Central California Vacations from $155

For a week-long Central California vacation package, Fresno typically offers the lowest prices, while Monterey and Santa Cruz tend to be higher. A week-long trip typically costs around $1,050 per adult in Fresno, around $1,150 in Bakersfield, and around $1,200 in San Jose. Monterey and Santa Cruz packages for a week typically cost around $1,300 per adult.


*Package prices shown are the average total cost per adult across Expedia bookings over the past year and may change depending on availability, dates, and demand.

When you bundle, you can save up to 30%*. To save money on a Central California package, consider traveling during the quieter months or be flexible with your dates to find more options. Bundling your flights and hotel together often unlocks savings compared to booking separately. *Members only. Savings vary.

A Central California vacation package typically lets you combine flights, hotel stays, and rental cars, based in one of the region's top destinations like San Jose, Monterey, or Santa Cruz. In San Jose, nearly all hotels offer airport shuttle service and nearly all also include free breakfast. In Monterey, nearly all hotels provide airport shuttle service, and most properties offer free breakfast. Similarly, in Santa Cruz, nearly all hotels feature airport shuttle service, and most include free breakfast.


Exactly what's included will vary by hotel and package, so it's worth reviewing the details before you confirm your booking.

San Jose, Santa Cruz, and Fresno are some of the top destinations for cheap Central California vacation package deals. For an affordable weekend getaway, San Jose is often among the most budget-friendly options, with package prices starting around $390 per adult. For notable bundle savings, San Jose is also among the best options, with flight-and-hotel bundles saving around $175 per adult.


Browse cheap vacation packages in Central California on Expedia to compare current deals.


*Package prices shown are the average total cost per adult across Expedia bookings over the past year and may change depending on availability, dates, and demand.

The best time for a Central California vacation package depends on which destination you choose.


San Jose is busiest in July and September, with highs around 84°F and 83°F respectively. September also hosts the Santa Clara Art and Wine Festival. For fewer crowds, January is quieter, with highs around 60°F.


Monterey sees peak demand in July and August, with highs around 71°F and 72°F. If you prefer fewer visitors, January is quieter, with highs around 60°F.


Mammoth Lakes is busiest in December and February, with highs around 34°F, making it ideal for winter sports. For a quieter visit, May sees highs around 54°F.


Fresno experiences peak demand in July and May, with highs reaching around 102°F in July and 83°F in May. For a quieter experience, January is a good option, with highs around 59°F.

Central California vacation packages offer a variety of travel styles across its diverse cities:

• Budget: In San Jose, Convention Center Inn and Suites, rated 9.5 out of 10 by travelers, offers free WiFi and air conditioning, providing a comfortable stay for value-conscious travelers.
• Pet-friendly: In Fresno, La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Fresno Northwest, rated 8.4 out of 10 by travelers, provides a hot tub and outdoor pool, with travelers praising its pet friendliness.
• Breakfast: In Monterey, Jabberwock Inn, a 3.5-star property rated 9.6 out of 10 by travelers, includes free breakfast and free WiFi, with staff often highlighted as great.
• Family: In Santa Cruz, Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz, rated 8.1 out of 10 by travelers, features family rooms and a game room, with travelers praising its delicious breakfast.
• Beach: Also in Santa Cruz, Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Santa Cruz, CA, rated 8.7 out of 10 by travelers, offers an outdoor pool and hot tub, with travelers noting its perfect pool.

For a Central California vacation, consider these destinations based on your travel style:

• San Jose: An excellent choice for families or urban explorers, offering city attractions and entertainment options, and a popular base for Central California vacation packages.
• Paso Robles: Ideal for a romantic getaway, this city is known for its scenic views and entertainment, perfect for couples seeking a charming escape.
• Monterey: A great option for beach lovers and families, providing a beautiful coastal setting with family-friendly attractions and outdoor activities.
• Santa Cruz: This city is well-suited for those seeking beaches, outdoor activities, and family-friendly fun.
• Mammoth Lakes: Primarily known for skiing and other sports activities, this area offers a good range of lodging choices for active travelers.

Central California is primarily an outdoor and nature destination, known for its scenic views and adventure activities, but it also offers distinct beach and cultural experiences across its cities.


For a beach-focused Central California vacation, destinations like Monterey and Santa Cruz are excellent choices, offering beautiful coastlines and family-friendly attractions such as Carmel Beach and the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Meanwhile, Yosemite National Park provides stunning natural scenery and also features cultural attractions.


Urban centers like San Jose offer city and urban attractions, including the Winchester Mystery House, catering to those interested in entertainment and city life. A Central California vacation package can be tailored to match your preferred travel style, whether it's exploring nature, relaxing by the sea, or enjoying urban sights.

For a Central California vacation, several major airports provide convenient access to the region. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) serves Southern California, while San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is a primary gateway for Northern California. Sacramento International Airport (SMF) serves the northern part of Central California. These airports connect travelers to various destinations across the broader California region.

A Central California vacation offers diverse attractions across its many destinations:


Browse and book things to do in Central California on Expedia.

Family vacation packages in Central California offer a range of kid-friendly amenities across its cities:

• In San Jose, Hayes Mansion, San Jose - Curio Collection by Hilton, a 4-star property rated 8.3 out of 10 by travelers, offers family rooms and an outdoor pool, with staff frequently praised as fantastic.
• In Fresno, Tropical Paradise, a 4-star property rated 8.8 out of 10 by travelers, provides family rooms and a kitchen, with facilities noted as super nice.
• In Monterey, Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay, a 4-star hotel rated 8.5 out of 10 by travelers, features family rooms and an outdoor pool, with travelers highlighting the helpful staff.
• In Santa Cruz, Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz, rated 8.1 out of 10 by travelers, includes family rooms and a game room, with guests often praising the delicious breakfast.
• In Bakersfield, Home2 Suites by Hilton Bakersfield, rated 8.9 out of 10 by travelers, offers family rooms and a kitchenette, with travelers noting the great experience.

Luxury Central California vacation packages can be found across several of its destinations, offering upscale stays:


Most Central California vacation packages pair the hotel with flights. Browse luxury vacation packages in Central California on Expedia to compare options.

Booking times for a Central California vacation package vary by destination, with most travelers booking around 2 to 5 weeks before departure.


Travelers tend to book trips to these Central California destinations most often in January, March, May, July, and from September to October. If you're planning a spontaneous getaway, Expedia also offers last-minute Central California vacation packages.

Most Central California vacation packages last around 2 to 4 days, but the ideal trip length depends on where you're going and what you'd like to experience.


San Jose, known for its family-friendly attractions and urban entertainment, is well suited to a trip of around 2 days. Most travelers choose weekend trips, though some opt for week-long stays to explore sights like Levi's Stadium.


Fresno, a destination for outdoor activities and scenic views, is worth around 3 days. Most travelers choose weekend trips, with nearly a third also opting for week-long stays to enjoy attractions such as the Save Mart Center.


Monterey, primarily known for its beaches and scenic views, rewards a stay of around 4 days. About half of travelers choose weekend trips, while the other half opt for week-long stays to experience the beauty of Monterey Bay.

Yes, you can cancel your vacation package via your itinerary page on Expedia or by contacting customer service. Remember that some packages are fully refundable, but the details vary based on each unique booking. A fully refundable package may depend on how far out from the travel dates you're canceling and what airline you are traveling with.

Yes, members who join our free One Key™ travel rewards program can instantly unlock additional savings and save 10% or more on over 500,000 stays worldwide with Member Prices and over 1 million car rentals.

Yes, with Expedia's Book Now, Pay Later option, powered by Affirm, you can spread the cost of your Central California vacation over 3, 6, or 12 months. With no late payment fees or hidden costs, it's easy to secure your ideal vacation package as soon as you spot it.

To find last-minute vacation packages to Central California, explore the last-minute deals section for the latest package offers, including flights, departing in the coming weeks. Being flexible with your travel dates and hotel preferences can help you secure the best prices.

Free cancellation on a Central California vacation package depends on the specific hotel and rate combination you book. Many bookings allow free cancellation up to a stated deadline (often a few days before travel) where eligible. Read the cancellation terms carefully when reviewing the package, and visit Expedia help center for further details.

An Expedia vacation package could land you great savings when compared to arranging flights and hotels separately. Better still, you can tailor your Central California getaway to match your exact preference. Pick your preferred flight time, select the hotel type and add a car rental. Explore our bundles to see how much you can save.

Booking your vacation package on Expedia makes it easier to get more out of your trip from the start. With a wide choice of hotels, you can compare prices, reviews and amenities all in one place, then bundle your hotel with flights which could help you save even more. Flexible booking options on selected stays also make it easier to plan with confidence.