From staircases leading to nowhere in the Winchester Mystery House to regular Sasquatch sightings in the Humboldt County hills, California isn’t afraid to get a little weird. In that spirit, we’ve compiled a list of quirky, kitschy, and unusual gifts, all designed in the Golden State. Whether it's for your partner who’s impossible to shop for or a white elephant party where you want to stand out, here’s a list of unforgettable presents from across California.
Golden Gate L-Beam Paperweight, $119
For the design geek in your life, consider a hefty paperweight created from an actual section of San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge. The iconic structure’s original handrail was removed in 1998 and is repurposed here as a home office statement piece in International Orange.
Artelexia Brass Skull Bike Bell, $15
For the eccentric cyclist on your list, consider a Mexican folk art–inspired bike bell from a Latinx-owned shop in San Diego’s North Park neighborhood. The subtle skull design helps riders stay safe while flexing their bad-to-the-bone style.
Duffy Boat Bay Island, $68,900
In 1970, Newport Beach native Marshall Duffield rigged up his family’s boat with an electric golf cart motor and the “Duffy” was born. Today, Duffield’s hometown harbor is dotted with more than 3,500 of his boats, created for easy cruising with family and friends. Yes, you can choose to rent a Duffy for the day—but what leisure lover wouldn’t want their very own watercraft?
Ember Mug 2, $150
Innovation meets simple pleasures in the Ember Mug 2. Developed by Clay Alexander, a Westlake inventor who holds more than 200 patents worldwide, the mug keeps coffee at your perfect temperature—not too hot or too cold—for up to 90 minutes. It’s the ideal gift for the remote worker with an ever-present drink on their Zoom screen.
Madonna Inn Carpet Print Umbrella, $35
The Madonna Inn in San Luis Obispo is a mecca of over-the-top kitsch. Nowhere is this aesthetic more apparent than the onsite Alex Madonna’s Gold Rush Steak House, decorated in a cacophony of pink. Brighten up rainy days with an umbrella in the pattern of the restaurant’s signature rug. While the design may be frivolous, with a hands-free handle and self-standing design, the umbrella itself is surprisingly functional.
Menagerie Hill Ranch Alpaca, $2,500 and up
For the rancher who has everything… Yes, you can really purchase an alpaca from a family-run 3,000-acre farm just north of Vacaville. Menagerie Hill prides itself on breeding vibrantly colored alpacas with relaxed personalities. Like sheep, alpacas are regularly (and painlessly) sheared for their luxurious fleece. If you’re not ready to add a fleecy family member to your flock, you can adopt one for $150 to live the alpaca life vicariously.
Temecula Yard Games Scenic Mountain Cornhole Board Set, $375
Completely unexpected and yet a total crowd pleaser, this cornhole set invites players to Southern California wine country with a bold grapevine design. The Baltic birch boards are super sturdy, and built-in handles make for easy transport to tailgates, picnics, or barbecues.
Sequoia Parks Conservancy Fragrance, $78
Immerse yourself in ancient forests all year round with this complex, woodsy scent inspired by the gentle giants of Sequoia National Park. A portion of each purchase goes directly to the Sequoia Conservation Fund, which aims to preserve some of the largest and most impressive organisms on earth.
Advisry Camera Bag, $288
A chic bag disguised as an antique camera will click with fashionistas and photographers alike. Sacramento-based multimedia brand Advisry is the brainchild of Keith Herron who started his enterprise in middle school selling handmade stickers to classmates. Today, celebs like basketball player Donovan Mitchell and actor Lena Waithe are fans of the brand.
Many Hands Gallery Fish Flask, $39
Located in Old Town Eureka, Many Hands Gallery specializes in artisan-made goods that celebrate the North Coast. Think redwood wine bottle stoppers and brass telescopes. This stainless steel fish flask holds up to four ounces—a nod to the salmon, steelhead, and striped bass that run through Humboldt County’s waters and the locals who aren’t afraid of a good time on the go.
