From an Iconic Beach Town to a Lakeside Getaway, These Destinations Will Appeal to Every Traveler

The Sunset Travel Awards celebrate the best in travel in the West, and this year we had another record-breaking number of entrants of the highest level across all categories. These places are the 2024 winners of the Where to Go: Destinations category. Check out the complete list of winners here. For our definitive and searchable travel directory to help you plan your next trip in the West, click here.

Goleta

Karna Hughes/Courtesy of Visit Santa Barbara

Known for being Santa Barbara’s more laid-back neighbor, Goleta is a stop not only for the annual monarch butterflies migration, but for food enthusiasts as well. The rich land was home to California’s commercial lemon trade in the 1800s, and today many homespun local breweries, wineries, restaurants, and farms like Good Land Organics have set up shop, making it a must-stop along the iconic 101.

North Lake Tahoe

Ryan Salm Photography

North Lake Tahoe, with its granite mountains and crystal-blue waters, offers year-round beauty and activities and remains a bucket list vacation experience. With 12 unique towns ringing the largest Alpine lake in North America, rustic lodges, luxury resorts, lakeside restaurants, and wellness retreats, it offers diverse experiences and accommodations—and that’s before you factor in the world-class skiing and boating. For nature, adventure, and relaxation, it’s one of the wonders of the West.

Marina del Rey

Marina del Rey Tourism Board

The Westside of Los Angeles is known for being a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with the Marina being the hub of it all. Just four miles from LAX, this charming maritime enclave is home to some 5,000 boats, making it the largest man-made small craft harbor in North America. But it’s also a hub for the local active community, making it a great spot for travelers to dive into biking, kayaking, and even stand-up paddleboard yoga.

Children’s Fairyland

Visit Oakland

Children’s Fairyland in Oakland is a delightfully whimsical 10-acre park nestled on the shores of Lake Merritt, offering 60 storybook sets, live performances, kid-sized rides, and friendly animals. Open since 1950, it’s one of the major inspirations for Walt Disney’s Disneyland. In 2025, the park will celebrate its 75th anniversary with new exhibits reflecting Oakland’s ethnic diversity. By far one of California’s most nostalgic and enchanting destinations for families.