There’s just something about a California honeymoon roadtrip that feels like the start of a whole new life together… And honestly, this one felt exactly like that. This was me and Hunter’s honeymoon, and it was the perfect mix of cozy, adventurous, a little chaotic, and so us! Think slow mornings with coffee, long drives through unreal landscapes, cooking dinner under the stars, and ending the night somewhere completely new. We hit Yosemite, Joshua Tree, and Palm Springs, and I’m not exaggerating when I say I’d relive this trip a hundred times over!

Yosemite & Autocamp | The Coziest Start to Our California Honeymoon Roadtrip

Okay… I need to talk about Autocamp because I am OBSESSED. If you’re planning a California honeymoon roadtrip and want something that feels like camping but also… not camping (lol), this is it. It’s like a boutique hotel dropped into nature, we stayed in one of their Airstreams and it was the perfect mix of Hunter’s outdoorsy side and my need for a cute, comfy space.

Our days here were slow in the best way. Coffee at camp in the morning, cooking steaks over the fire at night, and spending the in-between exploring Yosemite Valley and Mariposa Grove. The sequoia trees?? I don’t even have words. Standing there makes you feel so small in the best, grounding way. This part of the trip felt really calm and intentional. Like we could just exist together without rushing anything. Easily one of my favorite parts.

Joshua Tree | Desert Days & The Coolest Stops Ever

Joshua Tree felt like stepping onto another planet… in the coolest way possible. The textures, the rocks, the wide open space, it’s one of those places that doesn’t even feel real until you’re standing in it. We kept things pretty chill here, doing a quick hike to soak it all in, but honestly, half the fun was just driving around and stopping anytime something caught our eye.

And the FOOD? I’m still thinking about it! We ate at Kitchen in the Desert and I swear it was some of the best food I’ve ever had. Then we grabbed coffee at Más o Menos (which was also adorable), and of course had to stop at The Station for the coolest little souvenirs. Everything here just felt so curated but still laid-back, which I loved. This stretch of our California honeymoon roadtrip felt the most fun and spontaneous. No real plan, just vibes… and it somehow ended up being perfect.

Palm Springs | Colorful Stay & The Best Sushi Ever

We ended our trip in Palm Springs, and honestly, it was the perfect way to wrap everything up. We stayed at The Saguaro, which is that super colorful hotel you’ve probably seen all over Pinterest, and yes, it’s just as fun in person! After days of exploring, it felt so nice to just slow down, sit by the pool, and soak everything in before heading home.

And then… the sushi. Sandfish Sushi & Whiskey completely stole the show. I’m not kidding when I say it was the best sushi we’ve ever had. Like, we’re still talking about it. The perfect “last night of our honeymoon” dinner. Palm Springs felt easy, bright, and a little indulgent, which was exactly what we needed at the end of our California honeymoon roadtrip!

Thinking About Your Own California Honeymoon Roadtrip? Take This As Your Sign!

Brooke Michelle | California Elopement Photographer

If this trip taught me anything, it’s that your honeymoon doesn’t have to be one place to be unforgettable. There’s something really special about waking up somewhere new every couple days, figuring things out together, and just leaning into the adventure of it all. This trip felt so us, a mix of cozy nights, spontaneous stops, good food, and really soaking in time together. And if you’re even thinking about doing a California honeymoon roadtrip… consider this your sign. Do it. Book the Airstream. Take the long way. Stop at the random places. You won’t regret it. Need someone to capture your amazing day? Would love to chat! Head to my contact page so we can chat about the ideas you have! If you want to learn more about me and what I do, click here. Can’t wait to hear from you!