Dreaming of California: Deals on Hotels, Flights, & Activities for a Cali Vacation

Have you ever seen a Pacific sunset? The majesty of the California coastline is breathtaking. And now's the perfect time to head west. The Golden State boasts some of the best wine, restaurants, scenic views in the nation. To help you experience all that California has to offer, we've found deals on flights, hotels, and activities.

Don't let your California dreams turn to dust. Just book a 1-way flight on Allegiant Airlines to San Francisco, Monterey, Palm Springs, San Diego, or Los Angeles for as little as $55. But if you can't find the specific route you need, check out Virgin America's sale fares (from $69; expires March 26) to get yourself up in the air and California-bound.

If you dream of the SoCal beaches and wonders of Hollywood, why not book a stay in Anaheim and L.A. or Beverly Hills (from $42 per night, a low on select properties by at least $15; expires March 25) via BookIt. For other destinations, check out Expedia's Spring Hotel Sale, which boasts stays starting at just $38 per night (expires April 2).

If visiting San Diego is number one on your California itinerary, consider a retreat at the Paradise Point Resort and Spa (from $145 per night, a price low by $30 per night; expires March 23), where water sports equipment, bicycle rentals, fishing, and critically acclaimed dining abound. From there, you can visit SeaWorld San Diego located just across the street, or view more than 4,000 animals (including a rare Giant Panda) housed at the world-famous San Diego Zoo.

The SoCal weather lends itself to 8 or 18 rounds of golf, and Emerald Isle Golf's golf package for two with cart rental (for $30, $30 off; expires March 24) will help you get your fix. With all this fun in the sun, you can't forget to eat. Pop in to Bernard 'O Restaurant and indulge in $50 worth of cuisine for $25 (expires March 25). Named one of San Diego's most romantic restaurants, it's the perfect candlelight dinner by the beach.

SoCal not your thing? Then book your chilled out vacation to San Francisco. BookIt features hotel stays in the Bay area starting at $61 (expires March 23). But if you'd rather stay at the newly renovated Handlery Union Square Hotel (from $119, a low by $20 per night; expires March 23), you'll have easier access to the city's sights. From there, take a walk through Chinatown and North Beach to check out Pier 39's RocketBoat Tours, Sea Lion viewings, restaurants, and more. On the water, you can opt for a 90-minute sailing excursion with drinks (for $23, $22 off; expires March 25), and enjoy the ride around Alcatraz, past Angel Island, and over to Sausalito, which is parallel to the Golden Gate Bridge.

While California has many talents in the area of culture, climate, and entertainment, perhaps it's not currently on your travel radar; in that case, be sure to check out our weekly roundup of the top travel deals for additional discounted flights, hotels, and vacation packages.

Front page photo credit: Flick River
Photo credits top to bottom: Find my San Diego and Wikipedia