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10 best places to visit in California

Sep 11, 2023 • 8 min read

The best places to visit in California include amazing natural wonders and some of the most cosmopolitan cities in the US © franckreporter / Getty Images

From towering redwood forests in foggy northern California to perfectly sun-kissed surf beaches in the south, the Golden State on the Pacific simply begs to be explored.

Tip back top vintages and dig into world-class cooking. Blow your mind exploring active volcanoes, soaring mountains and grand redwood groves. Roam free at the world's most iconic surfing beaches, craggy coves and austere bluffs. Get your wheels in gear for incredible road trips from desert to dunes. Hoist your pack and delve into truly remote wilderness.

Here are the best places to visit in California.

1. San Francisco

Best city for variety, iconic sights and LGBTIQ+ travel

Pushing boundaries with trendsetting food, social movements, art and technology, San Francisco  is as far out as you can get without winding up in the Pacific.

This town is defined by bold moves. The iconic Golden Gate Bridge is an engineering marvel in a color chosen over the Navy's objections. Nature lovers elbowed aside speculators to establish Golden Gate Park . Alcatraz was occupied by Native American protestors and turned into a museum.

Discover the weirdest tech in the West at the Exploratorium  and find inspiration in new-media installations at supersized SFMOMA . Be moved by poetry by San Francisco’s literary landmarks, starting with City Lights Books .

You don’t need to stay up late to be out and proud in SF. Flag-flying crowds are an absolute joy throughout June Pride month, at Sunday afternoon Castro “tea dances” (a WWII euphemism for LGBTIQ+ parties) and any sunny day at Dolores Park’s “Gay Beach.” 

Local tip: Don’t forget to sample widely some of the state’s most interesting cuisine, from Asian-fusion creations at Benu that look like minimalist sculptures to some of the world’s best burritos at Mission District classics like Taqueria El Farolito  and East Bay treats like Chez Panisse .

2. Redwood National Park and Humboldt Redwoods State Park

Best region for magnificent trees and family travel

Hugging a tree never came so naturally as it does in California's sun-dappled groves of ancient redwoods, the world's tallest trees. The roots of these giants may be shallow, but they hold each other up and reach dizzying heights, some surviving since the days of the Roman Empire. Even a short stroll on the soft forest floor beneath them puts the rest of the world into perspective.

Redwoods thrive along the coast from Big Sur north to the Oregon border, and you'll find massive stands of old-growth groves at Redwood Nationaal Park . Don’t miss the magical drive through Avenue of the Giants and California’s largest redwood park, Humboldt Redwoods State Park , which covers 53,000 acres – 17,000 of which are old growth.

Local tip: Stop for a pizza at  Brick & Fire  in Eureka and soak away any hiking aches at the Finnish Country Sauna and Tubs in the eclectic town of Arcata.

3. Sonoma Wine Country

Best region for wine and food

As winemaking in neighboring  Napa Valley grows ever more upscale, sun-dappled vineyards in Sonoma County are still surrounded by pastoral ranchlands. Wineries range from the Sonoma Valley to the coastal Russian River Valley , and tasting rooms abound in buzzy Healdsburg .

The uniqueness of the terroir is valued in this down-to-earth wine country, where you taste vintages straight from the barrel inside a tin-roofed shed while playing with the winemaker’s pet dog (at Porter Creek , just one of many excellent wineries). In addition to wine tasting, wallow in volcanic bubbling mud in Calistoga or float the river around LGBTIQ-friendly Guerneville.

Local tip: Follow your bliss down the Bohemian Hwy to Occidental and its epic Friday night farmers market, alive with live music. 

4. Highway 1

Best region for road tripping, ocean views and couples

Though in southern California it's known by its more famous name, the  Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), northern Californians have a more succinct label for the 400-mile stretch from San Francisco to Crescent City: Hwy 1. The edges of the highway hug the coast and cradle small communities as it alternates between hairpin switchbacks and straight stretches through the bucolic countryside. 

Start on the PCH at Santa Monica  and cruise north through Malibu , Big Sur, Monterey Bay, and San Francisco and up along Sonoma Coast State Park. In Fort Bragg, stop and admire the "glass beach" and check out its artistic community. 

5. Yosemite National Park

Best region for waterfalls, outdoors and family trips

Feeling so small has never felt this grand. Everything is monumental at Yosemite National Park : thunderous waterfalls tumble over sheer cliffs, granite domes tower overhead and the world's biggest trees cluster in mighty groves of giant sequoias.

Conservationist John Muir considered Yosemite a great temple, and awe is a natural reaction to the vast wildflower-strewn meadows and steep valleys carved over millennia by glaciers, avalanches and earthquakes. To achieve maximum wonder, stop at Glacier Point under a full moon, or drive the high country’s Tioga Rd on a cloudless summer day. Unsurprisingly, Yosemite has some of the best hikes in California .

Detour: You can enjoy an extravaganza of incredible parks by combining your visit to Yosemite with stops in Kings Canyon National Park and Sequoia National Park .

6. Los Angeles

Best city for celebrity sightings and movie buffs

Bordered by sandy beaches, winding canyons and the Santa Monica and San Gabriel Mountains, Los Angeles is a sprawling cityscape of distinct neighborhoods, endless entertainment options and year-round outdoor recreation. Bask in the undulating stainless steel curves of  Walt Disney Concert Hall , commune with world-beating contemporary art at the  Broad or check out modern music history at the  Grammy Museum . 

Stop for a meal at the century-old but gourmet-led  Grand Central Market before browsing the galleries and shops of the Arts District,  Olvera Street and  Chinatown . 

When you're ready for your close-up, there's only one place to go. The stars come out at night for red-carpet premieres at restored movie palaces, and you too can have your Hollywood moment on the pink-starred Walk of Fame . Snap a selfie outside TCL Chinese Theatre (better known as Grauman’s) or duck into Hollywood and Highland’s Babylon Court for a photo op with the iconic Hollywood sign and revel in your 15 minutes of social-media fame. Afterward, visit the fascinating  Academy Museum .

Local tip: How do you beat LA traffic? Hit the beach instead. Sunny  Santa Monica bestows joy upon even the weariest traveler. Learn to surf, get a bird's-eye view from your seat in a solar-powered Ferris wheel, learn more about the secrets of the ocean at the aquarium’s tidal touch pools or paddle in the Pacific and let your troubles float away. Join the parade of New Agers, muscled bodybuilders and goth punks at nearby  Venice Beach , where there's a tribe for everyone. 

7. Monterey Bay

Best region for wildlife and family fun

Get up close and personal with California marine life in the fishing village of Monterey , where writer John Steinbeck brought colorful local wharf characters to life – and the seals are pretty outrageous too. Hop aboard a whale-watching cruise to explore a national marine sanctuary or walk right into the bay at the aquarium to spot golden sea dragons, shy pink Pacific octopuses and scene-stealing rescued otters at play.

Soak up the authentic maritime atmosphere at the  West Coast’s oldest continuously operating lighthouse in Pacific Grove. Head north to quirky Santa Cruz , stopping off on broad stretches of cream-colored beach to spot gray whales, sea otters, sea lions and seals. Indulge in some playtime on the beach boardwalk with its historic roller coaster and watch surfers shred at Steamer Lane.

Local tip: In the winter, you'll see local Dungeness crab on menus – order it.

8. Death Valley National Park

Best region for desert drama and spring trips

Its daunting name of brings to mind Wild West ghost towns, broken-down pioneer wagon trains and tumbleweed blowing past skulls on desert sand dunes, but Death Valley is actually full of life. 

Spring wildflowers daub the dunes with a painter’s palette of colors, adrenaline-seekers zoom across crackled salt flats, and shy desert wildlife lives by starlight. Twist your way up narrow canyons, zoom across crackled salt flats and past geological oddities, and descend into volcanic craters formed by a massive eruption 2100 years ago.

9. Lake Tahoe

Best region for mountains, adventure and skiing

Nestled in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Lake Tahoe , the second-deepest lake in the USA, is a California favorite. In summer, startlingly clear blue waters are perfect for swimming, kayaking and even scuba diving. Meanwhile, mountain bikers careen down epic single-track runs, and hikers stride along trails threading through thick forests. 

After dark, retreat to a cozy lakefront cottage and toast s’mores in the firepit. When the lake turns into a winter wonderland, gold-medal ski resorts keep downhill fanatics, snowboarders and Nordic traditionalists more than satisfied. You'll never be short of  things to do in Lake Tahoe .

Detour: Head to Truckee for the burgeoning local food scene and the area’s best restaurants.

10. Big Sur

Best region for coastline

Following your bliss inevitably leads to Big Sur . Waterfalls splash down sandy bluffs in rainbow mists, and yurt retreats perch at the edge of redwood forests. Beyond purple-sand beaches and coves lined with California jade, pods of migrating whales dot the sparkling Pacific.

But don't forget to turn around: hiding behind these coastal bluffs are hot springs and Beat literary retreats, with California condors circling over the cliffs. Experience all of the best adventures on a s cenic Big Sur road trip .

Local tip: Time your visit for peak waterfall season in May or after the summer vacation period for maximum meditation.

This article was first published Aug 9, 2019 and updated Sep 11, 2023.

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Can’t visit all of our 101 best California experiences? Don’t miss the top 10

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This is part of “ California 101 ,” our guide to the best experiences across the state.

What separates our favorite travel destinations from the rest? The way memories linger.

I hope you’ll get out to every spot on the 101 best California experiences list , which celebrates just how much there is to see and do here. (Print out our checklist in color or in black and white .) But if you’re looking for a short list — maybe you want to give visitors a taste of this state without involving the Hollywood sign — I’ve picked 10 places that resonate most deeply for me. This is the list that, after having covered California travel, nature and culture for more than 30 years, I find myself reciting most often.

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I feel a certain depth in these places, and usually ease too, perhaps because nobody needs to sell them. You show up, take a deep breath, listen a little, have a look around, and you are reminded of your good luck — our good luck — in calling California home.

1. Emerald Bay State Park, Lake Tahoe

I’ve been here three or four times and it’s always been gorgeous, but never the same way twice. On the most recent visit, last fall, I got up early to shoot sunrise photos, steered through bursts of rain to Inspiration Point above the bay, then watched the clouds part. The sunbeams came flooding in, the bay began to glow and a rainbow arched above. The scent of wet forest hung in the air. At that moment, besides me, there were two families at the point and some of the kids were dancing around in the tiny parking lot. I looked at the parents and they looked back in silent triumph. Nobody wants to get up early in the rain, but sometimes it pays off big.

2. Ferry Building and waterfront, San Francisco

I’ve been eating in the Ferry Building since its redevelopment in 2003 as a food-focused retail-and-restaurant complex — oysters from Hog Island, comfort food from Gott’s Roadside, neo-Vietnamese at the Slanted Door (which is supposed to reopen late this year).

Elsewhere along the waterfront, I’ve nodded along to live jazz at Pier 23, pedaled a bike out to Fort Point, savored the Golden Gate view from Torpedo Wharf and bought many snacks at the Warming Hut along the San Francisco Bay Trail bike path. And just about every walk by the water takes me back to an uneasy memory: One May day in 1987, some buddies and I walked out onto the Golden Gate Bridge to join its 50th-anniversary celebration. Way too many other people had the same idea. About 300,000 of us were stuck in pedestrian gridlock for hours and the bridge actually sagged under the weight. Even when it’s not cold, seeing that bridge makes me shiver a little at first. Then I perk up. I think that’s the upbeat orange paint job at work. (Thank you, Sherwin Williams .)

3. Yosemite Valley

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The valley’s Swinging Bridge Area (whose bridge doesn’t swing at all) is one of my favorite spots for pictures of Yosemite Falls. But I am also a big fan of the Wawona Swinging Bridge, 27 miles south and still inside park boundaries. And this one actually does swing, over a swimming hole. That’s where our friends Ed and Mona brought me, my wife, Mary Frances, our daughter, Grace, and a gaggle of my college buddies several years ago for an afternoon of snacking and soaking in the south fork of the Merced River. No tourist masses, just a bunch of old friends and their kids, flopping on the sun-dappled rocks.

I don’t believe I’ve ever visited Big Sur without dropping by Nepenthe restaurant. Not because of the food, which is fine. And not exactly because of the view, which is more than fine. Because of the way its neo-Bohemian, global-nomad vibe brings those elements together.

5. Badwater, Death Valley National Park

I’ve caught sunrise from Zabriskie Point and the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes — both great, golden memories. But neither matches the end-of-the-world feeling you get standing on the crusty salt floor of Badwater Basin as the sun drops, the sky darkens and awed tourists whisper in half a dozen languages. I listened to pianist Keith Jarrett’s “The Koln Concert” in my car on the way to one of my first sunsets there. Now every time I hear that album, I can close my eyes and see long shadows at Badwater.

6. Hidden Valley, Joshua Tree National Park

In May 2020, when the first round of pandemic closures eased and several national parks abruptly reopened, thousands of Californians went rushing to camp somewhere, anywhere. I came to Hidden Valley. Pretty soon every campsite was full. I hopped from campfire to campfire with my notebook, mask and camera, listening to city people and their kids tell how they dropped everything so they could take a few free breaths among these big boulders and beseeching trees.

7. South Fork, American River, near Placerville

When I was 10, my family and I joined an outfitter’s two-day rafting-camping trip on this stretch of river. I remember loving the tumult of the rapids, the idea that right around here, someone saw something shiny, started the Gold Rush, changed the world. I also remember being awed by the worldly wit of two older TV writers (in their 20s) who were part of our group. Almost 50 years later, I joined another outfitter on the same route. No witty TV writers. But between bouts of white water, the young woman behind me (in her 20s) told me how she’d just kicked heroin and rejoined her family. As the saying goes, you never step into the same river twice. Maybe that’s why these waters call to me the way they do. And even though the rapids look a lot smaller now, they’re still a thrill.

8. Grand Central Market, Los Angeles

Since the Los Angeles Times building was a few blocks from here for about 25 years, I’ve seen this food hall from every angle in bad times and good. Now the market is livelier and more prosperous than ever before — but since I no longer work downtown, I only get the occasional glimpse and taste. I do love the weighty combination plates from Tacos Tumbras a Tomas, but I miss the steady relationship.

9. Torrey Pines Gliderport, La Jolla

As a teenager down on the beach below, I used to throw Frisbees and body-surf for hours. Nowadays, visiting from out of town, I head for the bluffs, admire the stark design of the Salk Institute on the way in, grab a picnic table and treat my family to $7 sandwiches from the Cliffhanger Cafe. While we chew, the hang-glider pilots run and leap into the wind, 350 feet above the waves. This place always makes me happy.

10. Chicano Park, San Diego

For years, I zoomed over Chicano Park on the bridge to Coronado, even though I knew there were supposed to be cool murals down below. This was partly because Barrio Logan had a reputation as a tough neighborhood, but mostly I was just lazy. Still, I did get there eventually, and loved all that infrastructural concrete filled with bright colors and Chicano imagery. Now the neighborhood has sprouted so many cafes, galleries and restaurants that some people are nervous about gentrification, and all sorts of visitors come. A few years ago, I joined a few dozen tourists, almost all seniors, who had come straight from a Princess cruise ship, bypassing the rest of San Diego’s visitor attractions, to eye the murals and eat tacos. Here’s to destinations that never stand still. Neither should we.

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Born and raised in California, Christopher Reynolds has written about travel, the outdoors, arts and culture for the Los Angeles Times since 1990.

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23 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in California

From the mountaintops to the lowest point in North America, these are the best places to visit in California.

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California has a reputation for being a surfer's paradise . And sure, its sandy beaches are something to marvel at and indeed a must-see on any visit. But as the third largest state in the nation, it’s so much more . From mountains to deserts to wine towns and the Mouse House, here are 23 most beautiful places to visit in California. 

Palm Springs

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Those seeking a chic, mid-century modern getaway should consider Palm Springs . The average high never falls below 69 degrees Fahrenheit, meaning no matter when you visit, you’ll get to enjoy some fun in the sun. Book a few nights at The Good House , a bungalow-style hotel that sits on its own natural hot springs, which will leave you feeling renewed. 

Joshua Tree

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Not far from Palm Springs, Joshua Tree offers more desert fun. However, you’ll want to trade in your poolside outfit for hiking gear. Explore the massive Joshua Tree National Park, then check out the plentiful vintage shops in downtown Joshua Tree to hunt for treasures. Stay a few nights at AutoCamp Joshua Tree for a glamping stay unlike any other.

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It’s time to head to California’s wine country . And no, we aren’t talking about Napa. Head to the southern part of the state’s wine region, Temecula . Located in southwestern Riverside County, this destination is home to gorgeous vineyards growing some 50 varietals of wine, from cabernet sauvignon to chardonnay. Enjoy a boutique stay at The New Inn , which comes with just five stunning villas for ultimate privacy.  

Santa Monica Pier

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The entire city of Santa Monica is worth a visit, but don't miss the iconic Santa Monica Pier while there. The 1,600-foot pier comes with a little amusement park featuring a roller coaster so you can get a bird’s-eye view of the beach below before taking a short, belly-flipping drop back down. Then, rest your head at the Shore Hotel , which provides views of the pier, too.

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For a dose of Southern California cool, head to Long Beach. As the name implies, the seaside community comes with plenty of beach frontage, but it also boasts its fair share of culture. That includes the RMS Queen Mary , docked at Queensway Bay; colorful pieces at the Museum of Latin American Art; and more than a few fish swimming at the Aquarium of the Pacific. Stay at The Cove Hotel , which is within walking distance of all the city’s best attractions.

Mammoth Lakes

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You'll want to trade your surfboard for a snowboard with a visit to Mammoth . The beloved ski resort is home to some of the best powder in the world, as well as one of the longest ski seasons in the nation. Don’t feel intimidated if you’re a newbie, as the mountain has a robust ski school available. Stay at the Sierra Nevada Resort , a revamped classic that’s equal parts rustic and charming, making for an ideal mountain getaway.

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Gulp in a breath of fresh air during a visit to Lake Tahoe . This lake destination, tucked in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, straddles the neighboring state of Nevada as well. It’s an all-season delight, with skiing in the winter , wildflowers in spring, warm days by the shore in summer, and fall foliage to round it out. Book a room at Edgewood for a luxurious stay with lakeside views to boot.

Santa Barbara

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Santa Barbara deserves a spot high on any must-see list of California. Its gorgeous beaches, quaint shops, stunning street art, and plenty of delicious seafood restaurants make it a place worth experiencing for more than a long weekend. Book a stay at the divine San Ysidro Ranch , a 500-acre private enclave tailor-made for total relaxation. 

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

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Take in the endless vistas at Anza-Borrego Desert State Park . Visitors here may find super blooms in the spring, but don’t skip over this destination in the summer, fall, or winter, either. The state park is a stellar place for hiking, admiring avant-garde art at Galleta Meadows, and even pitching a tent just about anywhere with a bit of backcountry camping.

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Looking for awe-inspiring views? Take a drive up Highway 1 to Big Sur . The cliffside community overlooks some of the most jaw-dropping coastline in the state, and it's home to some hiking trails worth exploring, too. Sleep at the Post Ranch Inn , which provides those epic ocean views out of every window.

Disneyland Resort/Christian Thompson

Sneak in a little magic by paying a visit to the Happiest Place on Earth:  Disneyland . Choose between visiting either one of its two parks, or snag a Park Hopper pass to see both in one go. Then, spend your nights at the Grand Californian Hotel & Spa , where you can view the park right out your window. 

Yosemite National Park

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Feel inspired by Mother Nature at every turn with a visit to Yosemite National Park . Here, you can gaze upon the breathtaking views of Yosemite Falls, El Capitan, and Half Dome while hiking to lookout points or taking a slow drive with the windows rolled down. Stay inside the park and camp at Curry Village , home to 14 tented cabins that sit under centuries-old trees.

Channel Islands

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Hop a boat to the Channel Islands , an archipelago that remains wild and free. Explore the eight islands, which are home to more than 2,000 species of plants and animals, by hopping from one to another or scuba diving off the coast. Again, it’s another perfect spot to pitch a tent, so you never have to leave the great outdoors. 

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Looking to paddle out with the best surfers in California? Then, it’s time to head to San Diego , the place to be for a surf lesson (or two) and lounge session on the warm, sandy shore. But the city also has plenty more to explore, from fantastic breweries to the world-class San Diego Zoo. Book a stay at Pendry San Diego , which features a rooftop pool so you can take a dip and enjoy the city skyline all in one.

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For more wine-centric fun, head to the small town of Healdsburg, where you’ll find plenty of wineries happy to pour you their best glass. Guests here can also live like a local by shopping, dining, and strolling through the Plaza, exploring the downtown area, or taking a hike through the pristine landscapes. Book a night or more at the Montage Healdsburg , which comes with so many luxuries, you may never want to leave.

San Francisco

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Get an urban escape in San Francisco . The NorCal city is home to plenty of delicious dining venues and shopping galore on Haight Street. While here, take some time to explore the outdoor spaces too, like The Presidio and Golden Gate Park, both of which offer fantastic views. Stay at The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco , beloved by Travel + Leisure readers, as it was voted the best hotel in the city in our 2022 World’s Best Awards.

Death Valley

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Don’t let the name Death Valley fool you. Death Valley National Park is a place teeming with life — if you know where to look. Visit Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America, and check out the endless salt flats, which happen to be home to an endemic snail only found here. It's also worth exploring Salt Creek, home to another endemic species — the pupfish, which have evolved to live in the salinated waters. Then, snag a room at the historic Inn at Death Valley , a recently revamped desert oasis that will cater to your every whim. 

Big Bear Lake

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Find smaller mountain magic at Big Bear Lake . In the winters, the community becomes a snow-filled heaven, much to the delight of skiers and snowboarders in Los Angeles, who can get there in under a three-hour drive. Come summer, Big Bear transforms into lakeside bliss, so no need to pick one or the other, as every season here is perfect. Book a stay at Noble + Proper , a gorgeous, high-design hotel.

Santa Catalina Island

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Grab a boat to Santa Catalina Island , where you can hop on a bike (we recommend an e-bike to help battle the massive hills) and pedal for as far as your legs will take you around the jagged coast. Stop in for a bite, a drink, or an ice cream in the city of Avalon, or head inland for a tour of the island’s wild buffalo herd. Lay your head at the Hotel Atwater , a more than 100-year-old gem in Avalon. 

Redwood National Park

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Located in the northern part of the state, Redwood National Park is home to some of the tallest trees in the world — some so large, you have to drive through them to get by. Again, it’s best to stay in the park, which is entirely possible, thanks to the delightfully charming little abodes at Elk Meadow Cabins . 

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Even though Hollywood is actually a relatively small neighborhood in Los Angeles, its larger-than-life reputation makes it a star. Come see the famed Hollywood sign , honor your favorite celebrities on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and tour icons like the TCL Chinese Theatre. Stay at ​ The West Hollywood Edition , a sleek property located in the center of the action.

Laguna Beach

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See one more surf mecca by visiting the Southern California gem of Laguna Beach. This coastal town is bursting with artistic talent, which you can check out in its numerous galleries or by taking a self-guided tour to admire its impressive outdoor public art. Like San Diego, it, too, is a great place for a surf lesson. Or, you can always just hang on your board long enough to watch a pod of dolphins swim by. Spend the night at the Surf & Sand Resort and leave the windows open all night to snooze to the sound of the crashing waves outside. 

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The charming community of Solvang is well-known for its Danish-style architecture that will make you feel like you've been transported to Europe. Here, visitors can indulge in more of California’s wine culture, too. Book a stay right in town at the Mirabelle Inn , home to First & Oak, a Michelin Plate-designated restaurant. 

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26 top things to do in california.

There's something for everyone in the Golden State.

Top Things to Do in California

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California is full of beautiful destinations and fun attractions to experience.

California's attractions are so diverse that travelers of all types will have no problem finding things to thrill them. Beaches , lakes , forests, mountains and deserts all sit side by side within the state's borders. Amid its natural wonders, California is also home to several wine regions, luxury hotels and, of course, star-studded Hollywood. With all this and so much more, it may be challenging to figure out how to fit all the state's most important must-sees in one or more trips.

Let this guide assist you in your California vacation planning, whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned pro. From the north to the south and everything in between, these are the top things to do in California.

17-Mile Drive

California's 17-Mile Drive is a spellbinding and awe-inspiring route that weaves along the most scenic stretch of the Monterey Bay coastline. This must-visit road, winding through the exclusive community of Pebble Beach, takes drivers up into the Del Monte Forest, past palatial mansions and down along picture-perfect craggy beaches and bluffs. Take time to stop at the various lookout points marked along the way, including the famous Lone Cypress.

If you're interested in bedding down in Pebble Beach, consider splurging on a room, or at least stopping for a meal, to behold the stunning scenery that surrounds the properties at Pebble Beach Resorts, including The Lodge at Pebble Beach or The Inn at Spanish Bay . If you are not staying overnight or dining here, expect to pay a vehicle fee to access 17-Mile Drive. Also note that motorcycles are not allowed.

Carmel-by-the-Sea

This small community in Monterey County is one of the most unique and charming towns in California. Its enchanting coastal location, wooded streets, fairytale-like architecture, and bevy of local shops and restaurants make Carmel-by-the-Sea well worth the detour from the iconic state Route 1. Even if you only have a half-day in Carmel, browse the art galleries, take a walk on the beach and enjoy a meal in one of the quaint restaurants.

Be sure to visit a few of Carmel's beaches, starting with the namesake Carmel Beach, which is located at the end of Ocean Avenue, the town's main drag; pet owners will be pleased to know it's a dog-friendly beach . Carmel River State Beach, which is lesser known and typically not as highly trafficked, connects to the even more secluded Monastery Beach via the Carmel Meadows Trail. As for where to stay, consider treating yourself to one of the town's luxurious accommodations, including traveler-approved L'Auberge Carmel or La Playa Carmel .

[Read: The Top Weekend Getaways From Los Angeles .]

Visit the theme parks

Courtesy of Universal Studios

You are truly spoiled for choice when it comes to theme parks in California. The impressive amount of options will please every type of traveler. Kids will naturally be dazzled by Anaheim's world-famous Disneyland Resort . However, if you're not up for paying Disneyland's notoriously high ticket fees, consider exciting alternatives such as Legoland California . There are Six Flags amusement and water parks near both Los Angeles and San Francisco – perfect for thrill-seekers – and Universal Studios Hollywood is home to the popular Wizarding World of Harry Potter and the new Super Nintendo World.

Due to the popularity of these parks, you'll have no problem finding nearby accommodations. Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa is a top choice among travelers, as is The Garland for those visiting Universal Studios Hollywood. Legoland has two kid-friendly hotels to choose from, though travelers can also opt for a stay at the well-received Cape Rey Carlsbad Beach, a Hilton Resort and Spa , which is located right on the beach and only a short drive to Legoland.

Read: The Top California Theme Parks

Yosemite National Park

If you only have time to visit one outdoor destination during your California trip, make it Yosemite . With the national park welcoming more than 3 million visitors per year, Yosemite Valley has been known to stir awe for centuries with its grand granite peaks, magnificent waterfalls and lush evergreen landscapes. There is so much to do in this nearly 750,000-acre park that you'll need several days to take it all in. If you're unsure where to start at this California bucket list destination, know that Glacier Point, Half Dome, Tunnel View and the Mist Trail are considered iconic, can't-miss Yosemite attractions , according to recent travelers.

There are three hotels within Yosemite, including the luxury Ahwahnee hotel. You'll also find cabins, canvas-sided tents, campgrounds and RV campsites spread around the park, as well as several dining options. Be warned that the park does get very crowded during the summer months, so visiting in the offseason is a great idea – especially with Yosemite's picturesque snow-capped peaks. Check for road closures during winter months; tire chains may be required.

Explore the desert

To properly appreciate California's diverse geological landscape, you'll need to venture beyond the coast and explore the desert. Luckily, two magnificent desert landscapes can be found less than three hours from Los Angeles and San Diego. Joshua Tree National Park , located about 130 miles east of Los Angeles, is an approximately 800,000-acre oasis dotted with the unique Joshua tree, which can only be found in the American Southwest. Meanwhile, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, located about 85 miles northeast of San Diego, is California's largest state park and features striking scenery ranging from slot canyons to palm oases.

Both of these parks offer memorable hiking trails and camping options. You'll want to plan a multiday trip to explore either of these vast parks. Traveler favorites in Joshua Tree include the 3-mile out-and-back Ryan Mountain trail and the 1.7-mile Skull Rock loop trail. In Anza-Borrego, visitors enjoyed the 2.6-mile out-and-back Pictograph Trail and the more moderate 2.3-mile Slot loop trail. Due to the desert's extreme summer heat (think: daytime temperatures in the 90s or even 100-plus degrees), it's best to visit during the spring and fall.

See more of Joshua Tree National Park: Things to Do | Photos

Laguna Beach

If you're interested in experiencing small-town Southern California, Laguna Beach is the perfect place to start. Conveniently situated between Los Angeles and San Diego, Laguna Beach is located along the coast just off state Route 1. Laguna Beach's picturesque setting is characterized by pristine oceanfront parks and a collection of beautiful beaches wedged between its coastal bluffs. Be sure to visit unique cove beaches, such as Victoria Beach and Crescent Bay Beach, as well as larger shorelines, including traveler-favorite Crystal Cove State Park, which receives praise for its beautiful setting between Laguna Beach and Corona del Mar.

Laguna Beach is also home to a bevy of luxurious accommodations , including The Ranch at Laguna Beach and the traveler-approved five-star Montage at Laguna Beach . Once an artists' colony, Laguna Beach is known for its summer art festivals and numerous art galleries. There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy too, such as mountain biking, skimboarding and hiking. Parking can be hard to find in the summer months and on holiday weekends, but there is a free open-air trolley service that runs along the area's stretch of coastline.

See more of Laguna Beach: Things to Do | Photos

Located a little more than 30 miles west of Los Angeles, Malibu is often seen as a coastal refuge for the rich and famous. While that impression is certainly true, Malibu is worth a visit for its superb beaches and the exceptional parks a stone's throw away.

Drive up state Highway 1 and make a pit stop at popular shorelines, including Robert H. Memorial State Beach, Zuma Beach and Point Dume State Beach. Nature lovers should also take time to hike some of the many trails at Point Mugu State Park, Topanga State Park or the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area. For hikes with spectacular ocean views, hit up the 3-mile Solstice Canyon Loop trail or the challenging 2.7-mile Mugu Peak loop trail. Check for trail closures before heading out.

Due to Malibu's small size and affluence, you won't find many hotels that offer affordable rates, so you might want to bed down in nearby Los Angeles. If you are intent on staying in Malibu, you'll find comfort and luxury at the Malibu Beach Inn , The Surfrider Malibu and Hotel June Malibu. Stop by Malibu Country Mart for high-end shopping and farm-to-table dining, or check out Trancas Country Market for snacks at Vintage Grocers or lunch at Malibu Brewing Company.

Read: The Top Los Angeles Beaches

San Francisco

A visit to California is not complete without a stop in San Francisco . There are several ways the city is a standout, not only in the state but in the entire country. Its scenic bayfront setting, towering hills and the plethora of colorful Victorian homes that line them are a feast for the eyes. On top of all of that, the city is home to world-famous attractions and is widely considered to be one of the best foodie cities in the U.S.

While here, check out all the visitor-favorite sights , including the Golden Gate Bridge and Chinatown. You can also take advantage of the outdoor spaces that make up the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, such as Land's End, Muir Woods National Monument and more. As for where to stay, you have endless hotel options in San Francisco , including Ritz-Carlton , Four Seasons and St. Regis outposts.

See more of San Francisco: Tours | Photos

Alcatraz Island

While in the San Francisco Bay Area, take a tour of the infamous Alcatraz Island , an island that has housed a fort, military prison and penitentiary. Self-guided audio tours are included with your ferry ticket to Alcatraz: Listen to the stories of past inmates as you walk through what was once a maximum-security prison. On the island, you'll also find an exhibition about the 1969 Native American occupation of Alcatraz that took place for 19 months to advocate for Indigenous civil rights.

Alcatraz features amazing views of the San Francisco skyline, historic gardens and a sanctuary for nesting waterbirds. The ferry ride aboard Alcatraz City Cruises takes about 15 minutes. Advance reservations are recommended.

The state's second-largest city is a great alternative for those who want a big city experience without the intense traffic and smog of neighboring Los Angeles. San Diego is a premier vacation destination thanks to its diverse array of attractions . Here, you have your pick of fantastic beaches , including Pacific Beach and La Jolla Shores.

Other top things to explore include the world-famous San Diego Zoo, museum-heavy Balboa Park, Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve and traveler-favorite USS Midway Museum, located in a retired aircraft carrier. You'll find plenty of hotels near various points of interest in San Diego, including by the beach, the bay and downtown. For a real treat, consider a stay at the elegant Fairmont Grand Del Mar or the historic Hotel del Coronado, Curio Collection by Hilton .

See more of San Diego: Tours | Photos

Death Valley National Park

This national park is one for the books, breaking records as both one of the hottest places on Earth and the driest land in North America. A visit to Death Valley is not easy; the closest major airport sits nearly two hours away in Las Vegas . Should you decide to make the trek, you'll be rewarded with memorable desert landscapes, including walkable sand dunes and Artists Drive, a 9-mile paved road past colorful hills. There's also the Racetrack, which is home to the famous moving rocks. If you'd like to stay within the park, know that there are a variety of campgrounds and lodging options, including The Oasis at Death Valley.

This laid-back remote region located along the central coast of California should be on everybody's bucket list. The beauty of Big Sur is so palpable and restorative that it's become a popular spot for a wellness retreat. You can achieve this with a stay at the famous Esalen Institute, a holistic educational and wellness center, or at the luxurious Alila Ventana Big Sur , where you can book spa treatments and wellness activities. Travelers can also practice mindfulness while taking in all of Big Sur's stunning natural sights .

First-time visitors should stop and admire Bixby Bridge, hike along the coast at Andrew Molera State Park and visit McWay Falls at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. You can also check out the inspiring Hawthorne Gallery or browse the Henry Miller Memorial Library before capping off the day by sitting in an Adirondack chair in the river at the Big Sur River Inn or catching a sunset at Pfeiffer Beach, home to the famous Keyhole Arch. Don't miss out on the delectable pastries at Big Sur Bakery. For lunch with a view and artisan souvenirs, Nepenthe is a must.

If Ventana Big Sur is out of your price range for accommodations , consider a stay at the more affordable Glen Oaks Big Sur or the Big Sur Lodge, both of which earn high praise from travelers for their serene woodland settings. Or, pitch a tent at Ventana Campground.

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Los Angeles

The City of Angels is a go-to place that deserves a spot on every California itinerary. Aside from being home to Hollywood, Los Angeles also offers an incomparable dining scene; some of California's most famous beaches, including Venice and Santa Monica; world-class art institutions, including the Los Angeles County Museum of Art and the state-of-the-art Getty Center; self-guided hiking options galore; and a variety of other attractions .

There is so much to do that you'd need more than a week to see it all. An easy way to take in the sights is through bus tours: Some tours allow you to skip the line for popular attractions. LA is also filled to the brim with exceptional hotels . Give yourself the celebrity treatment and splurge on a stay at highly rated properties, such as The Beverly Hills Hotel , Hotel Bel-Air or The Peninsula Beverly Hills .

See more of Los Angeles: Tours | Photos

Indulge in wine country

Many are aware of Napa Valley 's reputation as a world-class wine destination , but Napa isn't the state's only wine producing hot spot. Sonoma is considered Napa's more casual sibling, offering more diversity in terms of attractions , including the beaches of Sonoma Coast State Park and the African-style game drives run by Safari West. Travel farther south to experience the Santa Ynez Valley, considered one of the most diverse grape-growers in the country. Meanwhile, Temecula Valley Wine Country, found north of San Diego, has produced hundreds of award-winning wines from its member wineries. With so many wine regions in California, you are likely to be within driving distance of at least one wherever you are in the state.

Behold the giant sequoias and redwoods

Did you know that the Pacific Coast of the U.S. is the only place in the world where giant sequoias and coastal redwoods grow naturally? Visiting these natural wonders is a must-do when in the Golden State. Contrary to popular belief, redwoods and sequoias are not the same tree; they require two separate climates to survive. To see giant sequoias, head into the Sierra Nevada mountain range, such as to Sequoia National Park , where you'll find the world's largest tree measured by volume: General Sherman.

To marvel at giant redwoods, you have your pick of Redwood National Park, Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park, Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park or Humboldt Redwoods State Park (don't miss the Shrine Drive Thru Tree). All these parks sit in northwestern California. These parks offer a variety of camping experiences, such as individual campsites, group sites and trail camps for wilderness backpacking and backcountry camping. Tent camping sites and cabins are available.

If you're the kind of traveler who enjoys a lake vacation , know that Lake Tahoe is California's best. Situated in Northern California, Lake Tahoe is so big that is spills into neighboring Nevada. This alpine lake destination is lauded for its spectacular clear blue waters and beautiful mountainous landscape, and it features some of the best skiing in the country .

If you're visiting during winter, enjoy a ride along the slopes of Heavenly Ski Resort and Northstar California Resort. During the summer, soak up the sun with a dip at Kings Beach State Recreation Area or with a hike through one of the many trails that meander around the lake, such as the 4.4-mile out-and-back Emerald Point Trail at Emerald Bay State Park. What's more, there are a bevy of highly rated hotels in the area, including The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe ; The Lodge at Edgewood Tahoe; and the Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino .

See more of Lake Tahoe: Things to Do | Photos

Experience wildflower season

Spring and summer are great times to see an abundance of wildflowers – such as the state flower. Depending on where you go, the California poppy has been known to blanket valleys and hills with its vibrant orange tint. How much of a bloom you see and where varies based on the year's seasonal rainfall. Some of the best places to see wildflowers are in Southern California. Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve, Point Mugu State Park, Figueroa Mountain Recreation Area and Chino Hills State Park are a few of the most popular locations where you can spot pretty flowers.

If your California travels will be concentrated in the north, try North Table Mountain Ecological Reserve or Lake Tahoe, the latter of which is known to feature a spectacular seasonal display of violet and deep blue lupines. Just be sure to respect the landscapes by staying on designated trails, checking to see if dogs are permitted before you bring your furry friend, and visiting only during park hours.

Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara enjoys a beautiful location wedged between the coast and the mountains, affording visitors plenty of opportunities for hiking and time at the beach. Can't-miss shorelines include Summerland Beach, Arroyo Burro Beach and Leadbetter Beach. Santa Barbara's alluring Spanish and Mediterranean architecture also makes this destination feel like a true getaway.

Visit the Funk Zone for wine tasting and art, State Street for shopping and dining, and the one-of-a-kind Ganna Walska Lotusland. Hotel options in Santa Barbara are just as dreamy as the setting, with highly rated spots like The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara and El Encanto, a Belmond Hotel . What's more, Santa Barbara sits around 100 miles northwest of Los Angeles (about a two-hour drive), which could make it a convenient addition to your LA itinerary.

See more of Santa Barbara: Things to Do | Photos

Learn to surf at Huntington Beach

One of the most quintessentially Californian things to do during your trip is learn how to surf . There are several places you can surf up and down the coast, but beginners shouldn't go just anywhere: The best shorelines for novice surfers feature calm waters and knowledgeable lifeguards. Surf City USA (the nickname for Huntington Beach ) fits that bill perfectly, with several surf schools here. Highly rated operators include Corky Carroll's Surf School, Learn2Rip Surfing and Ocean Academy, and Banzai Surf School. After hitting the waves, rest your sore muscles at top-rated beachfront hotels , including the Kimpton Shorebreak Resort or the Pasea Hotel & Spa .

See more of Huntington Beach: Things to Do | Photos

Explore one or more of the national forests

Did you know California has the most national forests of any state in the nation? In addition to its famous national parks, California has 18 national forests to its name. If you are vacationing in the southern part of the state, consider a visit to the Cleveland, Angeles, San Bernardino or Los Padres national forests (but check with the U.S. Forest Service before you go to ensure they're not under closure orders caused by fire or storm damage when you visit). These options sit in proximity to vacation hot spots like San Diego, Los Angeles and Santa Barbara.

North of Sacramento, outdoor lovers have their choice of nearly a dozen national forests, including the Mendocino, Six Rivers and Klamath national forests, to name a few. These forest destinations offer beautiful wilderness landscapes, hiking trails and camping options.

Trek along the Lost Coast

Intrepid travelers looking to experience the untouched landscapes of California should consider a trek along one-of-a-kind Lost Coast. Located less than 40 miles south of Eureka in Northern California, the Lost Coast is an undeveloped stretch of coastline. Unlike Big Sur, which shares similar geography, the Lost Coast is devoid of major roads and can be accessed via a 25-mile-long hiking trail. The trail takes about two to four days to traverse (one way), so you should only attempt this hike if you're an experienced backpacker.

Visitors who make the journey will be treated to peace and quiet, empty beaches and plenty of wildlife, ranging from elk to elephant seals, not to mention striking views of the King Range, a collection of mountains that hug the coastline. Camping is allowed on the coast, but you need to obtain a backcountry permit in order to do so.

Point Reyes National Seashore

Point Reyes National Seashore gives visitors a glimpse into a wilderness landscape on the Northern California coastline with no development. Conveniently situated less than 40 miles northwest of San Francisco, this national seashore is easier to reach than Big Sur and the Lost Coast.

Here, you'll be treated to breathtaking stretches of coastline, some of which are only accessible by trail, including the popular 9.7-mile round-trip Tomales Point Trail. A visit to Point Reyes will also take you through verdant, wooded landscapes and put you in close contact with wildlife such as elk, bobcats, seals, beavers and much more. You'll find campgrounds on-site for backcountry hike-in and boat-in camping, as well as modest accommodations in nearby towns, including Olema, Point Reyes Station and Inverness.

Griffith Observatory

Griffith Observatory sits on the south face of Mount Hollywood and overlooks the Los Angeles basin. Its location gives visitors impressive views of the surrounding area, which many rave about. But there's more than just a pretty photo-op here: The observatory hosts fascinating exhibits and features a top-notch planetarium. Recent travelers cited the breathtaking setting as Griffith Observatory's main draw, though the free entry was certainly a bonus. Use of the public telescopes is also free, but you will have to pay a fee for the planetarium shows.

Hollywood Sign

The iconic Hollywood Sign is located in Griffith Park on Mount Lee. Visitors can hike to this iconic landmark on a few different routes and get sweeping views of LA, but the sign itself is fenced off and is typically guarded. Many visitors say that seeing the sign up close is a must-do.

The sign was originally built in 1923 and read, "Hollywoodland," the name of a real estate development, before the last four letters were removed in 1949. After years of neglect, the dilapidated sign was finally rebuilt in 1978 and has been a universal symbol for the glitz and glamour of the movie industry ever since. In 2023, the sign is celebrating its 100th anniversary. Griffith Park is free and open to the public daily with limited complimentary parking provided throughout the property.

Palm Springs

If you're looking for a place to unwind, Palm Springs is hard to beat. The Sonoran Desert provides a beautiful backdrop, warm weather and plenty of outdoor activities. In the late fall and early spring, temperatures typically range from the 50s at night to the 80s during the day. If you just want to chill, you can spend the day sipping cocktails poolside or get pampered at a luxurious spa. For travelers seeking an active vacation, other draws to the area include golf, tennis and miles of hiking trails.

A traveler-favorite Palm Springs attraction is the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, which whisks visitors from the desert floor up 2.5 miles to Mount San Jacinto State Park. When the sun sets, head out to one of the city's hip bars or restaurants for a gourmet meal or craft cocktail, such as Bar Cecil or Mr. Lyons Steakhouse. Make it a weekend away with an overnight stay at a Palm Springs hotel like the new wellness-focused Sensei Porcupine Creek or the modern yet rustic Sparrows Lodge .

Monterey Bay Aquarium

Located on the central California coast, the Monterey Bay Aquarium draws nearly 2 million visitors per year. This institution houses more than 200 world-class exhibits that highlight the marine habitats of the area, as well as plants and creatures of the deep ocean. Guests can watch sea otters frolicking, witness glowing jellyfish and admire a 28-foot-tall kelp forest.

The aquarium also prides itself on working to protect the Pacific Ocean off California's coast. Its initiatives include reducing plastic pollution in the ocean, promoting sustainable seafood choices and helping rebuild sea otter populations. Past visitors recommend taking a behind-the-scenes tour of the aquarium.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Places to Visit in California
• The Top Romantic Getaways in California
• The Top Things to Do in Big Bear Lake, California
• The Top Things to Do in Orange County, California
• The Top Hot Springs in California

The 13 Best National Parks in California

Tags: Travel , US Vacations , California Vacations , U.S. West Vacations

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20 Best Places to Visit in California

These are the best places to visit in California and the must-see places in 2022. California is home to truly everything — a stunning coastline, national parks, and incredible cities.

Whether it’s for a weekend of hiking in a national park like Lassen Volcanic National Park or a long drive up the Pacific Coast Highway to a coastal town, there is so much to see. The Golden State is broken into three distinct areas: Northern California, Central California, and Southern California. Each is unique in its offerings and the best part is you can easily travel between them.

Your Ultimate California Guide!

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California is certainly best visited by car if you plan to see more of the coast and national parks. You could visit cities without a car like San Francisco or even parts of L.A. It truly depends on the experience you would like to have.

1. Yosemite National Park

Hands down my favorite destination in California is Yosemite National Park. Yosemite is one of those places that once you’ve been, you’ll be itching to return. The draw and lure of the valley is hard to describe — it feels like you’re a world away from everyone else.

It’s the perfect destination for a day trip or an overnighter if you can grab nearby accommodations or one of the rentals in the park. From day hikes to bicycling the valley floor, it’s one place you don’t want to miss.

Helpful Guides: The Ultimate Weekend Guide to Yosemite (read this for cheap accommodations in the park) The Ultimate Summer Hike in Yosemite

2. Joshua Tree National Park

If you’re looking for a beautiful desert escape, look no further than Joshua Tree National Park. One of those gems down in Southern California, the national park is an incredible place of discovery for those looking to be outdoors. Known for its famous Joshua Tree, the desert is home to a wide variety of cactuses and desert animals.

I love going there for some quiet time in nature and hiking. If there’s one thing you don’t want to miss, it’s sunset in the cholla gardens — the entire field lights up at night.

This whole area is filled with incredibly well-designed homes, so peruse Airbnb for a stay. My personal favorite is the Joshua Tree House by our friends Rich and Sara.

Helpful Guides: The Dreamiest Airbnb in Joshua Tree

3. Humboldt Redwoods State Park

Continuing with our outdoor theme, Redwoods State Park in Humboldt County is another one of those incredible outdoor destinations. I was there this last year for my first time and had no idea how much there was to do.

The most famous thing is certainly a drive through the Avenue of the Giants, where some of the tallest redwood trees tower of you. There are plenty of day hikes and makes for a great family weekend trip.

Helpful Guides: A Guide to Visiting the Avenue of the Giants

4. San Francisco

Where I once called home, San Francisco may be one of the most stunning cities in the nation. We always said it was the city of a thousand views because truly, there are so many beautiful places. From the Golden Gate Bridge to the wharf, the rolling hills of San Francisco make the city what it is.

Amidst it all, incredible restaurants and boutiques are spread out across different neighborhoods. If you do get the chance, be sure to drive or walk over the Golden Gate Bridge, you won’t want to miss sunset there.

Helpful Guides: My List of Secret Restaurant After Living There Best Coffee Shops in San Francisco 5 Best Photography Spot in San Francisco

5. Lake Tahoe

Growing up in Auburn, California, our weekend trips almost always included Lake Tahoe. Located in Northern California, Lake Tahoe is a classic weekend away for both winter and summer. It is incredibly stunning with the Sierra Nevada Mountains peaking over.

The lake is crystal blue and worth a visit any time of the year. There are several places to stay from South Lake Tahoe to Incline, I love somewhere in between. It’s a great destination to go with friends and enjoy the fresh alpine air.

Helpful Guides: A Quick Summer Guide to Lake Tahoe 10 Airbnbs to Rent in Lake Tahoe

6. Sequoia National Park

High on my list of national parks I want to visit is Sequoia National Park. Right in the heart of California’s Sierra Nevada Mountain range, the national park is home to the large sequoia trees.

In the area is Mount Whitney and Kings Canyon National Park, so there is plenty to do for a few nights here. It’s noted that some of the best times to visit are during the summer months when the weather is mild before the winter months.

7. Muir Woods

A favorite for visitors around the world, Muir Woods national Monument is located just about 45 minutes north of San Francisco. This State Park does require reservations in advance for parking so do keep that in mind. It’s a lovely wooded area, that lines Mount Tamalpais. One full afternoon here is plenty of time to explore. You could even pack in your own lunch to bring out on the trail.

Helpful Guides: NPS Site for Muir Woods

8. Channel Islands National Park

Another gem of a national park not often talked about is the Channel Islands. Off the coast of Santa Barbara, these 5 islands are famed for its abundance of wildlife. You can visit but definitely requires a bit of an effort to get out there. There are a few ways to get there, most popular are by guided boats and there are day flights that also run there. This is truly a nature-lover’s ideal destination.

Located on the central coast of California, Big Sur is a bucket list destination for most travelers abroad and in California. It’s an iconic stop on a road trip up the coast of California. From the Bixby Bridge to McWay Falls, I truly can’t put into words just how beautiful this part of California is. There are a few accommodations in the area and it is also known for camping as well.

Helpful Guides: The Complete Extended Travel Guide To Big Sur, California The Best Big Sur Hotels For All Budgets

10. Palm Springs

Have you ever been to Palm Springs? It’s always one of those places that people either love to return to or go only once. I’ve included on this list because for those who love design and architecture, it’s a place you don’t want to miss.

From beautiful hotels to restaurants, a wonderful museum to nearby outdoor activities, Palm Springs has the best of both worlds. Yes, the summer months are piping hot but you can be poolside most of the time. Palm Springs is a wonderful weekend trip and you can even go to Joshua Tree from there if you’re looking to combine two desert destinations.

Helpful Guides: Incredible Things To Do In Palm Springs The 10 Coolest Airbnbs In Palm Springs The Hip Guide to Palm Springs Best Design Hotels in Palm Springs 20 Best Restaurants In Palm Springs

11. Napa Valley and Sonoma Valley

Though this area of California may be high on the list of tourist attractions, there are still plenty of gems in wine country that feel untouched. Both of these valleys are iconic for their wine and food. The area also has incredible spas and beautiful hotels nestled amongst the vineyards. So if you’re looking for a romantic weekend away, Napa or Sonoma Valley are a great choice — especially if you’re coming from the Bay Area.

For those who want a quieter version of Napa Valley, I’d recommend going further back towards St. Helena or Calistoga. For gems in Sonoma Valley, I love the area of Forestville which has local wineries and beautiful hotels.

Helpful Guides: Best of Wine Country in Sonoma and Napa Valley

12. Santa Cruz

From their beaches to hiking trails in the mountains, Santa Cruz is great for those who want a quaint coastal city experience with proximity to nature. Our friends head here frequently to surf and lounge on the beach and it’s somewhere I’m itching to go explore soon again. It has a long wharf and boardwalk that reminds of something you’d see on the East Coast which makes it fun for families with young kids.

13. Death Valley

When it comes to places that you blow your mind, I think Death Valley just about does it. After scrolling through photos, I’ve never seen such a diverse landscape in our state. It’s the lowest point in North America, so its climate produces some incredible scenery. You can visit everything from salt flats to sand dunes here. You’ll want to plan accordingly as it can be treacherous during extreme weather.

14. Carmel-by-the-Sea

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a fairytale town on the northern central coast of California. Just south of Monterey, the picturesque town is dotted with historic buildings that look like they belong in Hansel & Gretel. From world-class cuisine to a rising wine region, Carmel is often coveted for how temperate the weather is year-round. I personally love this town because of how calming it is. The air here is fresh — you can go for walks along the beach or in the nearby state parks like Point Lobos.

Helpful Guides: Travel Guide to Carmel Best Things to Do in Carmel 20 Best Restaurants in Carmel The Best Hotels in Carmel

15. Mendocino

Up the coast of Northern California is cute and quaint town called Mendocino. For those who’ve been, there’s a certain allure to this part of the state. It’s certainly rugged but yet peaceful. The area is lined with coastal parks, great for day hikes and walks through headlands that peer over the ocean.

Local farms and fishermen bring in most of the food found in restaurants, so there’s a deep connection with the local ingredients. You’ll find restaurants often only serve what is fresh and seasonal, which for foodies is an added bonus. Whenever I’m looking for a retreat away, I usually think of Mendocino first.

Helpful Guides: A Weekend Guide to Mendocino Ultimate Northern California Coast Road Trip Itinerary

16. Redwoods National and State Parks

One of the furthest points up in California I’ve been to has been Redwoods National Park. Have you heard of it? This area stretches from the ocean inland and is famed for a backpacker’s haven. If you’re wanting to be far out in nature, I couldn’t recommend it more.

Trinidad is just south of it, so you can make a home base there for day trips into the park. One sight you won’t want to miss in the park is Fern Canyon. This small canyon is over forty feet tall and drenched in ferns with tumbling water.

Helpful Guides: A Road Trip Guide To California’s Wild North Coast

17. Mount Shasta

Mt. Shasta is one of the furthest destinations in Northern California for outdoor adventure. The mountain itself is actually a volcano and the city itself is only a few miles away. There are wonderful overnight camping here and day hikes around the area. Nearby is the Lava Beds National Monument, a popular site to visit when in this region.

18. Mammoth Lakes Area

This is number one on my list for road trips in California this year. Mammoth Lakes area is home to so much goodness, I can’t wait to go discover it myself. From natural hot springs that line up against the mountain to the beautiful fall colors of the June Lake Loop, this is one of the best places to visit in California for a long weekend. Though many go in the winter months for ski, I’m looking to go right before the big snowfall.

Helpful Guides: 7 Incredible Things To Do In Mammoth Lakes A Guide To Hiking California’s Epic Big Pine Lakes

19. San Diego

The very southern part of California is home to San Diego. Life here is relaxed — it has that barefoot, no worries state of mind. I grew up going here as a kid and always loved the beaches and wharfs to explore. There is a lot on offer in this area and has a wide range of experiences for all types of travel. You can stay at stunning resorts with golf courses along the beach or be in the heart of downtown for a city escape. San Diego is a wonderful place to explore if you’re looking for a relaxed getaway.

20. Laguna Beach

Last but not least is Laguna Beach and arguably my favorite place in Southern California. It has the perks of the area — like good food, great beaches, and a lively culture, but feels removed. It’s an enclave artists and incredible design. Laguna Beach is a special place and the first I love to recommend when visiting the region.

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PS — Are You Booking a Trip Soon? Use My Booking Checklist!

These are the sites I use most to book my own trips. Using the links below is a great way to support Bon Traveler’s travel journalism at no extra cost to you . If you need help organizing your itinerary, get my free travel itinerary template here .

1. Book Your Flights

Use Skyscanner to find the best flights. It searches 100s of airlines and websites across the globe to ensure you’re not missing out on any route options or deals.

2. Book Your Accommodations

Use Booking.com for hotels and guest houses. They have the biggest inventory and consistently offer the best rates.

3. Book Your Tours & Experiences

Use Viator or Get Your Guide to find the best tours and experiences. They are my favorite tour search engines. I always check both as their inventory varies depending on the destination.

4. Book Your Car

Use Discover Cars or Rentalcars.com to find the best car rental deals. I recommend comparing rental agency reviews on Google to ensure you are booking with the best company in that destination, as the reviews are often more accurate than the car rental search engines.

5. Don’t Forget Airport Lounge Access

Get a Priority Pass membership to gain access to 1,400+ VIP lounges and airport experiences worldwide. The Priority Pass app is the first thing I check when I have a layover. I’ve been a member for over a decade, and having a comfortable place to relax before and between flights makes air travel so much more enjoyable.

6. Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

I never leave the country without travel insurance. It provides comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong (ie. illness, injury, theft, and cancelations, etc.). I use it frequently for my travels to stay protected.

My favorite companies that offer the best coverage and rates are:

• World Nomads (best for all-around)
• Safety Wing (best for frequent travelers)

Xx, Jessica

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20 Best Places To Visit In California (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: February 4, 2024

Looking for the best places to visit in California? Find out our 20 favorite and must-visit destinations in the Golden State!

California is truly one of the most diverse states in the USA. With major cities, small towns, snow-capped mountains, ancient redwood trees, alpine lakes, idyllic beaches, sand dunes, rolling hills, and so much more, there are some awe-inspiring places in the Golden State.

Though you could spend years uncovering all of California’s wonders, we’ve narrowed down a list of the 20 best places to visit in California.

From seeing the iconic Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco to touring Balboa Park in San Diego , there are many fabulous cities around California waiting to be explored.

Or if you’re more into adventure activities like rock climbing, cross-country skiing, horseback riding, or hiking, California is home to some world-class national parks where you can immerse yourself in nature.

Whether you want to surf in the Pacific and admire the Santa Monica Pier, or admire monstrous redwood and sequoias like the General Sherman Tree, California has something for everyone!

Read next: The Ultimate Los Angeles To San Diego Drive Itinerary

Table of Contents

1. Los Angeles

2. joshua tree national park, 3. lake tahoe, 4. santa barbara, 5. yosemite national park, 6. san francisco, 7. sequoia national park, 8. palm springs, 9. san diego, 10. napa valley, 11. laguna beach, 12. death valley national park, 13. carmel by the sea, 14. kings canyon national park, 15. santa monica, 16. big sur, 17. santa cruz, 18. mammoth lakes, 19. redwood national park, 20. sacramento, best places to visit in california.

From touring Old Town San Diego, to embarking on scenic hiking trails in Yosemite, Joshua Tree, or Kings Canyon National Parks, you will never run out of things to do in the beautiful state of California!

Of course, there are many more worthwhile destinations that haven’t made our list of the best places to visit in California. But this is just an overview! Consider road-tripping around California or spending a few weeks in a big city like Los Angeles or San Francisco and taking a bunch of day trips !

However you choose to explore California, make sure you include some of these fabulous locations in your itinerary!

First on our list of the best places to visit in California is the world-famous city of Los Angeles .

Los Angeles, often referred to as LA, is a sprawling metropolis nestled on the western coast of the United States. Renowned for its vibrant cultural diversity, iconic landmarks, and entertainment industry, LA stands as a global hub of creativity and innovation.

The city’s allure lies in its ability to seamlessly blend the glamorous with the everyday, where towering palm trees line sun-kissed boulevards leading to world-famous beaches like Huntington and Venice.

Home to Hollywood , the epicenter of the movie and television industry, LA exudes an unmistakable cinematic charm, attracting dreamers and artists from around the world in pursuit of stardom and success. Visits to the Hollywood Walk Of Fame, the Hollywood Sign, and Warner Bros Studios are a must when exploring Hollywood!

Amid the urban sprawl, Downtown Los Angeles is a melting pot of cultures, languages, and cuisines. Art and creativity flourish here, with a multitude of museums, galleries, and street art murals dotting the landscape.

The Getty Center, perched atop a hill, showcases impressive art collections spanning centuries, while the Los Angeles County Museum of Art hosts a diverse range of exhibitions.

You can admire the city from above at Griffith Park, where an amazing observatory boasts excellent views.

From the iconic Hollywood Sign to the stunning Griffith Park, Los Angeles encapsulates the essence of the American Dream and continues to captivate hearts and minds as a city of endless possibilities.

Joshua Tree National Park, a mesmerizing desert expanse located in Southern California, is a place of otherworldly beauty and stark contrasts. Covering over 790,000 acres, the park is characterized by its striking landscape, where the high Mojave Desert and the low Colorado Desert converge.

The park’s namesake, the Joshua Tree, stands as an iconic symbol of the region, with its spiky, twisted branches reaching skyward. These peculiar trees punctuate the arid landscape alongside massive boulders and rugged rock formations that seem to emerge as if sculpted by an artist’s hand.

These unique geological features attract rock climbers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking to explore the challenging terrain and the surreal vistas that stretch for miles in all directions.

Beyond its geological marvels, Joshua Tree National Park is designated as an International Dark Sky Park, making it a paradise for stargazers. The absence of light pollution allows for a celestial spectacle, where the night sky comes alive with an awe-inspiring display of stars, planets, and celestial bodies.

From the rugged landscapes that seem to belong to another planet to the serene beauty of the desert’s flora and fauna, Joshua Tree National Park offers an escape into a realm of raw natural beauty, providing an opportunity for solitude, reflection, and a deep connection with the mysteries of the universe.

Read next: The 25 Best Things To Do In Southern California

Nestled high in the Sierra Nevada mountains, Lake Tahoe is a shimmering jewel that spans the border between California and Nevada in the United States.

Renowned for its breathtaking beauty and crystal-clear waters, Lake Tahoe attracts visitors year-round, offering a diverse range of recreational activities against a backdrop of stunning natural scenery.

In the warmer months, the lake becomes a playground for water enthusiasts, with opportunities for swimming, kayaking, boating, and fishing.

The pristine beaches that encircle the lake provide a serene escape, while the surrounding trails cater to hikers and mountain bikers, leading to panoramic viewpoints that showcase the lake’s vivid blue hues against the majestic mountains.

Lake Tahoe’s allure extends into the winter season, transforming into a winter wonderland that draws skiers and snowboarders from across the globe. The area boasts numerous world-class ski resorts, such as Heavenly, Squaw Valley, and Northstar, offering powdery slopes and a variety of winter sports experiences.

South Lake Tahoe, with its lively casino scene, contrasts with the more tranquil and charming ambiance of North Lake Tahoe’s communities. A sightseeing cruise around South Lake Tahoe is the best way to soak in the scenery of the surrounding Emerald Bay State Park, a gorgeous alpine area that often graces the covers of postcards.

Whether you want to bask in the summer sun on the lake’s shores or carve through fresh powder in the winter, Lake Tahoe is the largest alpine lake in the USA and one of the best places to visit in California!

Another gem of the Golden State is Santa Barbara . Known for its stunning Mediterranean-style architecture, picturesque landscapes, and laid-back yet sophisticated vibe, Santa Barbara is often referred to as the “American Riviera”.

The city’s iconic red-tiled roofs, white stucco buildings, and lush gardens create a scenic backdrop that evokes the feeling of a Mediterranean coastal town. Santa Barbara County Courthouse is a stunning landmark of the area that showcases the intriguing architecture and design.

Stearns Wharf, extending into the ocean, offers a blend of shops, restaurants, and panoramic views of the coastline, while the historic State Street serves as the bustling heart of downtown, lined with boutiques, galleries, and eateries.

Santa Barbara’s stunning nature is a major draw, with pristine beaches like East Beach and Butterfly Beach providing opportunities for sunbathing, surfing, and sunset strolls.

The Santa Ynez Mountains, which form a stunning backdrop, are home to hiking trails that offer breathtaking vistas of the city and the Pacific Ocean. The city’s commitment to preserving its natural surroundings is evident in its parks and botanical gardens, such as Lotusland and the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden.

With a rich cultural scene, including renowned music festivals and art galleries, Santa Barbara seamlessly blends sophistication with a relaxed coastal lifestyle and is one of the top tourist attractions in California.

Yosemite National Park stands as a crown jewel among America’s national parks, a pristine wilderness in the Sierra Nevada mountains of California that boasts an extraordinary range of natural wonders.

Famous for its towering granite cliffs, ancient sequoia trees, and cascading waterfalls, Yosemite’s beauty has captivated visitors for generations.

The iconic El Capitan and Half Dome formations dominate the skyline, drawing climbers from around the world to test their skills on these monumental rocks. The park’s diverse ecosystems support a wide array of wildlife, from black bears and mule deer to rare species like the Sierra Nevada bighorn sheep.

The serene meadows, dense forests, and alpine lakes add to the park’s captivating diversity, offering visitors an array of outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, rock climbing, mountain biking, and photography.

Yosemite’s waterfalls are among its most enchanting features, with Yosemite Falls being one of the tallest in North America. Bridalveil Fall, Horsetail Fall, and Vernal Fall are other notable cascades that grace the landscape.

The Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias showcases some of the world’s largest trees, including the Grizzly Giant and the Tunnel Tree. Driving along the scenic routes of Yosemite Valley, including Tioga Road and Glacier Point Road, provides access to panoramic vistas that truly showcase the grandeur of the Sierra Nevada.

Whether it’s gazing at a starlit sky in the high alpine meadows, hiking among ancient giants, or marveling at the incredible Half Dome, Yosemite National Park encapsulates the essence of nature and makes a lasting impression on all who visit.

Another one of the best places to visit in California is the vibrant and innovative city of San Francisco. Known for its iconic Golden Gate Bridge, the city is characterized by its dramatic fog-shrouded bay, cable cars climbing steep streets, and an eclectic mix of neighborhoods each with its own distinct character.

The bustling Fisherman’s Wharf offers waterfront attractions, fresh seafood, and the lively atmosphere of Pier 39, while the historic Alcatraz Island invites visitors to explore its notorious former prison.

Chinatown, with its ornate architecture and vibrant markets, immerses visitors in a world of cultural immersion, while the bohemian enclave of Haight-Ashbury captures the spirit of the 1960s counterculture.

San Francisco’s innovation-driven economy is underscored by its reputation as a global tech hub, being home to Silicon Valley and numerous tech giants. The city also boasts a rich arts scene, with world-class museums such as the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art and the de Young Museum .

Plus, the entire San Francisco Bay Area is packed with natural wonders, like Golden Gate Park and the national historic landmark of the John Muir Wilderness .

From the Golden Gate Bridge, to the local markets, to the nearby wilderness areas, San Francisco has so much to offer and it’s one of the highlights of Northern California.

Check out our ultimate 3 days in San Francisco itinerary for more ideas on how to explore the city!

Sequoia National Park, situated in the rugged Sierra Nevada mountain range, is a sanctuary of ancient giants and pristine wilderness.

The park is most famous for its awe-inspiring groves of giant sequoia trees, some of which are among the largest living organisms on Earth.

Towering sentinels like the General Sherman Tree stand as testaments to the passage of time, with their colossal trunks and branches reaching skyward. The landscape is a mix of towering peaks, deep canyons, and alpine meadows, providing a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, and nature lovers.

Beyond the trees, Sequoia National Park is home to diverse ecosystems, from the lush meadows of Crescent Meadow to the towering granite walls of the High Sierra.

Crystal-clear rivers and lakes like the Marble Fork and Pear Lake attract anglers and offer tranquil spots for reflection. The park’s rugged terrain is laced with hiking trails that cater to various skill levels, leading adventurers to stunning vistas, hidden waterfalls, and pristine backcountry landscapes.

The underground world of Sequoia extends to its extensive cave system, with Crystal Cave being a popular destination for guided tours. This national park is a realm of natural wonders, where the ancient meets the contemporary, and where visitors can forge connections with the wild and experience the profound beauty of the natural world.

Palm Springs is a desert oasis located in Southern California’s Coachella Valley. With its iconic mid-century modern architecture, the city exudes a timeless charm that has attracted celebrities, artists, and vacationers for decades.

Visitors often indulge in rejuvenating experiences at the area’s world-class resorts and spas, which offer lavish accommodations, therapeutic treatments, and opportunities to lounge by elegant poolside settings.

Palm Springs also caters to outdoor enthusiasts, with numerous golf courses, hiking trails, and opportunities for exploring the surrounding desert landscapes.

The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway takes visitors on a breathtaking journey up the cliffs of Chino Canyon to the cooler alpine forests of Mount San Jacinto State Park, offering panoramic views that span for miles.

The city’s vibrant downtown area boasts a mix of boutiques, art galleries, and gourmet dining establishments, creating a hub of cultural activity.

From the annual Palm Springs International Film Festival to the Modernism Week celebration of mid-century design, the city’s cultural events attract enthusiasts from around the world.

Whether it’s indulging in leisure, exploring the natural surroundings, or embracing artistic and cultural experiences, Palm Springs continues to captivate with its distinct blend of relaxation and sophistication.

Find more things to do in Palm Springs with our complete guide !

Another one of the best places to visit in California is San Diego . Known for its idyllic weather, pristine beaches, and diverse cultural offerings, the city offers a well-rounded experience for both residents and visitors.

Downtown San Diego hosts some incredible tourist attractions. The iconic Balboa Park is a cultural oasis, housing museums, gardens, and the renowned San Diego Zoo.

The Gaslamp Quarter, with its historic architecture and vibrant nightlife, contrasts with the serene beauty of La Jolla, where the rugged coastline meets upscale boutiques and art galleries.

History lovers can check out the USS Midway Museum which showcases San Diego’s rich naval history. Another highlight is the nearby Coronado Island offers a charming retreat with its Victorian architecture and sandy beaches.

San Diego’s coastal allure is epitomized by its stunning beaches like Mission Beach, Pacific Beach, and the aptly named Sunset Cliffs, where dramatic cliffs meet the crashing waves of the Pacific Ocean. Surfers, sunbathers, and beachgoers alike are drawn to the city’s coastal stretches.

From the San Diego Zoo, to the sea caves of La Jolla , to the unique neighborhoods of downtown, San Diego is a highlight of Southern California.

Napa Valley, located in Northern California, is a world-renowned wine region that beckons wine enthusiasts and travelers seeking a refined blend of culinary excellence, picturesque landscapes, and leisurely exploration.

This iconic valley is home to some of the finest wineries and vineyards in the United States, producing a diverse array of wines that have earned Napa a prominent spot on the global wine map.

Wine tastings, guided tours , and charming cellar-door experiences allow visitors to immerse themselves in the artistry of winemaking while savoring the flavors of the vineyards.

Beyond its vinicultural allure, Napa Valley boasts a serene and picturesque landscape, characterized by rolling hills, sprawling vineyards, and the meandering Napa River.

The Silverado Trail and Highway 29 serve as the main arteries of exploration, leading visitors through a succession of idyllic towns and wineries. The towns of Yountville, St. Helena, and Calistoga each offer distinct experiences, from gourmet dining establishments and artisan boutiques to relaxing hot springs and hot air balloon rides.

Napa Valley encapsulates a refined blend of sensory pleasures, where each sip, taste, and view reflects the passion and dedication that have defined the region as a premier destination for wine enthusiasts and those seeking a taste of the good life.

Find more of the best things to do in Napa Valley !

Laguna Beach is a quintessential beachside town that radiates a blend of artistic charm, natural beauty, and coastal elegance. With stunning beaches, pristine coves, and turquoise waters, Laguna Beach offers a haven for sun-seekers, surfers, and beach enthusiasts.

Main Beach, with its iconic lifeguard tower and bustling boardwalk, is a central hub for visitors to bask in the sun and enjoy the inviting Pacific waters. The hidden gem of Thousand Steps Beach, accessed via a stairway, offers a more secluded escape and sweeping views of the coastline.

Laguna Beach’s lush hillsides and rugged cliffs provide a striking backdrop to the charming town, while scenic parks like Crystal Cove State Park offer hiking opportunities.

The town’s commitment to preserving nature is evident in the lush Heisler Park, where walking paths wind through beautifully landscaped gardens and along coastal bluffs.

The annual Pageant of the Masters, a unique artistic spectacle where real people recreate famous artworks, is a highlight of the town’s cultural calendar.

With a mix of upscale boutiques, al fresco dining, and a relaxed coastal ambiance, Laguna Beach captures the essence of California’s coastal elegance, making it a beloved destination for those seeking a blend of art, nature, and seaside relaxation.

Consider a road trip along the Pacific Coast Highway to combine Laguna Beach with numerous other coastal hotspots in California!

For nature lovers, Death Valley National Park has a unique, other-worldly landscape that is one of the best places to visit in California.

As the hottest, driest, and lowest national park in the United States, Death Valley is characterized by its vast desert expanses, towering sand dunes, and dramatic mountain ranges.

The iconic Badwater Basin salt flats , one of the lowest points in North America, stand as a mesmerizing testament to the park’s extreme conditions.

Zabriskie Point offers panoramic vistas of eroded rock formations and colorful mineral deposits, while Dante’s View provides a breathtaking overlook of the entire valley, highlighting the rugged terrain and vast expanse.

Amid the arid environment, Death Valley surprises with its hidden treasures. Artist’s Palette showcases a kaleidoscope of colors on the hillsides, a result of various mineral deposits.

Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, with their ever-changing patterns shaped by the wind, invite visitors to explore and photograph the enchanting landscape.

From the mysterious sailing stones of Racetrack Playa to the historic sites that tell tales of human perseverance, Death Valley National Park is a realm of desolate beauty, rugged wilderness, and a reminder of nature’s capacity to shape and endure in the face of extreme conditions.

Another one of the best places to visit in California is Carmel-by-the-Sea, a charming coastal town in Central California. Known for its quaint architecture, pristine beaches, and artistic atmosphere, Carmel exudes a timeless allure that has attracted artists, writers, and nature enthusiasts for generations.

The village’s cobblestone streets wind through picturesque neighborhoods, where enchanting cottages, boutique shops, and art galleries create a uniquely inviting ambiance.

The iconic Carmel Mission, a historic Spanish mission dating back to the 18th century, stands as a cultural and architectural landmark that adds to the town’s character.

Carmel Beach, with its white sand, cerulean waters, and iconic cypress trees, offers a serene escape for beachgoers and a captivating setting for nature enthusiasts and photographers.

The nearby scenic 17-Mile Drive, renowned for its breathtaking coastal vistas and famed landmarks like the Lone Cypress, is a must-do route that offers glimpses of the dramatic coastline and sea cliffs that define the region.

Whether it’s exploring the hidden treasures of the Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, strolling through the Fairytale Cottages, or savoring a meal at a cozy restaurant, Carmel-by-the-Sea has an artistic charm that is truly captivating.

Kings Canyon National Park , located in the Sierra Nevada mountain range of California, is a realm of awe-inspiring landscapes and natural grandeur. Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are right next to each other, so you can easily explore both in one visit!

Celebrated for its breathtaking canyons, towering peaks, and pristine wilderness areas, Kings Canyon National Park showcases the power of geologic forces over millennia.

The park’s namesake, Kings Canyon, is one of the deepest in North America, with walls that rise dramatically above the Kings River, creating a dramatic backdrop for hikers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts.

The General Grant Grove of giant sequoias is a testament to the park’s diverse ecosystems, housing some of the world’s largest and oldest trees, including the General Grant Tree, also known as the Nation’s Christmas Tree.

Beyond its ancient trees and dramatic canyons, Kings Canyon offers an array of outdoor adventures. The High Sierra backcountry attracts backpackers and mountaineers, with numerous hiking trails leading to pristine alpine lakes, rugged terrain, and breathtaking views from passes like Kearsarge Pass and Glen Pass.

The combination of dramatic geological formations, serene alpine landscapes, and the quiet beauty of the giant sequoias make Kings Canyon National Park a haven for rock climbing, hiking, horseback riding, camping, and sightseeing.

Another top spot to visit in California is Santa Monica , a lively coastal suburb of Los Angeles. Famous for the iconic Santa Monica Pier, which boasts a historic carousel and a variety of amusements, the city offers a classic beach boardwalk experience combined with stunning ocean views.

The expansive Santa Monica Beach stretches for miles, providing opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, surfing, and beach volleyball. You can even hit the waves with a surf lesson and try to blend in with the locals!

Be sure to visit Third Street Promenade, which has pedestrian-friendly streets and a diverse array of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.

Beyond the beachfront, the city is also celebrated for its commitment to healthy living and sustainability. The beachside bike path offers a scenic route for cyclists, while the picturesque Palisades Park offers a tranquil escape with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.

The bustling Main Street captures the city’s laid-back yet cosmopolitan vibe, with a mix of boutique shops, art galleries, and trendy eateries.

With its ideal coastal location, artistic culture, and a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement, Santa Monica is a must-visit while exploring LA.

Big Sur, a rugged and breathtaking stretch of California’s central coast along Highway 1, is a place of natural grandeur that captivates with its dramatic cliffs, crashing waves, and lush wilderness.

Nestled between the Santa Lucia Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, Big Sur offers a landscape of unparalleled beauty.

The iconic Bixby Creek Bridge, spanning a deep canyon, serves as an entry point to this awe-inspiring region. McWay Falls, a stunning waterfall cascading onto a secluded beach, is another highlight that encapsulates the magic of Big Sur.

Coastal hikes, like the renowned Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park trail , lead to panoramic viewpoints that showcase the wild beauty of the coastline.

Big Sur’s artistic and bohemian spirit is reflected in its vibrant arts community, with galleries, studios, and workshops nestled within the rugged landscape. The Henry Miller Memorial Library, dedicated to the famous writer, serves as a cultural hub with literary events, performances, and an appreciation for the area’s counter-cultural heritage.

From the iconic Bixby Creek Bridge to the enchanting redwood groves of Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, this region offers an escape into the heart of nature’s majesty.

Santa Cruz is a captivating beach town that blends the charm of a coastal getaway with a distinct bohemian spirit.

Known for its iconic Beach Boardwalk, the oldest amusement park in California, Santa Cruz offers a delightful mix of nostalgia, classic rides, and oceanfront fun.

The town’s vibrant Pacific Avenue is lined with eclectic boutiques, art galleries, and laid-back cafes, reflecting its free-spirited and artistic community.

Steeped in surf culture, the town’s pristine beaches like Cowell’s Beach and Pleasure Point attract surfers and beach lovers, while West Cliff Drive provides scenic views of the rugged coastline and the famous Santa Cruz Surfing Museum .

Nearby Natural Bridges State Beach, with its natural rock formations and tide pools, offers a glimpse of the area’s rich coastal ecosystems. The town’s lively music scene and numerous annual events, such as the Santa Cruz Beach Music Festival, reflect its creative and dynamic atmosphere.

From the laid-back beach vibes to the culturally rich downtown, Santa Cruz strikes a harmonious balance between coastal relaxation and a vibrant, artistic community that continues to draw in visitors and residents alike.

Read next: 25 Best Things To Do In Northern California

Located in the Eastern Sierra region of California, Mammoth Lakes is a captivating alpine town that beckons outdoor enthusiasts year-round with its stunning nature and recreational opportunities.

Best known for its world-class ski resort, Mammoth Mountain , the town draws winter adventurers seeking powder-packed slopes and breathtaking mountain vistas.

As the largest ski resort in California, Mammoth offers a range of winter activities beyond skiing and snowboarding, including snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and even a snowcat-driven dining experience.

In the warmer months, the town transforms into a haven for hikers and mountain bikers, with trails that wind through pristine forests, meadows, and lakes.

Nearby, Rainbow Falls offers a mesmerizing spectacle as the San Joaquin River cascades over colorful rock formations. The town’s cozy atmosphere is complemented by a variety of restaurants, cafes, and shops that cater to both adventurers and relaxation seekers.

The tranquil scenery of Mammoth Lakes provides a refreshing escape, while its year-round outdoor offerings make it an ideal destination for those seeking adventure and the rejuvenating embrace of nature’s wonders.

Explore more of Northern California with this epic road trip itinerary !

Another one of the best places to visit in California for nature lovers is Redwood National Park. This collection of protected areas is renowned for its towering ancient redwood trees, some of which rank among the tallest and oldest living beings on Earth.

The park’s namesake trees, with their massive trunks and canopy of thick foliage, create a surreal and enchanting forest environment that transports visitors to a prehistoric era.

Fern Canyon, with its lush greenery and crystal-clear stream, is a magical setting that has even served as a filming location for movies like “Jurassic Park 2.” The park’s rugged coastline, characterized by sea stacks and rocky cliffs, adds to its dramatic beauty.

Beyond the magnificent redwoods, the park’s diverse landscapes encompass pristine beaches, wild rivers, and lush meadows. The park offers the chance to see fascinating endangered species like the marbled murrelet and the northern spotted owl.

Redwood National and State Parks offers a range of outdoor activities, from hiking and camping to kayaking along the Smith River. Those looking for adventure should not miss out on this beautiful location!

Last but not least on our list of the best places to visit in California is the state capital itself, Sacramento .

Situated at the confluence of the Sacramento and American Rivers, the city has deep historical roots dating back to the Gold Rush era , and this legacy is celebrated in Old Sacramento, a charming district that retains its 19th-century charm with historic buildings, wooden sidewalks, and horse-drawn carriages.

The California State Capitol, with its distinctive white dome, serves as the heart of political activity and offers tours that delve into the state’s governance and history.

The Crocker Art Museum, one of the oldest art museums in the West, houses an impressive collection of European, American, and Californian art, while the vibrant Midtown district showcases a lively cultural scene with galleries, boutiques, and diverse dining options.

Sacramento’s urban revitalization has seen the emergence of contemporary neighborhoods that balance history with innovation. The R Street Corridor, once an industrial area, has transformed into a hub of creativity with galleries, breweries, and trendy eateries.

The city’s proximity to agricultural regions has resulted in a flourishing farm-to-table culinary scene, with the Sacramento Farmers’ Market providing a showcase for fresh produce and artisanal products.

The American River Parkway, a 23-mile greenbelt, offers residents and visitors the chance to cycle, hike, or kayak along the scenic waterways. Sacramento is a multifaceted city that has much to offer travelers in California.

Find more things to do in Sacramento with our detailed guide!

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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35 Brilliant Things to do in California

Discover the best things to do in California with this essential guide – delve into the magic of the Golden State. 

Looking for the best things to do in California? I’ve got you covered. 

The Golden State isn’t afraid to show its charm. Whether you’re standing slack-jawed at the ethereal beauty of Yosemite or cutting your way along the rugged bluffs of the Big Sur, there’s a lot to love about it.

Explore California’s world-famous landmarks and attractions, dip into a few offbeat and unusual places and soak up that scenery. We’re going to discover the things to do in California that you shouldn’t miss. 

Let’s go! 

Things To Do in California: Top 5

Explore yosemite national park.

I don’t think it’s an overstatement to say that Yosemite National Park is one of the most beautiful places on earth. 

Sure, it’s no hidden gem, but there’s a reason it’s enchanted so many people from John Muir to Ansel Adams – now it’s your turn. 

Camp (or stay in a cosy hotel), hike or settle for a few short strolls – the more adventurous among you might also want to tackle some of the park’s climbing trails. However you do it, it’s sure to wow. 

Don’t miss the striking Mariposa Grove – packed with over 500 giant sequoias (some of the largest trees in the world) and Tunnel View for an amazing view of Yosemite Valley from above – both should be at the top of your Yosemite itinerary .

More highlights include peeking up at the stark granite faces of El Capitan and Half Dome, taking in the views at the aptly-named Mirror Lake, and watching the sun catch the water at Yosemite Falls – time it right and it looks like fire raining from above. 

Book a Tour of Yosemite Here

Take a California Road Trip

If you want to explore as much of California as possible, then I recommend taking a road trip along the West Coast. 

If ever a state was made for road tripping, it’s California . With its stunning coastline, dramatic mountain ranges, and endless deserts, there’s something to see around every corner. It’s a great way to experience the diversity of destinations that California has to offer. 

I did a trip from Los Angeles all the way up to Vancouver a couple of years ago and it’s still one of the best trips I’ve ever taken. 

There are plenty of great routes to choose from. Some that you should consider include:

• Driving from north to south along Route 101 and stopping at places like San Francisco , Santa Barbara, Los Angeles and San Diego . You can do this in a day or two if you’re short on time – or you can go full tilt and extend the trip out of California to Oregon and Washington to the North. 
• Another option is the 395 through the High Sierra – start at Lake Tahoe then wind your way to Mammoth Lakes, finishing in Lone Pine. You can also make a short diversion to Yosemite if you have the time. 

Explore the Magic of Big Sur

Writers and artists aplenty have long rhapsodized about the natural beauty of Big Sur – Henry Miller, Jack Kerouac, and Ansel Adams all made their homes here at one time or another. It didn’t take long before the rest of the world caught up. 

Located on California’s Central Coast, this area is famous for its rugged coastline, dramatic cliffs, and pristine forests. Ocean waves come crashing against steep cliffs, creating an otherworldly landscape.

Set off on hiking trails that lead through redwood forests or coast along scenic vistas overlooking the ocean. There are also many state parks – Julia Pfeiffer Burns and Big Sur among them – where you can strike off into the wild and camp out under the stars. 

Swing By The Golden Gate Bridge

One of the most iconic places to visit in California, the distinctive russet orange of the Golden Gate Bridge is San Francisco’s best-known landmark. 

It won’t exactly come as a surprise that to nab the best views of the bridge, you’ll have to strike out away from it.

Head to Baker Beach or Hawk Hill on the Marin Headlands. The bridge is especially pretty at sunset or when it’s foggy – which happens often in San Francisco!

Delve into Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park is located in southeastern California and it’s the lowest, hottest and driest place in North America. It’s also a great place to visit if you’re looking for some adventure!

While the landscapes might look barren at first, spend any time in Death Valley and you’ll discover a wealth of stunning scenery.

Highlights include Ubehebe Crater, Titus Canyon, and Badwater Basin . Ubehebe Crater is a volcanic crater about 300 meters wide and 91 meters deep that was formed when an eruption occurred about 6,000 years ago.

Take a trip through Titus Canyon – a winding canyon filled with rugged mountains and colorful rock formations –  there’s even a ghost town – Rhyolite – along the way. The two-hour drive is one of the highlights of the park. 

The park is also home to the lowest point in North America: Badwater Basin, sitting at 85 meters below sea level!

Things to do in California

Go skiing in mammoth lakes.

Say California and I’m pretty sure that it won’t be skiing that pops into most of your heads. Yet California isn’t short on cool spots for you to work on your skiing (or snowboarding) skills.

Mammoth Lakes is one of the state’s most popular ski destinations. With over 100 runs to choose from, there’s something for every ability. 

Not visiting in season? There are also plenty of things to do when it isn’t snowing – Mammoth is one of California’s coolest mountain-biking hubs – and also offers hikes aplenty. 

Stargazing in Joshua Tree National Park

The queer shapes of its namesake Joshua trees may be the thing most associated with Joshua Tree National Park , but that’s not all this beautiful spot has to offer. 

The park contains not one but two desert ecosystems: The Mojave and Colorado. The higher Mojave is distinguished by its Joshua trees and cholla cactus – while the lower  Colorado is home to Ocotillo, barrel cacti, and palo verde.

The lack of light pollution also means the national park is one of the best places in the state to go stargazing (and is a cool astrophotography hotspot). That’s why Joshua Tree is the perfect place to glamp , kick back, and watch the stars put on an amazing show . 

Book a Joshua Tree Driving Tour

Have Fun at Disneyland

Disneyland has been one of the most popular things to do in California ever since its opening day on July 17th, 1955 – it’s still going strong in 2022! 

The park covers an area of 85 acres (34 ha).The park is divided into two parts: Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure. They are both located in the same area, but offer different attractions.

Go to Disneyland for classics such as the Sleeping Beauty Castle and Space Mountain, or opt for the new California Adventure with Mickey’s Fun Wheel and World of Color. 

Universal Studios Hollywood

If Disneyland is all about magical adventures, Universal Studios turns things up a notch – plunging you into the worlds of some of your favorite films and TV shows. 

Hop on mind-blowing rides such as Transformers: The Ride-3D and Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey before heading to the iconic Waterworld Show – a live-action piece centered on a tale of people fleeing a post-apocalyptic world in search of a better life, battling pirates, mutants, and more along the way.

Book Your Universal Studios Hollywood Ticket

Tucked away in the Sierra Nevada Mountains sits Lake Tahoe . In fact, it’s actually located right on the border of California and Nevada, so it’s easy to get to from either state. 

Ideally, you’ll want to board a boat to take a peek at the best views. There are plenty of places to rent them – though, you can also swim if you don’t mind getting wet!

Hiking around Emerald Bay State Park is one of the top things to do in California – it’s a breathtaking spot and you’ll be treated to some amazing views from above (so don’t forget your camera). You might even see a bear or two while hiking through trails at Emerald Bay State Park – just make sure they don’t get too close!

You’ll be surprised to know that skiing and snowboarding are also possible if you visit Lake Tahoe in Winter. Wrap up warm and prepare to flex your snow sport skills. Book an Airbnb for the perfect stay.

Book a Tour of Lake Tahoe

Hearst Castle

Located on the Pacific coast of central California, Hearst Castle is a historic landmark in San Simeon well worth a visit. 

It’s been one of the best things to do in Southern California since 1954, when William Randolph Hearst donated his estate as part of an agreement with the state government. The castle was built between 1919-1947 by architect Julia Morgan (who also designed San Francisco’s Fairmont Hotel).

Architecturally, it’s quite bonkers – it was designed with no central plan but rather as an exercise in assembling things together; one room leads into another, which connects to yet another chamber or courtyard through doors and windows.

The result is a sprawling complex of rooms that are not only unique from each other but also all interconnected somehow (even if you can’t always tell how). This was intentional on Hearst’s part, as he wanted to be able to host large groups of people at the same time and have them all feel like they were in their own private world.

The exterior of Hearst Castle is equally impressive, with its grandiose gardens and terraces that overlook the Pacific Ocean. It’s definitely one of the most unique things to see in California.

California Wine Country (Napa & Sonoma)

Wine drinker? California’s wine country is a must-see. The two main wine regions are Napa Valley and Sonoma County , which are about an hour’s drive apart from each other.

Napa Valley is world-famous for its Cabernet Sauvignon wines, while Sonoma County produces more Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines. There are also a number of smaller wine regions in California that are emerging as California races to the forefront of the wine scene.

Napa’s home to some great restaurants and bars, as well as art galleries and museums. You can also go on wine tours, visit vineyards, or take a hot air balloon ride over the valley.

Sonoma is also worth visiting. It has a historic downtown area with lots of cute shops and restaurants, as well as a number of wineries. Be sure not to miss the Sebastiani Winery, which has been producing wine since 1904.

Must-visit vineyards include Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars and Robert Mondavi Winery, both of which are located in Napa Valley. In Sonoma, head to the Francis Ford Coppola Winery or the Sterling Vineyards, both of which offer great wine tastings and beautiful views.

Book This Tour of California’s Wine Valley

Los Angeles

Los Angeles is one of the most populous cities in the United States and it’s definitely a must-see if you’re visiting California. There’s always something going on in LA, from movie premieres to music festivals to street fairs.

The city is also home to some great tourist attractions, like Universal Studios Hollywood, Disneyland Resort, and Griffith Observatory. If you’re looking for things to do in Los Angeles at night, then check out the Hollywood Walk of Fame or visit one of many poppin’ bars and clubs in West Hollywood (known as WeHo).

Los Angeles is also home to some great museums, like the Getty Museum and LACMA (the Los Angeles County Museum of Art). For things to do in LA on a budget, check out these free museums: The Broad and the Museum of Jurassic Technology (which is only $.50 admission!).

Other popular things to do in LA include embarking on hiking trails like Runyon Canyon Park or Griffith Park’s Hollywood Sign hike ; surfing at Venice Beach; bike riding through the canyons of Malibu; and kayaking on the Santa Monica Pier.

Book This LA Hop On and Off Sightseeing Bus

San Francisco

It’s absolutely criminal to visit California and not pay a visit to San Francisco . The Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and Fisherman’s Wharf are all iconic landmarks that you won’t want to miss.

The city is also home to some great museums, like the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) and California Academy Sciences. If you’re looking for things to do in San Francisco with kids, then check out the Exploratorium or Aquarium by The Bay.

If you’re the outdoorsy type, you can go hiking at Muir Woods National Monument or take a ferry ride to Alcatraz Island (more on those later).

You can also go for a walk or bike ride across the Golden Gate Bridge, visit Fisherman’s Wharf, or explore Lombard Street (the most crooked street in the world!).

Book This San Francisco Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour

San Diego is one of my favorite cities in California – there’s always something to do there. The city is home to some great beaches, like La Jolla Shores and Pacific Beach, where you can go surf the waves or go kayaking, boating, and swimming.

In addition to the beach scene, San Diego also has a great downtown area with lots of restaurants, bars, and shops.

Other must-visits in San Diego include the famous San Diego Zoo, Balboa Park (with its beautiful gardens and museums), and the USS Midway Museum – especially if you’re with kids.

Book Your USS Midway Tour Here

Redwood National Park

Looking for a nature escape? Three words: Redwood National Park. This park is home to the tallest trees in the world, and it’s a beautiful place to visit year-round.

The park has many miles of hiking trails that will take you through some of the most beautiful forests I guarantee you’ve ever seen. You can also go camping, fishing, and birdwatching in the park.

Hiking-wise, opt for the coastal trail, the Lady Bird Johnson Grove loop, or the Boy Scout Tree Trail.

Whale Spotting at Point Reyes National Seashore

If you’re looking for a chance to see some whales, California is one of the best places in the world.

Head to Point Reyes National Seashore, known for its large population of gray whales. The best time to go whale spotting is from December through April, when the whales migrate past the seashore.

There’s more to Point Reyes than animal spotting, however. You can go for a hike on any one of their many trails, which range from easy strolls along sandy beaches to strenuous climbs up steep hillsides and through dense forests. 

There are also opportunities for camping, fishing, and birding if you fancy the outdoorsy life.

Check out the Monterey Bay Aquarium

If you’re looking for an aquarium to visit in California, then check out the one in Monterey Bay. Home to more than 35,000 animals, it’s a great place to learn about the marine life of California.

The aquarium has plenty of fascinating exhibits, including one on kelp forests and another on rays. In addition to the exhibits, the aquarium also has a gift shop and cafe so you can get something to snack on after your visit.

Soak Up the Sun in Laguna Beach

If you’re looking for a place to soak up some sun, head to Laguna Beach and hang with friends. This beach town is located in Orange County and is known for its beautiful coastline and crystal-clear water.

Laguna Beach is a great place to go swimming, surfing, boating, and fishing. You can also visit the art galleries and shops in town, or go hiking along one of the many rocky trails.

The annual Sawdust Art Festival takes place every summer and features artists from all over California, drawing in huge crowds of tourists.

Hang Out in Palm Springs

If you’re looking for a place to hang out and relax, then head to Palm Springs . This desert town is located in Riverside County and is known for its sunny weather and bougie golf courses.

Architecturally, Palm Springs is quite interesting, as it’s home to many buildings from the mid-century modern era. You can take a walking tour of the town and see some of these iconic buildings, or visit one of the museums that are located here.

Some of the best things to do here include visiting the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, checking out the El Paseo shopping district, and catching a show at the Palm Springs Desert Museum. You can also go golfing or take a hot air balloon ride.

Palm Springs is also one of the top places in Cali to go shopping, dining, and clubbing – get ready to let loose!

Explore the Channel Islands National Park

Just off the Santa Barbara and Ventura Counties, the Channel Islands National Park is known for its beautiful beaches and wildlife.

The park is home to several rare species of plants and animals that can only found here (keep your eyes peeled). Taking an eco-tour of the island will give you a chance to learn about the wildlife and plants that are native to this area.

You can also hike along one of their many trails.

See The Butterflies at Pismo Beach’s Butterfly Grove

If you didn’t know, Pismo Beach Butterfly Grove is a haven of eucalyptus trees that are home to hundreds of thousands of monarch butterflies every winter.

Monarch Butterflies migrate from as far away as Canada to spend their winters here – the dense flocks of their distinctive orange and black wings are quite the sight. The grove is open from November through February and attracts visitors who want to see these beautiful creatures up close and personal.

You can visit Pismo Beach Butterfly Grove during those months things see the butterflies in all their glory, but there are other things to do here throughout the year as well like hiking on trails or horseback riding.

Hop on a Boat Trip to Catalina Island

Catalina Island is located about 22 miles off the coast of Southern California and it’s a popular spot for tourists to explore. Historically, it’s something of a celebrity hotspot, with the likes of Marilyn Monroe, Clark Gable, and Charlie Chaplin all spending time here.

The island is home to several small towns including Avalon, where most of the tourists hang out. You can go swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, or boating around in waters that surround Catalina Island if you’re looking for things to do during the warmer months.

There are also plenty of things to see and do on land, such as the multiple hiking trails through lush forests filled with native flora and cacti. You can also go shopping at one of the many boutique shops dotted along Avalon’s main street.

Avenue of the Giants in Humboldt Redwoods State Park

Walk with giants in Humboldt Redwoods State Park. Avenue of the Giants is home to some of the tallest trees in the world, and it’s a beautiful drive (or bike ride) through the forest.

These majestic trees are thousands of years old, growing up to 300 feet tall and some are over 2,000 years old. It’s an amazing sight to see.

The park also has miles of hiking trails, as well as camping and fishing opportunities. Once you’ve explored, cool off with a dip (or on a floating donut) in the Eel River.

Kitschy Delight at Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

If you’re looking for an afternoon of kitschy fun in California, then head to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. This amusement park is located on the beach in Santa Cruz and is one of the oldest amusement parks in the state.

The boardwalk boasts more than 35 rides, including roller coasters, thrill rides, carnival games, and plenty more things to make you feel young at heart.

You can also spend a few hours shopping or dining at one of the many restaurants – there’s plenty of hotels nearby too so you can stay overnight and explore across two days.

Visit The Stunning Glass Beach

Glass Beach is one of the top places to visit in California. Located in Fort Bragg, the beach is beautiful despite having a rather sad history. In fact, it gets its name from the years of debris that has been dumped at this location by residents who wanted to avoid paying a removal fee – and so tipped their rubbish into the water.

The best time to visit is during low tide when you can see all the different colors of glass that make up this unique attraction.

You can also check out other beaches in the area like Pudding Creek Beach, which is known for its interesting rock formations.

Visit The Largest Outdoor Market in the United States

Get a taste of local life at the largest outdoor market in the United States: the flea market at Rose Bowl Stadium. 

The flea market has been around since the 1930s when it was first held as an annual event on Thanksgiving Day; now it annually hosts over twenty thousand vendors selling things to millions of visitors every year.

This cool market is open every Sunday from 9am – 4pm and offers a wide variety of things from antiques to furniture. You can also try delicious street food at one of the many vendors, who rustle up anything from tacos to pizza slices. 

Hang Out in Danish-Influenced Solvang

If you’re looking for things to do in California that are a little different than the norm, then check out Solvang. This town is located in Santa Barbara County and was founded by Danish immigrants back in 1911.

Today, the town retains much of its Danish heritage including in its architecture, food, and traditions. Exploring the town is best on foot – you can walk around and get a feel for life here, or you can visit one of the many museums to learn more about its history.

Solvang is also known for being a great place for wine lovers, as there are over 20 wineries located in the area. 

Alcatraz Island

There’s no prison (or island) as iconic as Alcatraz. This island is located in San Francisco Bay and was once used as a federal prison for some of the country’s most notorious criminals. Though, it’s now home to a museum that tells curious visitors all about its dark history.

Visitors can take tours of the island, which include former prison cells and possible escapee routes – the island is open from early morning until late night, making it a great place to visit any time of day.

Book an Alcatraz Entry Ticket Here

See (And Hear) The Elephant Seals at Point Reyes National Seashore 

If you’re visiting during the seal season (October to March), you should go to see the elephant seals at Point Reyes National Seashore. Particularly if you’re there in February – this is when the baby seals tend to be born and they make for an adorable photo opportunity.

Elephant seals are huge animals and it’s really interesting things see them up close – listen out as you will also hear them making funny noises.

You can visit the seashore at any time of day, but the best time for the seals is definitely early morning or late afternoon when they’re more active.

Hike The Muir Woods National Monument

If you’re looking for things to do in California, then head to the Muir Woods National Monument, part of the Golden Gate State Park next to San Francisco’s famous red bridge.

Cathedral Grove is one of the most popular areas in the park – and it’s easy to see why. This grove is home to a few of the tallest trees in the park, and walking through it is like stepping back in time.

The park has miles of trails that wind through the forest, making it the perfect place to go on a hike.

Book a Guided Tour of Muir Woods

Check Out The Art in the Anza Borrego Desert State Park

While in California, make sure to check out the art in the Anza Borrego Desert State Park. Situated on the eastern fringes of San Diego County, the park boasts breathtaking desert landscapes.

Taking its name from the 18th-century Spanish explorer Juan Bautista de Anza and borrego, the Spanish word for sheep, the park stretches over six hundred miles long and boasts plenty for visitors to explore.

One of the most popular attractions is the art installation that’s located in the park – this art was created by a group of artists who call themselves The Light Project, and it features multiple fractures of light. Make sure to time your visit with sundown, when the art begins to glow.

Visit The Winchester Mystery House

If you’re looking for unique things to do in California, then a visit to the Winchester Mystery House is a must. Located in San Jose, the building is known to host many oddities.

The house was built by Sarah Winchester, the widow of gun magnate William Winchester. Sarah believed that her husband’s spirit guided her to build the house, so she made sure it was full of strange features.

Some of these features include doors that open onto walls and staircases that lead up to nowhere – visitors can take tours of the house and learn more about its history, so make sure you add it to your bucket list.

Revisit the Gold Rush in Sacramento

The capital of California and famed for being a major hub for the Gold Rush: Sacramento is a city steeped in history.

The Old Sacramento Historic District needs to be at the top of your list of places to explore. This district is home to the California State Railroad Museum and a range of restaurants, shops, and even hotels that are housed in historic buildings from those times.

See The Inspiring Salvation Mountain

If you’re looking to venture off-the-beaten-path in California, then visit Salvation Mountain. This is an art installation that’s located near Slab City and was created by artist Leonard Knight (who sadly passed away in 2014).

The message – God is love – is portrayed through paintings, scriptures, and other works of art on the mountain. The mountain is open all year round from sunrise until sunset, and incredibly inspiring sight to see.

There we have it – 35 brilliant things to do in California. Which ones are you adding to your bucket list?

Things to do in California: Map 

Discover More Places to Visit in California

• The Ultimate West Coast Road Trip 
• Cool Things to do in San Francisco 
• The Ultimate USA Bucket List
• Gorgeous Airbnbs in California for Your Next Trip
• Stunning Hikes in Yosemite National Park
• Incredible California Road Trip

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I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.

Discovering new places is a thrill - whether it’s close to home, a new country or continent, I write to help you explore more and explore differently.

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10 Best Places To Visit in California [With Suggested Day Tours]

Do you know some of the places to visit in California ? You might say, Los Angeles , San Diego, or San Francisco . But other than that, there California has a lot of places that you can go to and explore. These places will let you experience the culture and learn more about this country. Plus, you’ll get to enjoy a luxurious yet adventurous trip! So continue reading for you to have an idea about the places to visit in California.

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Table of Contents

Here are the top 10 Places To Visit in California that We Recommend

1. san francisco.

San Francisco is a vibrant and exciting city located in northern California. Situated on the tip of the San Francisco Bay Area. The Golden Gate Bridge is the main attraction in the city. Tourists can either drive, bike ride or walk across this famous bridge to admire and photograph wonderful views. Tourists can also go to Lombard Street, which is famous for its tight curves or go to San Francisco’s Chinatown section to have a taste of Asia.

Suggested Tour: San Francisco Golden Gate Bridge to Sausalito Guided Bike Tour

2. Yosemite National Park

Situated in the Sierra Nevada Mountains of central-eastern California, Yosemite National Park is one of the most popular places to visit in California. Visitors love going here for its magnificent granite cliffs, giant sequoia groves, beautiful waterfalls, and diverse animal and plant life. You can hike or drive along the scenic path to experience the wonderful landscapes and glimpse of wildlife.

Suggested Tour: Full Day Small Group Yosemite & Glacier Point Tour – with Hotel Pickup

3. Los Angeles

Of course, if you’re in California, Los Angeles should be a part of your itinerary. It is the second-largest city in the US and is located in Southern California. It is surrounded by the Pacific Coast, valleys, and mountains. Tourists in L.A. can find some of the well-known amusement parks on the planet here such as Disneyland and Universal Studios Hollywood. It is also one of the best places in the United States to go in search of celebrities (that’s if you are a big fan).

Suggested Tour: Universal Studios Hollywood General Admission Ticket

4. Death Valley

Situated in the Mojave Desert, Death Valley makes much of the Death Valley National Park. It is considered as the driest and lowest place in North America, but still, it offers a variety of outdoor activities, historic sites, and nature viewing. Here, you’ll find snow-capped mountains and colorful sand dunes.

5. San Diego

With its awesome beaches, perfect climate and outstanding tourist attractions, it is not surprising that San Diego is one of the most famous places to visit in California. It is a large coastal city with a small-town atmosphere. The most visited attraction here is America’s premier zoo. You can also visit SeaWorld San Diego and the Birch Aquarium.

Suggested Tour: La Jolla & San Diego Beaches Tour

6. Napa Valley

Napa Valley is the ideal destination for wine lovers. So it is one of the best places to visit in California. Its wines are regarded to be some of the best wines in the world. Not only that but Napa Valley also boasts many world-class spas where visitors can get pampered and relaxed after a long pack day.

7. Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks

These two national parks are situated just next to each other in the southern Sierra Nevada Mountains, and both are well-known for their enormous giant sequoia trees. These trees can grow to be more than 300 feet or 90 meters tall and their trunks can be as much as 100 feet or 30 meters wide. Sequoia National Park is home to Mount Whitney, which is the highest point in the neighboring US. While Kings Canyon boasts the deepest canyon in America.

8. Lake Tahoe

This is the second deepest lake in the US. The freshwater lake sits both California and Nevada and is one of the top tourist destination all year-round. The lake became a popular winter sports destination after the 1960s Winter Olympics were held here.

Suggested Tour: Lake Tahoe Semi-Private Photography Tour

9. Catalina Island

Catalina Island is situated approximately 22 miles or 35 km across the Pacific Ocean from Los Angeles. It is a famous vacation and honeymoon spot. Tourists can reach the island by private boat, ferries , small planes or helicopter. Once you reach the island, transportation is limited to bicycles, taxis and golf carts only.

Suggested Tour: Catalina Food and Walking Tour

10. Big Sur

Situated between the Carmel Highlands and San Simeon, Big Sur is a huge, rocky stretch of the Californian Coastline. The area attracts a lot of tourists on road trips because of its incredible jagged rocks, towering redwood trees and breathtaking beaches along the route. Big Sur is more than just beautiful scenery for driving though, it is also an area that provides a lot of top hiking opportunities that wind their way through the numerous state parks encompassed by Big Sur.

These places to visit in California are just a few of all the wonderful destinations this state has. You can have unlimited options for the tourist attractions or destinations that you can go to. So book that flight and prepare for a blast vacation in California!

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Ultimate California Road Trip Itinerary: From the Pacific to the Redwoods!

Are you looking for the best California road trip itinerary to explore the most beautiful places in the Golden State? Our 10 days in California itinerary will take you from the rugged coast and beautiful beaches to the snow-capped peaks of the Sierra Nevadas. Hike the Mojave desert, sleep underneath a yucca tree, and visit the lowest place on the continent while you road trip in California. Read our 10 day California Road Trip guide now. You may also like our post on 20 Best Road Trips in the USA .

Welcome to our ultimate California road trip planner!

We created this planner to help you plan the perfect road trip around California and it contains all the essential information you need to plan your trip today including budget and costs, what to eat, where to stay, etc.

Here you will find recommendations for a variety of California itineraries as well as get more information on California road trip must-see attractions including the Golden Gate Bridge, Big Sur, Yosemite, and Los Angeles.

Our mission? To make sure you have a blast in California!

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California is our favorite destination ever.

I have been enamored with California long before I visited it.

California, San Jose, and the West coast are randomly thrown around in conversations in India – because everyone knows someone working in Silicon Valley – and you can’t help but know about this slice of America.

Growing up, I knew more about Cisco, Apple, Google, and Yahoo (remember when everyone used Yahoo?!) than San Francisco, Yosemite, and Big Sur.

And Disney – because everyone knows Disney!

California has such a unique history.

The oldest, tallest, and widest trees live here and guess what, they have been around since prehistoric times – yes, even dinosaurs lived among the redwood trees!

One of the lowest, aridest, and hottest places on earth is right here in California in Badwater Basin.

And as for scenic places: California has so many of them!

We love Big Sur and its rocky coast, the wildflower super blooms, blue Lake Tahoe, Mono Lake and its tufas, unique shapes of Joshua trees!

There are so many things to see in California road trip that the list just goes on!

Also Read: 24 Best Places to Visit in California in winter

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And that’s why in our California road trip itinerary of 10 days, we take you around all these unique and beautiful places in the Golden State.

Our California 10 day road trip itinerary is perfect for driving around dreamy landscapes of yellow poppies, orange orchards, purple foliage, and lush green vineyards.

We have divided this California roadtrip itinerary into 4 essential stretches as per the geographic features of the state – yepp, we are that geeky – and you can customize it as you want. 

Best waterproof walking shoes for California beaches

If you are a beach person like me, then extend the Pacific Coast Highway Itinerary to 10 days.

If you are a mountain lover like my hubby, then take a 10 day road trip from San Francisco to Yosemite.

Pick your favorite area and stay there as long as you want. Or follow our California in 10 days itinerary exactly as described!

As always, we have also included suggestions for if you have more or less time.

Whatever you chose, you are going to have the time of your lives – because this is California!

“Every time I come, I’m still amazed at the breadth California has. Big Sur, Yosemite, the desert… I love it.” – Theo James, the English actor

Best of California Road Trip 10 Days Itinerary

We, like most people, have seen California in bits and pieces rather than in one go.

We first visited California almost a decade ago and did San Francisco, Los Angeles, and the theme parks.

Second time around, we visited Death Valley National Park on a road trip from Vegas.

Then I lived and worked in the Bay area in tech (oh, the irony!) and that’s when we explored the California National Parks, North Coast, and the Sierra Nevada side of the state.

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Most recently, we did the San Francisco to Los Angeles road trip along the gorgeous Pacific Coast Highway – oh and also road-tripped Southern California and Disney with the kids.

On our next trip – we plan to do the North Coast and Redwoods Scenic Highway AGAIN.

Yeah – that’s how much we love California – have been to many destinations several times and still can’t have enough.

The best way to tour California is obviously by driving. The state is beautiful but huge and it’s not easy planning California trip that covers all the major attractions with limited time in hand.

And planning a California road trip with kids is even more difficult – how do you prioritize between theme parks and natural attractions?

And that’s where we rush in – your knights in shining armor – delivering the ultimate 10 day California road trip itinerary. 

Our California trip planner is more like going on a series of best California road trips – each more gorgeous than the previous.

Also, we follow this road trip along two of California’s most popular routes: south on the SR1 or Pacific Coast Highway and then back north along the scenic SR 395 through Eastern California .

That’s what makes our itinerary the absolute best California driving trip planner!

You can also call it the California National Parks road trip because we will be visiting the most popular of them on an epic road trip.

We hope you enjoy it as much as we do!

Stretch 1: Down The Pacific Coast – 4 Days

Often enough, when someone talks about a California driving holiday, this stretch along the Pacific Coast Highway is the one they actually mean.

Constantly ranked among the top scenic drives in the world, the coastal drive from San Francisco to Los Angeles is the best of both worlds.

It combines the urban getaways of California’s two largest cities with the natural panoramas of Big Sur and the Pacific. 

If you have limited time, we would recommend spending 3 to 4 days along this route.

If you want to focus only on this coastal road trip, then just drive south on a road trip from San Francisco on SR1.

Take your own time to enjoy roadside stops like Carmel-By-The-Sea, Morro Bay, and the stunning Big Sur.

Hike or camp and explore nature.

Here’s our suggestion for this stretch of 10 day California itinerary planner.

San Francisco – 1 Day

Start with our San Francisco road trip planner.

San Francisco is our favorite city to start a 10 day California trip.

The city is quite easy to fly into; the 3 airports of San Francisco, San Jose, and Oakland are located close by and many airlines have deals to the Bay area.

We would recommend spending a minimum of one day in San Francisco before picking up your rental car and driving south.

Or you can rent a car before, see SF, and then drive the PCH.

You can also start your 10 day road trip from Los Angeles, in that case, adjust your plans accordingly.

Read this now! Whatever you do – don’t casually park your car at an empty garage in San Francisco. Car Break-ins in San Francisco are very common, as we discovered to our ill-fortune . On our latest trip to San Francisco, we had parked in a garage two blocks away from Pier 39 and came back to find the rear glass broken and both our children’s suitcases gone!  We had to spend quite some time to sort the issue and it left a sad memory on an otherwise awesome road trip around California in 10 days. We would recommend parking at your hotel while taking a cab or the tram to explore the city. 

San Francisco has many names – SF, San Fran, Fog City, the City by the Bay, Frisco (though don’t say that in front of locals) or simply, the City – going back to the days of the Wild West when there was nothing much in Northern California but the city.

San Francisco is colorful, vibrant, and bohemian.

It’s amongst our favorite US cities – right there at the top along with New York , Chicago , and New Orleans.

There are quite a few things to do in San Francisco: unsurprisingly most of them begin at or near the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, San Francisco’s gigantic urban park.

Begin your visit at the Golden Gate Bridge Welcome Center near the southern end of the bridge.

Learn interesting facts and see construction relics from the building of the Golden Gate Bridge before visiting the bridge itself.

Next walk across all 1.7 miles of this engineering marvel and icon of America.

The views of the bay from the bridge are beautiful and you feel an indescribable thrill while walking across it.

Definitely the highlight of your California travel itinerary!

Up for more adventure?

Bike the Golden Gate!

We have done it twice – most recently with our 3 yrs and 6 months old kids – it is a superb experience.

We love biking across to Sausalito, exploring the quaint town, and taking the ferry back to San Francisco.

You can also bike to the redwoods if you have more time.

Read our ultimate guide to biking the bridge here.

If not biking, then use the rest of your day to explore San Francisco’s highlights: Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39, Lombard Street, and Ghirardelli Square.

If you want to spend more time in San Francisco, see the Painted Ladies – those famous SF houses shown in Full House!

You can also check out the city from the Twin Peaks.

The Golden Gate Park is perfect for a stroll.

Ride the cable car to Chinatown and have some dumplings and noodles for lunch.

Spend an afternoon admiring the beautiful architecture of the Palace of Fine Arts or visit the prison of Alcatraz Island.

Visit the beautiful redwood trees at Muir Woods National Monument or whale watch and hike at Point Reyes.

San Francisco is a beautiful city and you can easily spend a couple of days there as a part of your 10 day trip to California.

Read our San Francisco posts now to plan this part of the trip: San Francisco 3 to 5-day itinerary ideas 17 Best Things to do in San Francisco on your first visit

The area around San Francisco is also full of activities and tourist attractions.

Here are some suggestions if you want to spend a few more days exploring around the Bay Area during your California itinerary of 10 days:

Napa & Sonoma 

Take a day trip from San Francisco to Napa Valley along the Silverado Trail.

Sonoma County is also a great place to visit for wine lovers.

You can tour the many vineyards, taste local wines, dine at Michelin starred restaurants, and visit famous tasting rooms.

If you happen to visit in the fall, you will see beautiful fall colors in the vineyards and be able to attend grape stomping. 

San Jose is popular with millennials and those working in Silicon Valley.

You will find plenty of trendy nightclubs and bars in San Jose.

If you enjoy shopping, check out the high fashion brands on Santana Row.

For outdoor lovers, a hike to Mission Peak is a must while families will love the Winchester Mystery House.

Silicon Valley

If you love tech then you need to visit Silicon Valley.

It boasts the largest concentration of geeks and nerds – and as a fellow geek, I say it quite fondly!

Start your visit at the Computer History Museum to know everything about the machine that changed our lives.

Then see Google’s Android lawn sculptures in Mountain View or the garage where Hewlett Packard began in Palo Alto.

Visit Stanford University’s sprawling campus as well as Facebook and Apple!

Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip – 2 Days

On to the next part of the 10 day road trip in California.

After seeing San Francisco, drive south along the SR1 or Pacific Coast Highway.

Over the next 2 days, you will follow the coastal route to Los Angeles while making plenty of stops along the way.

Check the coastal communities of Half Moon Bay and Davenport before reaching Santa Cruz.

If you have kids, spend some time at the Santa Cruz Beach and Boardwalk.

Next visit Monterey and Carmel by the Sea. Hike in Point Lobos or walk the coastal bluffs at Garrapata State Park.

On the way, you will see secret beaches, hidden coves, and beautiful views. 

As you begin driving PCH1 while following our 10 days in California itinerary, you understand why artists settle here, photographers and writers both wax lyrical about this region, and why the drive is called the most beautiful in the world.

We recommend staying somewhere in the vicinity of Carmel Highlands for the night.

The next day, rise early for the star attraction of the drive: the 90-mile long rugged, wild Big Sur.

Big Sur is 6 hours from Los Angeles and you have a big day ahead.

It is really hard to describe Big Sur.

Rocky cliffs, foaming waves, spring wildflowers, lighthouses, migrating whales, turquoise water, redwood trees: Big Sur has everything.

It is gorgeous in a wild way.

In Big Sur, you will find amazing state parks, some of California’s best hiking trails, iconic beaches, and tons of marine life, including otters, elephant seals, and dolphins.

Some areas of Big Sur can be closed at any given time of the year due to floods or landslides – so we recommend checking out the PCH status before your 10 days road trip California.

Read more about all the attractions including the beautiful McWay Falls in our post One day in Big Sur . 

Other attractions of the Pacific Coast Highway drive from San Francisco to Los Angeles include Monterey’s famous 17-mile drive, the seaside towns of Pismo Beach and Morro Bay, the famous Hearst Castle, Santa Barbara, and the beaches of Malibu.

For the purposes of this California Itinerary of 10 days, we would suggest 2 to 3 days on PCH.

However, if you have more time then the PCH is easily a 4 day to week-long road trip in itself.

To read more about all the awesome stops on PCH and planning a detailed itinerary, check out our article on Planning a road trip along the Pacific Coast Highway . 

Also Read: Top 10 Convertible drives in the USA

Los Angeles – 1 Day

While San Francisco and Silicon Valley are for tech lovers, Los Angeles is for Hollywood fans.

How long to stay in Los Angeles is a tricky question.

If you only have one day in Los Angeles, start by seeing the famous Hollywood sign and then visit the Hollywood Walk of Fame to take selfies with your favorite stars.

Also, see the Kodak Theatre (now Dolby Theatre) which hosts the Oscars and tour the movie star homes on Rodeo Drive.

If you have more time to explore Los Angeles, we suggest starting with lunch at the Santa Monica Pier.

Then visit the Griffith Observatory and see Los Angeles from above.

Or you can take a behind the scenes VIP studio tour at one of your favorite studios: pick from Warner Brothers, Paramount Pictures or Sony!

You can also check out the beautiful exhibits at the Getty Center or the beautiful modern art at the Broad.

LA also has many other top museums and a large number of attractions – read our post on Best Things to do in Los Angeles for more ideas.

For more help in planning your day, read our Los Angeles itinerary for first-time visitors .

Here are some suggestions to explore the area beyond Downtown Los Angeles:

No California family road trip is complete without a trip to Disney.

Both of California’s Disney Parks are located close to Los Angeles in Anaheim.

On the best California vacation itinerary, you have to meet Mickey, Goofy and other beloved cartoon characters!

Kids also get to meet Disney’s princesses in full attire at the parks.

To plan a California family vacation itinerary including a trip to Disney, read our Disney posts .

Universal Studios

To understand all about movie-making, see movie sets, and enjoy thrilling rides visit Universal Studios.

This theme park has really cool attractions and the Studio Tour will take you through sets based on Shutter Island, Jaws, King Kong, and more.

Harry Potter fans will love visiting Hogwarts and taking thrilling rides based on the books and movies – and is a must-visit if you are spending 10 days in California.

Channel Islands National Park

For a unique experience, customize our itinerary for California 10 days and visit the remote Channel Islands.

Comprised of 5 islands, the park has excellent wildlife, sea caves, and lots of natural beauty.

You can take a ferry to the park from Ventura.

Optional: San Diego – 1 Day

From Los Angeles, you can venture on the next part of California 10 day itinerary or extend your trip down the coast by visiting San Diego.

Not many people know that San Diego is the oldest city on the West Coast.

It has beautiful Spanish Colonial architecture and lots of history. 

Read our post 22 Best Things to do in San Diego now to know more about this beautiful city.

If you have one day, you can visit the Historic Old Town and understand the Mexican and Wild West roots of the city.

Next, visit the famous Balboa Park with its beautiful architecture, renowned museums, and the San Diego Zoo.

Round off your time in the city by exploring the historic Gaslamp Quarter and its Victorian architecture and trendy eateries, hotels, and pubs.

This area is perfect for ending the day with dinner and drinks.

If you have more than a day, visit the famous San Diego Sea World and see the dolphins in action.

San Diego is home to many beautiful beaches; the Mission Beach boardwalk is very popular.

Other things to see include Mission San Diego, Sunset Cliffs Park, and the bustling waterfront area of Seaport Village.

If you have more time on 10 day itinerary California, check out the dramatic sculptures in the desert city of Borrego Springs.

Related: For more California road trip ideas, check out our post on 12 Best California road trips

Stretch 2: Through The Arid Californian Desert – 2 Days

Continue on the California road trip route planner through deserts of southern California.

While most people associate California primarily with the coast and then with the dense redwood forests, the state is also renowned for its unique desert landscapes.

Most of these parts of southern California have a desolate beauty.

It is full of desert cities like Palm Springs which offer unique tourist attractions for visitors.

In this post, we focus our California 10 days itinerary on exploring two of the region’s national parks: Joshua Tree National Park and Death Valley National Park.

Joshua Tree National Park – 1 Day

Located partly over the Colorado desert and the Mojave desert, Joshua Tree National Park is named after the iconic Joshua tree.

This is a type of Yucca tree that is twisted, scraggly, and found only in the Mojave desert of California.

The easily recognizable tree looks even more dramatic in the desert landscape and bare rock formations of Joshua Tree National Park.

The national park is one of the most underrated California road trip destinations.

Its unique vistas have drawn photographers and artists to the park for decades.

Read our post on One Day in Joshua Tree to plan your trip.

There are many things to do in Joshua Tree and its otherworldly landscape.

One of the best ways to see Joshua Tree is by driving around the paved road in the park.

Campsites in Joshua Tree are spectacular and hikes through Yucca trees and cacti adventurous.

The Hidden Valley Trail is a short mile-long trail that offers great desert landscape views.

The park has many popular geological rock formations that are used for rock climbing.

The park also has a dark night sky and is good for stargazers, astronomy enthusiasts, and night sky photographers.

Wildlife and birding opportunities around the park are also numerous.

Read more in our post 24 Best Things to do in Joshua Tree National Park .

While deciding how to plan a trip to California, we recommend keeping more time aside to explore the many attractions surrounding Joshua Tree.

You can easily include them on a South California road trip from San Diego to Joshua Tree in this order: San Diego – Anza Borrego – Galleta Meadows – Salton Sea – Palm Springs – Joshua Tree.

Here’s some more information about these desert experiences that are worth adding to your itinerary if you have the time.

Salton Sea 

The Salton Sea is an inland lake created by flooding from an irrigation canal of the Colorado River that carries water to the Imperial Valley in 1905.

Several resort communities were built along the new lake.

However, the lake has no discharge and as a result, the water became unusually saline causing the death of marine life.

As a result, the communities were abandoned and are extremely popular with ruin photographers.

If you have teens, then definitely include Bombay Beach ruins in your California vacation itinerary – they will love to see random objects lying on the beach.

Today, the Salton Sea shoreline is filled with deteriorating structures and RV communities.

The Salton Sea is also located directly on top of the San Andreas fault and geothermal activity including mud pools are present along the coast.

The Salton Sea State Recreation Area is popular for birding, boating, picnicking, and camping. 

Palm Springs

Palm Springs, located in the Colorado desert region, is one of the biggest Californian desert cities.

If you want a relaxing vacation, then Palm Springs is one of the best California ideas.

One of its main attractions is the Palm Springs aerial tramway which takes you up Mount San Jacinto and offers great views of the surrounding area.

Palm Springs also has many great museums, boutique stores, restaurants, and resorts.

It is one of the most popular winter vacation destinations in the USA.

If you plan to visit Palm Springs, then check out our post on 30 Best Things to do in Palm Springs, California.

Anza Borrego and Galleta Meadows Sculptures in Borrego Springs

While California has many beautiful state parks, few know about its largest – Anza-Borrego Desert State Park.

This park is at its most beautiful in the spring when the cacti flower and the desert landscape comes alive with colors.

Anza Borrego Desert State Park is just two hours away from San Diego and can be seen on a San Diego Joshua Valley road trip.

In nearby Borrego Springs, you can see the unusual Galleta Meadows Estate sculptures.

These sculptures created by artist Ricardo Breceda are free to visit and beautiful works of art.

By driving all over the land you can spot dragons, serpents, wooly mammoths, and other fantastic creatures.  

Also, read our post on Planning the ultimate Southern California itinerary.

Coachella Valley Preserve 

Coachella’s Thousand Palms Oasis is a unique chance to see the oasis environment in the middle of the desert.

The oases directly sit on fault lines and the water seeping through the faults has given life to California Fan Palms and other big palms in the arid desert.

Wildlife including sheep, goats, bobcats, etc, also can be spotted at the oasis.

Entry to the reserve is free and it has many hiking trails plus offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.

There are also other hiking areas close to Coachella Valley Preserve including Indian Canyons where you can hike through slot canyons. 

Death Valley National Park – 1 Day

Comprising of areas of the Mojave desert and the Great Basin desert, Death Valley is vastly different than Joshua Tree National Park.

For the most part, Death Valley is devoid of vegetation and is home to a variety of geological formations including the badlands, sand dunes, and the famous salt flats.

Death Valley also has the distinction of being the lowest point in North America and is also one of the hottest and driest places in the country.

No trip to Death Valley National Park is complete without visiting the Badwater Basin salt flats.

The salt flats, at 282 feet below sea level, are the lowest place in North America.

Death Valley National Park has many scenic drives that are perfect for exploring around the park.

Mesquite Flats Sand Dunes are good for taking a stroll, exploring the desert plants, viewing animal tracks, and sunrise/sunset photography.

The park has many interesting geological formations.

Death Valley also has a dark night sky and is great for stargazing and photographing the Milky Way.

Read our post on 14 Best Things to do in Death Valley National Park for more information.

We know you are planning to roadtrip California, but we can’t talk about Death Valley without mentioning Las Vegas.

Las Vegas is also a great city to begin your road trip to California.

The distance between Vegas and Death Valley is just over 2 hours and the route is quite scenic.

In fact, it is one of our favorite road trips from Las Vegas.

You can see the Sin City and then go on a road trip through California – an epic Las Vegas Los Angeles San Francisco trip, if you will!

Or you can also go on a memorable Las Vegas Grand Canyon road trip from California.

For Las Vegas travel inspiration, read our post on 52 Best Things to do in Las Vegas .

Stretch 3: Up Through The Sierra Nevada – 4 Days

After seeing Death Valley, take a road trip on California’s Scenic Highway 395.

This road trip is scenic whether you do it from north to south or like we recommend here, from south to north.

The best time to see the aspens turn yellow here is in fall.

The total distance from Death Valley to your final destination of Yosemite is 4 hours when the Lee Vining road to Yosemite is open in the summer.

However, we recommend keeping aside 4 days for this road trip as it has some of the most underrated road trip destinations in California including the Manzanar National Historic Site, Alabama Hills, Ancient Bristlecone pine forest, Bodie Ghost Town, etc.

For more information on these Route 395 stops, see this article .

For the purposes of this itinerary, we focus on the popular attractions of Mammoth Lakes, Yosemite, and Lake Tahoe. 

Route 395 will take you high up into the Sierra Nevada mountains, known for their spectacular beauty.

The Sierra Nevadas are home to many national and state parks including the mighty Yosemite and crystal clear high mountain lakes.

For the rest of your Californian road trip, you will be exploring the High Sierras and its many breathtaking attractions.

This is a welcome respite after the desert landscapes of Death Valley and Joshua Tree and depending on when you visit you will be able to see beautiful meadows, wildflowers, fall foliage, and even snow!

Mammoth Lakes And Mono Lake – 1 Day

Contrary to their name, Mammoth Lakes is not a lake but a winter ski town in the Sierra Nevada mountains.

Mammoth Mountain is the main winter skiing area with a variety of ski runs.

In summer, it is a favorite with mountain bikers and hikers.

The town does have several beautiful lakes that are accessible only in the summer but none of them are named Mammoth.

The area has beautiful alpine meadows with wildflowers in spring and natural hot springs for some R&R.

In one day, we recommend taking the roughly one hour drive around the Lakes Basin and visiting all the lakes.

You can hike, picnic, kayak, and fish in whichever lake you like.

Or maybe just hang up a hammock and read a book by the lake.

Nearby Mono Lake is a saltwater lake surrounded by unique towering limestone formations called the tufa.

The lake visitor center has great information about the formation of the lake and the tufa while the short South Tufa trail is great for exploring the surrounding area.

The trail takes you along the lakeshore and among the tufas.

We suggest stopping here for an hour or so; Mono Lake accepts National Park Pass for entry.

On the way from Mammoth Lakes to Mono Lake, you will pass by June Lake and Devils Postpile Monument.

June Lake Loop Road is a great place to see the fall colors while the Devils Postpile National Monument is a unique geological formation of basalt columns.

Rainbow Falls, a 31m plunging waterfall, is another popular attraction of the monument.

Past Mono Lake, take the Lee Vining Road into Yosemite.

The official name of the road is Tioga Pass Road and it is closed in winter and spring (usually November to May) due to snow.

In that case, you can’t really visit Yosemite from the eastern side.

To know alternative routes in winter, check here . 

Yosemite National Park – 2 Days

Best known for its giant sequoia trees, bald granite cliffs, and spectacular waterfalls, Yosemite National Park is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Yosemite along with Yellowstone National Park and Grand Canyon National Park is known as the ‘Big Three’ and receives over 4 million visitors each year.

Yosemite is a must-stop on any Ca road trip itinerary.

The best time to visit Yosemite National Park is from the summer to fall when Tioga Pass Road is open.

We suggest spending 2 days in Yosemite National Park to hike, drive along scenic roads, and see the major attractions. 

On your first day, start by taking a Yosemite Valley Tour.

The Yosemite Valley is surrounded by the bald granite cliffs of El Capitan and Half Dome.

Most of the waterfalls including Yosemite Falls are also located in the valley.

The Valley is also where most of the park services including accommodations, shuttle buses, etc are located.

The Valley has hiking trails for all difficulty levels that lead to stunning views of Yosemite.

Lower Yosemite Falls hike is a short and easy trail that goes to the base of the falls.

Touring the Yosemite Valley via the free shuttle bus is the easiest way to see the national park.

However, if you are visiting in summer (especially long weekends) it can get very crowded – so plan to start early in the morning.

The Valley Visitor Center has great information and exhibits about the history and geology of Yosemite, plus it is a good place to get souvenirs, postcards, and magnets.

The aptly-named Mirror Lake reflects Half Dome peak and is beautiful to visit.

However, it dries up towards the end of summer and is best seen in spring/summer. 

Another must in the Valley if you’re visiting in summer is Glacier Point.

Located along the valley rim, it can be reached only by car or private tour.

The views from Glacier Point are stellar. It is also the base for many of Yosemite’s rim hikes.

We suggest spending one day exploring the valley. Yosemite also offers paid guided tours if you prefer them.

On the next day, you can go up the Tioga Pass road if it is clear of snow.

This is your chance to experience Yosemite devoid of the crowds.

The shuttle bus will take you up the Tioga Pass road to Tuolumne Meadows.

To see Yosemite’s giant sequoia trees, visit the Mariposa Grove.

This area is also accessible by the park shuttle.

End your day by visiting Ansel Adams Gallery in Yosemite Village.

Photographer Ansel Adams’s stunning black and white photos of Yosemite are a great reminder of how Yosemite looked over half a century ago.

Lake Tahoe And Emerald Bay – 1 Day

If you continue along Route 395 from Yosemite, you will reach lake Tahoe.

Note: Route 395 itself does not reach Lake Tahoe, so you will be following 207 from the Nevada side. 

The deep blue water of Lake Tahoe surrounded by snow-clad mountain peaks of the Sierra Nevadas is one of California’s iconic images.

Located on the California-Nevada border, Lake Tahoe is a popular travel destination for Californians throughout the year.

In winter it is popular for snowshoeing, skiing, and sledding.

Summer in Lake Tahoe is made for biking and camping.

In fall, the area around Lake Tahoe comes alive with spectacular fall foliage and is one of the top fall drives in the country .

South Lake Tahoe or the California side is best for enjoying the outdoors and nature with family while the Nevada side has lots of casinos and is more touristy.

Crystal clear waters of Lake Tahoe (CC 2.0 – Christian Abend )

The drive around Lake Tahoe is 72 miles long and takes about three hours.

It is highly scenic and one of the best road trips in California.

Much of the shoreline of Lake Tahoe is public and the views of the lake from the drive are stunning.

The lake looks a pretty shade of blue during the day and taking a beautiful picture of the water is a highlight of your visit.

An essential stop along the drive is the Emerald Bay State Park.

The drive here is spectacular and the views of the turquoise lake are lovely.

There are many other ways to enjoy Lake Tahoe.

You can take a helicopter tour or enjoy watersports on the lake.

The Sierra Nevada mountain ranges are an absolute delight for outdoor and nature lovers.

What you will see in these 4 days is just the tip of the iceberg.

The High Sierras have many beautiful alpine valleys, lakes, ghost towns, waterfalls, and hiking trails worth exploring.

If you can spend more time in the Sierra Nevada, then here are some other must attractions:

Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks 

These are the two other national parks located in the High Sierras.

The giant sequoias surround you as you drive the park roads creating a surreal and unique experience.

The twisting and turning roads here are not for the faint-hearted (hint: carry some Dramamine!).

Both national parks have great hiking trails and lots of wildlife.

John Muir Trail

While it is not possible to hike in a short time, John Muir Trail deserves a special mention.

This is a long-distance trail in the Sierra Nevada and passes through Yosemite, Sequoia, and Kings Canyon National Parks.

It is as renowned as the Appalachian or the Pacific Crest Trail. 

Bodie Ghost Town

The old mining ghost town of Bodie is an hour away from Mammoth Lakes.

Preserved as a state park, the town is full of historic saloons and deserted buildings.

While Sacramento is not in the Sierra Nevada mountain ranges, the city is on the way while returning to San Francisco from Lake Tahoe and makes for a great addition to our California road trip itinerary recommendations.

One of the top attractions in Sacramento is the California State Railroad Museum.

Stretch 4: Along The Wild North Coast

There are many things to do in Northern California including national parks, scenic drives, beautiful coastal towns, and more.

You will need another 5 days minimum to fully explore the Northern part of the state.

Hence, we do not recommend covering the North Coast if you are following this California Road Trip Itinerary for 10 Days – you simply won’t have time.

The best way to explore this region is to plan a separate road trip in the northern part of the state, the details of which you can read here in our post, Ultimate Northern California road trip itinerary .

California’s North Coast is less visited, unspoiled, and partially unexplored compared to the famous central Coast and the crowded southern coast.

The prehistoric coastal redwood trees grow in groves along the road all the way up to Oregon.

Hwy 1 ends at Leggett where it joins Hwy 101.

While the road follows the coast, for the most part, it turns inward in the area of the Lost Coast.

The remote Lost Coast as the name suggests is devoid of major highways and remains the ultimate adventure for a 10 day trip to California.

However, the coast is not the only unique thing about Northern California.

The northern part of the state is also home to geothermal activity.

You can climb lava tunnels at Lava Beds National Monument and see volcanic craters, domes, mud pools, etc at Lassen Volcanic National Park.

Here are a few attractions of the region:

Redwoods National and State Park

The Redwoods National and State Parks were created to preserve the old-growth redwood forests.

The Redwoods are the tallest living trees on Earth and also among the oldest.

The National Park and state parks are also home to a number of endangered animals including spotted owl, species of sea lions, etc.

The unique environment of the dense redwood forests by the coast has resulted in the park being designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Seeing the Redwoods covered in fog during winter or spring is a surreal experience.

Point Reyes

Point Reyes National Seashore, located in Marin County, preserves a large swath of northern California’s coastal wilderness.

Most popular attractions at Point Reyes include Alamere Falls on Wildcat Beach and Point Reyes Lighthouse.

Other attractions include the endangered tule elk herd that can be seen around Tomales Point, Native American redwood houses, earthquake trail, and dramatic cliffside beaches.

Avenue of the Giants

Avenue of the Giants is an over 30 miles long scenic highway that passes through the Humboldt Redwoods State Park and its mighty coastal redwood trees.

Roadside attractions include tunnels cut into redwood trees, giant groves, and unique roadside attractions like a house created from a single redwood log and a Redwood RV.

We suggest hiking in the Redwood groves to experience the truly gigantic trees.

The quaint seaside town of Mendocino is quite different from the coastal towns on the Central Coast.

It reminded me of Maine and the coastal upper East coast due to its Victorian mansions painted in pretty pastel colors.

The town is a historical landmark and very pretty to wander and explore.

Nearby Mendocino Headlands State Park and Russian Gulch State Park are worth a visit.

Nearby Fort Bragg is no fort but a lumber town on the North Coast.

The famous ‘Glass Beach’ of which I’m sure you have seen pics floating around on social media is in Fort Bragg.

The beach is a part of MacKerricher State Park, a state park with amazing views of the undeveloped headlands, beaches, and tide pools.

Another popular attraction in Fort Bragg is the Skunk Train – a railroad built to haul timber logs from the redwood forests.

Other attractions on the North Coast include the pretty Victorian towns of Ferndale and Eureka, Del Norte Redwood State Park, and the seaport community of Crescent City.

More 10 Day California itinerary ideas for slow travelers

You can use our California road trip planner to customize your itinerary based on your interests. 

If you can only spend 10 days in California, then seeing all the above attractions can be overwhelming; here are a few suggestions for those who like slow travel.

California coast road trip itinerary

One great option is to go on a 10 day pacific coast highway trip or 10 day west coast road trip.

That way you can spend more time in the cities of San Francisco and Los Angeles while seeing Big Sur at a leisurely pace. 

On this San Francisco to Los Angeles road trip in 10 days, you can tour the lighthouses, hike the trails, picnic on the beach, visit the wineries of the Central Coast, and enjoy nature – seriously the best road trip in California. 

You can even do the San Francisco to San Diego road trip in 10 days.

In that case, we would recommend keeping aside 2 days each for the 3 major cities and spending the rest of the time in the Big Sur region. 

This San Francisco 10 days trip lets you enjoy the beauty of the coast while visiting the Sierra Nevadas and the desert later.

California National Parks itinerary

California has 9 national parks – all of them are unique and make for an exciting California National park road trip. 

You can visit either the most popular ones or all of them, depending on how much time you want to spend in each park. 

We would suggest starting from Los Angeles, then seeing Joshua Tree and Death Valley before visiting Kings Canyon and Sequoia. 

Then see the beautiful Yosemite Valley. From Yosemite, head north to Lassen and then finally see Redwoods parks before returning to San Francisco. 

You can also see Pinnacles and Channel Islands if you have the time, to complete the national parks in California road trip. 

You can also use this route for creating your own California RV trip itinerary, since most national parks have RV campgrounds. 

Northern California road trip itinerary

Another great option for those who like slow travel is to plan a Northern California itinerary for 10 days. 

Start your road trip from San Francisco and drive along the less visited North Coast and see the majestic redwood trees. 

Drive along the Redwoods Scenic Byway before turning towards the mountains and exploring the caves at Lava Tubes National Monument. 

Visit Mount Shasta on your way to Lassen Volcanic National Park and end your trip in Sacramento, a couple of hours away from San Francisco. 

For more information on how to plan a California road trip focusing on the northern part of the state, read our in-depth post on Northern California road trip .

If you have less time: California itinerary 7 days

If you can’t spare 10 days, then we also have suggestions for 7 day California road trip routes. 

With only 7 days in california, we would recommend focusing on one region and exploring it at a leisurely pace. 

Of course, you can opt for a 7 day southern California itinerary or a 7 day California coast road trip along the PCH, but you can also consider some unique road trip ideas in California which explore its most popular attractions. 

Here are our favorites if you want to see the best of California in a week:

7 day road trip from San Francisco to Yosemite

If you are wondering how to spend a week in California but still see the most popular attractions, then this itinerary is for you. 

Start your road trip in San Francisco, see the Golden Gate Bridge, Chinatown, Mission District, Fisherman’s Wharf etc in two days. 

Then spend a day in Napa Valley and nearby Calistoga before seeing Sacramento.

In Sacramento, see the state capitol and the railroad museum then make your way to Yosemite National Park. 

Take a tour of the Yosemite Valley and see the famous El Capitan as well as the many waterfalls.

Enjoy the panoramic view from the Tunnel View Outlook. 

Then depending on the season, visit the Tuolumne Meadows area.

Return to San Francisco to complete 7 day road trip in California.

North California coast road trip

This California 1 week itinerary is perfect for slow travel. 

Land in San Francisco and take a day or two to explore it’s many attractions.

Then rent a car and drive north. 

Part of this road trip is on the Pacific Coast Highway 1 till Legett, after which you will be driving along the famous Redwood scenic byway. 

For your first stop, explore the beautiful Point Reyes.

See the lighthouse and the shipwreck, then eat oysters in Tomales Bay. 

Drive along the Avenue of the Giants and pass through the Redwood tunnels. 

Hike in the prehistoric Fern Canyon and visit the glass beach at Fort Bragg, then last stop at Eureka or Crescent City to finish the California coast 7 day itinerary.

7 Day Southern California trip itinerary

For this ca road trip planner, begin your trip with a day or two in San Diego or Los Angeles and then wind your way around Southern California’s desert attractions. 

See famous Joshua Tree and Palm Springs.

Enjoy the fantastic landscape of the Mojave desert and drink a delicious date shake.

See the sculptures in Borrego Springs. 

Then visit Anaheim and enjoy the theme parks.

There are also many things to do in Anaheim besides Disney. 

7 Day California Coast Road Trip

This is one of the most popular california driving holidays itineraries.

Follow this California road trip itinerary 7 days along the world famous Pacific Coast Highway. 

See the major cities of San Francisco and Los Angeles.

Explore the charming mountain side towns of Pismo Beach and Morro Bay. Learn to surf and spot the elephant seals. 

Spend some time hiking and enjoying the wild, rugged vibe of Big Sur.

Take a tour of the Point Sur Lighthouse and hike down to Keyhole Rock. Go whale watching. 

If you have more time: California road trip itinerary 14 days

This two week california driving itinerary is perfect for long summer vacations, when most parts of the state including the High Sierras are completely accessible. 

Just use our main California trip planner, but add in all optional ideas including San Diego and the beautiful northern coast. 

Then see the Lassen Volcanic National Park area and visit the beautiful Burney Falls from Redding.

Spend some time in Mount Shasta and head back to San Francisco to complete California 2 week itinerary.

We hope you liked our California road trip blog.

Now you have everything ready to plan your perfect California trip itinerary, so make the most of it.

Did we miss any hidden gems in the Golden State?

Which part of the road trip did you enjoy the most? Let us know in the comments!

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Best Places to Visit in California: Top 25 Locations

Here are the 25 best places to visit in California including the top locations both inland and on the coast. I’ve explored this state for several years, continue to do so and the list in this post is the most updated one.

Here are my 25 best places to visit in California (the summarized list):

• Fort Bragg.
• This awesome lookout on the Coast Highway Lookout.
• Redwoods State Park.
• Sunset Cliffs Cave.
• Russian Gulch.
• Monterey Beach California.
• Shark Fin Cove Beach.
• San Francisco Bay.
• Muir Woods.
• Fern Canyon.
• Channel Islands National Park.
• Mount Shasta.
• Joshua Tree National Park.
• Pinnacles National Park.
• Yosemite National Park.
• Lake Tahoe.
• Sequoia National Park.
• Angeles National Forest.
• Death Valley National Park.
• Kings Canyon National Park.
• Pyramid Lake.
• Pacheco State Park.
• Natural Bridge near Chanchelulla Peak.
• Castello Di Amorosa (castle and winery area).

I’ll be mentioning where each location can be found, but I have organized this list in the following order:

• The first 12 are more on the California Coast (it used to be 10, hence that picture).
• The next 13 are more inland California.

I’m someone who looks for the most beautiful nature areas, so whether I explore them and add them personally or you know of any beautiful spots in the California (coast or otherwise), let me know below!

The first 12 places on this list are in my opinion the best places to see on the California Coast:

It’s what I originally started exploring California for and there are 800+ miles of many different places to see, but here are my top choices so far:

1) Big Sur:

California Coast, south of San Jose.

Description:

Big Sur is about 40 miles long and has many areas within it worth seeing. For nature, we have these top things to see in Big Sur as well as other activities you can do. One of my main goals in visiting the California coast the first time I went there was to see Big Sur because some say it has the best nature areas all fit into one region, in all of California.

I will say that is a strong argument after seeing it for myself (twice). In any case, I recommend exploring at least the 5 areas in Big Sur that I believe have the most beautiful areas in it and you can see them all in a day. Additionally, Big Sur has one of 5 best scenic drives in southern California I recommend taking.

2) The famous Glass Beach in California:

Fort Bragg, 3 hours north of San Francisco on the California Coast.

The main attraction of Fort Bragg isn’t really it’s nature, but the Glass Beach it holds that drives a lot of tourists there. I’ve visited the Glass Beach in California three times and while I liked the actual glass beach, I learned that there was a ton more things to see and do there (which I included in a specific post above on Glass Beach).

Additionally, if you travel a little bit north of Fort Bragg, you’ll cross a place called the Pudding Creek Bridge, which is beautiful to explore as it has a large bridge over it called Pudding Creek Trestle. During sunsets, this place is very photogenic and I will personally be making plans to photograph this iconic spot on my next trip through Fort Bragg!

3) This amazing lookout California Coast overlook called Coast Highway lookout:

About 10 miles north of Fort Bragg.

One of the main benefits of being on route 1 on the California Coast is all the stops available and some of them aren’t even well know, such as this one I found.

Details on where to find it: I couldn’t even find the name of it on Google maps, but it’s located right near Coast Highway Lookout (1 kilometer south of it) and it is a one of the best scenic drives in northern California that I have seen. It’s also located about 20 minutes north of Fort Bragg if you need more references. But anyway, not only does it have a beautiful lookout to see the sunset with, but there’s also hikes to the beach and other beautiful scenery to explore.

4) Redwoods State and National Park (the giant trees):

This specific area is close to the Southern Oregon Coast border (about 1 hour south of it).

Until I entered California State for the first time in 2017, I had no idea this was the same state that had the famous giant trees, which aren’t just Redwoods, but also Sequoias (there are big differences between Redwoods vs Sequoia trees by the way) , but when I discovered that it was, I had to go and visit it! And as it just so happens, it is located right on the California coastline.

In fact, you’ll find tons of Redwoods north (and south) of Fort Bragg as you travel further and further north of it ( see a list of the best places to see Redwoods here ), and the epicenter of where most of these trees can be found is in the Redwoods State (and National) park.

I highly recommend going there during a weekday and during off season, because you just might be the only one there to enjoy the beauty, views, and air and more. There is something truly breathtaking about being in the Redwoods and being able to enjoy them yourself. It felt surreal for me when I did it the first time.

5) Sunset Cliffs Cave:

Near San Diego (California Coast).

If you love sea caves and being able to enter them, then Sunset Cliff’s Cave should be on your list. This area is on a beach right by San Diego and it really looks a lot like the Devils Punchbowl area in Oregon I explored.

But it’s easier to walk in through Sunset Cliff’s Cave than it is to Devils Punchbowl in Oregon. Anyway, this spot, as you can see on the picture to the right is very iconic, and it is highly recommended to time your visit here when the sun is about to set (for obvious reasons).

6) Russian Gulch State Park:

30 minutes south of Fort Bragg.

Russian Gulch State Park is a beautiful park with a beautiful beach, giant bridge, sea caves, Redwoods and much more that should absolutely be explored if you get the chance. It’s a small park, but it has a lot to see.

When I was looking for places to see in California’s Coast, an image of this spot came up, but I didn’t discover where it was until the next time I would travel through California. Fortunately, I was able to see this awesome spot recently and I couldn’t be happier.

In many ways, this area looks so similar to the type of stuff you see on the Oregon Coast , and there is a ton to explore there, including sea caves, a beautiful beach, and even a Devil’s Punchbowl. If you have the chance, check out Russian Gulch State Park. It has an awesome scenic drive too around it which I ranked as one of the top best scenic drives in northern California .

7) Monterey Bay on the California Coast:

About 15 minutes north of Big Sur.

Monterey Bay is a popular spot to check out near the Monterey area. But the coastal area there itself is very scenic and has cliffs you can hike near. There’s also a lot of other tourist attractions in the Monterey area worth exploring aside from the coast itself, but for me, it’s a place I have yet to explore personally.

When I first saw a picture of this place, I thought it was in Big Sur, but sadly, I was wrong (it was south of it) but I do recommend you plan your visit to this area too if you plan to explore the California Coast. In short, I recommend you explore this and other areas within Monterey Bay.

8) Shark Fin Cove Beach:

About 15-20 minutes north of Monterey Bay.

I think you can tell why this place is called Shark Fin Cove Beach. In any case, I think it’s gorgeous and has to be on this list! Sadly, it too is another spot I missed on the 3 trips I’ve taken across the California Coast.

Most of my adventures so far on this coastline have been north of Big Sur, and Shark Fin, like Monterey Bay are south of it, so I highly recommend that if you really want to plan a trip across this coastline, to start in San Diego, and map out all of the locations I am giving you here, so you don’t miss any of them like I did. I’m definitely planning to make a future stop here too!

9) San Francisco Bay:

Right under the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco.

San Francisco itself is a very beautiful city and while it has had a lot of troubles, you can’t deny it’s nature is still there and is still beautiful and probably worth visiting and since we’re talking about the coastal areas, San Francisco Bay has to be on the list.

There’s tons of attractions and scenic spots there to see, including the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz and activities to try such as mountain biking and hiking.

One of the most scenic hikes you can do in this region that will give you a great overview of the coastline is passing the Golden Gate Bridge, and going up the mountain right after it, which has scenic drives, and viewing areas to check out.

10) Muir Woods (More Redwoods):

Right by San Francisco.

Muir Woods is one of the most popular parks in California and quite honestly one of the best places to see Redwoods in California overall (there’s also many other great options I included in that link). Muir Woods in this case has many trails for just simple walks, hikes and even trail running.

There are also plenty of other attractions throughout this park and obviously the most notable thing is the Redwood trees there. But overall, if you are visiting San Francisco but want to see some amazing nature spots, I would say the Muir Woods are likely the best and closest option to it.

11) Fern Canyon:

Fern Canyon is close to the Redwoods National and State Park (near Gold Bluffs Beach) I mentioned above and is a beautiful hike in a canyon that has plenty of greenery, a beautiful stream and an overall memorable hike that many people enjoy doing.

It’s a very short hike through a watery trail and it’s absolutely beautiful. In my case, I actually missed seeing this place twice due to GPS issues as there are 2 Fern Canyons and the one you want here is near Gold Bluff’s Beach. 

Note: If you want to know of places that look like Fern Canyon, I’d recommend Oneonta Gorge in Oregon’s Columbia River Gorge area. It is still likely closed, but in case it ever opens, I say it’s better there than it is in Fern Canyon.

12) Channel Islands National Park (one of the top California Coast areas to see):

This is an island with an national park. The closest area to it (California Coast) is Santa Barbara.

This is one of the most popular NP’s in California but it requires boating to reach. There are private boat tours and companies which can take you there. But aside from exploring these islands and hikes there, you can also find a lot of sea caves. many exotic fish and other outdoor activities (including underwater) to check out. Views wise, this place looks a lot like Hawaii and some mixes of things you see on the Oregon Coast too.

13) Mount Shasta:

It’s located about 1 hour south of the mid southern Oregon border.

Mount Shasta is one of the most popular mountains in the entire California area and one of the best places to visit for hiking, tourism, and other things. There are alpine lakes and tons of things to do. The good news about this area is that it’s right by Interstate 5 and there is a large town near the mountain to stay at.

14) Joshua Tree National Park:

2-3 hours west of Los Angeles.

I have only been to this park once and explored a hike called the Chasm of Doom at Joshua Tree . I was very impressed with this park because it has a lot of cactus’s, boulder exploration, awesome hikes and amazing sunsets all combined. I plan to return to Joshua Tree but if you’re staying in LA or headed towards Las Vegas from LA, then this is one of the best places to visit in California in either case.

15) Pinnacles National Park:

The closest area to it is Monterey (2 hours from it).

If you like parks and caves, I recommend you visit Pinnacles National Park at least once. That’s what I did and I enjoyed hiking through it’s main areas, which involves nice trails, 2 awesome cave explorations (one wild and another more simple and good for tourists). The park also has great overlooks, trails, camping and more.

16) Yosemite National Park:

In eastern California’s Sierra Mountains.

I honestly believe Yosemite National Park is one of my favorite places to visit in California when it comes to the eastern part of the state (I’ve been there two times). Aside from having many amazing hikes, the best place to check out for first timers is the Yosemite Valley area which you can drive into, and from there find many awesome hikes, trails, tourist spots and tons of photogenic spots as well.

17) Lake Tahoe:

North Eastern part of California (north of Yosemite NP).

This is one of my favorite lakes and it divides Nevada with California. You can literally drive around the whole lake on one road and see different scenery and attractions in each state that’s connected to it.

On the California side, I personally noticed way more attractions with skiing involved and more beautiful towns to stay at and eat while on the Nevada side, you can find a lot of awesome nature spots to kayak and swim in.

18) Sequoia National Park:

Sierra Nevada Mountains too (southern area near Fresno).

After trying for many years to visit this place, I finally got to spend one day in Sequoia National Park in 2022 and it was amazing. This park’s most notable feature are giant Sequoia trees which are even wider and often taller than the Redwoods I have seen.

I saw some of the top spots in this park during my one day trip and share what to see there too. It’s got a very scenic drive, many hikes along that same drive and many Sequoia trees to see everywhere.

19) Angeles National Forest:

Very close to LA.

This is a very large mountain and forest area near LA which has tons of hikes, waterfalls and many amazing destinations (Mormon Rocks, awesome scenic drives and more).

I explored some of this area in 2017 and then in 2021 and have to say that it deserves many more visits because of how much beauty there is, and on top of that many adventures I am looking forward to exploring. It’s right near LA and is arguably the best and closest spot to visit near that city if you’re looking for nature.

20) Death Valley National Park:

South eastern side of California.

In early 2023 I visited Death Valley National Park for the first time with the main intent to just drive through it. It’s gigantic and there are many beautiful views on just the road alone to see, which will take you at least 2 hours to do.

But aside from the drive, there are many hikes, natural bridges and slot canyon trails to see. On top of that, you also have many amazing hiking trails to take you to beautiful overlooks (which you can also see while driving on the main road, whether from the bottom of the park to the highest points there). I would recommend only going to this park during winter because it is known to be extremely hot there.

21) Kings Canyon National Park:

Right by Sequoia National Park.

Kings Canyon National Park is right next to Sequoia and I explored it too. To me, it blends together stuff you see in Sequoia with the beauty you see in Yosemite and it’s one of the many reasons why I loved visiting this park. It is also less crowded than both of them, but at the same time offers a ton of beauty, sights, scenic drives, water hikes and much more to see.

22) Pyramid Lake:

About 2 hours from LA, and right near Interstate 5.

Pyramid Lake is an amazing place that I accidentally spotted while driving from LA to Sequoia National Park. It is basically a reservoir where you can fish, boat, hike, camp and have a great day exploration at.

A buddy of mine and I visited this place (2nd time for me) in 2022, rented a boat for $35 for 2 hours and took it across the whole lake while stopping at popular hikes and other attractions there and it’s an awesome activity to do if you go here (one of many).

23) Pacheco State Park:

Between Monterey and Modesto California.

This is another one of those amazing places in California I accidentally found and in this case, I was just driving through it and decided to stop around sunset time. The key to really enjoying this park is to come here during winter through early spring time and the reason why is because that’s when the green in this place is really noticeable. Mixed together with the fact that this park is beautiful and has amazing hikes and overall stunning scenery, it makes for an awesome spot to see in California.

24) Natural Bridge:

Near Chanchelulla Peak.

There are many natural bridges that I have explored and this one came up on my Google maps while I was driving to Eureka California from Lake Tahoe. There is some driving in remote areas to reach this place but once you do, it’s worth it.

Basically this is a giant natural bridge with a huge cave and river in it that you can walk into and through if you want. The hike from any parking area near it to the natural bridge is only a few 100 feet too. Here is the Natural Bridge area and how to get there. I would recommend an AWD car to get through the last road area that is not on concrete.

25) Castello Di Amorosa:

Very close to Santa Rosa.

There are many wineries in California and Castello Di Amorosa is one of the most popular ones and a top attraction in California overall. Not only is it a winery, but there is also a giant castle there.

You can get a lot of diverse adventures from coming here and while I am personally a nature fan, this specific spot blends together a lot of museum and castle type attractions perfectly with nature to make me want to visit this place.

Popular questions about visiting California:

What cities are in the coastal region of california.

The main cities on the California Coast are San Jose, San Diego, San Francisco and Los Angeles.

What is the California Coast known for?

The California Coast has tons of attractions, beautiful coastal drives and beaches as well as historic locations all throughout.

What is the prettiest place in California?

Big Sur in my experience is one of the most beautiful places to see in California.

What is the number 1 tourist attraction in California?

There are many popular tourist attractions in California, and the top ones are Big Sur, Yosemite National Park, Monterey and San Diego.

The good news about these 25 spots (besides their beauty):

I’ve arranged the order of them so the first 12 are the best places to see on the California Coast, while the other 13 are further east so if you’re planning a road trip on the coast, you can try to see all the best places I listed above that are there, whereas if you plan to explore California further east, there are also a lot of spots you can cover.

If you need help planning a road trip to California, let me know which area you want to visit and I’d be happy to share advice on how to plan an itinerary there.

Hi I'm Vitaliy, I love nature travel and this blog encapsulates all of my adventures and top recommendations of what to see (and what to avoid).

Learn More Here

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Check out videos on hundreds of California adventures

Ultimate California Bucket List: 100 Adventures You Need to Have in the State

As a state, California really does have a little bit of everything. From the scenic coastal drives and the arid deserts to towering Eastern Sierras and the large metropolitan cities, you could spend your whole life exploring this state and still not see all that it has to offer. I have spent the last five years trying to document as much of it as I can on my site, so I figured the five year anniversary would be a good time to create a bucket list of the 100 best spots I have seen over my time exploring. Check them out below and let me know what you would add to this list in the comments.

1. Marvel at Burney Falls

One of my personal favorite spots, Burney Falls in Northern California is probably the best waterfall in the entire state. Sure there are bigger ones in Yosemite, but for me, the cascading power of this waterfall makes it something I keep coming back to again and again.

• Read about it here

2. Hike to Hollywood Sign

There are few things more iconic in California then the famous Hollywood Sign. Hiking to it is a rite of passage for many a Southern California hiker, and while you can’t get that close to it, you can still look down on this icon with the city of Los Angeles behind it, making it a must do in the state.

3. Drive the Big Sur Coastline

The Big Sur coastline has been inspiring people for centuries with its rugged mountains that lead right down to picturesque beaches. Make sure you have a few days to explore though as there is so much to see.

4. Get Your Feet Wet at Fern Canyon

One of California’s best and easiest hikes, Fern Canyon in Northern California was a spot used in the filming of Jurassic Park, The Lost World. If that doesn’t tell you how beautiful it is then just remember this movie was supposed to take place on a tropical island. It is one of those hikes you won’t forget.

5. Stargaze at Glacier Point

There are lots of great places for dark night skies in California, but my favorite is Glacier Point in Yosemite. There is just something about watching the sunset fade over half dome and then seeing the stars light up the sky behind it that is just magical to me.

6. Kayak to Fannette Island in Emerald Bay State Park

In South Lake Tahoe sits one of my favorite state parks in all of California, Emerald Bay. In the middle of the bay is an island with an old tea house on top of it. Rent a kayak and paddle out to the island, where you can leave the kayak and walk up to the old tea house.

7. See the Rocks Move at the Death Valley Racetrack

No trip to Death Valley is complete without taking the 27-mile dirt road out to the racetrack where the rocks move on their own. This desolate spot, out on an old dry lake bed, is a place you need to see with your own eyes to believe.

8. Watch the Sunset over the Golden Gate Bridge

The Golden Gate Bridge is up there with the Hollywood Sign as one of the most notable man-made objects in the state. I never get tired of seeing it, as it is just so majestic. Take the time to sit and watch the sun go down on it when you are in the area. I like Moore Pier or Battery Point for this.

9. Walk up Salvation Mountain

One man’s tribute to God’s Love is a really fun road trip destination out in the Salton Sea. Sure it can be a strange place to visit and incredibly hot in the summer, but you will never forget seeing this crazy painted mountain right out in the arid desert.

10. Climb to the Highest Point in the Contiguous   USA ,  Mt Whitney

If you are a hiker then of course Mt Whitney is on your list. While it is not technical, it is a real grind to get to the top especially considering the high altitude which tops out at over 14,000 feet. However, once you get there, you will be standing on top of the tallest mountain in the lower 48, which is quite an achievement.

11. Wine Taste at the Oldest Winery in the State

In Sonoma County sits the oldest, continuously running winery in all of California. At over a century and a half old it is even on the National Register of Historical Places and it is a fun spot to say you visited when in CA. The winery is called Buena Vista, and it has an awesome old stone building that you wine taste in.

12. Explore the Capitol Building in Sacramento

Sacramento itself is a great spot to spend some time and dive into the awesome Farm to Fork scene they are cultivating. However, the most unique thing you can do in the city is visit the Capitol Building and see the different Houses represented there. I found this to be really interesting and something that should be on everyone’s list.

13. Take a Boat to the Channel Islands

The Channel Islands are one of the least visited national parks in the entire United States, which makes them an amazingly peaceful spot for exploring and for relaxing your mind. Whether it is kayaking, hiking or wildlife viewing you will find something to love on these remote islands.

14. Watch the Sunset over the Sunset Cliffs

By far one of my favorite spots for watching the sunset is the aptly named Sunset Cliffs in San Diego. I have been here countless times, and I never tire of how beautiful the area is and how amazing the sunset appears as it eases slowly down over the rocks and water. It feels remote even though it is right in the middle of one of the busiest cities in the USA.

15. See the Oldest Trees in the World

Taking the trip up to the Ancient Bristlecone Forest outside of Big Pine should be on every adventurer’s list. The oldest living tree in the world is situated up there and even if that wasn’t the case, these gnarled, and unique pine trees are a photographers paradise.

16. Walk the Cypress Tree Tunnel in Point Reyes

Sure you have seen this on one of your favorite photographer’s Instagrams, but have you thought about visiting yourself? It is such an easy spot to get to a you literally just drive up. The pictures are just incredible with the old cypress grove seeming to close in on you as you walk the road.

17. Sit at the Base of the Largest Tree in the World

Not to be overshadowed by the oldest tree in the world, the largest tree in the world is also in California, in Sequoia National Park. It is hard to comprehend when you see it as it is just so large, but it really does make you realize how small you are in the grand scheme of things.

18. Rappel into Moaning Cavern

When you think of unique adventures in California, it is hard to think of something as unique as this. In Central California, there is a cave that the Statue of Liberty could fit into and that you can pay to rappel into. It was such a crazy experience that I highly recommend you get over your fear or heights and do it as well.

19. Hike to the Top of Half Dome

Half Dome is probably the most recognizable natural attraction in California and for good reason. The hike to the top is not for the faint of heart, as you have to do 16 miles and 6,000 feet of elevation to complete it, a few hundred feet of which is by pulling yourself up anxiety-inducing cables. I was so proud of myself for finishing it, but I probably would not do it again.

20. Road Trip to the California Missions

The 21 Spanish California Missions are unique pieces of California history. If you have grown up in the California school system, then you will study them in the 4th grade, but if not you can make a fun, week-long road trip visiting these buildings, which are some of the oldest in the entire state.

21. Bike the Devils Slide

Outside of Half Moon Bay, there is an old piece of Pacific Coast Highway that was so dangerous that it was closed. When they closed it though they repaved it and made it a multi-use trail for walking and biking. It is one of the most beautiful bike trails you can do in the state as you get to look at staggering views without worrying about cars.

22. Hang Out with the Elephant Seals in Ano Nuevo

Ano Nuevo State Park is unique in California as it protects the elephant seal population but also provides an almost safari-like experience for the visitor. During the summer months, you can hike out to the area where the elephant seals are at and watch them in their natural habitat. It is a lot of fun as there are sand dunes and such which make it so you never know what you are going to find over each new hill.

23. Explore the Wine Castle in Napa Valley

Sure the true wine people might not love this recommendation, but it is just such a fun spot to explore that it is an easy suggestion for me. The castle itself has over 100 rooms and you can take a tour that takes you through dungeons, courtyards, and ballrooms. They call it the Disneyland for adults and it is easy to see why.

24. Snowshoe to Fallen Leaf Lake

During the winter months in Lake Tahoe, grabbing some snowshoes is one of the best ways you can see the area without other people. I like the trail to Fallen Leaf Lake as it is approachable for almost anyone, yet the views at the end are stunning.

25. Marvel at the Avenue of the Giants

The Avenue of the Giants rivals Big Sur for me in terms of drives that just continue to blow your mind. This ride takes you 31 miles through one of the most beautiful groves of redwoods that you have ever seen. Each bend provides another fantastic spot for a photo and you can stop at dozens of groves to explore and experience the trees up close as well.

26. Spend a Day in the Alabama Hills

While I wouldn’t recommend this during the summer, during the spring and fall the Alabama Hills are a wonderland for the adventurer. With hundreds of arches, most that don’t even have trails, you can scramble around rocks, drive the dirt roads and just get lost trying to find new rock formations.

27. Watch the Sunset over the Kelso Dunes

As one of the easiest to access set of dunes in California, the Kelso Dunes are an amazing spot to spend some time at. I will say that the hike up is not very enjoyable, but if you watch the sunset over the desert from there it is hard to beat.

28. Sit in a Hot Spring off Highway 395

There are a dozen or so hot springs around the Bishop / Mammoth area and while some are better than others, it is hard to beat sitting in a hot tub fed by natural warm water and looking out over the Eastern Sierras.

29. See the California State Fish in the Golden Trout Wilderness

The golden trout are only really found in one particular area of California, called the Golden Trout Wilderness. Located at 10,000 feet, these high altitude lakes and streams are incredible places to explore even if you don’t like to fish.

30. Hike to the World’s Largest Wooden Trestle 

As one of the tougher short hikes you can do in California, visiting the Goat Canyon Trestle is an epic bucket list adventure. This bridge is the largest freestanding wooden trestle in the world, so it makes sense that the adventure would be worth the payoff.

31. Explore the Geothermal Pools of Bumpass Hell

While nowhere near what you would see in Yellowstone, California’s geothermal area in Lassen National Park is still worth seeing. Bumpass Hell is the highlight of the area as it has crazy colors and a boardwalk that takes you right over the bubbling pools.

32. Tour the Historic Mission Inn Hotel

The Mission Inn is one of the most beautiful and historic hotels in California. It has welcomed many presidents and was the place where Richard Nixon got married. The hotel is gorgeous and really fun to walk around and explore. Bonus points for going during Christmas when they have one of the best Christmas light displays in the USA.

33. Find a Banana Slug in Santa Cruz

One of the most unique little creatures in California is the elusive and fun banana slug which hangs out in the mountains above Santa Cruz. You never know if you will stumble on one while on a trail but Big Basin State Park is a great spot to see these guys.

34. Get in the Christmas Spirit at Robolights in Palm Springs

As one of the largest private Christmas light displays in all of the USA, Kenny’s Robolights in Palm Springs is a positively uncommon experience. The robots and characters that fill this massive property are covered in more lights than you can imagine one person facilitating.

35. Drive through Bishop Creek in the Fall

Bishop Creek is one of the most beautiful spots in the entire Eastern Sierra range year-round; however, when the colors change in the fall, it becomes gorgeous. I go pretty much every year, and it never gets old.

36. Have a Drink with a Mermaid

Dive Bar in Sacramento has a full aquarium above the bar, and during select weekend nights they have mermaids and mermen that swim in the aquarium while interacting with the fish and the patrons below.

37. Marvel at the Devil’s Postpile

Located on the backside of Mammoth Mountain, Devil’s Postpile is a fantastic National Monument with a crazy rock formation. Bonus points for also hiking to Rainbow Falls while in the area.

38. Whale Watch in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is a great town in general, but when the whales are coming through the area it becomes magical. I recommend getting out on a boat and seeing the animals up close, but often you can even see them from the pier as well.

39. Wander through California’s Best Aquarium

While the Monterey Aquarium can be expensive and crowded, it truly is an amazing way to see the coast’s plethora of sea creatures. I can easily spend a half day just walking around and taking in all of the fantastic fish, eels, and seahorses they have on display.

40. Make a Frog Jump in Angels Camp

Angel’s Camp is home to a yearly fair where they have a unique event, frog jumping. While you should go just to watch the “professionals” you can also try your hand at the sport as well. This event became famous through the Mark Twain novel called “The Jumping Frogs of Calaveras County.”

41. See Yosemite’s Second Valley at Hetch Hetchy

While the issue of the dam at Hetch Hetchy is incredibly polarizing, no one can debate about the beauty of the area itself. There are miles of trails that take you around the area’s waterfalls and rivers while looking down on the lake itself.

42. Enjoy Beach Hiking at Torrey Pines State Reserve

As one of my favorite hikes in Southern California, Torrey Pines is a great spot to do some beach hiking. The trails lead to multiple overlooks while eventually taking you down to a picturesque beach as well.

43. Get a Donut at One of California Most Iconic Spots

The giant donut that sits on top of Randy’s in Los Angeles has been beckoning visitors for decades. I for one go nearly every time I am in the area and it never gets old. The donut has been featured in tons of movies as well, such as Iron Man 2. I recommend the chocolate devils food.

44. Float down the Sacramento River

One of the most popular Northern California adventures in the summer is grabbing an inner tube and just getting out on the river to float. They have one of the largest floats in California during memorial day weekend in Chico or you can avoid the crowds and go any other day of the year.

45. Backpack in Yosemite

While hiking the John Muir Trail is one of the most iconic hikes in all of the USA, most people will not have the opportunity to do it and I wanted to keep this list approachable to everyone. Backpacking in Yosemite is one of the best ways to explore the park while avoiding a lot of the crowds. I recommend doing something like Glen Aulin or Clouds Rest if it is your first time and be sure to research and understand what you are doing before you go.

46. Walk Across the Border to Mexico

Since California shares a border with Mexico, you really should visit it while living / exploring the state. Most people will choose to walk over the border at Tijuana and do some shopping, but for me I like to head east and walk over the border at Tecate. This city is home to the famous brewery and it can be fun to wander around and have a drink or a burrito then walk back across.

47. Take Surf Lessons in San Diego

If you are in California then you should try your hand at surfing, which is a relative state sport here. There is no better spot to do it then in the magical city of San Diego with its fabulous beaches and perfect weather.

48. Bike from Huntington to Newport Beach

While there are lots of great beach bike trails like San Clemente, I really like biking from Huntington to Newport. This trail lets you explore both of these fun SoCal beaches along a beautiful bike path. Stop at Wahoos in Huntington for some fish tacos after.

49. Explore the California State Railroad Museum and Old Town Sacramento

I love trains, but even if you don’t share that love, it is hard to think of anyone not enjoying the California State Railroad Museum in Old Town Sacramento. It is one of the best museums I have ever been to. Be sure to stroll the streets of Old Town Sacramento after visiting the museum.

50. Camp on Angel Island

While most people will visit Alcatraz when in San Francisco (which of course they should), Angel’s Island is a unique spot for a more private outdoor adventure. You can take a boat over and hike or camp on this island with views of San Francisco and little to no people.

51. Kayak the Sea Caves of La Jolla

La Jolla is a great spot for kayakers of all abilities to test out being in the open water. If you are more advanced though there are a few sea caves that you can navigate into which are unique to this stretch of Southern California coast.

52. Eat an Oyster from the Tomales Bay at Hog Island

Oysters are not everyone’s cup of tea, but if you haven’t had them directly from the water, then you should give them another try. Hog Island on Pacific Coast Highway is one of the most beautiful spots you will ever eat oysters, as they are pulled right out of the Tomales Bay in front of you.

53. Tour the Jelly Bean Factory

Located in Fairfield, the Jelly Bean Factory is really fun spot to explore with the whole family. Take the free tour and look out over the sea of jelly beans while getting to try each step of the creation process. I love the atmosphere they create here and eating jelly beans is just a plus.

54. Eat at a Thomas Keller Restaurant in Yountville

Thomas Keller is one of California’s most famous chefs. His main restaurant “The French Laundry” has been named the best restaurant in the world multiple times. While that spot is hard to get into and expensive you can opt to try one of his two other restaurants in the town of Yountville, my favorite is Bouchon. It’s a legit culinary adventure.

55. Harness your Inner Johnny Cash at Folsom Prison Museum

Folsom Prison was made famous by the Johnny Cash song and the concert he held in the prison. They created a small museum on site that talks about all of this and more prison history. It’s pretty crazy to go there and learn about the Johnny Cash influence while also seeing all of the different things prisoners have snuck in and other exhibits.

56. Explore the Ghost Town of Bodie

Bodie is California’s most well-preserved ghost town, and it is a blast for the whole family to visit. I always enjoy walking the streets and imagining life in this once booming town.

57. Climb the Mosiac Steps in San Francisco

This spot became popular during the rise of social media, but it is a great place for photography. You can climb the hundred or so mosaic steps; then when you get to the top, there is a park that gives you a fantastic view of San Francisco below.

58. Drive Through a Tree

Driving North on Highway 101, it is fun to pull off at one of the three drive-through trees for a fun photo.

59. Spelunk into the Caves of Pinnacles National Park

Pinnacles National Park is the newest National Park in the country, and because of that it is not very well known. The caves there are easily accessible by a short trail, and because of that, it is a unique way to get a non-guided tour cave experience.

60. See the Purple Sand of Pfeiffer Beach

Pfeiffer Beach is fantastic in its own right, but if you go right after the rain, then you will be in for a treat with the purple sand that comes down from the mountains behind it.

61. Tour the Crazy Winchester Mansion

This mansion was the brainchild of the heir to the Winchester Company fortune. She believed that she would die if she ever stopped building though, so the house has stairs that lead to nowhere, doors to brick walls and all sorts of craziness. It is so big that you walk over a mile while on the tour of it.

62. See the Dead Fish Beaches of the Salton Sea

Salton Sea is a lake that went through a massive chemical transition which killed nearly every fish that lived in it. Now it is an eerie yet beautiful spot. The state park itself has beaches with dead and decaying fish scattered all over them; it is something you have to see to believe.

63. Take a Selfie with Giant Paul Bunyon at Trees of Mystery

These 50-foot tall statues mark the entrance to the Trees of Mystery which is a fun tourist attraction in Northern California. You won’t be able to miss them when you drive up Highway 101 and why would you want to, they are awesome!

64. Find Out What the Santa Cruz Mystery Spot is All About

I am sure you have seen the bumper stickers for this crazy gravitational anomaly in Santa Cruz. It is a fun spot to bring the family and turn off your mind to marvel at the displays they created to mess with you.

65. Wander the Shores of Glass Beach

This is the beach where people threw trash, and the ocean returned beautiful pieces of glass. It is a stunning spot in Northern California with a small shore full of smooth pieces of glass.

66. Find all the Metal Statues in Anza Borrego

With over a hundred statues situated all around the park, it is an utter blast just to drive around and try and find them all. Many of them are massive like the above dragon and the scorpion, making them fantastic for photography and overall exploration.

67. Explore Olympic History in Squaw Valley

The Olympic Museum in Squaw Valley is only accessible via a tram that takes you to the top of the mountain. In the building situated on top of the mountain is the small museum itself. While there isn’t a lot to really see at the museum, it is super fun to take the tram up and see the massive Olympic Rings.

68. Hike the Rubicon Trail along Lake Tahoe

This trail goes from DL Bliss State Park to Emerald Bay. Along the way you see stunning views of the immaculate blue water stretching out in front of you. It is hard to find a more beautiful trail in the area.

69. Gaze Down at the Yosemite Valley from Taft Point

Another incredibly popular Instagram spot, I am still surprised by how many people have seen it but didn’t know how easy it was to get to. This 2-mile round trip hike is relatively flat, and it takes you to one of Yosemite’s best viewpoints.

70. W alk the Granite Steps up Moro Rock

Moro Rock in Sequoia is a short hike with anxiety-inducing granite steps that takes you to the top of a massive rock overlooking the valley. I recommend it at sunset but make sure to bring a flashlight for the walk back.

71. Visit a Bakery in Solvang

The Danish town of Solvang, along the Central Coast, is a great place to feel like you have left California. The city itself is entirely Danish inspired, and the bakeries all around town are home to some amazing pastries as well.

72. Eat at a Fairy Tale Restaurant in Santa Barbara

If you are talking about amazing places to eat, then no list would be complete without mentioning Cold Springs Tavern. With literally nothing around it, this spot has become a local favorite ever since it was a stagecoach stop over 100 years ago. Be sure to order the tri tip.

73. Indulge your Inner Movie Star at Paramount Ranch

The old movie town of Paramount Ranch is still a really popular filming location for Hollywood. Since it is on public property though, you can go explore it, even when they are filming. I love walking down the dirt streets and indulging my inner movie star here.

74. Explore the Underground Gardens of Fresno 

One of the most strange and unique spots along Highway 99, the Forestiere Underground Gardens in Fresno, are something you need to take a tour of to appreciate. The brainchild of one man over many decades, these gardens are a labyrinth of underground exploration.

75. Take a Ghost Tour of the Haunted Queen Mary

The Queen Mary is the famous ship that sits in the Long Beach Harbor and has become one of the state’s most popular museums. It is supposedly haunted and they have a fun tour that takes you on the ship and tells you about the haunting.

76. Learn at the Museums of Balboa Park

Balboa Park houses more than a dozen museums and is virtually impossible to explore without a few days. The museum’s are some of the best in the state with Museum of Man, Air and Space and the Miniature Train Museum being a few of my favorites.

77. Take the Boat to Alcatraz

Alcatraz is one of San Francisco’s most popular attractions and it is a fun spot to explore for a half day and get out of the city. Be sure to book the tour in advance though as it always books up fast.

78. Drive Historic Route 66

Route 66 ends in California. Because of that, there are a lot of adventures you can have on the Mother Road in the state. Some of the highlights for me are the original McDonalds Museum and Elmer’s Bottletree Ranch.

79. Stand on the Lowest Point in North America

Badwater in Death Valley is the lowest point in North America at -280 feet below sea level. The salt flats that stretch out before your eyes are stunning, just make sure not to go in the summer.

80. Spend a Night at Madonna Inn

Madonna Inn in San Luis Obispo is a hotel where every room is different. I love staying there and picking a new room each time. My favorite is the Old World Suite though with its rock waterfall shower and stone walls.

81. Explore California Literary History

Whether it is John Steinbeck’s Cannery Row, Mark Twain’s Angels Camp or Jack London’s Sonoma, there are so many ways you can dig into literary history all over the state.

82. Stand on the Unofficial Center of the World

Sure you really need to be committed to make it all the way to this spot, but the Unofficial Center of the World is located in California. Weirdly, it is not recognized by California itself but it is acknowledged by places like France and others. There are plenty of additional things to see here too like an original piece of the Effiel Tower.

83. Snorkel off Catalina Island

It is a joy to be able to get to an island off the coast of California after only a 45-minute drive and a 45-minute boat ride from Los Angeles. Catalina is a great spot to indulge in a slower island lifestyle for a few days and the snorkeling is the best you will find in California.

84. Wander Through an Aircraft Carrier at USS Midway

The aircraft carrier in the bay of San Diego is a great spot to bring the family and get lost exploring the massive boat. I have been a few times, and I still don’t think I have seen everything as I always seem to get lost going down all the different corridors.

85. Visit Hearst Castle

Heart Castle sits in the mountains above the central coast, and it is one of those spots I always skipped over on my trips. When I finally made it there, I was surprised by how much I enjoyed it though. It is such a crazy place full of immaculate rooms and pools, make sure to add it to your list.

86. Tour Mercer Caverns

Mercer Caverns is one of my favorite of the popular tour caves. This one has a lot of history, allows you to go deep into the cave itself and has sections where you feel like you are in an adventurous cave with steep staircases.

87. Walk out on Potato Chip Rock

Potato Chip Rock is a relatively polarizing spot in San Diego that many hikers love while other hate. I for one think it is a unique experience, so I recommend you do it if you want to get into hiking and see a fun payoff at the end.

88. Climb the Stairs to the Fire Lookout at Sierra Buttes

This hike is one of my favorites in the Tahoe area as it leads to a vertigo-inducing staircase and the ultimate payoff of a fire overlook that looks out over the area below. It is beautiful and well worth a spot on your hiking list.

89. Grab the Headlamp and Explore Lava Beds National Monument

One of the hardest to reach parks in California, Lava Beds is located in the Northern part of the state. It is an unusual spot with many really long caves that you can explore with a flashlight and a little courage.

90. Walk Across the Sundial Bridge

As you can tell, I love bridges and this one in Redding is different. It is fun to walk across as the bridge itself never actually touches the water below it.

91. Fly Over San Diego in a Biplane

While there are a ton of great experiences you can have in San Diego, I love seeing it from above. The best way I ever did that was by getting in a historic biplane and staring out over the coastline below.

92. Snowshoe to a Sequoia Grove

It is hard to ever be alone with some of the famous giant trees in Sequoia or Yosemite, but if you wait till it snows and strap on some snowshoes, then you can walk down to see the trees pretty much all by yourself.

93. Find a Mine in Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree is full of gold mines with some being nothing but holes and others still having full stamp mills. The latter of which is my favorite and it is called Lost Horse Mine, but finding any of the mines in the park makes for a fun adventure.

94. Visit Elvis Honeymoon Home in Palm Springs

Many people do not know about this unique connection between Elvis and California, but it is actually where he spent his honeymoon. The house has stayed relatively the same since that time and it has become a draw for all of the Elvis lovers out there. I wouldn’t put myself in that camp but I still found it to be a really fun place to explore.

95. Stand Under California’s Tallest Bridge in Auburn

The Foresthill Bridge in Auburn is the tallest in the state, and it is pretty scary to look out over the edge of the bridge. There are even a few trails around the area that let you walk under it and marvel at how massive it truly is.

96. Wander Land’s End and the Sutro Baths

Land’s End is one of the most picturesque trails in all of San Francisco and it is a go-to for me in the area. The trail has fantastic coastal views, the Sutro Baths, and vista points for the Golden Gate Bridge.

97. Experience the Poppy Bloom in Antelope Valley State Park

When it is in bloom, Antelope Valley is a magical field of orange that stretches as far as the eye can see. It is highly dependent on the weather we have each year, but when it is right, the poppies are mind-blowing.

98. Tour Nit Witt Ridge

The poor man’s Hearst Castle, Nit Witt Ridge is a collection of trash, art and not following building codes that lead to this crazy mansion in Cambria. They offer tours a few times a week, and it is something I guarantee you will not have seen before.

99. Stare into the Ubehebe Crater

The Ubehebe Crater in Death Valley is just another of the natural wonders you can visit in this fascinating park. It is so massive though that you need to see it with your own eyes as pictures do not do it justice.

100. Eat a Burger Animal Style at In & Out

I figured I couldn’t let this list end without the quintessential California experience of eating In & Out. This burger joint is as California as anything on the list. If you are visiting then get a double-double animal style, you can thank me later.

So there you have it, my California Bucket List suggestions after exploring for five years. Thanks for reading all the way to the end! I would love to hear what you think I left off in the comments and be sure to let me know how many you have done yourself as well.

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The 9 Best Places to Visit in California for First-Time Visitors

California is a massive state with so much to do. We compiled a handy list of essential places to visit for first-time visitors.

July 05, 2023

California, the Golden State, is a dream destination that beckons travelers with its stunning landscapes, iconic landmarks, diverse cultures, and innovative spirit. From the glittering glamour of Hollywood to the rugged beauty of its national parks, and from the grandeur of its historic bridges to the charm of its coastal highways, California's allure is both timeless and infectious.

The sheer variety of attractions can be overwhelming for those planning their first trip to this dynamic state. But fret not; we've curated a list of the most unique and iconic spots that capture the essence of California. Each destination on this list offers a special glimpse into what makes California an unforgettable travel experience. So pack your bags, grab your sunglasses, and join us as we embark on a journey to the must-see destinations in California for first-time visitors.

Be aware, California is a large state, so you may only be able to reasonably hit one or two of these locations during a trip to the Golden State. However, if you're planning an extended visit and have the ability to, you can travel across California and experience most or all it has to offer. It's all about how you approach the trip and manage your time.

Hollywood Walk of Fame, Los Angeles

A visit to California wouldn't be complete without immersing yourself in the glamour of Hollywood. The Hollywood Walk of Fame, stretching along 15 blocks of Hollywood Boulevard , is an essential piece of the entertainment world's history. As you stroll the sidewalks, you'll find over 2,600 brass stars embedded in the pavement, each representing a significant contributor to the entertainment industry. Be sure to visit the TCL Chinese Theatre, a cinema palace that is rich in Hollywood history and renowned for its forecourt filled with handprints, footprints, and autographs of movie stars past and present.

Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco

Standing as a testament to human ingenuity, the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco is a global icon recognized worldwide. This Art Deco marvel, with its distinctive international orange color, spans the entrance to the San Francisco Bay from the Pacific Ocean. Walking or cycling across its 1.7-mile length offers panoramic views of the city, Alcatraz , and the surrounding bay. Don't miss the chance to explore the visitor's center or the nearby Golden Gate Park , filled with beautiful gardens, museums, and a wealth of outdoor activities.

Yosemite Valley, Yosemite National Park

At the heart of Yosemite National Park lies the Yosemite Valley, a spectacle of natural beauty that boasts some of the park's most famous landmarks. Granite cliffs, including the formidable El Capitan and the dome-shaped Half Dome, tower over the lush valley floor, offering rock climbers world-class challenges. Waterfalls like the majestic Yosemite Falls and Bridalveil Fall roar in the spring and glisten in the sun, while tranquil meadows provide habitats for diverse wildlife. The vista from Tunnel View, which includes El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall, and Half Dome, is one of the most photographed landscapes in the world and a must-see for any visitor.

San Diego Zoo, San Diego

The San Diego Zoo, nestled within Balboa Park , is home to over 3,500 animals from more than 650 species and subspecies. Renowned for its expansive, naturalistic habitats and unique animal encounters, the zoo pioneered the open-air, cageless exhibits that are now standard in many zoological parks. Visitors can see giant pandas, koalas, lions, tigers, and more, all in beautifully recreated habitats. The zoo's guided bus tour and overhead gondola lift, Skyfari, provide unique perspectives of the park and are included with admission.

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Joshua Tree National Park

The magic of Joshua Tree National Park lies in its stunning desert landscapes, punctuated by its namesake Joshua Trees. These peculiarly shaped trees, reminiscent of a Dr. Seuss illustration, dominate the arid scenery, standing as a testament to the resilience of life in the desert. The park, a popular destination for hiking, rock climbing, and camping, also offers breathtaking night skies free of light pollution. The celestial display makes it a favored spot for stargazing and astrophotography.

Big Sur Coastline, Highway 1

Often hailed as one of the greatest road trips on earth , the scenic stretch of Highway 1 through Big Sur offers spectacular coastal views. Twisting and turning along the rugged cliffs, the highway treats visitors to sights of the Pacific's endless blue waters, towering redwoods, and dramatic, rocky outcrops. Key highlights include the iconic Bixby Bridge , one of the highest single-span concrete bridges in the world , and McWay Falls, an ethereal 80-foot waterfall that plunges directly into the ocean. Various trails along the route offer hiking opportunities for explorers seeking to experience the rugged beauty up close.

Sequoia National Park

A visit to Sequoia National Park offers the unique experience of standing amongst the world's largest trees. The General Sherman Tree, the most massive living tree on earth, has a height of 275 feet and a base over 36 feet in diameter. The park, which also includes part of the Sierra Nevada mountain range, offers breathtaking vistas, meandering rivers, and over 800 miles of hiking trails.

Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica

With its iconic Ferris wheel, bustling arcade, and oceanfront eateries, Santa Monica Pier exudes a nostalgic, carnival-like atmosphere. The pier, which marks the end of historic Route 66, also features an aquarium, an original 1920s carousel, and offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean . Nearby Third Street Promenade provides an abundance of shopping, dining, and street performances.

Hearst Castle, San Simeon

Hearst Castle, built by media tycoon William Randolph Hearst, is a National Historic Landmark nestled high in the hills along the Central Coast. This grand estate, filled with art, antiques, and opulent furnishings, was once a playground for the rich and famous. Now, it offers guided tours that transport you to a world of luxury, featuring stunning indoor and outdoor pools, lush gardens, and unparalleled views of the surrounding countryside.

Each of these iconic locations offers a unique perspective into California's diverse landscapes, history, and culture, promising first-time visitors an unforgettable journey through the Golden State. Whether you're an urban explorer, a nature lover, a history buff, or a food and wine connoisseur, California welcomes you with open arms and countless adventures.

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10 great places to live in California

With a stunning diversity of landscapes, cultures and career opportunities, California is an unparalleled destination for anyone who wants to soak up everything life has to offer.

From the sun-soaked beaches of the Pacific Coast to the majestic peaks of the Sierra Nevada, California offers a breathtaking natural playground, inviting residents to surf the waves, hike the trails and explore every corner of the state all year long.

Vibrant cities such as Los Angeles, San Francisco and San Diego are among the best places to live in California, and each one pulses with innovation, adventure and career prospects. The Golden State’s commitment to environmental sustainability, world-class education and diverse communities is known throughout the country, fostering a friendly and welcoming atmosphere for people in all stages of life.

Whether you seek the excitement of Hollywood, the tranquility of Napa Valley, or the serenity of the redwood forests, California’s wealth of opportunities guarantee a lifestyle that embodies the classic American dream.

Also see : The best affordable little cities to live in America

Tucked in the San Joaquin Valley, Clovis, California, has a reputation among its population of 105,000 for blending small-town charm with modern amenities. Life is defined by tree-lined streets and friendly neighbors, and the community places a premium on family values and child-friendly atmospheres. Residents enjoy a slower pace of life and small businesses often find themselves thriving in the lively local economy.

One of the most prominent aspects of life in Clovis is the excellent school system and high graduation rates, as well as a crime rate that is around 20% lower than the rest of the state and 10% lower than the national average. Paired with a vibrant downtown that hosts everything from quaint boutiques to top-notch restaurants, the easy access to skiing and hiking in the nearby Sierra Nevada, and wealth of annual activities and events, Clovis is inarguably a great place to put down roots and bring up children. 

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Clovis embodies the state’s reputation of mild weather, which is often characterized by dry, hot summers and cool, wet winters. It’s easy to get outside all year round, and with the city’s multitude of green spaces, it’s not a difficult undertaking.  Clovis Botanical Gardens  and the Dry Creek Trail are two popular local haunts, and the abundance of golf courses, equestrian activities, and fishing and water sports add to the laundry list of opportunities that thrill outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Other popular pastimes include perusing the antique shops, picking up local produce at the farmers market, or attending the annual Clovis Big Hat Days, which celebrates the community’s rich western heritage with live entertainment, a parade and local vendors. It’s easy to see why Clovis ranks among the 25 best places to live in the West.

Clovis: Gateway to the Sierra

Clovis is nicknamed the “Gateway to the Sierra” because of its proximity to the Sierra Nevada mountains. Just a short drive away, you can enjoy hiking, skiing and snowboarding in the winter months at popular destinations like China Peak Mountain Resort. During the warm season, the Sierra Nevada offers plenty of opportunities for camping, fishing and exploring the multitude of beautiful alpine lakes and forests.

Known for its family-friendly atmosphere and wealth of good schools, green spaces and recreational activities for children, it’s no surprise Elk Grove, California, attracts people from all over the country.

Putting down roots here is easy with the welcoming community and low crime rates, and the vast network of parks, trails and outdoor amenities make it the perfect spot to live for those who want to run, cycle or get involved with local sports leagues. The accessibility to the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta can’t be overlooked either, and the short driving distance to the Sierra Nevada mountains and California coast are huge draws to newcomers as well. 

Plus: 6 charming small towns close to big city action

Elk Grove admittedly boasts many charming qualities, but one standout is its rooted sense of community and celebration. The city regularly hosts events, from the packed farmers markets to the lively concerts in the park and culture festivals all year round.

The economy makes it an easy place to settle down, too, with a range of job opportunities in everything from healthcare and manufacturing to technology and retail. The broad sweep of industries makes it a reasonable place to not only find a job but build a career, all while growing a family in a safe and cheerful community. Elk Grove also carved out a spot among the 25 best places to live in the West .

What are some things to do in Elk Grove?

You can find all manner of things to do in Elk Grove. Nature enthusiasts like to explore the local green spaces, such as Elk Grove Regional Park and Laguna Creek Trail, which are ideal for hiking, picnics and bird-watching.

For water-based adventures, the nearby Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta is the place to be with its abundance of opportunities for boating, fishing and kayaking.

Farmers markets, concerts and festivals occur frequently downtown, and history buffs appreciate the storied exhibits at the Elk Grove Historical Society. Top it off with the vibrant local dining scene and variety of shopping centers, like the Elk Grove Premium Outlets, and it’s easy to see that there are an array of things to do for people of all interests.

About 3½ hours north of San Francisco, Redding is best known for its abundance of outdoor recreation. Nature enthusiasts can explore everything from kayaking and fly-fishing on scenic rivers and lakes to cycling hundreds of trails that traverse not only the city but mountains, too.

Paired with its wealth of sunshine and mild weather, a reasonable cost of living compared with other cities in the state, and excellent school systems, it’s no wonder people from all around the country are interested in putting down roots in this charming and welcoming community. 

Another great appeal of life in Redding is the healthy and vibrant job market. Residents are close enough from the tech giants of Silicon Valley, such as Apple Google and Meta to build impressive careers while still housing their families in a more relaxed environment. But the city itself also boasts a multitude of quality employers in its diverse market, which includes everything from healthcare and tourism to finance and management.

Redding has managed to maintain that beloved sense of small-town charm despite its bustling economy and long list of festivals, gatherings and community activities. It’s undeniably one of the best places to put down roots for young professionals, families and retirees alike. 

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How are the schools in Redding? 

Residents are quick to cite the quality of schools in their community as one of the reasons Shasta County is a great place to raise a family. The area is served by the Shasta Union High School District, which includes several well-regarded high schools, and the Shasta County Office of Education oversees the elementary and middle schools. Residents can choose from a variety of private and charter schools, and young adults have convenient access to Shasta College, a reputable community college. Redding is also within just over an hour’s driving distance of California State University Chico, as well as other educational institutions. 

Roseville, California, consistently ranks as one of the best places to live in the state, which is a fact that probably doesn’t surprise most of its residents. First and foremost, Roseville offers a strong and diverse job market with an economy that spans various sectors. It’s a burgeoning hub for technology companies and startups, as well as healthcare, retail and finance companies.

The city’s location makes it a good choice for commuters to both Sacramento and parts of the San Francisco Bay Area. Additionally, Roseville is home to a vibrant retail scene, featuring the popular Westfield Galleria at Roseville, a premier shopping mall, and the Fountains at Roseville, a high-end outdoor shopping and dining destination. Coupled with the low crime rates and quality healthcare facilities, Roseville is easily one of the most secure and convenient places to put down roots in California. 

In addition to its obvious economic advantages, Roseville offers its residents a genuinely great quality of life. The city boasts a “Mediterranean climate,” with mild winters and warm summers that are perfect for taking advantage of the city’s parks, recreational activities and outdoor events (and makes it a  best place to retire ).

The school system, including the Roseville Joint Union High School District and Roseville City School District, is well-regarded for its commitment to education and provides several options for children of all ages. You can also find a strong sense of community in the city, which is evident in its multitude of cultural and recreational events, from summer farmers markets and concerts in the park to art and music festivals. 

Is it affordable to live in Roseville, California?

The cost of living in Roseville reflects its desirable quality of life and strategic location to major employment centers. The overall cost of living is higher than the national average but relatively competitive for the state. Housing costs are a significant factor, but you can find everything from affordable apartments to upscale homes. Utilities, groceries and transportation costs are about on par with the national average, but the vibrant job market makes it easier to offset the higher housing costs for many residents.

Check out: I live in the South and don’t want to retire here. I’m seeking four seasons, diversity and outdoor living. Where should I retire?

Sacramento, California, may be the state capital, but it also stands out among the crowd as one of the best places to live in the Golden State. The slower pace of life, vibrant economy and wealth of activities and amenities are just the start. Anyone talking about moving to California has to contend with the high living costs, but relative to other major cities in the state, Sacramento is one of the more affordable spots to settle down — indeed, one of the most affordable cities on the West Coast.

The more manageable expense profile makes it an understandably attractive option for young professionals, growing families and retirees. Plus, its affordability doesn’t mean residents have to compromise on things to do. Spend the weekend at the Sacramento Zoo, dive into local history at the California State Railroad Museum, explore the Old Sacramento State Historic Park or cycle all 32 miles of the American River Bike Trail. If that’s not enough, you can indulge in the abundance of local breweries and wineries.

In addition to its affordability and bustling activities calendar, Sacramento has a reputation as a diverse and friendly community. The city’s population is a rich tapestry of backgrounds, cultures and ethnicities, all of which are reflected in the area’s multitude of festivals and culinary options. The city’s commitment to green initiatives and sustainability has also made it a leader in eco-friendly practices, even going so far as earning it the title of “ America’s Farm-to-Fork Capital ” for its emphasis on locally sourced, farm-fresh cuisine. Tack on the proximity to Lake Tahoe and Napa Valley and you have to admit Sacramento is a great place for people who want a combination of urban convenience and outdoor adventure.

See : Six towns worth visiting for their historic downtowns

The economy in Sacramento

Sacramento’s economy is a lively blend of government, technology, agriculture and healthcare. Because it is the capital of California, state government activities play a significant role in the local economic landscape. In recent years, Sacramento has also seen a surge in the technology sector, with many companies and startups moving into the community.

You won’t find many people to argue against life in San Diego. Known for being one of the best places to live in the country, this vibrant community boasts everything from idyllic weather with more than 266 days of sunshine a year to a diversity of neighborhoods that satisfy residents of all tastes and personal preferences.

Among the multitude of available activities and amenities, locals are quick to note that that surfing at La Jolla, visiting the San Diego Zoo, and learning about naval aviation history at the USS Midway Museum are some of the finest ways to spend a weekend. The Gaslamp Quarter is another renowned hot spot with its vibrant nightlife scene and wealth of bars, restaurants and entertainment. 

The local job market is a hub of activity, and the city’s economic strength is spread out over a variety of industries. Biotechnology and healthcare lead the way thanks to major institutions like the Salk Institute and UC San Diego, but the defense and military industry also plays a significant role with numerous bases and defense contractors in the area. Tourism is another top dog and vital contributor, drawing millions of visitor each year to attractions like the San Diego Zoo and SeaWorld. San Diego also has some of the  best parks in the country .

How expensive is it to live in San Diego?

The cost of living in San Diego is higher than the national average. Median home prices often exceed $700,000, and rental prices are also considered relatively high. Utilities, transportation and groceries are generally above the national average, too. However, you’ll find that most residents weigh these expenses against the city’s high quality of life, including its mild climate, numerous amenities and diverse range of job opportunities, and consider it worth the higher cost of living.

Nestled in the heart of Silicon Valley, San Jose, California, lets residents get up close and personal with the wealth of job opportunities in the technology industry. The city boasts a robust and understandably vibrant economy with major tech giants like Apple, Google and Adobe headquartered nearby, as well as a slew of other startups and venture-capital firms. Newcomers can expect to find positions in everything from software development and engineering to research and education. Beyond its appealing job market, San Jose offers a high standard of living with excellent schools, healthcare facilities and a strong sense of community. 

San Jose’s Mediterranean climate brings around 300 days of sunshine a year, which leaves residents free to explore everything from the nearby Santa Cruz Mountains to their very own local parks. Because the area is considered a genuine melting pot, residents can also take advantage of the many festivals, museums, galleries and restaurants that reflect the area’s multiculturalism. 

What are some things to do outside San Jose?

It may be surprising, but Silicon Valley is a gold mine for nature lovers. San Jose is just a short drive from the Santa Cruz Mountains and famous Big Basin Redwoods State Park. The Pacific coastline is just west of the city and great for beachcombing, surfing and whale watching at the right time of year.

For anyone wanting to remain inland, the wine regions of the Santa Cruz Mountains and Livermore Valley are bucket-list worthy spots for tastings and vineyard tours. Those in search of even more rugged terrain will enjoy exploring the Sierra Nevada mountain range, which is within a day’s drive. The rest of San Francisco Bay Area is also easily accessible with its variety of iconic landmarks and attractions.

Santa Barbara

Lounging on the beautiful beaches and strolling State Street are just two of the countless reasons Santa Barbara, California, is considered a best place to live. This bustling community is home to a wealth of activities and attractions, from the stunning 37-acre estate at Lotusland and trendy arts district known as The Funk Zone to the picturesque Santa Ynez Mountains and sunset sailing cruises on the water.

Also on MarketWatch: I want to retire somewhere scenic with low taxes and near a big airport. Where should I go?

It also happens to be a veritable haven for outdoor enthusiasts with its abundance of surfing, hiking and biking. The Spanish-inspired architecture is another draw for locals and tourists alike, and the world-class theaters, museums and galleries don’t hurt either. 

As far as the job market, young professionals and career-minded individuals often describe the city as robust and diverse. Various sectors drive the economy, including technology, healthcare and tourism, all of which add up to a high standard of living amid a scenic coastal backdrop. The local healthcare facilities and renowned research institutions provide plenty of opportunities for those in the medical and biotech fields, as well, and the University of California, Santa Barbara adds its own dimension to the city’s culture and economic market.

The cost of living is notably higher than the national average, but residents find the higher quality of life, stunning natural surroundings and vibrant cultural scene to be a fair trade-off in exchange for everything the city offers. 

Is Santa Barbara a family-friendly place to live? 

Most residents agree Santa Barbara is a family-friendly area, with a wide range of activities and amenities that cater to families of all ages. The city boasts great schools, safe neighborhoods and plenty of outdoor recreation. From beaches and swimming pools to parks and hiking trails, as well as the Santa Barbara Zoo and full calendar of festivals of and events, Santa Barbara is an ideal spot for families to put down roots. 

Located in the heart of the Central Valley, Stockton, California is emerging as an increasingly attractive destination for young professionals and growing families. This diverse and vibrant community celebrates its melting pot reputation with interesting festivals and events that draw locals and tourists alike. From the playful Asparagus Festival in April to Stockton Beer Week in August, there are plenty of opportunities to get out of the house.

Residents also appreciate the variety of amenities in the area, such as the events and concerts at Weber Point Events Center, the boat cruises along the California Delta Waterways, or the live performances at the Bob Hope Theatre.

Paired with the reasonable cost of living compared with other urban areas in the state, Stockton is easily an appealing choice for those seeking a more affordable place to call home. 

The natural beauty of the city is another major draw, especially for families hoping to spend more time outside or nature enthusiasts who want to make the most of the iconic California weather. Stockton is situated along the San Joaquin Delta, which makes it easy to participate in everything from boating and fishing to kayaking and other water sports. The surrounding region also has a reputation for a rich agricultural heritage, and there are numerous farmers markets and scenic drives that carry on the legacy. Within the city itself there are several green spaces, including the popular Oak Grove Regional Park, and many reputable schools and educational institutions, all of which make Stockton a welcoming place for families. 

Don’t miss: Here are 25 of the best affordable places to live in the Southeast

What is the economy like in Stockton?

The economy and job market in Stockton have experienced fluctuations over the years, but the city is historically known as a hub for agriculture and distribution. Today the market has diversified to include healthcare, education and professional services. The city has focused on revitalization efforts since 2012, investing in both infrastructure and downtown development, and major employers today include Dignity Health St. Joseph’s Medical Center, University of the Pacific and San Joaquin Delta College.

Victorville

Nestled in the High Desert region of the state, Victorville, California, often catches the eye of those hoping to settle down in the Golden State without breaking the bank. The city’s cost of living is notably lower than many coastal California cities, making it an attractive choice for anyone interested in living a more budget-friendly lifestyle. Newcomers can find a solid range of housing options, from single family homes to apartments, without the steep price tags often associated with life in California. 

Another compelling feature of the community is its proximity to an abundance of natural wonders and recreational opportunities. The city is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, including the Mojave Desert and the San Bernardino Mountains. Outdoor enthusiasts can easily hike, camp or take off-road adventures, as well as go fishing or boating on the nearby lakes.

Read: We want culture, dining and wilderness in areas with homes for $300,000 – so where should we retire?

Victorville’s climate is ripe with sunshine and low humidity, so it’s a natural haven for those who like warm and dry weather. For those more interested in sticking within city limits, Victorville offers a multitude of shopping centers, educational institutions and a growing arts and culture scene, all of which contribute to a well-rounded and satisfying quality of life. 

What are some things to do in Victorville?

Victorville, is a great place to live for outdoor enthusiasts. Explore the nearby Mojave Desert and San Bernardino Mountains, tee off at the local golf courses all season long, boat and fish along the nearby lakes, or spend the day learning about the area at the iconic California Route 66 Museum. Families might enjoy the Western-themed attractions at the Rockin’ K Horse Rentals, or the annual San Bernardino County Fair with its wealth of entertainment. The city also boasts plenty of shopping and dining. 

Read the original article on Livability .

• The 100 best places to live in the U.S. in 2023

10 Best Places to Travel in September

Budapest, perth, and italy’s campanian archipelago all shine this month..

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Labor Day might mark the end of summer and a return to work for many—and a reminder to wash and fold every pair of white pants you own until next year—but why not eke out a little extra off-duty time by planning a vacation for this month?

The weather is more appealing in September than it is in midsummer for popular destinations like Italy, where the temperatures will be balmy but the crowds have thinned. It’s the first chance to check out autumn foliage in an unexpected locale, or head to Europe for an urban music festival with more swagger than Coachella and Lollapalooza combined.

Here are our 10 favorite spots to visit this September. Once you arrive, use our insider scoops from local experts to make the most of your trip.

Enjoy Hungarian wine by the Danube this September.

Courtesy of Ignat Kushanrev

1. Budapest, Hungary

September is great for: sampling some unexpected vintages.

Hungary is an overlooked wine producer, but there are world-class wine regions here, including Tokaj in the country’s northeast, and the tiny, 741-acre Nagy Somló just west of Budapest, where the terroir of dormant lava confers a deep smokiness to every white made there. Sample those and more this month during Budapest’s Wine Festival , held at historic Buda Castle September 12–15. Don’t miss the chance to take a few tipples at the famous ruin bars known as romkocsma in Pest, which squat in many abandoned buildings of District VII.

Where to stay: W Budapest

• Book now: W Budapest

The 151-room hotel sits in the Drechsler Palace, a neo-Renaissance wedding cake of a building constructed in the 1890s opposite the State Opera House. The decor is suitably maximalist—plenty of mirrors—and the location’s unbeatable, convenient for both sides of the river.

Insider tip

W Budapest chief concierge Peter Zimmerman recommends all the spas for which Budapest is renowned, but with a twist—come ready for a game of chess: “Hungarians love chess, and we were always in the top tier of chess competitions. Locals love to play in spas whether it is a floating chess board or a built-in one.”

The Reeperbahn Festival is an edgier answer to Coachella.

Photo by Lina Zavgorodnia/Shutterstock

3. Hamburg, Germany

September is great for: the coolest music festival in Europe.

Locals call the Reeperbahn Die sündigste Meile , or the Most Sinful Mile, as the barely half-mile-long strip is a den of sleazy bars and XXX-rated experiences year-round. In September, though, its appeal broadens, as the strip hosts the Reeperbahn Festival , this year running September 18–21. The event commandeers the bars and clubs along the road for a wide-ranging and eclectic program, spanning neo-classical to hip-hop. Last year’s program featured almost 500 concerts from 400 bands from more than 40 different countries. This year’s roster is equally impressive, from London-based classical multi-instrumentalist Maria Chiara Argirò to French punk-inspired duo Bracco.

Where to stay: The Reverb by Hard Rock Hotel Hamburg

• Book now: The Reverb by Hard Rock Hotel Hamburg

Where else but the brand-new music-inspired hotel, set to open in June, the second outpost of Hard Rock’s attempt to refresh its rather tired associations? Reverb is rockier and younger and will offer daily live entertainment on site.

One to watch during the festival? Alli Neumann, who’s playing at the Elbphilharmonie on September 20. “She doesn’t mince her words when it comes to addressing social issues, be it sexism, finding one’s identity, or personal integrity,” says the Reverb’s GM, Till Westheuser, calling her “one of the most sought-after live artists in Germany.” Pick up her debut album, Madonna Whore Komplex, to prepare for the powerhouse set.

Don’t miss Western Australia when its flowers are in bloom.

Photo by travellight/Shutterstock

4. Perth, Australia

September is great for: going wild about flowers.

It’s springtime down under in September, and that’s when Western Australia bursts into bloom, with more than 12,000 species of wildflowers springing to life this month—60 percent of them are unique to the area and found nowhere else on the planet. Come to its largest city to see the riot of color that carpets urban greenspaces like Kings Park (at almost 1,000 acres, it outstrips Central Park). Now in its 60th year, the Everlasting Kings Park Festival runs September 13–29 this year, and includes guided walks, photograph displays, and workshops for families. It typically draws around a half-million attendees.

Where to stay: Como the Treasury

• Book now: Como the Treasury

Singaporean luxe hotelier Como is usually associated with sprawling resorts in far-flung locales, so this urban, 48-room property in an historic 19th-century building downtown is an outlier. Still, it doesn’t skimp on all the signature indulgences, including the Shambhala spa.

The winter markets run through the end of next month at Scarborough Esplanade, every Saturday till late afternoon, packed with craft stalls and food trucks. Pick up some locally made wildflower honey, too, says Como the Treasury’s front of houser Katrina Borgogno-Salis. “It’s a warm and intimate experience, all while the sun sets over the ocean.”

Santiago is Chile’s capital and largest city.

Photo by Shutterstock

5. Santiago, Chile

September is great for: experiencing an alternative Independence Day.

September 18 is a major day in the Chilean calendar— Fiestas Patrias, or Independence Day. It marks the time when the Creole leaders in Santiago formed a junta to try to overthrow the Spanish colonial powers in 1810; official independence came eight years later. Expect the usual street parties and events across the country, with the largest celebrations in the capital. Try native food and drinks, like corn-based chica or pisco, and see superb instances of cueca , a courtship-inspired handkerchief-waving performance that is officially the national dance of Chile.

Where to stay: The Singular Santiago

• Book now: The Singular Santiago

This 10-year-old boutique hotel sits in the heart of the coolest current nabe in town, the tree-lined Barrio Lastarria. Make sure to have a drink or two on the rooftop terrace, with its 26-foot marble bar and killer views across the city.

The Chilean painter Carmen Aldunate is under the spotlight via a new exhibition at the Ralli Museum. It’s a career-capping retrospective that’s unmissable, per Martin Torres, concierge at the Singular. “She’s associated with the pre-Renaissance illustratism and the Latin American neo-figurative movement,” he explains, “After a 60-year career, she has decided to retire due to a sight problem that left her without vision.”

Skip the overcrowded vineyards this harvest season.

Photo by HTurner/Shutterstock

6. Central Valley, California

September is great for: harvest-time sightseeing in America’s winelands.

September means harvest season, so skip the traffic-clogged roads of Napa and Sonoma for a few tastings further south in the Central Valley. Its hot, dry conditions, and shelter from ocean spray, make it a powerhouse producer, with almost half the state’s grapes grown here; its profile, though, is much lower than those rivals up north.

Follow the Madera Wine Trail here for a chance to explore eight smaller, family-owned wineries like Papagani and Birdstone, or head to Vista Ranch in Merced, another boutique property that’s handily close to Yosemite if you need an outdoorsy detour.

Where to stay: El Capitan Hotel

• Book now: El Capitan Hotel

This historic hotel, operating for more than 150 years in Merced, was fully renovated three years ago to give it a funky, pioneer-meets-midcentury vibe—think record players in rooms, bentwood chairs, and monochrome tiled bathrooms.

Sneak in a snifter on the patio at Hi-Fi Wine in downtown Merced, says Robin Donovan, managing director at El Capital Hotel. “It hosts a ton of events, including charcuterie classes, wine education tastings, and even field trips to vineyards to meet with producers.”

Different American Indian cultures occupied Ocmulgee Mounds for thousands of years—some of which created the series of mounds that gave the park its name.

Shutterstock

7. Macon, Georgia

September is great for: previewing Georgia’s would-be national park, its first.

Lawmakers have just introduced proposed legislation to create Ocmulgee Mounds Park and Preserve, a national park out of a 54-mile stretch of land and ceremonial mounds along the Ocmulgee river in Macon. This proposed park is a chance to honor the Indigenous communities, including the Muscogee (Creek) Nation, who consider the land sacred and lived here for thousands of years before their forced displacement to what’s now Oklahoma. Come to celebrate that history this month over the weekend of September 14–15, during the Ocmulgee Indigenous Celebration , one of the largest Native American gatherings in the Southeast. Hundreds of craftspeople, dancers, and storytellers convene here to perform and exhibit art, drawing from nations including Cherokee and Chickasaw.

Where to stay: Hotel Forty Five

• Book now: Hotel Forty Five

This 94-room hotel in Macon’s central business district sits at a 45-degree angle amid the city grid—hence the name—and still retains elements of the former occupants, mostly banks and insurance companies, with intact vintage signage and historic details like terrazzo floors and copper fixtures.

Don’t leave town without grabbing breakfast at Macon Bagels, says Ashley Glassman, GM of local restaurant Quill. “Go early, because they tend to sell out. The Out of Towner is my current obsession, with cream cheese, lox, capers, and house-made pickled onions. Pick the bagel of your choice; try and grab a cheddar bagel though they’re usually the first to sell out, and for good reason.”

7. Campanian Archipelago, Italy

September is great for: eking out an extra few weeks of summertime.

Stretch out summer with a trip to Italy’s southwest coast, where the weather reliably sits in the 80s for most of the month. Skip overtouristed Capri, and opt instead for lesser known but just as gorgeous islands in the Bay of Naples like Procida and Ischia. Named the Italian Capital of Culture in 2022 , Procida is the smallest, a postcard-pretty island where everything from Il Postino to the Jude Law–starring Talented Mr. Ripley were filmed; the village of Chiaiolella has a long, lounge-worthy strip of black sand. Otherwise, try Ischia, whose volcanic nature means there are ample natural thermal springs along the coast—and wellness-focused resorts as a result.

Where to stay: San Montano Resort & Spa

• Book now: San Montano Resort & Spa

Make the most of Ischia’s thermal springs at this five-star hotel, which sits in its own 7.5-acre garden and has an on-site spa complex with panoramic tubs and pools.

Gary Portuesi of Authentic Explorations , a travel specialist with particular expertise in the area, says the best thing to do is rent a boat for the day. “Go to Sorrento Bay for the hot springs that bubble up from the sea floor, or San Montano Bay, where the sandy beaches can’t be beat.” And try some rabbit at the restaurant Il Focolare—that’s Ischia’s delicacy.

This September, head to Bhutan for cultural festivities.

September is great for: folkloric festivals

Monsoon season comes to a close this month, easing the tropical downpours and sweltering temperatures making exploring this hilly, landlocked kingdom much more pleasant. It’s also a chance to experience one of the most exciting, and all-consuming, national festivals of this Buddhist nation, Thimphu Tshechu, held this year in the capital during September 12–14. It dates back more than 350 years and draws thousands from the countryside to attend. Expect plenty of displays of Cham dancing, the narrative folkloric tradition that tells stories through masked, elaborately costumed performances, all to the sounds of drums and horns.

Where to stay: Amankora Punakha Lodge

Book now: Amankora Punakha Lodge

Stay at this four-suite converted farmhouse in the subtropical valley where Bhutanese royals once overwintered—and hope for chilly nights this month because each of the suites has its own wood-burning stove.

Eve Shaw, Head of Operations at Timbuktu Travel, strongly urges anyone to go to the Happiness Field Village to experience local food and also try out the local natural textile dye process via a workshop there. “The place belongs to Aum Karma Yangchen, an award-winning designer and traditional Bhutanese textile dye expert who was asked to design the Royal gho for His Majesty the King of Bhutan’s Coronation in 2008,” she says, “She can give a demo about traditional dyeing in a hands-on workshop using organic plants and minerals.”

This September, dig into London’s creative side.

Courtesy of visitlondon.com/Jon Reid

9. London, United Kingdom

September is great for inspiration from across the creative spectrum.

This month, creatives across the world descend on the British capital—not for one, but three events. It’s London Fashion Week September 13–17, when the likes of JW Anderson and Burberry will showcase collections simultaneously with the London Design Festival, which runs Sept 14–22, and includes exhibitions, installations, and special events at museums and stores around the capital. The Totally Thames event lasts the entire month, and cultural and environmental activities span its entire 42-mile stretch. All that plus the opening of A Face in the Crowd, which reworks the Hollywood classic into a stage musical with original songs by Elvis Costello.

Where to stay: The Londoner

• Book now: The Londoner

The three-year-old hotel sits squarely on London’s answer to New York’s Times Square, Leicester Square, and is superbly convenient to walk to most of the major central sights, from Covent Garden to Buckingham Palace.

Keep yourself powered-up by pit stopping at the Bar Termini in Soho, five minutes’ walk from the hotel, founded by cocktail maestro Tony Conigliaro. “It’s a tiny hidden gem,” says Paul Gauger, a senior executive from VisitBritain. Order the Il Diciotto Spritz, he adds, made with amaro created in-house by the bar team.

Kick off fall foliage season in an unlikely place.

Photo by Michael Munster/Shutterstock

10. Branson, Missouri

September is great for: an all-American alternative to New England’s crowded leaf-peeping routes

Forget New England : What about looking at changing colors in the heart of the country? Branson is known for man-made entertainment, from concerts to amusement parks, along 76 Country Boulevard, but consider a trip here to explore the outdoors, specifically the Ozark Mountains. Head out to the Highway 165 scenic overlook, a 22-mile loop that offers superb views throughout, including across Table Rock Lake. Get out of the car and go hiking around the more than 1,500-acre Ruth and Paul Henning Conservation Area , or take an easy stroll for a couple of miles on the paved path around Table Rock.

Where to stay: The Ozarker

• Book now: The Ozarker

The 102-room boutique hotel opened last summer, offering a funkier alternative to the somewhat workaday accommodations that are common here. The six-person bunk bed rooms, with double bathrooms, are a fun, affordable family option.

Go big when you go out to eat here, says Ozarker general manager Chris Patrick. Try the deep-dish, Chicago-style pizza at Mr. Gilberti’s Place, he says, or the retro-accented Billy Gail’s restaurant, a diner where the killer must-order is its oversize pancakes.