Of all of the places that I’ve been, nowhere can compete with Southern California. As soon as you set foot in the Golden State, you’ll see why it’s one of the most beloved travel hot spots in the world.

Whether you come for winter surfing, summer festivals, or spring stargazing, Southern California is a dream destination 365 days a year.

Check out my favorite highlights & the best time to go to Southern California!

Summer in Southern California

Months: June to September

Southern California is at its peak in the summer. The weather is perfect with overnight lows near the coast in the mid-60s and daytime highs in the mid-80s. Festival season is in full swing and you can find a celebration for everything under the sun.

Indulge your decadent side at the BBQ & Beer Festival in Santa Clarita then get your heart racing at the always exciting Six Flags Magic Mountain in Los Angeles. Want insight into the local culture of So Cal? Get to the San Diego Festival of the Arts in mid-June.

Of course, one of my favorite things to do in Southern California in the summer is to unwind at the beach. I absolutely adore the über chic Laguna Beach, the chill El Matador, the world famous Venice Beach, and the ultrafun Santa Monica Pier.

Fall in Southern California

Months: October & November

One of the things I love the most about Southern California is that you can travel the world without leaving city limits. Want to party it up for Oktoberfest? Places like the Standard Biergarten, Steingarten LA, Verdugo, or any one of the countless German-loving bars around LA can compete with the greatest parties in Deutschland.

Another great thing to do in Southern California in the fall is to check out the countless food festivals. Two of my top picks are the California Lemon Festival in Goleta in October and the Taste of Downtown in San Diego in early September.

If you are in California for Halloween, you’re in for a treat!

Whether you want a family-friendly festival or a heart-stopping haunted tour, there are countless options from San Diego up to Los Angeles. If you are ready for a truly hair-raising experience, check out the Queen Mary Dark Harbor.

Winter in Southern California

Months: December to February

California has the best weather in the United States so don’t let winter put you off visiting. Much of Southern California has temps ranging from the mid-50s to the mid-70s. Although it’s not bikini weather, it’s usually very mild and great for exploring.

While Northern California may have incredible skiing, the south is a surfing paradise. For beginners, head to Manhattan Beach or Malibu Beach. If you’ve got a bit of experience under your belt, check out La Jolla Shores or Rincon. For the true pros, you’ll be blown away by the waves at Trestles and Blacks Beach San Diego.

Before you head inland, be sure to go whale watching too! More than 25,000 California grey whales surround the shores of San Diego from mid-December to mid-March.

Of course, you can’t go to Southern California without indulging in your Hollywood dreams. Film festival season kicks off with the Palm Springs International Film Festival in January. It’s an insider favorite and a must-see for any film buff.

Spring in Southern California

Months: March to May

Spring is definitely one of the best times to visit Southern California. The tourists haven’t taken over yet and the prices are still lower than you’ll see them during the summer season.

Fellow culture vultures have got to get in on Smithsonian magazine’s Museum Day Live, which takes place across Los Angeles during mid-March and gives you free admission to countless museums.

Festival season starts early here with Coachella and Stagecoach Country Music Festival taking place inland of LA in April. Less famous, but equally amazing, is the Rooftop Cinema festival. Held throughout April, the festival screens classic movies on rooftops all over Hollywood.

Don’t miss Fiesta Old Town’s Cinco de Mayo either! This three-day celebration in San Diego is such a colorful, amazing experience.

Check out my favorite California style essentials!

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If Greece is calling… how would you answer? #Ad
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Choose Your Greek Adventure with 🇬🇷 ✨ @Expedia!

🌋 Adventure – Milos:
This volcanic island is a playground for explorers. From surreal lunar landscapes at Sarakiniko Beach to secret sea caves only accessible by boat, Milos is made for adventure seekers. Hike, sail, snorkel, and discover hidden gems around every turn.

🍷 Luxury – Santorini:
Famous for its iconic whitewashed villages and cliffside sunsets, Santorini is where elegance meets epic views. Think boutique cave hotels with infinity pools, private wine tastings, and the kind of dinners you’ll remember forever.

🏖️ Beaches – Naxos:
Greece’s best-kept secret for beach lovers. Naxos offers long stretches of golden sand, crystal-clear water, and a laid-back charm, all without the crowds. Perfect for slow mornings, seaside tavernas, and sun-soaked afternoons.

Whether you’re planning a solo escape, romantic getaway, or family trip, @Expedia helps you book everything in one place—flights, stays, experiences, and more.

So… how would you answer the call? 👇 Let me know your pick!
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#ExpediaPartner #GreeceTravel #ChooseYourAdventure #GreekIslands

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If Greece is calling… how would you answer? #Ad
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
Choose Your Greek Adventure with 🇬🇷 ✨ @Expedia!

🌋 Adventure – Milos:
This volcanic island is a playground for explorers. From surreal lunar landscapes at Sarakiniko Beach to secret sea caves only accessible by boat, Milos is made for adventure seekers. Hike, sail, snorkel, and discover hidden gems around every turn.

🍷 Luxury – Santorini:
Famous for its iconic whitewashed villages and cliffside sunsets, Santorini is where elegance meets epic views. Think boutique cave hotels with infinity pools, private wine tastings, and the kind of dinners you’ll remember forever.

🏖️ Beaches – Naxos:
Greece’s best-kept secret for beach lovers. Naxos offers long stretches of golden sand, crystal-clear water, and a laid-back charm, all without the crowds. Perfect for slow mornings, seaside tavernas, and sun-soaked afternoons.

Whether you’re planning a solo escape, romantic getaway, or family trip, @Expedia helps you book everything in one place—flights, stays, experiences, and more.

So… how would you answer the call? 👇 Let me know your pick!
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
#ExpediaPartner #GreeceTravel #ChooseYourAdventure #GreekIslands

Three years of Oliver 🎂
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This past year brought more than its fair share of heartbreak. Shortly after turning two, Oliver was diagnosed with a brain tumor.

We were faced with an impossible decision: 15 months of chemotherapy, or a craniotomy that would leave him blind in his right eye.

Just 11 weeks after his diagnosis, we flew to Boston, where he underwent a 12-hour craniotomy at Boston Children’s Hospital.

He didn’t deserve any of it—countless hospital visits, six-hour infusions, a life-altering surgery, and so many unknowns.

And still, we lived. We chased joy. A dream trip to Maui, a road trip through New England in the fall, two escapes to Mexico, and even sailing through the BVIs.

Last week, we received the greatest birthday gift we could have hoped for: six months post-op, no evidence of recurrent or metastatic disease.

He’s the luckiest of the unlucky. Brave beyond belief. Overflowing with love. Pure sunshine.

Happy birthday to my sweet, resilient boy. You’ve already taught me more than I could ever teach you. 💛🌞

(Carousel compilation going back in time to his birthday last year. From baby to big boy!)
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#opticpathwayglioma #childhoodcancerawareness

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Three years of Oliver 🎂
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This past year brought more than its fair share of heartbreak. Shortly after turning two, Oliver was diagnosed with a brain tumor.

We were faced with an impossible decision: 15 months of chemotherapy, or a craniotomy that would leave him blind in his right eye.

Just 11 weeks after his diagnosis, we flew to Boston, where he underwent a 12-hour craniotomy at Boston Children’s Hospital.

He didn’t deserve any of it—countless hospital visits, six-hour infusions, a life-altering surgery, and so many unknowns.

And still, we lived. We chased joy. A dream trip to Maui, a road trip through New England in the fall, two escapes to Mexico, and even sailing through the BVIs.

Last week, we received the greatest birthday gift we could have hoped for: six months post-op, no evidence of recurrent or metastatic disease.

He’s the luckiest of the unlucky. Brave beyond belief. Overflowing with love. Pure sunshine.

Happy birthday to my sweet, resilient boy. You’ve already taught me more than I could ever teach you. 💛🌞

(Carousel compilation going back in time to his birthday last year. From baby to big boy!)
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#opticpathwayglioma #childhoodcancerawareness

Our Antarctica expedition with @aurora_expeditions sold out in 48 hours—but we’ve just opened a few more cabins! 🧊🐧
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We quietly announced our 2027 TBA Escapes All-Women’s Fly/Fly Antarctica Expedition to our email waitlist first… and it SOLD OUT fast. Luckily, we were able to add a few more spots—but this is it!

When they’re gone, they’re gone. 🇦🇶✨

If you thought you missed the boat (pun very much intended), this is your last chance to join one of the most extraordinary journeys we’ve ever offered.

Think: glaciers, penguins, surreal landscapes, and that signature TBA Escapes sisterhood.

📍Antarctica: February 23 – March 4, 2027

Skip the Drake, fly straight to the White Continent, and cruise through otherworldly landscapes.

🚨 Spots are extremely limited. Apply now via the link in our bio—and don’t forget to join our mailing list so you never miss a future drop.

For more info and a direct link to apply, let us know below with EXPLORE!
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#tbaescapes #antarctica #girlstrip #bucketlistadventure #travelwithpurpose #allwomensgroup

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Drop “VACAY” below for an exclusive 10% discount on any @vehm.mx villa booking! 🇲🇽
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Unforgettable memories from the ultimate girls’ weekend getaway—with 18 kids, sunshine, and pure luxury at @lascasitaspm 🌴✨

Las Casitas is managed by @vehm.mx, the premier property management company in Punta Mita. They oversee the most exclusive villas in the area, and every one of their properties is fully staffed and loaded with luxury amenities.

This gorgeous beachfront estate in the exclusive Kupuri community features three private casitas, 12 bedrooms, 13.5 bathrooms, a stunning infinity pool, hot tub, gym, and beach access. It’s designed for big groups, but feels intimate, relaxed, and totally elevated.

The real MVPs? The incredible full-time staff. We had a chef, sous chef, pastry chef, butler, concierge, and housekeeping—literally someone looking after our every need. Every meal was a gourmet experience, and every moment was effortless (which, with 18 kids, is saying a lot).

@vehm.mx helped us coordinate in-house massages for the mamas, and organized a piñata for the kids and a mariachi band to celebrate Oliver’s birthday THREE-esta!

Perfect for a 40th birthday, girlfriend getaway, or large family trip—we’re already planning our return. I can’t recommend it enough (or stop talking about it)!  Drop “VACAY” below for an exclusive 10% discount on any @vehm.mx villa booking! 🇲🇽
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
#LasCasitasPuntaMita #VEHM #LuxuryTravel #GirlsTrip #FamilyTravel

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Drop “VACAY” below for an exclusive 10% discount on any @vehm.mx villa booking! 🇲🇽
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
Unforgettable memories from the ultimate girls’ weekend getaway—with 18 kids, sunshine, and pure luxury at @lascasitaspm 🌴✨

Las Casitas is managed by @vehm.mx, the premier property management company in Punta Mita. They oversee the most exclusive villas in the area, and every one of their properties is fully staffed and loaded with luxury amenities.

This gorgeous beachfront estate in the exclusive Kupuri community features three private casitas, 12 bedrooms, 13.5 bathrooms, a stunning infinity pool, hot tub, gym, and beach access. It’s designed for big groups, but feels intimate, relaxed, and totally elevated.

The real MVPs? The incredible full-time staff. We had a chef, sous chef, pastry chef, butler, concierge, and housekeeping—literally someone looking after our every need. Every meal was a gourmet experience, and every moment was effortless (which, with 18 kids, is saying a lot).

@vehm.mx helped us coordinate in-house massages for the mamas, and organized a piñata for the kids and a mariachi band to celebrate Oliver’s birthday THREE-esta!

Perfect for a 40th birthday, girlfriend getaway, or large family trip—we’re already planning our return. I can’t recommend it enough (or stop talking about it)!  Drop “VACAY” below for an exclusive 10% discount on any @vehm.mx villa booking! 🇲🇽
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
#LasCasitasPuntaMita #VEHM #LuxuryTravel #GirlsTrip #FamilyTravel

Postcards from Punta Mita 🇲🇽
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Just got back from the ultimate girls’ weekend getaway—with 18 kids, sunshine, and pure luxury at @lascasitaspm 🌴✨

Las Casitas is managed by @vehm.mx, the premier property management company in Punta Mita. They oversee the most exclusive villas in the area, and every one of their properties is fully staffed and loaded with luxury amenities.

This gorgeous beachfront estate in the exclusive Kupuri community features three private casitas, 12 bedrooms, 13.5 bathrooms, a stunning infinity pool, hot tub, gym, and beach access. It’s designed for big groups, but feels intimate, relaxed, and totally elevated.

The real MVPs? The incredible full-time staff. We had a chef, sous chef, pastry chef, butler, concierge, and housekeeping—literally someone looking after our every need. Every meal was a gourmet experience, and every moment was effortless (which, with 18 kids, is saying a lot).

The kids ate freshly grilled burgers (with brioche buns baked by our in-house pastry chef) and snacked on homemade churros. The mamas were served fresh poke bowls and lobster tacos.

We had homemade paletas by the pool and sipped chilled coconut water fresh from the source. The food and service was out of this world!

@vehm.mx helped us coordinate in-house massages for the mamas, and organized a piñata for the kids and a mariachi band to celebrate Oliver’s birthday THREE-esta!

Perfect for a 40th birthday, girlfriend getaway, or large family trip—we’re already planning our return. I can’t recommend it enough (or stop talking about it)!
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
#LasCasitasPuntaMita #VEHM #LuxuryTravel #GirlsTrip #FamilyTravel

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Postcards from Punta Mita 🇲🇽
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
Just got back from the ultimate girls’ weekend getaway—with 18 kids, sunshine, and pure luxury at @lascasitaspm 🌴✨

Las Casitas is managed by @vehm.mx, the premier property management company in Punta Mita. They oversee the most exclusive villas in the area, and every one of their properties is fully staffed and loaded with luxury amenities.

This gorgeous beachfront estate in the exclusive Kupuri community features three private casitas, 12 bedrooms, 13.5 bathrooms, a stunning infinity pool, hot tub, gym, and beach access. It’s designed for big groups, but feels intimate, relaxed, and totally elevated.

The real MVPs? The incredible full-time staff. We had a chef, sous chef, pastry chef, butler, concierge, and housekeeping—literally someone looking after our every need. Every meal was a gourmet experience, and every moment was effortless (which, with 18 kids, is saying a lot).

The kids ate freshly grilled burgers (with brioche buns baked by our in-house pastry chef) and snacked on homemade churros. The mamas were served fresh poke bowls and lobster tacos.

We had homemade paletas by the pool and sipped chilled coconut water fresh from the source. The food and service was out of this world!

@vehm.mx helped us coordinate in-house massages for the mamas, and organized a piñata for the kids and a mariachi band to celebrate Oliver’s birthday THREE-esta!

Perfect for a 40th birthday, girlfriend getaway, or large family trip—we’re already planning our return. I can’t recommend it enough (or stop talking about it)!
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
#LasCasitasPuntaMita #VEHM #LuxuryTravel #GirlsTrip #FamilyTravel

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Rebecca

California in the fall during Halloween sounds sooo much better to me than in the summer. Thanks for this post!

July 19, 2016 at 11:51 am · Reply

Kiersten Rich

You’re more than welcome! 🙂

July 22, 2016 at 3:12 pm · Reply

Anja

My favorite month is April! It’s warm, sunny beach weather without being uncomfortably hot. It’s fabulous weather before we go back into the gloomy, cool weather. May and June is June gloom, cloudy, cool days. It doesn’t warm up until mid July. It’s hot from mid July through to October.

The best Halloween location is WeHo (West Hollywood). The streets close to cars and the gay men walk around in their best drag Halloween costumes. It’s great. It’s a big party.

Late July to early August is the US Open Surfing, BMX and Skating competition at the Huntington Beach Pier. It’s free admission. They build a huge bowl for the skateboard and BMX competition. It’s free to watch all of the competitions. It’s really fun!

The Laguna Beach Sawdust Festival and Pagent of the Masters happens during the summer. I’ve met people on flights when I was flying home from Europe and they were coming to SoCal to attend the Sawdust Festival.

Whale watching season varies which whales migrate when. You can leave from Corona Del Mar in OC or Long Beach. The last time I went we saw a super pod of dolphins that has 5,000 dolphins. It was fantastic!

Catalina Island off the coast is a wonderful place to escape to. The spring and fall is the best time to go because it’s less people then. Catalina is really beautiful. Hotels and condos book up during the summer months.

Thanks for the wonderful post to remind me I live in a fantastic place. I do tend to take it for granted because I live here. I forget how pretty it is and grumble about the hot weather. So, thank you for the reminder that I should feel more gratitude about living here.

July 19, 2016 at 2:47 pm · Reply

Kiersten Rich

Thanks for all your tips! I agree, and I do take it for granted too sometimes, but such an amazing place to come home to!

July 22, 2016 at 3:11 pm · Reply

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Check out my favorite highlights & the best time to go to Southern California!

Summer in Southern California

Months: June to September

Fall in Southern California

Months: October & November

If you are in California for Halloween, you’re in for a treat!

Winter in Southern California

Months: December to February

Spring in Southern California

Months: March to May

READ NEXT: The Girl’s Guide to a California Coast Road Trip

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