Few experiences are more uniquely satisfying than finding the perfect gift for a friend or family member. Of course, in most cases, that’s easier said than done. Luckily for those impossible-to-shop-for people on your list, we’ve curated a collection of creative, California-made presents that are surefire favorites.
Get your shopping wrapped up early to give yourself more time to sip some eggnog by the fire—as you plan your next trip to the Golden State.
GIFTS FOR THE GOURMAND
Sola Bee Honey Hive, $35
Located in Yolo County, Sola Bee Farms is the first honey company in the country with a completely solar-powered, sustainable model. This three-jar gift box made from reclaimed redwood makes for a very sweet gift.
Truff Hot Sauce Bundle Pack, $34
This Huntington Beach-brewed truffle hot sauce has collected quite the fervent following. Devotees include the gifting queen herself, who says she has converted Steadman too.
Ridge Vineyards Holiday Pairing Pack, $297
Deliver a California winemaker’s dinner straight to your loved one’s door. This gift package from Ridge, a Sonoma Valley vineyard with roots dating back more than 100 years, includes six bottles alongside recipes with recommended pairings.
Forno Piombo Pizza Oven, from $7,100
The father-son team at Napa Valley’s Forno Piombo builds every one of their stunning ovens from scratch. Part wood-fired furnace, part glittering art piece—they limit production to only 160 per year to ensure perfection.
Five Marys Tomahawk Steak, $85
In the tiny town of Fort Jones, Mary Heffernan, her husband, Brian, and their four daughters (all named Mary) raise cattle on 1,800 acres of farmland. Taste the fresh grass and Cali sunshine in this 2.5-pound, caveman-style cut.
GIFTS FOR THE ADVENTURER
Static Waxed Canvas Chalk Bag, $35
Crafted by Taylor Carpenter, a San Diego-based climber on a mission to craft the perfect chalk bag, this stunner of an accessory is infused with SoCal-grown lavender and built to last a lifetime.
California State Parks Annual Pass, $195
Give your favorite outdoor explorer the golden ticket to the Golden State. An annual pass provides access to nearly 300 incredibly diverse parks like the rugged granite Mount San Jacinto, the other-worldly Salton Sea, and the shimmering Emerald Bay.
Almond Surfboards R-Series, $399
The team at Almond has been hand-shaping surfboards in Costa Mesa for more than a decade. The 5’4” Secret Menu Surfrider Foundation is an easy-to-love board with proceeds protecting the oceans in which we shred.
California Road Trips: 50 Life-Changing Adventures, $13
Name an American adventure more iconic than a California road trip. We’ll wait… Discover 50 unforgettable itineraries in our beautiful, photography-filled book. Think hidden beaches, ghost towns, desert wildflowers, and more.
Rewilder Oversized Rain Jacket, $595
Stay dry, look cool, and save our planet all in one thoughtful package. Los Angeles-based Rewilder created this jacket from 100-percent up-cycled material including car shell fabric, salvaged seat belts, and uncut keys.
GIFTS FOR THE COOL KIDS
50 Hikes with Kids: California, $20
A colorful, interactive guidebook is an easy way to inspire an appetite for the great outdoors. Author Wendy Gordon includes fun touches like scavenger hunts and “grub spots” for every hike.
ADKTD Lifestyle Cali Bear Onesie, $28
Hand-stitched in Santa Barbara, California’s state symbol has never looked more adorable than on this organic cotton onesie.
Hija de tu Madre Jefa Kids T-Shirt, $28
Every piece from Los Angeles-based designer Hija de tu Madre pays homage to the power and diversity of Latinx-California culture, including this cute little tee created for the boss (jefa) baby in your life.
SFMOMA Modern Artists Dolls, $40
Instill a love of fine art early on with hand-chiseled dolls, designed in the likeness of Salvador Dalí, Frida Kahlo, Andy Warhol, and Vincent Van Gogh—all of whom have been displayed at the SFMOMA.
The Jonsteen Company Giant Sequoia Christmas Tree, $50
Give the gift that keeps on growing right alongside your little one. Seed-grown without pesticides, this tree ships directly from a nursery in Humboldt County, the heart of California’s redwood coast.
GIFTS FOR THE ART LOVER
Destination PSP Mid-Century Butterfly House Tissue Box Cover, $75
Fans of architecture and design will get a kick out of this decorative piece. Every tissue, pulled from the chimney, will transport the sniffler straight to sunny Palm Springs.
Ben Medansky Sculpture, $80 and up
Wunderkind sculptor, Ben Medansky, displayed his work at The American Museum of Ceramic Art and The Craft Contemporary before the age of 30. Gift a one-of-a-kind piece fired in Los Angeles for less than $100.
Xio Design Studio Headboard, $600 and up
Joshua Tree native Xihomara Alvarez designs with the magic of the desert in mind. Her chevron-style headboards are inspired by the sun’s rays and make for a stunning statement piece.
The Blacksmith Shop Fireplace Tools, $750 and up
Visiting the Victorian village of Ferndale in Humboldt County feels like a journey back in time. Capture some of that old world feel with a fireplace set from a local shop specializing in the lost art of blacksmithery.
Talbot & Son’s Avalon Camera Strap, $109
Made from cowhide leather, steel, and brass, this classic-looking camera strap gives any snapper an aesthetic upgrade. Each piece is made-to-order in the firm’s San Diego studio.
GIFTS FOR THE FASHION-FORWARD
Jacquie Aiche Mini Disco Shaker Hoop, $540
Think of the world’s most fashionable celebs, and chances are they’ve worn Los Angeles-based Aiche’s designs. Gift your cool friend some hardware loved by the likes of Rihanna, Kate Hudson, and Beyoncé.
Esquivel Chuck shoes, $725
Crafted entirely by hand—right down to the laces—every pair from Orange County-based Esquivel is a work of art. Easily dressed up or down, this Chuck might be a bit spendy, but it will never go out of style.
Cuyana Mini Bow Bag, $250
With the motto “fewer, better things,” San Francisco-based Cuyana’s goods are built to last and look great doing so. This festive little bag looks just like a present, perfect for holiday parties and city travel.
Catherine Gee Carla Jacket, $398
A crimson velvet jacket, designed by one of Santa Barbara’s most exciting womenswear designers, makes for an instant holiday staple.
The Truckee Hat, $30
We dare you: Look at this hat and try not to crack a smile. This corduroy cap from Truckee mixes mountain man, train conductor, and ’70s dad vibes into one stylish package.
