Winter Wonders: 3 California Winter Escapes You Might Not Expect

The Golden State as we know it is never short on reasons to visit, no matter the season. While peak times often steal the spotlight, there are many destinations where the adventure carries on well beyond the summer season, and a few of them may just surprise you.

Credit: Jeremy Bishop via Unsplash

Whether wandering through the snowy groves of Yosemite National Park in true winter-wonderland fashion, enjoying intimate wine tastings among Sonoma County’s rolling green hills or savouring the charm of a summer favourite minus the crowds in Huntington Beach, read on to discover some of California’s diverse winter experiences.

Yosemite National Park

As the adventure shifts from bustling summer trails to quieter, snow-dusted vistas and striking natural wonders, travellers will find themselves immersed in a Hallmark winter scene throughout the Yosemite area. Winter also brings the added bonus of lighter crowds, creating a more affordable and serene experience that feels as though the park belongs entirely to you.

Credit: Yosemite Hospitality

Yosemite Valley remains the epicentre of bucket-list experiences, and winter is no exception. The Yosemite Badger Pass Ski Area (California’s first established ski resort, no less) receives around 74 inches of snowfall each year, transforming the landscape into a playground for classic cold-weather adventures. Here, visitors can spend the day skiing or snowboarding across gentle slopes and family-friendly terrain.

For those who prefer a different kind of winter magic, look no further than the iconic Curry Village Ice Rink (above). Framed by Half Dome and soaring granite cliffs, this historic rink offers an unforgettable backdrop for a spin on the ice, followed by a cosy hot drink by the fire pit.

Credit: Yosemite Conservancy

Another favourite for winter explorers is snowshoeing through the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias. In summer, visitors can choose from several scenic trails, but in winter, most opt for the Big Trees Loop or the Grizzly Giant Loop Trail for a manageable yet rewarding experience. Keep in mind that Mariposa Grove Road closes in winter, adding an extra four-mile round trip to reach the trailhead, so travellers are advised to plan accordingly. With local equipment rentals available, minimal crowds and the towering sequoias as a backdrop, it’s a winter experience that feels both serene and unforgettable.

If that still doesn’t quite hit the mark, Yosemite Adventure Company offers year-round ATV and 4x4 tours of the Sierra Nevada and Yosemite National Park. With snow tracks built for thrilling off-road guided experiences, this is one for those who are looking to elevate their winter bucket list even further.

Credit: Mike Mezeul II Photography

For the nature enthusiasts, Yosemite puts on one of nature’s most dazzling shows in mid-to-late February. As the setting sun hits Horsetail Falls at just the right angle, the water glows in fiery shades of orange and red creating the illusion of a glowing cascade. Weather permitting, this rare phenomenon, known as the Firefall, lasts only a few days each year but is reason enough for many travellers to plan a winter visit around it.

For up-to-date information on travel conditions and access to Yosemite National Park during the winter months, visit: https://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/winter.htm

Sonoma County

With its temperate year-round climate, rolling hills and rugged coastline, Sonoma County offers pleasant winter weather and seasonal activities alongside its world-class winegrowing.

Credit: Sonoma County Tourism

Harvest season kicks off in September as vineyards buzz with grape picking, stomping and celebratory events. It’s an exciting time to visit, filled with energetic celebrations and tradition. For those craving a more serene escape, winter offers a quieter alternative, a sweet spot just after the harvest where travellers can enjoy more intimate wine tastings, occasionally with the chance to even meet the winemakers themselves.

Credit: Sonoma County Tourism

The region’s acclaimed dining scene also becomes more accessible in winter, with shorter waitlists at sought-after restaurants such as SingleThread, a three-Michelin-starred Japanese-inspired restaurant in Healdsburg. Adding to the culinary draw, Sonoma County Restaurant Week takes place in late February, showcasing seasonal ingredients and inventive dishes from select restaurants not typically found throughout the rest of the year.

For those looking beyond the table, the cooler season is perfect for exploring the landscape itself. Vineyard hikes with tasting experiences offered by select wineries combine outdoor adventure with wine discovery, while guided walks through natural wonders like Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve reveal another towering side of Sonoma’s charm.

Huntington Beach

When you hear ‘Surf City USA®’, we can almost guarantee your first thought is (of course) surfing, surrounded by sunshine, beaches and summer vibes. Well, with over 300 days of sunshine a year and an active year-round surf culture, this still rings true in the winter months.

Credit: Vancity Wild

Contrary to popular belief, winter is widely regarded as one of the best times of the year for surfing in Huntington Beach. With more consistent waves and cooler weather, the swells are more manageable and still make for some top-class spectating from the Huntington Beach Pier. With select surf schools also offering lessons year-round, why not encourage clients to pick up a board themselves?

Credit: Visit Huntington Beach

With surfing at the heart of all things Huntington Beach, the vibes don’t stop there, as travellers can discover the heavy influence of surfing culture through the International Surf Museum, home to some of the world’s most famous surf memorabilia, not to mention the world’s largest ridden surfboard (above).

The fun isn’t limited to the ocean, either. With over 500 beach bonfire pits, beach volleyball and yoga by the shore, winter here keeps the liveliness going. For those keen to swap sandy toes for city strolls, boutique shopping at Pacific City, seafront dining and rooftop cocktail bars await. Situated on the northwestern corner of Huntington Beach, Huntington Harbor is also open throughout the winter months for kayaking, boat charters and SUP activities, for those who crave more leisurely seaside activity.

California doesn’t slow down when the seasons change, it simply shows off a different side of its personality. From carving tracks in Yosemite’s snowy backcountry and sharing a glass of wine in Sonoma’s cosy tasting rooms to catching a winter swell or a sunset bonfire in Huntington Beach, these escapes highlight just a small portion of how diverse the Golden State can be.

For more information, don’t hesitate to get in touch: info@rocketlondon.co.uk