Honeymoon Ideas in California

Many cities in California are known for their high cost of living, so you probably figure that it’s just as expensive to visit there (or anywhere along the west coast for that matter!).  While you can easily break your budget at some restaurants and resorts, there are still ways to honeymoon there without breaking your budget.

The best thing to do rent a car – to be specific a convertible or a jeep – and travel the coast.  Whether you’re going from San Diego to Seattle or vice versa, there are so many beautiful places to see.  Explore the beaches, enjoy nature at one of the many forests, or stop off at a winery for a tasting and tour.

Here are some of our favorite inexpensive (and some free!) things to do along the way…

San Diego – Hit the beach, visit Mission Bay Park (the west coast’s largest aquatic park), go hiking at Mission Trails Regional Park or take a walk around the city to view some of the public art exhibits.

Los Angeles – Rock out at a music festival or concert, people watch on Hollywood Blvd. or cruise Beverly Hills and search out celebrity homes.

San Francisco – Bike the Golden Gate Bridge, be amazed by the animals at the SF Zoo or take a historical walking tour of the Barbary Coast Trail.

Sacramento – Take a tour of the state Capitol, visit the gorgeous Victorian Houses or visit the Old Sacramento filled with plenty of dining, shopping and entertainment.  Don’t forget to stop in one of the world-renowned museums set within the time of the California Gold Rush and Transcontinental Railroad!

Portland – Walk a Farmer’s Market, take a tour of one of the many breweries or distilleries (many are complimentary!) or visit The Grotto.

Seattle  – Visit the Space Needle for an amazing view of the city and beyond from the observation deck, grab a cup of coffee at the Original Starbucks or find serenity at the Waterfall Garden.

As for sleeping accommodations, find a camp ground, reserve a cheap room on Expedia, or pop-in to a bed & breakfast.  Many places will offer last minute deals!