Nestled in the scenic hills of Contra Costa County, Moraga is known for its small-town charm, natural beauty, and easy access to some of Northern California’s most exciting destinations. Whether you’re craving a coastal escape, a wine country retreat, or a mountain adventure, Moraga is the perfect jumping-off point for unforgettable weekend trips. Here are some of the top weekend getaways you can enjoy within a few hours’ drive.
1. Napa Valley – Wine Country Relaxation
Distance from Moraga: 1.5 hours
For wine enthusiasts and luxury seekers, a weekend in Napa Valley offers a quintessential California escape. Explore world-renowned vineyards such as Domaine Carneros, Castello di Amorosa, or Opus One, and enjoy tastings of bold reds and crisp whites. Book a stay at a charming bed-and-breakfast or indulge in a luxury resort with spa treatments and gourmet dining.
For wine enthusiasts and luxury seekers, a weekend in Napa Valley offers a quintessential California escape. Explore world-renowned vineyards such as Domaine Carneros, Castello di Amorosa, or Opus One, and enjoy tastings of bold reds and crisp whites. Book a stay at a charming bed-and-breakfast or indulge in a luxury resort with spa treatments and gourmet dining.
Beyond the wine, Napa boasts hot air balloon rides, cycling trails, and scenic drives through golden hills. Downtown Napa features art galleries, boutique shops, and a lively culinary scene. For a quieter experience, visit Calistoga for mud baths and mineral hot springs.
2. Carmel-by-the-Sea – Coastal Beauty and European Charm
Distance from Moraga: 2.5 hours
Carmel-by-the-Sea feels like a fairytale brought to life, with its storybook cottages, pristine beaches, and sophisticated ambiance. This charming town offers an idyllic coastal retreat filled with art, culture, and natural splendor.
Carmel-by-the-Sea feels like a fairytale brought to life, with its storybook cottages, pristine beaches, and sophisticated ambiance. This charming town offers an idyllic coastal retreat filled with art, culture, and natural splendor.
Stroll along Ocean Avenue, explore local galleries, or catch a performance at the historic Forest Theater. The beach is perfect for sunset walks, while nearby Point Lobos State Natural Reserve invites hikers and photographers to marvel at rugged cliffs and turquoise waters.
Stay in a romantic inn or ocean-view hotel and enjoy fresh seafood, fine wines, and the tranquil pace of life in Carmel.
3. Lake Tahoe – Alpine Adventure
Distance from Moraga: 3.5 hours
When you’re in the mood for mountains, Lake Tahoe offers year-round excitement. In the winter, hit the slopes at world-class ski resorts like Heavenly or Northstar. During warmer months, enjoy hiking, mountain biking, paddleboarding, and boating on the crystal-clear lake.
When you’re in the mood for mountains, Lake Tahoe offers year-round excitement. In the winter, hit the slopes at world-class ski resorts like Heavenly or Northstar. During warmer months, enjoy hiking, mountain biking, paddleboarding, and boating on the crystal-clear lake.
Tahoe’s South Shore is buzzing with entertainment, casinos, and nightlife, while the North Shore offers a more laid-back, family-friendly experience. Rent a cabin or lakeside lodge for a cozy getaway surrounded by nature.
Tahoe’s alpine beauty and recreational variety make it one of the most versatile weekend destinations from Moraga.
4. Sonoma County – Scenic Drives and Farm-to-Table Dining
Distance from Moraga: 1.5 hours
Sonoma County blends the best of wine country and the countryside. Less commercialized than its Napa counterpart, Sonoma offers a more rustic and relaxed atmosphere with equally stunning vineyards.
Sonoma County blends the best of wine country and the countryside. Less commercialized than its Napa counterpart, Sonoma offers a more rustic and relaxed atmosphere with equally stunning vineyards.
Explore quaint towns like Healdsburg, Sebastopol, and Guerneville, each with its own personality. The Russian River is ideal for canoeing or kayaking, while Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve invites peaceful forest walks beneath towering trees.
Sonoma is also known for its thriving farm-to-table culinary scene, with restaurants featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients in picturesque settings.
5. Half Moon Bay – Rugged Coastline and Coastal Trails
Distance from Moraga: 1 hour
For a quick yet memorable escape, Half Moon Bay offers windswept beaches, ocean bluffs, and charming coastal culture. Walk the Coastal Trail, horseback ride along the beach, or explore tide pools at low tide. The views from Pillar Point Bluff are breathtaking, especially during sunset.
For a quick yet memorable escape, Half Moon Bay offers windswept beaches, ocean bluffs, and charming coastal culture. Walk the Coastal Trail, horseback ride along the beach, or explore tide pools at low tide. The views from Pillar Point Bluff are breathtaking, especially during sunset.
Downtown Half Moon Bay has boutique shopping, cafes, and coastal art. Seasonal festivals, like the famous Pumpkin Festival in the fall, add extra excitement. Local inns and oceanfront hotels provide cozy accommodations for a peaceful weekend by the sea.
6. Point Reyes National Seashore – Outdoor Escape and Wildlife Encounters
Distance from Moraga: 1.5 hours
If you’re a nature lover, Point Reyes National Seashore is a must-visit destination. This protected area on the Marin County coast is home to rugged cliffs, sweeping beaches, and extensive hiking trails.
If you’re a nature lover, Point Reyes National Seashore is a must-visit destination. This protected area on the Marin County coast is home to rugged cliffs, sweeping beaches, and extensive hiking trails.
Hike to Alamere Falls, spot tule elk at Tomales Point, or visit the historic Point Reyes Lighthouse. The area is rich with wildlife, including elephant seals, gray whales, and a variety of birds. Enjoy farm-fresh cheese from local dairies and pick up picnic fare in nearby towns like Point Reyes Station.
Camping and rustic lodging options help you disconnect and immerse yourself in natural beauty.
7. Big Sur – Iconic California Coastline
Distance from Moraga: 3 hours
A longer drive rewards you with one of the most iconic coastal regions in the world. Big Sur offers breathtaking vistas, towering redwoods, and an unparalleled sense of serenity. Drive the scenic Highway 1 and stop at famous spots like Bixby Bridge, Pfeiffer Beach, and McWay Falls.
A longer drive rewards you with one of the most iconic coastal regions in the world. Big Sur offers breathtaking vistas, towering redwoods, and an unparalleled sense of serenity. Drive the scenic Highway 1 and stop at famous spots like Bixby Bridge, Pfeiffer Beach, and McWay Falls.
Hike through Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park or relax at a cliffside retreat. Big Sur’s luxury lodges and wellness resorts provide spa treatments and gourmet cuisine, making it a top choice for rejuvenation and reflection.
8. Sacramento – History and Urban Fun
Distance from Moraga: 1.5 hours
If you’re seeking a more urban escape, California’s capital city offers a blend of history, culture, and modern attractions. Explore Old Sacramento’s Gold Rush-era buildings, visit the California State Railroad Museum, or stroll the Capitol grounds.
If you’re seeking a more urban escape, California’s capital city offers a blend of history, culture, and modern attractions. Explore Old Sacramento’s Gold Rush-era buildings, visit the California State Railroad Museum, or stroll the Capitol grounds.
Midtown Sacramento has a dynamic arts scene, lively nightlife, and fantastic farm-to-fork dining. Enjoy riverfront views or hop on a boat tour along the Sacramento River. It’s a destination that balances education and entertainment.
9. Yosemite National Park – Majestic Wilderness
Distance from Moraga: 4 hours
For the ultimate weekend adventure, few places compare to the grandeur of Yosemite National Park. With its towering granite cliffs, thundering waterfalls, and ancient sequoia trees, Yosemite is a haven for hikers, climbers, and photographers alike.
For the ultimate weekend adventure, few places compare to the grandeur of Yosemite National Park. With its towering granite cliffs, thundering waterfalls, and ancient sequoia trees, Yosemite is a haven for hikers, climbers, and photographers alike.
Explore iconic sites like El Capitan, Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, and Glacier Point. Spring and early summer bring dramatic waterfalls, while fall offers peaceful trails and vibrant foliage. Lodging ranges from rustic cabins to elegant lodges inside the park.
Though it’s a bit farther than other destinations, Yosemite’s beauty makes it well worth the trip.
Plan Your Getaway with Confidence
Living in Moraga gives you incredible access to Northern California’s most beloved travel spots. Whether you’re a foodie, a nature enthusiast, or a fan of coastal drives, there’s a weekend destination tailored just for you.
If you're thinking about making Moraga your permanent home—or you're ready to list your current property—the Paddy Kehoe Team is here to help. As trusted Lamorinda Realtors with deep knowledge of the Moraga community, the Paddy Kehoe Team is committed to delivering exceptional service and expert guidance. From exploring local neighborhoods to negotiating on your behalf, they’ll be with you every step of the way.
Reach out today and let the Paddy Kehoe Team help you find your perfect place in the heart of Lamorinda.
