15 of the Best Outlet Malls in California - The Family Vacation Guide (2023)

California is known for its fabulous shopping, in no small thanks to moves like “Clueless” and reality TV shows that showcase its stars wearing luxury brands. The lifestyle portrayed in movies and television make us want to spend money. After all, who doesn’t love luxury? But even more than that, who doesn’t love a good deal?

If you adore shopping, you’ll want to check out this list of the 15 best outlet malls in California allow you to treat yourself to something nice without breaking the bank.

Northern California

Most people associate Northern California with Silicon Valley, but it’s also home to premium outlets! Indulge your inner boujee impulses without going bankrupt at these NorCal outlet malls.

Vacaville Premium Outlets

321 Nut Tree Road, Vacaville, California

Vacaville Premium Outlets are located in Vacaville, California off the I-80. Home to over 115 stores (including Kate Spade, Lacoste, and Movado), there’s something for everyone at this outlet mall.

No matter if you’re a fitness fanatic, a shoe lover, or you want somewhere nice to go with the family, Vacaville Premium Outlets won’t disappoint.

San Francisco Premium Outlets

2774 Livermore Outlets Drive, Livermore California

You’d be hardpressed to find an outlet as impressive as the San Francisco Premium Outlets. Home to everything from Burberry to Prada, they’re always adding more shops!

After a long day of shopping, they have quite a few dining options to consider—or if you’re not hungry, you can refuel with a Starbucks instead!

Napa Premium Outlets

629 Factory Stores Drive, Napa, California

Located in California’s famous wine-producing region, Napa Premium Outlets have an extra luxe feel to them—they even have Tesla SuperChargers for guests to charge their electric vehicles.

While this outlet mall doesn’t have as many stores as others, the deals are still fabulous. That’s especially so if you’re a fan of brands such as Bella Massimo Organics or the Banana Republic.

Folsom Premium Outlets

13000 Folsom Boulevard, Folsom, California

Located just 20 minutes east of Sacramento, Folsom Premium Outlets is an 80-store shopping phenomenon. Get your eyebrows threaded at Beauty by Thread or take your little ones to the Little Kingdom Creative Playroom (both available by appointment only).

Whether you’re shopping for yourself or a friend, you’ll leave with your arms full and your wallet still healthy.

Gilroy Premium Outlets

681 Leavesley Road, Gilroy, California

Conveniently located off Highway 101, Gilroy Premium Outlets is the place to be. It’s always busy, but that’s a testament to how great the shopping is!

This outlet mall is so impressive that it has not just one but two Coach stores! There are also multiple dining options, including Culichi’s Urban Kitchen and Erik’s Deli Cafe.

Southern California

Southern California is home to the iconic Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills. If you’re into luxury brands and high fashion, it is the place to be! But, if you’re a savvy shopper, you’ll know there are other places to get the most bang for your buck.

Desert Hills Premium Outlets

48400 Seminole Drive, Cabazon, California

Desert Hills Premium Outlets is where you’ll find the largest collection of luxury outlet stores in California. What’s more, they offer a shuttle bus service from the parking lot to the outlet mall! As one of the largest outlet malls in the state, they’re also home to some of the widest varieties of stores!

If you love MCM, Versace, and Fendi but couldn’t justify paying full retail, look no further than Desert Hills. Because this outlet mall is particularly large, it’s best to wear comfortable shoes and bring a bottle of water to stay hydrated.

Camarillo Premium Outlets

740 Ventura Boulevard, Camarillo, California

Rated a 4.5 out of 5 on TripAdvisor, the Camarillo Premium Outlets is not only conveniently located off Highway 101, roughly 50 miles north of LA, it’s also loved by everyone who visits! Drive an electric vehicle? No problem as they have EV chargers powered by EVgo in the Promenade Court, across from Panera Bread.

Speaking of Panera, they have dining options ranging from the Cracker Barrel Old Country Store to Johnny Rockets. If you’re looking for something a bit more grab-and-go, they also have a Starbucks. As for shopping, you can expect to see stores like Armani Exchange and Express.

Carlsbad Premium Outlets

5620 Paseo Del Norte, Carlsbad, California

Carlsbad Premium Outlets is home to just under 100 luxury stores. If you visit in an electric vehicle, rest assured that they have you covered with fast charging stations powered by EVgo. Should you feel peckish after the drive, the outlets offer a wonderful variety of restaurants, including Mot’to Japanese Grill, Ruby’s Diner, and Rubio’s Fresh Mexican Grill.

Not in the mood to eat? No problem! There’s tons of shopping to be done here, starting with the 7 for All Mankind store all the way to premium cutlery brand Zwilling.

Outlets at Barstow

2796 Tanger Way, Barstow, California

Outlets at Barstow is a well-maintained mall located in Barstow, California.

While it’s not one of the larger outlet malls on this list, it still offers a wide variety of choices for shoppers who want deals on accessories, apparel (including children’s), footwear, and specialty items, like luggage.

Citadel Outlets

100 Citadel Drive, Commerce, California

Located along the Santa Ana Freeway, the Citadel Outlets stands out from the crowd as one of the best outlet malls in California thanks to its unique architecture (that makes it easy to spot!).

It’s an outdoor mall that features high-end brand names ranging from Karl Lagerfield to Polo Ralph Lauren. Love Disney? You’ll be delighted to know there’s a Disney store!

Outlets at Tejon

5701 Outlets at Tejon Parkway, Arvin, California

You’ll find the trendy Outlets at Tejon in Kern County, California. Here, there is everything from casualwear for men, women, and children to a range of home decor.

Indeed, you can find charming furniture from Pottery Barn or snag some cool tees from Hot Topic. Besides retail therapy, there are also lots of food options, including Cinnabon and Tony’s Pizza.

Viejas Outlet Center

5003 Willows Road, Alpine, California

The Viejas Outlet Center is located at a casino and resort, and features well-known and loved brands. You’ll find dozens of some of the most popular brands like Eddie Bauer and Famous Footwear!

It’s not just great shopping you’ll find at Viejas either—there are tons of activities for you to enjoy. Go skating at California’s largest outdoor skating rink, or enjoy a round of bowling at the Viejas bowl. Don’t feel like skating or bowling? That’s fine as they have an arcade too!

Las Americas Premium Outlets

4211 Camino De La Plaza, San Diego, California

Ontario Mills Outlets

1 Mills Circle, Ontario, California

You’ll be pleased to know that the Ontario Mills Outlets is one of the top retail destinations in the city.

Described as a place to shop until you drop, this outlet mall offers everything from fine jewelry to sports attire and high fashion. There’s also AMC 30 Theatres if you want to catch a movie in between your day out!

Cabazon Outlets

48750 Seminole Drive, Suite 100, Cabazon, California

The Cabazon Outlets isn’t large, but still has a strong offering of stores including Adidas, O’Neill, PUMA, and Sunglass Hut.

If you know exactly what you’re looking for when you shop, the Cabazon Outlets is the perfect place for you!

Final Thoughts

The Golden State is synonymous with glamor and glitz. With this list of the best outlet malls in California, you can find the perfect luxury bargain to give yourself a taste of the high life.