Best Places to Stay in California for Couples looking for a Luxury Vacation

California lends itself naturally to romantic travel. Long coastal drives, wine country mornings, desert evenings that cool just enough for outdoor dining. The state rewards couples who want space, privacy, and well-designed places to slow down together. Luxury vacations in California for couples often hinge less on spectacle and more on setting: a view that changes with the light, a home that feels intentionally secluded, and access to experiences that don’t require crowds or rigid schedules.

The destinations below are chosen with that balance in mind. Each offers a distinct sense of place, a strong seasonal appeal, and a style of luxury that feels personal rather than performative. In many of these areas, Wander’s luxury vacation homes in California allow couples to experience the state at their own pace, with architectural details, thoughtful amenities, and locations that make the surroundings an integral part of the stay.

Big Sur

Big Sur has a way of quieting everything else. The coastline is raw and cinematic, but the luxury here comes from restraint, with homes set back from the road, wrapped in redwoods or perched above the Pacific with uninterrupted views. Days unfold slowly, shaped by fog patterns, shifting light, and the sound of the ocean far below.

Couples tend to gravitate here when they want privacy without isolation. You can spend the morning hiking through Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, return for a long lunch at home, then head out again just before sunset when Highway 1 empties and the cliffs glow gold. There’s no nightlife to chase, which is precisely the point.

Wander’s Big Sur-area properties emphasize architecture and setting, offering secluded spaces where the landscape does most of the work.

Things to do

• Walk the bluff trail at Garrapata during low fog for sweeping coastal views

• Book a private outdoor soaking session at a nearby spa

• Picnic above Pfeiffer Beach once the crowds thin, late afternoon

• Drive south toward Lucia for one of the quietest stretches of Highway 1

Travel tips

• Late spring and early fall bring the clearest skies.

• Mornings can be foggy; consider planning outdoor activities for later in the day.

• Cell service is limited, so download maps in advance.

Where to Stay near Big Sur

Wander has a fantastic collection of luxury vacation rentals in Big Sur and the surrounding areas. Some of our highlight picks include:

• Wander Big Sur Coast - Breathe in the fresh ocean air at this mid-century modern architectural masterpiece, equipped with a gym and sauna for ultimate relaxation and quality time with your partner.

• Wander Pebble Beach - Combine wellness and leisure at this tranquil coastal escape. Connect with your partner at the cozy fireplace, hot tub, and ping pong table. 

Napa Valley

Napa rewards couples who appreciate structure and indulgence in equal measure. Vineyard estates, manicured landscapes, and highly curated tasting experiences create an environment where days feel intentional without being rigid. Staying just outside the main towns allows for quieter mornings and easier transitions between experiences.

Private luxury homes here feel residential rather than resort-like. Wander’s Napa Valley properties offer space to reset between tastings, with shaded patios, chef-grade kitchens, and views that stretch across vine rows rather than parking lots.

Things to do

• Schedule a seated tasting at a single-vineyard winery.

• Arrange an in-home private chef dinner.

• Explore the quieter northern end of the valley near Calistoga.

• Take an early morning hot air balloon ride for valley-wide views.

Travel tips

• Midweek stays feel markedly calmer.

• Late summer brings warmth; plan tastings earlier in the day.

• Appointments are essential at most wineries.

Where to Stay near Napa Valley

• Wander Sonoma Haven - Conversations around the firepit, a hot tub under the stars, and a breathtaking mountain view are some of the lasting memories you and your partner will make at this luxurious stay.

Malibu

Malibu offers a rare combination: dramatic oceanfront living with easy access to world-class dining. For couples, the appeal lies in choosing a home where the Pacific becomes the focal point, with floor-to-ceiling glass, expansive decks, and the rhythm of waves replacing city noise.

Wander’s Malibu homes are designed for privacy despite the proximity to Los Angeles. Mornings feel secluded; evenings can be as social or as quiet as you want.

Things to do

• Walk Carbon Beach early, before day visitors arrive.

• Reserve a table at Nobu Malibu just before sunset.

• Drive up the coast toward Point Dume for a quieter beach experience.

• Spend a whole afternoon at home with catered meals and ocean views.

Travel tips

• Weekends bring traffic; plan arrivals accordingly.

• Coastal evenings cool quickly; layers matter.

• Oceanfront homes book well in advance during the summer.

Where to Stay near Malibu

Wander has an extensive collection of luxury vacation rentals in Malibu and the surrounding areas. Some of the top picks include:

• Wander Malibu Dunes - This breathtaking beachfront estate offers unparalleled luxury and breathtaking ocean views. Exclusivity and luxury are at the heart of this private sanctuary, giving you and your partner the chance to reconnect.

• Wander Malibu Sea - Imagine having the soothing sounds of the ocean just steps from your door. At the ultimate coastal escape, that becomes a reality for you and your loved one.

• Wander Malibu Art Haven - This modern estate is more than a vacation home; it’s an experience. It’s a private exhibition that’s hosted by world-renowned figures, high-profile events, and soon, you and your special someone. 

Palm Springs

Palm Springs luxury is about space, light, and architectural clarity. Couples are drawn here for mid-century homes with private pools, mountain backdrops, and an easy rhythm built around mornings outdoors and afternoons indoors.

Wander’s Palm Springs properties often sit in quiet neighborhoods, offering privacy without losing access to dining and design landmarks. Winter and early spring are especially appealing, when days are warm but not oppressive.

Things to do

• Book a private spa treatment at your rental.

• Explore the Indian Canyons early in the morning.

• Take a scenic drive through Joshua Tree National Park.

• Dine late in town once daytime heat fades.

Travel tips

• Summer stays require comfort with extreme heat.

• Pools are essential most of the year.

• Desert nights cool quickly.

Where to Stay near Palm Springs

Wander has a wide variety of luxury vacation rentals in Palm Springs and the nearby areas. Some of the highest-rated options include:

• Wander Palm Desert Oasis - This meticulously designed oasis offers a sanctuary of tranquility and sophistication, ideal for couples seeking a taste of the stunning Palm Desert landscape.

• Wander Palm Springs Haven - Wonderful mountain views await at every vantage point, creating a truly unforgettable backdrop for your stay. 

• Wander Palm Springs Gem - Capture the essence of desert luxury with a refreshing dip in the outdoor pool or a relaxing soak in the hot tub.

Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe’s appeal shifts with the seasons. Winter brings snow-covered stillness and fireside evenings; summer offers clear water, hiking, and long daylight hours. Luxury here often means proximity to nature without sacrificing comfort.

Wander’s Tahoe-area homes provide space to retreat after full days outdoors, with expansive windows, hot tubs, and layouts that encourage slow evenings together.

Things to do

• Kayak on the lake early for glassy water.

• Take a scenic hike along the West Shore.

• Enjoy après-ski dining in winter.

• Spend a full day at home during snowstorms.

Travel tips

• Winter driving requires preparation.

• Summer weekends are busiest; weekdays feel calmer.

• Elevation affects the weather quickly.

Where to Stay near Lake Tahoe

• Wander South Tahoe – If you and your partner enjoy golfing and skiing, then this is the perfect destination for you. This 5-bedroom property features its own mini golf course, along with a private hot tub.

• Wander Tahoe Slopes - Combine adventure with rest and relaxation, by enjoying a dip in the private hot tub after a day on the slopes.

Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara balances coastal scenery with wine country sensibility. Couples come for the mild climate, walkable downtown, and understated luxury that doesn’t feel performative. Homes tucked into the hills or near the beach offer privacy while keeping everything within reach.

Wander’s Santa Barbara properties often emphasize outdoor living. It’s ideal for couples seeking relaxed coastal romance, with terraces, gardens, and ocean or mountain views that define the experience.

Things to do

• Walk Butterfly Beach at sunset.

• Visit tasting rooms in the Funk Zone.

• Take a day trip to the Santa Ynez Valley.

• Dine outdoors along State Street.

Travel tips

• Late summer brings the best ocean conditions

• Evenings stay cool year-round.

• Downtown parking is easiest midweek.

Where to Stay near Santa Barbara

• Wander Montecito Estate - History, romance, and quiet grandeur are part of the package at this timeless masterpiece. You and your partner will have access to an array of exceptional amenities for leisure and indulgence. 

Sonoma Valley

Sonoma feels more relaxed than Napa, with wider landscapes and fewer crowds. Luxury here is quieter, with long vineyard views, slower meals, and homes that feel embedded in the land rather than curated for display.

Wander’s Sonoma Valley homes are well-suited to couples who value space and autonomy, offering vineyard-adjacent stays that encourage staying in as much as going out.

Things to do

• Visit small-production wineries by appointment.

• Cycle quiet back roads through vineyards.

• Book a private tasting at a family-run estate.

• Enjoy sunset dinners at home.

Travel tips

• Spring brings wildflowers and softer light.

• Driving times between wineries can be longer.

• Reservations remain important, but flexibility is easier than Napa.

Where to Stay near Sonoma Valley

• Wander Sonoma Reserve - Spend hours in the pool and reading by the fire pit, surrounded by breathtaking views of the hills and vineyard. 

Carmel-by-the-Sea

Carmel feels intentionally small. Storybook architecture, white-sand beaches, and a village scale make it ideal for couples who enjoy walking everywhere and ending days early. Luxury here is subtle, with thoughtful design, prime locations, and access to one of California’s most scenic coastlines.

Wander’s nearby properties allow couples to enjoy the area without the limitations of traditional lodging, especially during peak season.

Things to do

• Walk Carmel Beach just before sunset.

• Explore Point Lobos early in the morning.

• Dine at a small, chef-driven restaurant in town.

• Take a slow drive along 17-Mile Drive.

Travel tips

• Point Lobos requires timed entry.

• Fog is common in summer afternoons.

• The village is best explored on foot.

Where to Stay near Carmel-by-the-Sea

• Wander Pebble Beach - Combine a tranquil coastal escape with California charm with amenities such as an inviting outdoor area, cozy fireplace, and light-filled spaces.

• Wander Pebble Estate - This three-acre Mediterranean masterpiece boasts a 180-degree ocean horizon, offering the perfect blend of timeless architecture and breathtaking views.

Expert tip for a luxury couples getaway to Big Sur and Carmel

Couples often pair Big Sur with a few nights near Carmel to strike a balance between seclusion and convenience. Spend the first part of your trip deep in Big Sur, focused on hiking and downtime, then shift north for walkable dining and coastal exploration. The contrast makes both places feel richer without adding significant drive time.

Use Wander to book your next couples' vacation to California

The best places to stay for couples looking for luxury vacation rentals in California aren’t defined by scale or spectacle. They’re shaped by privacy, setting, and the freedom to move at your own pace. Whether that means a vineyard morning in Sonoma, a desert evening in Palm Springs, or watching fog roll over the cliffs in Big Sur, California, offers countless ways to design a romantic stay around what actually matters to you. Choosing the right home and the right place turns a beautiful destination into a genuinely memorable experience.