Northern California is an ideal destination for those looking to escape their daily routine and experience a rejuvenating weekend getaway. It’s the perfect combination of stunning nature, thrilling adventure, and amazing culture. From the shores of the Pacific Ocean to the majestic Redwood Forest to the beaches of Monterey Bay, you can take in some breathtaking sights that are sure to reinvigorate your spirit. Or, take in unique shops, art galleries, restaurants, wine country tours, and more. We’ve picked some of the best places to stay in Northern California because there really is no better place to spend some quality time with those closest to you than in this beautiful part of the state!

Best Affordable Places to Stay in Northern California

When you think about California vacation rentals your wallet tends to feel a little claustrophobic, but it turns out there are some wonderfully affordable rentals to be found without going glamping in a treehouse (although that’s pretty cool too!). Here are two such places we think you’ll love, with swimming pools and even hot tubs:

  1. Yosemite Cozy Cottage, Mariposa County Management/VRBO Management/VRBO Address: Mariposa County, CA Size: 1 bedroom (sleeps 6), 1 full bath Price: $129/night Amenities: Wi-Fi, TV, heat & air conditioning, full kitchen, grill, wood stove, hot tub Ratings: 4.9 stars Beautiful views of the Merced River Canyon await in this charming cottage in Northern California. About 30 minutes from Yosemite National Park, you have close access to hiking trails and outdoor adventures galore. In the warmer months enjoy the delightful herb garden and fresh tomatoes. When the evening air cools sit outside by the wood-burning stove or take a dip in the private hot tub. Mariposa County, CA, USA 2. Hillcrest Guest House, Sutter County Management/VRBO Management/VRBO Address: Sutter County, CA Size: 1 bedroom (sleeps 2), 1 full bath Price: $95/night Amenities: Wi-Fi, TV, heat & air conditioning, full kitchen, washer & dryer, pool, patio, fire pit Ratings: 4.9 stars Enjoy a lovely small-town getaway in Yuba City’s Hillcrest neighborhood with this very affordable guest house stay. Newly renovated with wonderful clean interior spaces and outstanding exterior features like the patio area and private pool. Sutter County, CA, USA

Best Places to Stay in Northern California for Families

Family vacations in Northern California are some of the most memorable and fun destinations you can choose. And these two Northern California vacation rentals have family fun written all over them. Enjoy!

Management/VRBO

Address: Mariposa County, CA Size: 1 bedroom (sleeps 6), 1 full bath Price: $129/night Amenities: Wi-Fi, TV, heat & air conditioning, full kitchen, grill, wood stove, hot tub Ratings: 4.9 stars Beautiful views of the Merced River Canyon await in this charming cottage in Northern California. About 30 minutes from Yosemite National Park, you have close access to hiking trails and outdoor adventures galore. In the warmer months enjoy the delightful herb garden and fresh tomatoes. When the evening air cools sit outside by the wood-burning stove or take a dip in the private hot tub.

Mariposa County, CA, USA

Address: Sutter County, CA Size: 1 bedroom (sleeps 2), 1 full bath Price: $95/night Amenities: Wi-Fi, TV, heat & air conditioning, full kitchen, washer & dryer, pool, patio, fire pit Ratings: 4.9 stars Enjoy a lovely small-town getaway in Yuba City’s Hillcrest neighborhood with this very affordable guest house stay. Newly renovated with wonderful clean interior spaces and outstanding exterior features like the patio area and private pool.

Sutter County, CA, USA

  1. Waterfront Lake House, Lake Wildwood Management/VRBO Management/VRBO Address: Lake Wildwood, CA Size: 4 bedrooms (sleeps 8), 3 baths Price: $388/night Amenities: Wi-Fi, TV, heat & air conditioning, full kitchen, washer & dryer, game room, fireplace, patio, fire pit, six kayaks, three paddleboards, EV car charger Ratings: 5.0 stars This is a beautiful home right on Lake Wildwood that is the perfect family vacation spot. Stunning lake views, yard games, game room, swimming and fishing dock, kayaks, paddleboards, fire pit - everything you need is already provided for you. All that’s missing is you and your family. Lake Wildwood, CA 95946, USA 4. Redwoods Vintage Cabin, Hacienda Heights Management/VRBO Management/VRBO Address: Hacienda, CA Size: 2 bedrooms (sleeps 6), 2 full baths Price: $226/night Amenities: Wi-Fi, TV, full kitchen, washer & dryer, fireplace, patio, outdoor wood stove, hot tub Ratings: 4.9 stars A charming vintage cabin surrounded by towering Redwoods along the Russian River within walking distance of Mother’s Beach… what could be better? This wonderful family getaway is perfect for nature lovers. With hiking trails, swimming beaches, and even wineries if you want to take an adults-only outing from the rest of the family. And of course, the six-person hot tub is absolutely magical in this old-growth forest setting. Hacienda Heights, CA, USA

Best Romantic Places to Stay in Northern California for Couples

The California wine country, the redwood forest, and historic downtown San Francisco are some of the most romantic locations in the country. We could list dozens of wildly romantic rentals, but we’ve hand-selected two we think will go perfectly with a bottle of wine and some vibrant red roses.

Address: Lake Wildwood, CA Size: 4 bedrooms (sleeps 8), 3 baths Price: $388/night Amenities: Wi-Fi, TV, heat & air conditioning, full kitchen, washer & dryer, game room, fireplace, patio, fire pit, six kayaks, three paddleboards, EV car charger Ratings: 5.0 stars This is a beautiful home right on Lake Wildwood that is the perfect family vacation spot. Stunning lake views, yard games, game room, swimming and fishing dock, kayaks, paddleboards, fire pit - everything you need is already provided for you. All that’s missing is you and your family.

Lake Wildwood, CA 95946, USA

Address: Hacienda, CA Size: 2 bedrooms (sleeps 6), 2 full baths Price: $226/night Amenities: Wi-Fi, TV, full kitchen, washer & dryer, fireplace, patio, outdoor wood stove, hot tub Ratings: 4.9 stars A charming vintage cabin surrounded by towering Redwoods along the Russian River within walking distance of Mother’s Beach… what could be better? This wonderful family getaway is perfect for nature lovers. With hiking trails, swimming beaches, and even wineries if you want to take an adults-only outing from the rest of the family. And of course, the six-person hot tub is absolutely magical in this old-growth forest setting.

Hacienda Heights, CA, USA

  1. Secluded Mountain Getaway, Igo Management/VRBO Management/VRBO Address: Igo, CA Size: 2 bedrooms (sleeps 5), 3 baths Price: $171/night Amenities: Wi-Fi, TV, full kitchen, washer & dryer, stone fireplace, deck Ratings: 5.0 stars This romantic getaway for two is perfect if you love a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature. Down in the valley of the South Fork Mountain near Whiskeytown National Forest, you have easy access to hiking, biking, or simply a romantic stroll through the forest. There is even a small creek within a short walk from your back deck. You can also bring your own horses because there is a small barn set up for two horses. Or, if you prefer there are two kayaks for a watery adventure. Igo, CA 96047, USA 6. Seaspray Oceanfront Getaway, Gualala Management/VRBO Management/VRBO Address: Gualala, CA Size: 2 bedrooms (sleeps 4), 2 full baths Price: $360/night Amenities: Wi-Fi, TV, gourmet kitchen, washer & dryer, three fireplaces, outdoor kitchen, deck, grill, hot tub, ocean views Ratings: 4.9 stars Ocean views, ocean views, ocean views! This is the ultimate romantic getaway with your own private spot on the ocean in a beautiful luxury home with high-end amenities. Truly a little slice of heaven. Enjoy a moonlit night gazing over the ocean on your private deck while relaxing in the hot tub. Sparks are sure to fly. Gualala, CA 95445, USA

Best Places to Stay in Eureka

Eureka is a charming small town in the uppermost point of Northern California. The entire town feels like it stepped right out of the Victorian era. Sitting demurely on beautiful Humboldt Bay, this beach town is a lovely, peaceful getaway spot for your next vacation.

Address: Igo, CA Size: 2 bedrooms (sleeps 5), 3 baths Price: $171/night Amenities: Wi-Fi, TV, full kitchen, washer & dryer, stone fireplace, deck Ratings: 5.0 stars This romantic getaway for two is perfect if you love a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature. Down in the valley of the South Fork Mountain near Whiskeytown National Forest, you have easy access to hiking, biking, or simply a romantic stroll through the forest. There is even a small creek within a short walk from your back deck. You can also bring your own horses because there is a small barn set up for two horses. Or, if you prefer there are two kayaks for a watery adventure.

Igo, CA 96047, USA

Address: Gualala, CA Size: 2 bedrooms (sleeps 4), 2 full baths Price: $360/night Amenities: Wi-Fi, TV, gourmet kitchen, washer & dryer, three fireplaces, outdoor kitchen, deck, grill, hot tub, ocean views Ratings: 4.9 stars Ocean views, ocean views, ocean views! This is the ultimate romantic getaway with your own private spot on the ocean in a beautiful luxury home with high-end amenities. Truly a little slice of heaven. Enjoy a moonlit night gazing over the ocean on your private deck while relaxing in the hot tub. Sparks are sure to fly.

Gualala, CA 95445, USA

  1. The Pinc Lady Mansion, Eureka Management/VRBO Management/VRBO Address: Old Town Eureka, CA Size: 4 bedrooms (sleeps 10), 4 baths Price: $895/night Amenities: Wi-Fi, TV, full kitchen, heat & air conditioning Ratings: 5.0 stars The Pinc Lady Mansion is a wonderfully unique experience in the charming town of Eureka right on Humboldt Bay. This historic home was built in 1889 as a wedding gift, and now you too can share in its history. She is beautifully furnished and will show off her stunning views of Humboldt Bay with a flourish of Victorian charm. Right across the street is the world-famous Carson Mansion in all its stunning Victorian glory. Old Town, Eureka, CA 95501, USA 8. Lilac Victorian, Eureka Management/VRBO Management/VRBO Address: Old Town Eureka, CA Size: 3 bedrooms (sleeps 10), 3 baths Price: $315/night Amenities: Wi-Fi, TV, two full kitchens, washer & dryer Ratings: 4.6 stars Another wonderful Victorian home near Humboldt Bay just down the street from the Carson Mansion and the Pinc Lady. The feel of a historic Victorian home with updated modern conveniences. The Lilac Victorian is a lovely light-filled home with a white picket fence within a short walk to the beach, shopping, and restaurants in Eureka. Old Town, Eureka, CA 95501, USA

Best Places to Stay in San Fransisco

What’s not to love about San Francisco? Those nerve-wracking steep streets, cable car rides, the Golden Gate Bridge, unique art galleries, fine dining at Michelin-star restaurants, and a historic culture that is world famous. For your next Bay Area vacation we’ve selected two rentals that will blow you away. You’ll want to visit again and again.

Address: Old Town Eureka, CA Size: 4 bedrooms (sleeps 10), 4 baths Price: $895/night Amenities: Wi-Fi, TV, full kitchen, heat & air conditioning Ratings: 5.0 stars The Pinc Lady Mansion is a wonderfully unique experience in the charming town of Eureka right on Humboldt Bay. This historic home was built in 1889 as a wedding gift, and now you too can share in its history. She is beautifully furnished and will show off her stunning views of Humboldt Bay with a flourish of Victorian charm. Right across the street is the world-famous Carson Mansion in all its stunning Victorian glory.

Old Town, Eureka, CA 95501, USA

Address: Old Town Eureka, CA Size: 3 bedrooms (sleeps 10), 3 baths Price: $315/night Amenities: Wi-Fi, TV, two full kitchens, washer & dryer Ratings: 4.6 stars Another wonderful Victorian home near Humboldt Bay just down the street from the Carson Mansion and the Pinc Lady. The feel of a historic Victorian home with updated modern conveniences. The Lilac Victorian is a lovely light-filled home with a white picket fence within a short walk to the beach, shopping, and restaurants in Eureka.

  1. Castro Bali Retreat, Corona Heights Management/VRBO Management/VRBO Address: Corona Heights, CA Size: 1 bedroom (sleeps 4), 1 full bath Price: $431/night Amenities: Wi-Fi, TV, chef’s kitchen, fireplace, washer & dryer, patio, tropical garden, hot tub, fire pit Ratings: 5.0 stars A zen retreat right in the heart of San Fransisco with a hot tub. What? Yes, this tranquil home is the relaxing stay you need, while you enjoy all that San Fransisco has to offer. Only a couple of miles from Union Square. Or, a short walk to shops, bars, and restaurants. This high-end home is set up right with a chef’s kitchen and a Sonos sound system with mood lighting. Um, and a heated toilet seat. Just saying. Corona Heights, San Francisco, CA 94114, USA 10. Mill Valley Retreat, Strawberry Management/VRBO Management/VRBO Address: Strawberry, CA Size: 3 bedrooms (sleeps 6), 2 full baths Price: $600/night Amenities: Wi-Fi, TV, kitchenette, washer & dryer, grill, patio, garden, 75-foot outdoor pool, hot tub, fitness room Ratings: 4.9 stars The lower level of this stunning Mill Valley retreat on a quiet private cul-de-sac is all yours. With elevated views of the San Francisco skyline, this is a magical accommodation in Northern California. Only minutes from the Golden Gate Bridge, the Marin Headlands, and a ferry to San Francisco. Or, take a day trip to nearby Napa and Sonoma County wine country. Everything about this rental property is top-notch, including the friendly hosts. Strawberry, CA 95375, USA

Northern California is a wonderful part of the state filled with a unique mix of beautiful natural areas, old Victorian charm, oceanside cabins, and luxury accommodations. These are only a few of the best places to stay in Northern California – there are thousands of vacation properties to choose from. We hope you enjoy your stay at one of these rentals that were hand-picked for you.

Address: Corona Heights, CA Size: 1 bedroom (sleeps 4), 1 full bath Price: $431/night Amenities: Wi-Fi, TV, chef’s kitchen, fireplace, washer & dryer, patio, tropical garden, hot tub, fire pit Ratings: 5.0 stars A zen retreat right in the heart of San Fransisco with a hot tub. What? Yes, this tranquil home is the relaxing stay you need, while you enjoy all that San Fransisco has to offer. Only a couple of miles from Union Square. Or, a short walk to shops, bars, and restaurants. This high-end home is set up right with a chef’s kitchen and a Sonos sound system with mood lighting. Um, and a heated toilet seat. Just saying.

Corona Heights, San Francisco, CA 94114, USA

Address: Strawberry, CA Size: 3 bedrooms (sleeps 6), 2 full baths Price: $600/night Amenities: Wi-Fi, TV, kitchenette, washer & dryer, grill, patio, garden, 75-foot outdoor pool, hot tub, fitness room Ratings: 4.9 stars The lower level of this stunning Mill Valley retreat on a quiet private cul-de-sac is all yours. With elevated views of the San Francisco skyline, this is a magical accommodation in Northern California. Only minutes from the Golden Gate Bridge, the Marin Headlands, and a ferry to San Francisco. Or, take a day trip to nearby Napa and Sonoma County wine country. Everything about this rental property is top-notch, including the friendly hosts.

Strawberry, CA 95375, USA

What vacation rentals in Northern California have you discovered? Share your best weekend getaway with us in a comment. Then, just for fun, check out this list of weird and whacky things you can do around San Francisco.

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The OIYS Visitor Center

Where to stay in Northern California January 03, 2023 Chris Muras What are the best unique hotels in Northern California? Northern California, specifically the San Francisco area, Bodega Bay, and Sonoma County is filled with history and quirky artistic charm. That artsy Mediterranean vibe definitely spills over into its hotels. Here is a list of some of the best unique hotels in Northern California:

  1. Hotel Vertigo, San Francisco
  2. Palace Hotel, San Francisco
  3. Camellia Inn, Healdsburg
  4. The National Hotel, Nevada City
  5. Eden Vale Inn, Placerville
  6. The Delta King, Sacramento View more unique places to stay in Northern California in this article showing 11 wonderful rentals that are filled with charm and a unique welcoming vibe, including some of the best hotels around Half Moon Bay, the Mendocino coast, and other scenic areas along the Pacific coast. Where are the most unique getaways in Northern California? Northern California has so much to offer, from the beautiful Redwoods in national and state parks, to ocean-side villas, Napa Valley, and charming small-town vacations along the Sonoma coast. But sometimes you just want something uniquely Californian that not many can say they have experienced. Let’s take a road trip down Highway 1 and the Northern California coast to check out some of the most unique getaways in Northern California:
  7. Philo Apple Farm, Mendocino County
  8. East Brother Light Station, San Pablo Bay
  9. Brewery Gulch Inn, Mendocino, CA
  10. Bear Basin Fire Lookout and Pierson Cabin
  11. Timber Cove Resort, Jenner, CA
  12. The National Hotel, Jamestown, CA Read the entire list of unique experiences in Northern Cali in this article, then plan your next weekend getaway!

The OIYS Visitor Center

Where to stay in Northern California

January 03, 2023

Chris Muras

What are the best unique hotels in Northern California? Northern California, specifically the San Francisco area, Bodega Bay, and Sonoma County is filled with history and quirky artistic charm. That artsy Mediterranean vibe definitely spills over into its hotels. Here is a list of some of the best unique hotels in Northern California:

  1. Hotel Vertigo, San Francisco
  2. Palace Hotel, San Francisco
  3. Camellia Inn, Healdsburg
  4. The National Hotel, Nevada City
  5. Eden Vale Inn, Placerville
  6. The Delta King, Sacramento View more unique places to stay in Northern California in this article showing 11 wonderful rentals that are filled with charm and a unique welcoming vibe, including some of the best hotels around Half Moon Bay, the Mendocino coast, and other scenic areas along the Pacific coast. Where are the most unique getaways in Northern California? Northern California has so much to offer, from the beautiful Redwoods in national and state parks, to ocean-side villas, Napa Valley, and charming small-town vacations along the Sonoma coast. But sometimes you just want something uniquely Californian that not many can say they have experienced. Let’s take a road trip down Highway 1 and the Northern California coast to check out some of the most unique getaways in Northern California:
  7. Philo Apple Farm, Mendocino County
  8. East Brother Light Station, San Pablo Bay
  9. Brewery Gulch Inn, Mendocino, CA
  10. Bear Basin Fire Lookout and Pierson Cabin
  11. Timber Cove Resort, Jenner, CA
  12. The National Hotel, Jamestown, CA Read the entire list of unique experiences in Northern Cali in this article, then plan your next weekend getaway!

The OIYS Visitor Center

The OIYS Visitor Center

Northern California, specifically the San Francisco area, Bodega Bay, and Sonoma County is filled with history and quirky artistic charm. That artsy Mediterranean vibe definitely spills over into its hotels. Here is a list of some of the best unique hotels in Northern California:

  1. Hotel Vertigo, San Francisco
  2. Palace Hotel, San Francisco
  3. Camellia Inn, Healdsburg
  4. The National Hotel, Nevada City
  5. Eden Vale Inn, Placerville
  6. The Delta King, Sacramento

View more unique places to stay in Northern California in this article showing 11 wonderful rentals that are filled with charm and a unique welcoming vibe, including some of the best hotels around Half Moon Bay, the Mendocino coast, and other scenic areas along the Pacific coast.

Where are the most unique getaways in Northern California?

Northern California has so much to offer, from the beautiful Redwoods in national and state parks, to ocean-side villas, Napa Valley, and charming small-town vacations along the Sonoma coast. But sometimes you just want something uniquely Californian that not many can say they have experienced. Let’s take a road trip down Highway 1 and the Northern California coast to check out some of the most unique getaways in Northern California:

  1. Philo Apple Farm, Mendocino County
  2. East Brother Light Station, San Pablo Bay
  3. Brewery Gulch Inn, Mendocino, CA
  4. Bear Basin Fire Lookout and Pierson Cabin
  5. Timber Cove Resort, Jenner, CA
  6. The National Hotel, Jamestown, CA

Read the entire list of unique experiences in Northern Cali in this article, then plan your next weekend getaway!