17 Exciting Places to Go for Labor Day Weekend in California

Today I want to bring you my guide to the best places to spend Labor Day weekend in California. From big cities to coastal areas and mountain lakes, there are lots of popular spots for Labor Day getaways in the Golden State. Whether you're looking for the best events and festivals or you want to find a relaxing place to get away from it all, there's a travel destination in California for you during this three-day weekend. Read on for my top picks. I've included a map, too.

Labor Day Weekend in California

I grew up in California, and I've celebrated Labor Day here more times than I can count. From poolside family barbecues in the San Francisco Bay Area to long weekend trips to Lake Tahoe, Santa Cruz, and Monterey, I've spent the holiday in a number of places throughout my home state.

Doing so has allowed me to gain firsthand experience of the best places to travel for Labor Day in California. There are so many fun destinations to spend the holiday that the state could keep you coming back over and over.

I've also learned a few lessons over the years. The first is that it's worth remembering that the more popular places in California can be crowded over Labor Day weekend. This is particularly true of cities like San Francisco and LA, and well-known coastal and mountain areas.

It's also true of national parks and other parts of the Golden State that are popular in the warmer months. Keeping that in mind, it's wise to plan ahead and book things like hotels, flights, and rental cars well before you travel. You can often get better rates and have a wider selection to choose from. You can see hotels and book a room here.

It's also a good idea to have a strategy for where and how you spend Labor Day in California. If you're aiming to attend an event or festival over the holiday weekend, booking tickets in advance is a good idea.

Additionally, it's great if you can leave home early on Friday (or depart Thursday if you can) and return early or late on Monday (or on Tuesday if possible) to avoid road traffic and airport congestion during the busiest parts of the travel period.

1. Monterey

Monterey tops my list of the best places to spend Labor Day weekend in California. With beautiful beaches, natural and cultural attractions, and a famous aquarium, this city is an all-around great travel destination.

But what makes it special in early September is that it hosts the annual Monterey County Fair every year over Labor Day. The event features family entertainment, fun-fair rides, carnival games, food, live music and entertainment, and an opportunity to celebrate Monterey County's history and heritage.

Add to that places like Pacific Grove, Asliomar Beach, neighboring Carmel-by-the-Sea, 17-Mile Drive, Pebble Beach, and the Monterey Bay Aquarium, and you'll be spoiled for choice when it comes to spending the holiday weekend in the city.

If this trip sounds good to you, you can book a place to stay in Monterey here. There are plenty of options in and around the city, from beautiful hotels to coastal apartment rentals and beyond. My favorite is the Spindrift Inn. This boutique waterfront hotel is right in the heart of Cannery Row. You can book a room here.

2. San Diego

San Diego is another of my top picks for places to travel for Labor Day weekend in California. This beach city in SoCal is a great escape for sunny weather and holiday festivities in early September.

There's a lot going on in San Diego over Labor Day, too. The city offers everything from miles of beaches to big-name concerts, festivals, events, whale watching, beach bonfires, world-class golf, and more. Whatever you're interested in, you can find it in this part of Southern California.

If any or all of that appeals to you, you can book a place to stay in San Diego here. There are lots of options in the city, from landmark hotels on the coast to beachfront apartment rentals. My favorite is the Hotel del Coronado. This famous resort is hard to beat. You can book a room here.

3. Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe is next on my list of the best places to spend Labor Day weekend in California. This mountain destination is popular all year, and sunny September weather on the lake makes it a great holiday weekend getaway. Whether you book a place to stay in Tahoe City, Emerald Bay, Truckee, or elsewhere, there are plenty of options.

There's no shortage of things to do in Lake Tahoe over Labor Day, either. From mountain hikes to indulgent spa experiences, river rafting, restaurants, shopping, golfing, biking, boat trips, and water sports, Tahoe has something for everyone.

That said, keep in mind that Labor Day weekend is one of the busiest times of year in Tahoe. Make sure to prepare for heavy traffic getting to and from the lake, and brace yourself for crowded beaches and trails. Make sure to arrive early and reserve restaurants and activities well in advance, too.

If this sounds good to you, you can book a place to stay in Tahoe here. There are lots of great options, from hotels to lodges, condos, lakefront cabins, and more. I love staying at Palisades. The lodge is great, the condos are spacious, and there are plenty of activities to do in the area. You can book a room here.

4. Los Angeles

Los Angeles is next on my list of the best places to spend Labor Day weekend in California. With sunny weather, lots of beaches, and famous cultural attractions, the City of Angels is a great place to visit year-round.

Labor Day is no exception. There are plenty of events and other things to do in Los Angeles to celebrate the end of summer. From concerts to festivals, parties, rooftop cinemas, and college football, you can find anything you want.

If this sounds good to you, you can book a place to stay in LA here. There are lots of great options, from cool hotels to beachfront properties and more. My top pick is the STILE Hotel. I've had a great stay here, and I love the cool decor and rooftop bar. You can book a room here.

5. San Francisco

San Francisco is another of the top Labor Day getaways in California. The City by the Bay is a great place to spend the three-day weekend, not least because there's a lot going on.

From concerts in Golden Gate Park to sailing on the bay, Free Shakespeare in the Park, and other events throughout the city, there's no shortage of entertainment. Add to that all the wider Bay Area Labor Day events and there's a lot to get excited about.

If that sounds good to you, you can book a place to stay in San Francisco here. There are plenty of options, from bayfront hotels to apartments with views and more. I love staying at Hotel Triton. It's in an ideal location by Union Square and I love the decor. You can book a room here.

6. Palm Springs

Another of the best places to go for Labor Day weekend in California is Palm Springs. This part of the Golden State is popular for its desert beauty, golf, restaurants, spas, hiking, architecture, and more.

Labor Day is a great time to be in Palm Springs. The first weekend in September marks the beginning of the high season as the city becomes a mecca for locals and visitors seeking year-round warm weather. From shows to pool parties, exhibitions, and events, this end-of-summer weekend is a great time to be in town.

If this sounds like your kind of place, you can book accommodation in Palm Springs here. My top pick for a place to call home-away-from-home is The Saguaro. Surrounded by mountains in Coachella Valley, this hip boutique hotel is a fun spot to spend a couple nights in the area. You can book a room here.

7. Santa Cruz & Capitola

Santa Cruz and Capitola are next on my list of places to spend Labor Day weekend in California. These neighboring cities on the Monterey Bay are known for their world-class surfing and beaches. They're the ideal spots to soak up the late summer sunshine and ride the ocean waves.

Even if you don't surf, there's still a lot to do here on Labor Day. Both cities offer great shopping and dining, the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is an iconic amusement park, and there are plenty of events going on around town.

If this sounds good to you, you can book accommodation in Santa Cruz here. From hotels to apartments on the beach, there are plenty of options. I've stayed at the West Cliff Inn and I loved its prime location and beautiful ambiance. You can book a room here.

8. Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is another of the best places to go for Labor Day weekend in California. The end of summer is a great time to be in the national park. The weather is beautiful, the hiking trails beckon, and the waterfalls are amazing.

When it comes to things to do for Labor Day in Yosemite, there's no shortage of ways to enjoy the park during the unofficial end of summer. If you want to see waterfalls, the Mist Trail is ideal. If you like scenic drives, the Yosemite Valley Loop is great. My itinerary for 3 days in Yosemite can give you more ideas, too.

Yosemite National Park and the surrounding area can get crowded on and around Labor Day, so make sure arrive early and book accommodation well in advance. You can see options and book a place to stay here. My favorite is The Ahwahnee. This historic landmark hotel is one of the most unique places to stay in California. You can reserve a room here.

9. Sonoma County

Sonoma County is next on my list of the best places to go for Labor Day weekend in California. This part of Northern California's wine country is a fun area to celebrate the arrival of fall.

Whether you want to explore downtown Healdsburg or take a hike along the coast, there's no shortage of ways to spend your three-day weekend. You can also go bike riding, raft on the Russian River, attend a concert, have a picnic, go wine tasting, and more.

If you need inspiration, my Sonoma itineraries can help. I've even published a Sonoma itinerary for 3 days that's perfect for the long weekend. And if you want to combine it with Napa, you can take a look at my itinerary for 3 days in Napa and Sonoma.

If this sounds good to you, you can book a place to stay in Sonoma here. There are plenty of options throughout the county, from hotels to vacation rentals and more. My favorite is the Grape Leaf Inn in Healdsburg. This sweet B&B near the plaza has beautiful guest rooms and a great atmosphere. You can book a room here.

10. Napa Valley

Just east of Sonoma County, Napa Valley is another exciting place to spend Labor Day weekend in California. Located in the heart of wine county, this is a fun destination for end-of-summer celebrations of all kinds.

From wine tasting to live music and mountain hikes, there's a lot you can do over the three-day weekend in Napa. Just make sure you're prepared for how popular this part of the Golden State gets during this period. Book tastings well in advance and leave yourself plenty of travel time in case of road traffic.

If a wine country getaway sounds good to you, you can book accommodation in Napa Valley here. There are lots of options throughout the area, from luxury hotels to house rentals. My favorite is Indian Springs. This quirky collection of cottages and bungalows in Calistoga is one of the coolest places to stay in California.

11. Santa Barbara County

Next on my list of the best places to spend Labor Day weekend is Santa Barbara County. From the coastal city of Santa Barbara to the wineries in Los Olivos and the beaches along the Pacific Ocean, there's a lot to love here.

Whether you want to attend an event or festival in Santa Barbara, go wine tasting in the Santa Rita Hills, check out the quirky Danish town of Solvang, or explore the Santa Ynez Valley, there's a lot you can do. And that's to say nothing of the museums, walking tours, whale watching cruises, water sports, and restaurants on offer.

If this Labor Day getaway sounds good to you, you can book a place to stay in Santa Barbara here. There are lots of options throughout the area, from landmark hotels in the hills to beachfront apartments and more. I love staying at El Encanto. This luxurious hilltop hotel is legendary. You can book a room here.

12. Catalina Island

Catalina Island is another great place for a Labor Day weekend getaway in California. It's fun to take the ferry over from LA and spend time celebrating the end of summer while soaking up the island vibes. As an added bonus, the crowds aren't as big and the weather isn't as hot as it is in peak summer.

There's a lot going on for Labor Day on Catalina Island, too. From the annual Jimmy Walker “Buffalo Chip” Toss to water sports, the Garden to Sky Hike, kayaking, and shopping, there's no shortage of entertainment here.

You'll want to stay at least one night on Catalina Island to fully experience the festivities. You can book a place to stay here. There are plenty of options to choose from, including hotels, house rentals, and B&Bs. I've had a great stay at the Zane Grey Pueblo Hotel. It has beautiful rooms and great views over the island. You can book a room here.

13. Bolinas

If you want to get away from it all, Bolinas is a great place to go for Labor Day weekend in California. This under-the-radar beach town in Marin County is the perfect late summer getaway.

Bolinas is an ideal place to spend Labor Day weekend in Northern California because it has a great mix of beach activities, shopping, dining, and outdoor pursuits on offer. It's close to popular places like Point Reyes, Stinson Beach, and Mount Tamalpais, too, so there's plenty to do and see. My itinerary for a weekend in Bolinas can give you more ideas.

If this sounds like your kind of three-day weekend, you can see a range of choices and find accommodation that fits your style here. There are plenty of options in and around town.

14. Big Sur

Big Sur is another of the most popular places to travel for Labor Day weekend in California. The natural beauty here is hard to beat, and the weather can be beautiful in early September. It's a busy time of year to visit, but it's worth it for the stunning coastal scenery.

There's plenty to keep you busy during a three-day trip to Big Sur. From coastal hikes to beautiful beaches, great restaurants, and stunning waterfalls, this part of the Central Coast has a lot to offer visitors.

If this sounds good to you, you can book accommodation in Big Sur here. Whether you want to go camping, glamping, or stay at a hotel in Big Sur, there are plenty of options. I've stayed everywhere from Treebones Resort to Glen Oaks, and it's hard to go wrong here.

15. Mammoth Lakes

Another great place for a Labor Day weekend getaway in California is Mammoth Lakes. Out east in the Sierra Nevada mountains, this town and the area around it are known for great hiking, biking, natural scenery, and more.

There's a lot going on over Labor Day in Mammoth Lakes, from the Rock N Rye whiskey festival to the Summit Sunset Party at the top of Mammoth Mountain. Add to that fun excursions to ghost towns like Bodie and great drives like the June Lake Loop, and you're spoiled for choice.

If you need more inspiration, my itinerary for 3 days in Mammoth Lakes in summer can help. It has everything you need to plan the perfect trip.

If this sounds like your kind of getaway, you can book a hotel in Mammoth Lakes here. I've stayed at The Village Lodge at Mammoth, and I loved that it was located right in the heart of the area. You can book a room here.

16. Sacramento

Back to cities, Sacramento is another of my top picks for places to spend Labor Day weekend in California. The state capital is a fun place to get into California's history, explore the restaurant scene, and soak up the sun by the river.

There's a lot going on for Labor Day in Sacramento, too. From live music to performances, parties, concerts, river cruises, the FoodieLand culinary event at Cal Expo, and the annual Chalk It Up! Chalk Art & Music Festival, there's no shortage of things to do here over the holiday weekend.

If this end-of-summer getaway sounds good to you, you can book a place to stay in Sacramento here. I've stayed at The Citizen Hotel, and I love its stylish decor and great view of the city. You can book a room here.

17. Lake Berryessa

If you love boating, Lake Berryessa in the Vaca Mountains is one of the top places to go for Labor Day weekend in California. The largest lake in Napa County, this place is popular for swimming, boating, and other water activities.

Spending Labor Day at Lake Berryessa will allow you to do everything from go camping to houseboating, jet skiing, and more. Whether you love waterskiing, wakeboarding, or pontoon boating, there's something here for you this September.

If this sounds good to you, you can book a place to stay near Lake Berryessa here. There are lots of options for accommodation, so you're sure to find something that fits your travel style and preferences.

Labor Day in California Map

Best Places to Go for Labor Day in California

I hope you've enjoyed this guide to where to spend Labor Day in California, and that it's inspired you to get out and discover more of the Golden State over the end-of-summer holiday weekend. There are so many great places to travel for it, and this time of year is a fun one to be here. Happy travels!

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