California offers a lot of variety, from sunny beaches to snowy mountains. It has a lot to offer during the holidays in December, whether you want to do winter sports, do fun holiday activities, or get away from the cold. Some of California’s best places to visit in December are listed below.
LAKE TAURA
A Winter Fantasy World
December is a great month to visit Lake Tahoe. There are many fun things to do in the winter that look great against the snow-covered mountains. At some of the best resorts in the country, like Heavenly, NorthStar, and Squaw Valley, people can ski and snowboard.
What Non Skiers Can Do
If skiing is not your thing, you can do things like snowshoeing, ice skating, and sledding at Lake Tahoe if you prefer something else. You can take a scenic gondola ride to see the lake and mountains from above. Many shops, restaurants, and cozy cabins exist in cute lakeside towns like South Lake Tahoe and Tahoe City.
The Park of Yosemite
Beautiful scenery
Every month of the year is beautiful in Yosemite National Park, but December is adorable. The park is less busy, and the snowy views make it feel like a natural winter wonderland. When it snows, famous places like Yosemite Falls, Half Dome, and El Capitan look even more beautiful.
Doings in the winter
In the winter, you can ice skate at Curry Village, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing in Yosemite. Ranger led snowshoe hikes in the park are fun and educational. Take the chance to see the famous waterfalls in the park. When they freeze, they make beautiful ice formations.
Lagoon Big Bear
A Fun Time in the Snow Near Los Angeles
Big Bear Lake is a popular winter destination, only two hours from Los Angeles. It is a great place to get away from the snow quickly. You can ski or snowboard at Big Bear Mountain Resort and Snow Summit.
Family-friendly things to do
Family fun is also great at Big Bear Lake. You can tube, ride in a horse-drawn carriage, or walk around the village, all decked out for the holidays. Magic Mountain’s Alpine Slide is a must-see for exciting fun.
Riverside California
Enjoy a warm winter getaway
If you want to escape the cold, go to San Diego. Los Angeles has mild and pleasant December, with temperatures usually in the 60s and 70s. There are many things to do in the city, from trips to the beach to cultural events.
Fun Holiday Activities
Many holiday events are happening in San Diego. Many people like the Balboa Park December Nights festival, which has lights, music, and food. Another great thing to see is the San Diego Bay Parade of Lights, where boats are decorated with lights and sail through the bay. Do not use to check out the famous San Diego Zoo and SeaWorld, both of which have holiday-themed rides and exhibits.
Calamigos
Desert Haven
December in Palm Springs is a particular time to be in the desert. The daytime temperatures are in the 70s, which is excellent for outdoor activities. Because of this, it’s a great place to go hiking, golfing, or just relaxing by the pool.
Mid-Century Style
Palm Springs’s architecture is known for being mid-century modern. Take a tour to experience some of the city’s most famous homes and places. The town has a lively arts scene, with many shops and the Palm Springs Art Museum. Take the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway to the San Jacinto Mountains for a unique adventure. At the top, it might be snowy.
Vine Country
Wine Country in the Autumn and Winter
December is a great month to visit Napa Valley, known for its wineries and farms. Fewer people mean you can enjoy a more relaxed time. Many wineries offer tastings by the fire, and the beautiful winter vines and foggy mornings make for a great location.
Greetings for the holidays
In December, Napa Valley has a lively vibe. Take advantage of the Calistoga Lighted Tractor Parade, the Napa Christmas Parade, or the holiday markets, where you can find unique gifts and goods made in the area.
Visiting Disneyland
The most Joyful Place in the World
Christmastime at Disneyland in Anaheim is magical. Giant Christmas trees and lights make Main Street, U.S.A., look like it’s the holiday season.
Events for the holidays
There are holiday themed events and shows at Disneyland. The fireworks show called “Believe In Holiday Magic” and the parade called “A Christmas Fantasy” are the best parts. Don’t miss the chance to ride the “It is a Small World” Holiday, which changes the famous ride with music and lights for the holidays. For an unforgettable experience, go to the park during the “Candlelight Processional.” It is a beautiful performance of the Christmas story with music and famous people reading from the story.
Los Angeles
Gorgeous Coastlines
Santa Barbara is a beautiful city on the ocean with a Mediterranean climate. It is sometimes called the “American Riviera.” December is a mild and pleasant month in Santa Barbara, making it a great place to visit for the beach, outdoor activities, and beautiful scenery.
Festivals and holidays
Lots of artistic events are happening in Santa Barbara in December. There are floats, marching bands, and holiday cheer at the Santa Barbara Holiday Parade. If you want to do something different, go on a sunset sail or a whale watching tour in December, the beginning of the grey whale migration season.
Côte de Mendocino
A beautiful coastal getaway
The Mendocino Coast is a peaceful place to get away in December, and its rough beauty is excellent. The coast is stunning, with cliffs, beaches, and cute towns. It is a historic town with many cute inns and bed and breakfasts built in the Victorian era.
Nature and Taking it Easy
In December, the Mendocino Coast is a beautiful place to visit. You can see the ocean from Mendocino Headlands State Park or walk through the redwoods at Russian Gulch State Park. Also, the area is known for having great food and wine, perfect for a relaxing evening by the fire.
A park in Death Valley
One of a Kind Desert Adventure
One of the hottest places on Earth is Death Valley National Park. However, December is a much better month to visit because the weather is cooler. With its vast salt flats, dunes, and unique rock formations, this harsh and beautiful desert scenery is unlike any other.
Looking Around the Park
You can visit many interesting spots in Death Valley. Go hiking in Golden Canyon or Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America. Photography and climbing are both fun at Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes. It is essential to take advantage of the chance to see Artist’s Palette and Racecourse Playa’s mystery sailing stones.
Conclusion
A lot of different places in California are great to visit in December. There is something for everyone, whether they want to enjoy winter sports, do fun holiday activities, or getaway to a nice place. No matter where you are in California, from the snowy peaks of Lake Tahoe to the sunny beaches of San Diego, every part of the state offers something different and memorable. You can see the best of California this December if you pack your bags and make plans.