You don’t have to wait for the stars to align to plan your next California getaway, but it doesn’t hurt to consult them. In the spirit of March’s International Astrology Day, what better way to travel than by designing a vacation around your zodiac sign, even if Mercury is in retrograde? Whether you are a glamour-seeking Leo, a water-loving Pisces, or an artsy Aquarius, California has just the right cosmic vacation waiting for you. Check out which Golden State destination to visit based on your astrological sign.
Capricorn (December 22–January 19) – Mammoth Lakes
Capricorns aren't afraid of a challenge, which is what makes you such a solid trip planner. A holiday to Mammoth Lakes is exactly the kind of exhilarating vacation that you will love planning an action-packed itinerary around. First, drive up Highway 395 and stop in Lone Pine—located right outside the natural arches and rounded rocks of the Alabama Hills—and continue north to see the Tufa towers of Mono Lake. Once you’ve reached the High Sierra, it’s time to hit Mammoth’s famous powdery slopes for a day of skiing, snowboarding, or even snowmobiling. As an Earth sign, outdoor adventure is your forte. In summer, witness the hexagonal basalt columns at Devils Postpile National Monument, one of geology’s rarest phenomena. Then, hike to the nearby 101-foot-high Rainbow Falls to experience Mother Nature’s technicolor bliss (which typically flows in the summer months). Be sure to check online with the National Park Service before you go, as weather conditions are subject to change. But you already know that.
Aquarius (January 20–February 18) – West Hollywood
Known for your artistic bent and free spirit, you’re always open to new experiences. In West Hollywood, that can mean catching a concert from that new punk band one night and watching a screening of an indie slasher film at Quentin Tarantino–owned New Beverly Cinema the next. For dinner and a show done L.A.-style, take a short drive to the newly opened Grandmaster Recorders restaurant for modern Italian-Australian fare. Then, make your way to the rooftop bar at Desert 5 Stop for country music–inspired cocktails, funky live tunes, and even better vibes. A trip to WeHo would not be complete without attending Hamburger Mary’s famous drag queen brunch, held all day on Sundays.
Pisces (February 19–March 20) – Ojai
You're sensitive by nature and proud of it, so when you're on vacation, connecting with your natural surroundings is key. Ojai’s dreamy setting is the perfect backdrop for a romantic getaway, friends’ trip, or solo spiritual journey. Enjoy horseback riding at sunset, yoga at sunrise, and leisurely walks around this funky small town. Ojai is also home to a number of hidden gems, including Bart’s Books, the world’s largest outdoor book store, and acclaimed culinary venue The Farmhouse at Ojai Valley Inn. The inn doubles as a wellness getaway, offering signature spa experiences set amidst oak trees and fresh lavender. Head just a few miles north for dried flower garlands at the Santa Barbara Farmers’ Market, or to the nearby Los Padres National Forest for some mindful meditation.
Aries (March 21–April 19) – Dana Point
This coastal Orange County enclave is exactly the kind of dynamic destination that will appeal to your adventurous side. Whether it’s scuba diving off Doheny State Beach, chartering a boat for a day of deep-sea fishing, or windsurfing with friends, you’re always up for a good time. As the first sign of the zodiac, you like to dive in headfirst on vacation, seeking out experiences outdoors where you have plenty of freedom. Dana Point is a SoCal hiking hotspot, offering coastal vistas throughout the Headlands Conservation Area Trail System. Don’t forget to bring your binoculars when you explore the trails at Dana Point Preserve and Hilltop Conservation Park for wildlife-spotting at the Dolphin and Whale Watching Capital of the World.
Taurus (April 20–May 20) – Lodi
When it comes to a Taurus’ perfect getaway, maintaining creature comforts is the name of the game. Lodi’s laid-back wine country setting will suit your down-to-Earth disposition. Like Cancers, you too crave comfort and relaxation. Treat yourself to a spa day at Wine & Roses, where treatments range from Himalayan stone salt massages to seaweed mud wraps. Don’t forget to make a reservation at Towne House Restaurant for seasonally driven dishes and an extensive list of local wines. Between picnics at Micke Grove Park, shopping at historic downtown’s mom-and-pop boutiques, and enjoying an alfresco meal under the stars at Pietro’s Trattoria, you will want to visit over and over again.
Gemini (May 21–June 20) – Mount Shasta
You’re famous for your duality for a reason, and you tend to require trips that are equal parts thrilling and relaxing. Mount Shasta’s alpine setting and wide range of outdoor activities makes it a rational choice for a logic-driven air sign. Here, you can feel the excitement of mountain biking the cross-country Gateway Trail while also connecting to your best celestial self on a Mount Shasta Retreats spiritual tour. Mornings offer the opportunity to explore the geological marvels at Pluto’s Cave, Lava Beds National Monument, and the Lake Shasta Caverns. For a change of pace, try chasing waterfalls at Faery Falls, McCloud Falls, and Mossbrae Falls for the day, then retreat to the slopes at Mt. Shasta Ski Park for some downhill skiing at night.
Cancer (June 21–July 22) – Temecula
Cancers are known as the caretakers of the zodiac. You tend to give rather than take, meaning you’re probably long overdue for some self-care. Temecula’s rolling green hills and farm-to-table culinary scene will appeal to your celestial quest for comfort and contentment. As the cardinal water sign, you like to go with the flow, letting the vibe drive the next stop on your itinerary, which may include hot-air ballooning over vineyards, strolling through the farmers’ markets in Old Town Temecula, and wine tasting at one of nearly 50 wineries. Let your stress melt away during a revitalizing trip to the spa or in the nearby healing waters of Murrieta Hot Springs.
Leo (July 23–August 22) – Palm Springs
As a fire sign, you may find yourself drawn to the glitz and glam of this desert town, frequented by Hollywood royalty and foreign dignitaries alike. This irresistible oasis is home to renowned spas, fine dining, and some the best examples of mid-century modern architecture in the country. You’re naturally drawn to the finer things in life and will find solace on the golf course, or during a shopping trip to one of greater Palm Springs’ many antique shops and vintage boutiques. After a full day of indulging, end the night constellation-spotting from a stylish rooftop hotspot.
Virgo (August 23–September 22) – El Dorado County
Since you are ruled by Mercury, the logic planet, it only makes sense that making and executing a complex itinerary is your forte. Clever and capable, you are a problem-solver and like to take a hands-on approach to your getaways. El Dorado County offers a diverse array of outdoor activities including bouldering at Lover’s Leap, Mayhem Cove, and Sugarloaf, hiking poppy-covered foothills, and panning for gold, of course. You’re also the classic introvert of the zodiac, drawn to the serenity of Folsom Lake, where rainbow trout and kokanee salmon are bountiful. For a change of scenery, book a whiskey tasting at Dry Diggings Distillery to try handcrafted whiskey inspired by its Gold Country roots.
Libra (September 23–October 22) – San Diego
Often called introverted extroverts, Libras are like chameleons: you adapt to your environment. In San Diego, that can look like kayaking around Mission Bay or exploring the clubbing scene in downtown’s vibrant Gaslamp Quarter. On a Libra’s vacation, it’s all about striking the right balance. Venture out for a scenic solo drive on the coast, taking in the views of Coronado Island before heading to Liberty Public Market for a lunch with friends. As the cardinal air sign, you’re the frontrunners of the zodiac, sparking the beginning of autumn. Kick off the season by checking out the fall foliage at the Japanese Friendship Garden in Balboa Park, or the many Oktoberfest celebrations around the city.
Scorpio (October 23–November 21) – Oakland
Scorpios like to carve out their own path. You are the trendsetters of the zodiac, valuing originality and authenticity in both your personal life and your vacations. Oakland’s diversity and artistic edge will appeal to your creativity and passion. Start your day in one of the city’s many artisanal coffee shops before picking up food at Swan’s Market for a waterfront picnic at Lake Merritt. At sunset, take the ferry to San Francisco’s Treasure Island for unbeatable views of the ocean only a water sign could truly appreciate. Check out one of the East Bay’s many cultural institutions, including the Oakland Museum of California, where you can see a lush garden, cultural artifacts, and a permanent collection of more than 1.9 million pieces that may inspire your next masterpiece.
Sagittarius (November 22–December 21) – Humboldt County
For a Sagittarius, the world is one big playground waiting to be explored. You’re curious by nature and need a vacation that is as adaptable and exciting as you are. Whether that be a backpacking journey across the Lost Coast with friends or a lone camping trip in the redwoods, Humboldt County’s lush backdrop and rich history makes for a tempting getaway. Foraging for chanterelles amongst the world’s tallest trees and tidepooling at Black Sands Beach will appeal to your natural appetite for adventure. Feel like satisfying your thirst for knowledge? Take in the works of local artists at Morris Graves Museum of Art before inspecting the artifacts at Willow Creek - China Flat Museum’s well-known Bigfoot exhibit.
