area. Each season offers something special, and you can’t go wrong with any time of the year. For example:
Winter means quieter beaches and the excitement of whale watching along the coast. It’s an ideal time for those looking to avoid the larger crowds and enjoy cooler—yet still mild—weather.
Spring is a burst of color in California with wildflowers and festivals. This season is great for those who enjoy milder temperatures and smaller crowds before the summer rush.
Spring is great for those who enjoy milder temperatures and smaller crowds before the summer rush
Summer offers endless sun and bustling beachfronts, which is why it’s the top choice for sun-seekers and water sports enthusiasts. This is also the season with the most street fairs and outdoor concerts.
Fall is a magical time of changing colors and harvest festivals in the wine country. As the peak travel season winds down, you can find plenty of great deals on both cruises and wine. This shoulder season offers a spectacular backdrop for scenic cruises and a more relaxed pace.
Best time to visit California for cruises
Cruising the California coast offers a stunning view of the landscapes of this state. The spring and fall months are particularly ideal for these cruises since they provide mild weather and clear skies. This is perfect both for sightseeing and onboard activities. During these times, you can experience the spring blooms or the dramatic fall colors along the coastline.
Start your California adventure
Best time to visit California beaches
If you’re a beach enthusiast, the summer months from June to August are prime time for a visit to California. The weather is warm and the Pacific waters are inviting during this time of year. The temperatures make it ideal for surfing, especially in spots like Huntington Beach and Malibu. If you prefer quieter beach days, you may want to plan your cruise for late spring or early fall when the weather is still pleasant, but the crowds are fewer.
Festivals in California are a popular draw to the state and they can be the high point of your visit, especially if you time it right. Major music and art festivals like Coachella in April or the Monterey Jazz Festival in September are accessible during specific cruise excursions. Plan your trip to catch a festival either before your cruise embarks or extend your stay in California after your cruise wraps up for even more fun.
Best time to visit California national parks
National parks are another year-round attraction. However, if you want to avoid snow in higher elevations like Yosemite, it’s best to visit between May and October. The mild weather during these months makes it perfect for hiking and exploring the diverse landscapes. Although you won’t have time to visit any of the national parks during a port stop, they can be a fun adventure to add before or after your cruise.
Here are some national parks in California and the best times to visit them:
Best time to visit California’s wine country
To witness the grape harvest, visit in the fall, particularly from September to November. This is when the vineyards are most active and the scenery is breathtaking. Princess Cruises’ Pacific Wine Country cruises are tailored to enrich this experience.
These excursions not only allow you to witness the harvest process but also offer tastings of some of the world's finest wines directly from the source. Stops typically include renowned wine-making regions such as Sonoma and Napa Valley, where you can interact with winemakers and learn about the craft behind their prestigious vintages.
How to avoid crowds in California
California is a popular vacation destination, attracting visitors from around the world year-round. To enjoy everything this state has to offer with fewer people around, consider these tips:
Travel during off-peak times: Late fall through early spring (excluding holidays) generally sees fewer tourists, especially at major attractions and cities.
Explore lesser-known spots: California is full of hidden gems. Instead of heading to the usual hotspots, try exploring lesser-known areas like Tuolumne Meadows instead of Yosemite Valley or Santa Ynez Valley, Santa Barbara's rich wine country, instead of the more famous Napa Valley.
Aim for early mornings or late evenings: Many attractions are less crowded early in the morning or later in the evening. When your cruise itinerary allows, try to plan activities for the beginning or end of the day.
Book excursions through Princess: Take advantage of the organized excursions offered through Princess Cruises. These can offer a more exclusive experience of California’s most sought-after attractions —and with our Guaranteed Return to Ship, you can explore with peace of mind that the ship will wait if your tour runs late.
Although you won’t be able to avoid crowds entirely, you can expect fewer people when you don’t travel during major holidays and vacation periods.
The attractions in California
California’s diverse attractions mean there is always something exciting to do, no matter when you visit. From iconic landmarks to natural wonders unlike anywhere else, Princess Cruises provides an enriching journey alongside the coast of California with different shore excursion offers.
The seasons in California
California’s climate means that the four seasons are not as dramatically distinct as they are in other destinations. However, there are certain advantages to enjoying a cruise during each season.
Winter (December to February): This season is a good time for whale watching or exploring the desert landscapes at lower elevations. Cities like San Francisco and San Diego offer holiday festivities that light up the cooler days.
Spring (March to May): Witness the state turn into a range of colors with its famous wildflower blooms, especially in the Central Valley and along the Pacific Coast Highway.
Summer (June to August): The classic California season, summer offers endless beach activities, outdoor concerts and food festivals. It’s also the best time for water sports and enjoying the boardwalks of beach cities.
Fall (September to November): Experience the grape harvest in the wine country and enjoy the fall foliage, particularly in the northern parts of the state. Fall’s cooler temperatures are perfect for exploring the natural beauty without the summer heat.
No matter when you decide to cruise with Princess, California's varied climates and activities ensure that there’s always something exciting to explore.
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Ethan Carter
Travel Writer & Cruise Enthusiast, Exploring the World’s Oceans
Ethan Carter is a travel writer specializing in cruises. He shares insights on top destinations, onboard experiences, and hidden gems in port cities.
Ethan Carter
Travel Writer & Cruise Enthusiast, Exploring the World’s Oceans
Ethan Carter is a travel writer specializing in cruises. He shares insights on top destinations, onboard experiences, and hidden gems in port cities.
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Here are some national parks in California and the best times to visit them:
