There is a variety of scenery around Kern County, in south-central California, ranging from pristine mountain lakes to desert oases, sandy beaches to vineyard-covered hills. There are plenty of places nearby to recharge and relax just within a short drive of Kern County. You can enjoy sightseeing, fun recreational activities, and fine dining at these destinations.
Earlier this month, my friends and I visited some of these places and spent three days there. We had a great time. However, I want to emphasize you should book a room in the best hotel in Kern County because the area is not safe for night traveling.
However, let’s get back to what we’re talking about, the following are the most suitable weekend getaway spots in Kern County where you can rejuvenate yourself and enjoy your leisure time.
Several Amazing Weekend Getaways in Kern County
Carmel-by-the-Sea
Kern County’s first getaway is Carmel-by-the-Sea, a coastal town on the Monterrey Peninsula, five hours northwest of Bakersfield. The town is known as an artist colony, and Carmel Art Tours can take you on a guided tour of some of the town’s finest studios and galleries. Visiting Carmel Plaza is a great way to experience an elegant and eclectic shopping experience. There are several water sports available along Carmel Beach, and it offers a wide expanse of white sand perfect for swimming, sunbathing, beachcombing, and water sports.
The place will give you a relaxing time since most of my friends and I usually visit there in their spare time. Additionally, the Scenic Bluff Path overlooks the spectacular coastline and is a great place for walking or running.
- Lake Arrowhead
Within the beautiful San Bernardino Mountains, the town of Lake Arrowhead lies along its pristine and beautiful namesake lake. An exciting tour of the lakeside is provided by the Lake Arrowhead Queen, a comfortable paddlewheel boat. Lake Arrowhead Village’s McKenzie Water Ski School offers an exciting and fun water skiing program. Santa’s Village, located on the south side of Lake Arrowhead, has a large, family-friendly theme park called SkyPark at Santa’s Village. Mountain bike trails with trails to suit every skill level, adventure zip-lines through the trees, climbing towers, and archery ranges are available.
- San Simeon
San Simeon is located along the beautiful California Coast three and a half hours west of Bakersfield, Kern County. There are numerous attractions in the town, including the magnificent Hearst Castle, an elaborate hillside complex built by newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst. There are guided tours at the site that take you around the main castle, the guest cottages, the outdoor pool area, and extensive grounds.
Aside from the extensive soft sand beaches, San Simeon also offers water sports, swimming, and sunbathing. If you are looking for a peaceful place to enjoy a refreshment, this is the one to visit.
- Ventura
The city of Ventura is located between Los Angeles and Santa Barbara, approximately two hours south of Bakersfield. Several water sports are available at the beach, including kayaking, paddle boarding, and jet skiing. Enjoy the thrill of kite surfing with Ventura Kiteboarding for a unique and refreshing experience. Consider renting a bicycle or four-wheeled multi-passenger Surrey bike and cycling along the waterfront.
As I mentioned earlier, I and my friends usually visit these getaways to relieve our boredom. Although, from my own experience, you should always book the best hotel in Kern County during your trip as these areas are not safe after dark.
- Paso Robles
In Paso Robles, vacation rentals are located amidst the lovely hills of California wine country, about a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Bakersfield. An Uncorked wine tour offers tastings at some of the best vineyards in the region in a comfortable van. For a more leisurely experience, join Paso Bike Tours on a bike tour around the area’s wineries and other attractions.
You can take a horseback ride across the beautiful rolling hills at Work Family Ranch. In addition to waterslides, the Ravine Waterpark has a wave pool, a lazy river, and a kiddie pool that is ideal for family outings. If you’re looking for delicious char-grilled steaks paired with fine wines, then head to the Vine Restaurant.
- Oakhurst
A visit to Oakhurst provides convenient access to Yosemite National Park’s south entrance. Discover Yosemite Tours will take you in a comfortable van to see the incomparably beautiful canyons, valleys, forests, and meadows of Yosemite. Taking a small plane ride over Yosemite National Park and the Sierra Nevada Mountains is a great way to explore the area. Through Yosemite’s forest, you can enjoy an excursion by steam train aboard the family-friendly Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad.
Final Words
All in all, these are The Perfect Weekend Getaways in Kern County for relaxing and recharging yourself. If one wishes to experience recreation and rejuvenation, these are the places one needs to visit. Your leisure time will be filled with enjoyment when you visit these beautiful sites in Bakersfield. However, as I mentioned in this post, it is also recommended to book the room in the best hotel in Kern County, since safety is necessary.