Bed & Breakfast Inns

If you’re looking for more distinctive lodging options, bed and breakfast inns (B&Bs) may be just the thing. B&Bs are mostly located in homes, country cottages, historic Victorian mansions and other sites that offer more of a local flavor. Because properties are typically smaller, the innkeeper can offer more personalized service. As the name implies, a full breakfast is included in the price of your room, which may be in-room, family-style or buffet.

The California Association of Bed & Breakfast Inns web site provides detailed information about B&Bs in every region of the state, plus online booking.

Cabins and Vacation Rentals

If you have kids, a big group, special needs, or just like to have more space and the ability to cook for yourself, consider renting a vacation home. This is a particularly popular option around Lake Tahoe and other ski areas for the best locations on the mountain. Both Lake Shasta and the confluence of the Sacramento and San Joaquin Rivers are popular house-boating spots. You can find vacation rentals in all areas of the state at VacationRentals.com, Vacapedia, Vacation Rentals By Owner, and many other rental web sites, or through a local rental agency.

Camping

You can camp at many of California’s hundreds of State Parks, beaches and recreation areas. Plan your trip using the California State Parks web site’s detailed descriptions and search feature. Some campsites are first-come, first-served, so it helps to reserve ahead with Reserve America.  

California is also home to a number of National Parks and recreation areas, including Yosemite, Sequoia and King’s Canyon, Death Valley and Joshua Tree. Learn more about each park’s features, fees and reservation policies on the National Park Service web site.

There are also many KOA and other private campgrounds throughout the state.

Recreational Vehicles

RVs are welcome at many California State Parks, beaches and recreation areas. The California State Parks web site provides descriptions of each area and length restrictions. You can reserve ahead for most campgrounds with Reserve America.

California’s National Parks include Yosemite, Sequoia and King’s Canyon, Joshua Tree and others. Learn more about each one’s features and RV parks at the National Park Service web site.

There are also many KOA and private campgrounds throughout the state.

Renting? Find a list of companies that rent RVs on this handy list of KOA-Preferred RV Rental Centers in California.

Resorts

California is home to many world-class resorts in famous ski, desert, and beach destinations, and in the more popular wine regions. Planning a wedding, conference, reunion or getaway at a resort offers convenient access to event spaces and a variety of activities including dining, golf, spas, pool, tennis, exercise facilities and more.

Find a resort for your visit to California here.