The California seasonal Super Bloom is coming. Hillsides and highways and trails and byways throughout the state will soon explode in a riot of colorful wildflowers. Beginning in late February and hitting its peak in March and April, there are scores of spots for you to get your super bloom fix on.
As at least one hiking site noted recently, “With a decent amount of rain and snow already accumulated this winter, this year is currently looking more promising for wildflower displays.”
In Death Valley, for example, the desert landscape can be awash in yellow, pink, and purple flowers, including sunflowers, phacelia, desert gold, gravel ghost, Bigelow monkeyflower, desert thorn, desert sage, and of course, poppies.
Weather and rain-wise, it may be too early to tell whether major wildflower blooms are likely to occur. But even without a historical super bloom in 2022, it would be a shame to miss out on the beautiful wildflowers that will still appear as they do every year, as sure as sunrises and sunsets.
With a little help, we’ve compiled a peek at some perhaps overlooked spots for you to plan a Super Bloom weekend of your very own.
Cuyama Buckhorn (New Cuyama, CA)
Deep in Central California, just north and east of Santa Barbara is an underrated, hidden gem. New Cuyama—approximately 2.5 hours from Pasadena—is perfect for a weekend road trip.
A reimagined 1952 roadside stop on the iconic 166 Highway, Cuyama Buckhorn has been recently renovated as a “mid-century farmhouse” inspired resort retreat to be a place where community, locally inspired food, and artistry flourish, surrounded by unspoiled, natural beauty.
Just 20 minutes north of the property is Carrizo Plains National Monument, which annually is in full bloom with an explosion of wildflowers – and one of the very best places to catch the views without the crowds.
El Capitan, a JdV by Hyatt hotel (Merced, CA)
Four hours from Los Angeles, the restored and historic El Capitan Hotel sits in the middle of downtown Merced, CA, still housed in the same building as its former 19th century historic namesake, within walking distance of area entertainment, shopping, and retail.
The property’s 114 guest rooms recall the spirit of early California and the American West, with design touches that evoke the warmth of the Central Valley. The hotel also boasts the city’s first fine-dining experience, Rainbird, and its menu featuring hyper seasonal, farm fresh produce.
Just over 80 miles from Yosemite, El Capitan is an ideal stop for road trippers looking to experience adventure coupled with small town charm. For Super Bloomers can take advantage of the “Blossom Trail Package”, which includes one night in a deluxe room, a branded picnic package, and a $25 food & beverage credit. Guests can drive to Yosemite through the Merced River Canyon, which boasts a dazzling landscape of tufted poppies, or stay closer to Merced and gaze at the bountiful and colorful orchards along the Central Valley Blossom Trail.
Noble House Hotels & Resorts (Del Mar, CA and Napa, CA)
Noble House Hotels & Resorts is a family-owned boutique hotel brand with 23 luxury hotels, resorts, and experiences across North America.
Two of their nine hotels in California are within easy distance of blooming fields. The L’Auberge Del Mar hotel is a 15-20 minutes drive to The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch, while the River Terrace Inn luxury hotel is 8 to ten minutes from the Skyline Wilderness Park.
Cape Rey Carlsbad Beach, A Hilton Resort & Spa (Carlsbad, CA)
Perhaps you’ve already seen the magnificent Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch. But the area has other beautiful blooms, like The Carlsbad Strawberry Company.
This year, you can imagine yourself driving through the Rhone Alps of France on your way to Provence, past miles of lavender fields, as the Strawberry Company launches its first-ever lavender field for visitors.
Staying at the Cape Rey is one way to enjoy the beautiful town of Carlsbad and stay near the fields. The hotel’s restaurant, Chandler’s Restaurant will be joining in the lavender spirit, serving up all things lavender with lavender & lemon cocktails, lavender lattes and delectable lemon and lavender dessert bars.
During flower season, the Cape Rey will also offer guests the use of complimentary, beach cruiser bicycles, which can be reserved for your own personal ride out to the blooms.
