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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, wonderful hotels , 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.

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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. At day's end retreat to one of the island's top hotels . For instance, 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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17 Best Places to Visit in California

Written by Lisa Alexander Updated Apr 13, 2023

Author Lisa Alexander is originally from the San Francisco Bay Area in California and returns regularly.

California beckons you to visit with its sunshine, stunning landscapes, and urban sophistication. A place of dreams, this alluring state has it all: a spectacular coastline, snowcapped mountains, expansive deserts , idyllic farmlands, and ancient redwood groves, along with vibrant multicultural cities .

You should put San Francisco at the top of your travel itinerary for sightseeing, shopping, museum hopping, and gourmet dining. Next, head to Los Angeles to experience the quintessential Southern California lifestyle and to soak up the Hollywood glamour. For balmy weather and golden-sand beaches, San Diego and Santa Barbara are the places to go.

Spectacular nature sites await you in California . At Yosemite National Park, you will marvel over the majestic granite cliffs draped with voluminous waterfalls. In the Sierra Nevada Mountains, you can go hiking and skiing in an exhilarating alpine environment. Closer to the Pacific Ocean, the world's tallest trees at Redwood National and State Parks will leave you awestruck.

Plan your travels to "The Golden State" with our list of the best places to visit in California.

The San Francisco Bay Area

Los angeles, santa monica, and pasadena, san diego: sunshine, beaches, and spanish architecture, yosemite national park: a unesco world heritage site, lake tahoe: hiking, mountain biking, and skiing, seaside towns and nature sites of marin county, gold country in the sierra nevada foothills, rural sonoma county, napa valley, and calistoga, mendocino coastline, big sur and hearst castle, santa barbara: sandy beaches and a charming downtown, palm springs, santa cruz, monterey, and carmel, san luis obispo and the central coast, the redwood forests of humboldt county, mammoth lakes: hiking, fishing, and skiing, map of places to visit in california.

When the afternoon sun shines on the hillsides or the fog rolls in from the Pacific Ocean over the Golden Gate Bridge , this breathtaking city has a mystical beauty. Almost every neighborhood of San Francisco features iconic postcard scenes, from the curves of Lombard Street to the rows of fanciful Victorian houses and the marvelous bay views.

San Francisco packs an incredible number of tourist attractions into just seven by seven square miles. It's a small, walkable city as long as you don't mind hiking up steep streets or hopping on a cable car.

Go on a self-guided walking tour through the city's most atmospheric neighborhoods, which are packed with famous tourist sights.

Whichever way you get around San Francisco, it's fun to explore Chinatown , a bustling area of shops and authentic Chinese restaurants; North Beach (Little Italy); and Fisherman's Wharf , a popular waterfront tourist destination.

Today, San Francisco ranks high on the list of top cities in California. This sophisticated metropolis offers world-class opera and ballet, a wide range of theater performances, and gourmet dining. The city has an impressive assortment of restaurants that serve local specialties and locally sourced farm-to-table meals, as well as global cuisine and trendsetting menus.

The hip and edgy Mission district is the place to try up-and-coming restaurants or sample ethnic cuisine, relax in a coffee shop, and browse unique shops. The stylish Hayes Valley neighborhood is renowned for its restaurants, as well as unique retail boutiques.

Across the San Francisco Bay (just a 30-minute Bart train ride away) are the university town of Berkeley, with its high-caliber cultural attractions and acclaimed gourmet restaurants, and the multicultural city of Oakland , which boasts interesting museums, historic theaters, lively neighborhood events, and summer festivals.

Nature lovers can drive 30 miles south of San Francisco (via the scenic Highway One) to Half Moon Bay . Tucked away behind rolling hills, this oceanfront town fronts a stretch of wild, rugged Pacific coastline. It's a great place for walking along the beach, hiking, golfing, fishing, and bird-watching, or enjoying a seafood meal by the harbor.

About 17 miles farther south is Pescadero , a rural community with many small farms; a bird sanctuary at the Pescadero Marsh Natural Preserve; and a goat dairy (Harley Farms), which offers guided tours of the farm. Harley Farms has picnic tables and a boutique that sells goat cheese and other products made on the farm.

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Los Angeles epitomizes the seductive image of sunny Southern California with its wide, palm-fringed boulevards; exclusive designer boutiques; trendy restaurants; and sun-drenched sandy beaches. Despite being a sprawling urban metropolis, the city has pleasant neighborhoods, spacious parks, and refreshing beachfront promenades.

The city established its raison d'être during the film industry boom of the 1920s and 30s and is still synonymous with Tinseltown glitz and glamour. Among the top tourist attractions of Los Angeles is the famous neighborhood of Hollywood, which has many iconic sights , including the Walk of Fame lined with star plaques honoring prominent movie directors, actors, and musicians.

Those intrigued by the idea of spotting Hollywood stars should head to their stomping grounds on Rodeo Drive , lined with haute couture boutiques; the exclusive Beverly Hills and Bel Air neighborhoods; and the Chateau Marmont hotel on Sunset Boulevard. The upscale neighborhood of Franklin Village in Hollywood is also a good place for celebrity sightings.

Favorite L.A. beaches include the eclectic Venice Beach, a fun-loving scene of rollerbladers, cyclists, joggers, and street performers; and in the fashionable town of Santa Monica , the 3.5-mile Santa Monica State Beach (15 miles from Los Angeles, accessible by the Expo Metro line), which has an iconic pier and a beachfront path for walking and cycling.

Besides movie stars, beaches, fine dining, and shopping, Los Angeles is also known for its art scene and cultural offerings. The city boasts world-class museums and performance venues such as the J. Paul Getty Museum at the Getty Center in Los Angeles, the Walt Disney Concert Hall (jazz and classical music performances) at The Music Center , and the Hollywood Bowl (pop music concerts, jazz, and classical music/orchestra performances).

Near the leafy town of Pasadena with its pleasant tree-lined streets (11 miles from Los Angeles) is The Huntington 's 130-acre Botanical Gardens , filled with 16 different themed gardens, including a Desert Garden, an authentic Japanese Garden, and a Shakespeare Garden featuring plants cultivated in Renaissance England.

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Dip your toes in the sand and experience the fun-loving California lifestyle when you visit sunny San Diego. Appreciated for its year-round balmy climate, gorgeous scenery, beautiful sandy beaches , and outdoor adventures, this SoCal city seems to have it all.

Some of the key attractions in San Diego proper are Balboa Park , an expansive green space with ravishing gardens and several museums; the historic Gaslamp Quarter , which is full of boutiques, art galleries, and good restaurants; and the Old Town San Diego State Historic Park , where museums, retail shops, and restaurants occupy the old adobe buildings.

If you are traveling with little ones, you'll love the city's kid-friendly attractions, as well as the family-friendly resorts. The top things to do in San Diego with kids include visiting San Diego Zoo ; watching the dolphin and whale shows at SeaWorld ; exploring the playgrounds at Balboa Park ; admiring colorful sea life at Birch Aquarium in La Jolla; and spending time at The New Children's Museum .

San Diego has the original Spanish mission (founded in 1769), the Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcalá which was the birthplace of Christianity in California. The adobe building complex features a distinctive campanario (bell wall), a simple Mission Church (a National Historic Landmark), and a courtyard garden filled with tropical flowers and bougainvillea.

Mass is celebrated at the Mission Church twice daily Monday through Friday, once daily on Saturdays, and several times on Sundays. You may visit the Mission for an admission fee. Guided tours are available.

Several nearby destinations are good day trips from San Diego . For sunbathing and shopping, La Jolla (14 miles north of San Diego's downtown) is prized for its sandy beaches, as well as its quaint downtown full of gourmet restaurants, art museums, performing arts venues, and antiques shops.

Another worthwhile excursion from San Diego is the Mission San Juan Capistrano, in a tranquil setting 66 miles north. For the taste of a different culture, travelers can visit Tijuana in Mexico, just 20 miles south of San Diego. For a stress-free visit, consider an organized tour from San Diego to Tijuana.

Slightly farther away (within two hours of San Diego) are many wonderful weekend getaway destinations such as the dreamy Catalina Island and the mountain resort of Idyllwild .

Nothing prepares you for the jaw-dropping natural splendor of Yosemite Valley. This striking landscape features sheer granite cliffs and domes carved by glaciers millions of years ago. When John Muir discovered Yosemite Valley in the 1860s, he described it as the "grandest of all special temples of Nature" and helped to establish the area as a protected national park.

A vast High Sierra wilderness of 1,200 square miles, Yosemite National Park was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984 and boasts 800 miles of hiking trails. Visiting Yosemite ranks among the top things to do in California . Keep in mind that you may need reservations to enter Yosemite National Park.

Every area of the park is dazzling, from its expansive meadows, free-flowing waterfalls, and crystal-clear streams to the giant sequoia tree groves. The park has incredible biological diversity, with more than 400 different animal species, including 262 species of birds.

The most emblematic sights of Yosemite are Yosemite Falls , an amazing 2,425-foot waterfall, and Half Dome , the sheer-faced granite mountain. The trail to the top of Yosemite Falls and the all-day trek up to Half Dome are among the most challenging hikes in Yosemite; you must be in excellent physical fitness for both hikes and a permit is required to hike Half Dome.

If you're an avid hiker, you will enjoy the wide array of hikes at Yosemite National Park . There's even a portion of the legendary Pacific Crest Trail , found alongside the gushing Tuolumne River .

Easier trails include the hike to Vernal Falls footbridge and the loop around Mirror Lake , a pleasant spot sheltered by granite walls.

Yosemite National Park has two historic lodges ( The Ahwahnee and the Wawona Hotel ) and the modern Yosemite Valley Lodge . Visitors can also choose from hotels located in the nearby towns outside of the park such as Oakhurst, Groveland, and El Portal.

For those who prefer camping, there are rustic cabins and campgrounds throughout the park. It's recommended to make reservations for all types of overnight accommodations, including cabins and campsites, well in advance.

Read More: Top Attractions & Things to Do in Yosemite National Park

Surrounded by snowcapped mountains, Lake Tahoe is a place of sublime beauty and serenity. The lake has brilliant turquoise waters with a translucent quality, and the scenery is so picturesque that it has a meditative effect.

The top things to do at Lake Tahoe include hiking, alpine skiing, and scenic boat cruises. To admire the alpine landscape, you can choose from many wonderful hiking trails in the South Lake Tahoe area. Some of the best campgrounds are also found in South Lake Tahoe.

For enchanting lakeside scenery, head to Emerald Bay State Park, the peaceful forests and beaches of D. L. Bliss State Park, and the densely-wooded Ed Z'berg Sugar Pine Point State Park . These parks also provide well-groomed nature trails and scenic spots for picnicking.

Kings Beach on the sunny North Shore of Lake Tahoe is a favorite place for swimming and boating, including kayaking and paddleboarding. Kings Beach is also a bustling town with many restaurants, casual eateries, shops, and street vendors.

Winter sports enthusiasts flock to Lake Tahoe from December until April (depending on seasonal snowfall) for downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and sledding. The Palisades Tahoe ski area, the awe-inspiring Heavenly Ski Resort , and family-friendly Northstar California are world-class destinations for downhill skiing. Several other Lake Tahoe ski resorts also have top-notch facilities and superb alpine terrain.

Read More: Best Beaches on Lake Tahoe

Just north of San Francisco across the Golden Gate Bridge, Marin County is one of the most popular day trips from San Francisco . However, travelers should note that a car is required to get around in Marin, except for Sausalito, which is accessible by ferry from San Francisco.

The picture-perfect waterfront town of Sausalito has a quaint historic downtown, beautiful marinas, and sensational views of San Francisco. Sausalito is very touristy but is definitely worth visiting because of the unique setting.

For those sightseeing by car, it's a short drive from Sausalito to gorgeous nature sites: Tennessee Valley , appreciated for its springtime wildflowers and gentle walking trail to the beach, and Muir Woods National Monument , a dense forest of giant 1,000-year-old coastal redwood trees.

Because Muir Woods is such a popular destination, many tour companies offer organized day trips from San Francisco. For all other visitors, reservations are required for the paid parking at Muir Woods National Monument, as well as for the shuttle service from Sausalito (ideal for those traveling without a car).

A spectacularly scenic but difficult winding coastal drive along Highway One (about 30 to 45 minutes from Muir Beach) leads to Stinson Beach , appreciated for its 3.5-mile-long sandy shoreline and excellent facilities (picnic area, snack bar, public restrooms). The town owes its Bohemian ambience and touch of flower-child flair to the locally owned shops and organic restaurants.

To experience the wild, natural beauty of Marin County's coastline, drive six miles north of Stinson Beach to the Point Reyes National Seashore on Tomales Bay. This splendid coastal environment includes peaceful hidden coves, sandy beaches , nature trails with sweeping ocean views, and protected estuaries that are ideal for kayaking.

A paradise for bird-watchers, Point Reyes is home to a remarkable variety of avian species, including the snowy plover, northern spotted owl, Peregrine falcon, and brown pelican.

Continuing farther north is Bodega Bay , a fishing village and laid-back resort area (27 miles north of Point Reyes Station in the Point Reyes National Seashore) where Marin County borders Sonoma County. If you're outdoorsy and a beach lover, you will appreciate the area's invigorating natural environment.

Head to Bodega Bay for nature walks, hiking, horseback riding, kayaking, and surfing. Despite being a quiet coastal community, Bodega Bay has an extensive choice of hotels, lodges, and vacation rental options.

Read More: Top-Rated Weekend Getaways in the Bay Area, CA

In 1848, when John Sutter and James Marshal were building a sawmill at Coloma along the American River, they discovered small nuggets of gold on the site. This pivotal moment led to the "Gold Rush" of 1849, changing the course of California's history. Thousands of gold-seekers flocked to this location in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, hoping to find their fortunes.

You can see where gold was discovered at the old sawmill in Coloma (today it's part of the Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park ). Try panning for gold in the American River just as the gold miners did in 1849. The park offers gold panning lessons. After touring the site, explore the park's hiking trails or have a picnic under the oak trees.

About 40 miles north of Coloma are the atmospheric Gold Rush towns of Grass Valley and Nevada City. At Empire Mine State Historic Park in Grass Valley, you may tour the old mining area and the property's Victorian "cottage."

Be sure to visit the charming downtown of Grass Valley . This historic town has many mid-19th-century buildings that are filled with art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants.

Don't miss Nevada City , known for its historic inns and restaurants. Nevada City also hosts cultural events such as First Friday Artwalks, summertime music concerts, and several film festivals throughout the year.

Beautiful nature sites are found throughout the Sierra Nevada foothills. Nestled in a canyon, the South Yuba River State Park is a good place for bird-watching, swimming, and hiking.

For summertime recreation, the American River attracts many visitors to its riverfront parks. Dave Moore Nature Area (two miles from Coloma) has hiking trails and picnic areas. In the Coloma-Lotus Valley, the South Fork of the American River is the place to go for white-water rafting experiences.

The Cronan Ranch Regional Trails Park in Pilot Hill (four miles from Coloma) has 12 miles of hiking/biking trails plus fishing areas.

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Tucked away along a rugged stretch of ocean bluffs and craggy headlands, the Sonoma Coast State Park offers pristine scenery, solitude, and secluded sandy beaches.

Sonoma County is one of the best places to visit in Northern California for scenic hikes in the rolling hills and along the coast.

To explore the picturesque sun-drenched countryside of Sonoma County, head to Trione-Annadel State Park where you can go hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding along the park's network of trails. Trione-Annadel State Park is also a great place for spotting springtime wildflowers and fishing at the park's Lake Ilsanjo.

The Foothill Regional Park offers seven miles of trails through a serene landscape of oak woodlands, flowering meadows, and gently rolling hillsides, plus three ponds for fishing. There are also picnic tables located in various areas of the park.

Besides stunning nature sites, Sonoma County and neighboring Napa Valley boast plenty of cultural attractions.

A favorite tourist destination, the town of Sonoma features a central plaza and an old Spanish Mission. The central square of Sonoma is a great place to take leisurely strolls, browse the boutiques, and indulge in a gourmet meal. Sonoma is known for its restaurant scene. You can also enjoy picnics on the tree-shaded lawn of the central square.

The trend-setting Napa Valley is a mecca for luxury resorts, boutique hotels, and gourmet restaurants. Napa Valley's most renowned restaurant (and the most difficult place to reserve a table) is The French Laundry in Yountville (10 miles from Napa), awarded three Michelin stars.

Nestled in the foothills of Mount Saint Helena and surrounded by vineyards, Calistoga (30 miles from Napa) has a charming downtown and spas with mineral hot springs.

The Calistoga Spa Hot Springs hotel & spa treats guests to a pampering experience at its geothermal hot springs and recently updated resort property. The Calistoga Spa Hot Springs resort offers the famous Calistoga mud baths as well as yoga classes and massage treatments.

Read More: Top-Rated Hot Springs in California

For spectacular scenery, few places compare to Mendocino's dramatic coastline, where the deep blue waters of the Pacific crash up against sheer cliffs and lap into quiet, sheltered coves. Visitors are rejuvenated by the fresh air and inspired by the panoramic ocean views.

Typical of Northern California, the weather is often cool and foggy, better suited to hiking than sunbathing. Nature lovers enjoy walks along the ocean bluffs and secluded beaches, as well as through shady redwood groves at Mendocino County's many state parks .

Set on an ocean bluff overlooking Mendocino Bay, the historic village of Mendocino is a destination in itself. This well-preserved Victorian-era logging town is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. You will be delighted by the many tourist attractions, art galleries, locally owned boutiques, bed and breakfasts, and a wide selection of restaurants in Mendocino.

The town of Mendocino also hosts a wide variety of festivals throughout the year, from a Whale Festival in March to organic farming workshops and an Art in the Gardens event in August.

Read More: Top-Rated Romantic Getaways in California

Incomparably beautiful, Big Sur is a 90-mile stretch of mountainous coastline in central California. The two-lane Highway One route through Big Sur winds along daunting hairpin turns overlooking the ocean. One of the best West Coast road trips , the route starts just south of Carmel and ends at San Simeon, and the entire stretch feels a world apart because of its remoteness.

Guaranteed to take your breath away, the dramatic landscape of Big Sur features rugged ocean bluffs, shady redwood forests, and precipitous cliffs that drop off into the Pacific's crashing waves. Hiking is a good way to soak up the scenery. Many trails afford sensational vistas. There are also viewpoints at luxury hotels and restaurants throughout Big Sur.

At the southernmost point of Big Sur in San Simeon is Hearst Castle , which ranks high on the list of tourist attractions in California . Built between 1919 and 1922 for newspaper baron William Randolph Hearst, the castle is an architectural masterpiece perched on a hilltop high above the Pacific Ocean.

Hearst called this magical place "La Cuesta Encantada" ("The Enchanted Hill"). In fact, the 38-bedroom (115-room) castle resembles a 16th-century Spanish cathedral. The enormous estate, including 127 acres of manicured gardens, pools, and walkways, has been converted to a State Historical Monument that is open year-round to the public for guided tours (available daily). The site has a Visitor Center with a cafeteria and gift shop.

Read More: Top-Rated Campgrounds near Big Sur & Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, CA

Santa Barbara is a dreamy seaside city in Southern California , a place for sunbathing, relaxation, and pampering. Often called "The American Riviera," this upscale resort destination is a beach lover's paradise with balmy weather, a lovely waterfront area, an expansive coastline of golden-sand shoreline, and amazing sunsets.

Traditional Spanish-style buildings, tile-adorned walkways, and palm-fringed streets give the downtown of Santa Barbara its special charm. You could spend hours exploring the downtown's art galleries, open-air markets, and locally owned retail boutiques, only to stop for a snack at a sidewalk café or a delicious meal at one of the top-notch restaurants.

Surrounded by luxuriant gardens, with the Santa Ynez Mountains as a backdrop, Old Mission Santa Barbara is known as the "Queen of the Missions" because of its graceful adobe architecture and exquisite natural setting. The Mission is open to the public daily (from 9:30am until 4pm) for self-guided tours of the Mission Church, Sacred Garden, and museum. The site also has a gift shop.

Old Mission Santa Barbara has been home to a community of Franciscan friars since 1786. The mission continues to serve as a space for Franciscan ministries and also has an active parish church. Mass is celebrated throughout the week at the Mission Church; services are held Monday through Friday at 8am, on Saturdays at 4pm, and on Sundays at 7:30am, 9am, and 11am.

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With the towering San Jacinto Mountains and swaying palm trees as a backdrop, this desert oasis is synonymous with stylish poolside vacationing. In fact, Palm Springs has been a popular winter resort destination for Hollywood celebrities since the 1920s and continues to attract all kinds of tourists today.

The serene scenery and warm weather give the place a relaxing holiday ambience, while golf courses, gourmet restaurants, and interesting museums give visitors plenty to do. Just outside of Palm Springs are fabulous hiking trails at Mount San Jacinto and Indian Canyons.

Palm Springs hosts many cultural events throughout the year including film festivals and live music concerts. One of the most popular events is Modernism Week , which celebrates mid-century modern architecture and design, which is well represented in buildings throughout Palm Springs.

The famous Coachella music festival takes place just 23 miles from Palm Springs in April ( purchase tickets well ahead of time before they sell out).

Less than an hour away is Joshua Tree National Park . Home to Joshua trees and dramatic rock formations, this is a popular area for sightseeing, hiking , camping , and climbing.

• A Visitor's Guide to Exploring Downtown Palm Springs, CA
• Best Hikes in Palm Springs, CA

This little pocket of Northern California coastline rivals Southern California in its seaside charm and vacation vibes. For those seeking a classic California beach town complete with a boardwalk amusement park and surfing scene, sunny Santa Cruz is the place to go. Surprisingly, it's only about a 90-minute drive south of foggy and frigid San Francisco.

The hillsides above the Santa Cruz coastline are covered with lush redwood forests, which can be explored on a train ride. With its fleet of old-fashioned steam locomotives, the Roaring Camp Railroads company operates scenic train rides through the redwood groves of the Santa Cruz Mountains. The company also runs trains from Roaring Camp in the mountains down to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.

A gritty 19th-century seaport and fish-packing town, Monterey (about 40 miles south of Santa Cruz) provided inspiration for the vibrant stories in John Steinbeck's Cannery Row novel. Today Monterey's beautifully restored waterfront is home to the world-class Monterey Bay Aquarium and the Old Fisherman's Wharf, a historic pier lined with restaurants and gift shops.

For a romantic getaway, Carmel allows you to experience the enchantment of an adorable seaside village. This postcard-perfect town features fairy-tale cottages, hidden passageways, and enticing one-of-a-kind boutiques. Carmel has all the draws of a premier seaside resort destination: fine-dining restaurants, luxurious hotels, and a picturesque sandy beach.

• Best Beaches in Santa Cruz, CA
• Top-Rated Hiking Trails near Santa Cruz, CA

Known as the "Happiest City in America," San Luis Obispo welcomes you with its friendly atmosphere and interesting tourist attractions. Tucked away in the foothills of the Santa Lucia Mountains just 10 miles from the beach, this fun-loving college town boasts year-round sunshine, a historic Spanish mission, and a weekly farmers' market with live entertainment

Two popular beaches on the Central Coast are within a 30-minute drive from San Luis Obispo: the surfer's favorite Pismo Beach and the more secluded resort-like Avila Beach which is a top destination for sunbathing, paddle-boarding, kayaking, and fishing.

Read More: Top-Rated Day Trips from San Luis Obispo, CA

The Disneyland Resort amusement park is the main tourist draw of Anaheim . However, this sunny Southern California city (about 30 miles from Los Angeles) offers plenty of other attractions.

If you're traveling with kids, be sure to visit the Knott's Berry Farm theme park (located six miles from Anaheim) and the playground at Yorba Regional Park , a landscaped 140-acre green space with picnic areas and hiking/biking paths.

Anaheim has several noteworthy destinations for dining, including the Anaheim GardenWalk near Disneyland, the Food Hall at the Anaheim Packing House , and the palm tree-lined Center Street Promenade .

For fresh air and inspiring scenery, head to the 58-acre Oak Canyon Nature Center in eastern Anaheim has four miles of scenic hiking trails nestled in coastal canyons, oak woodlands, and scrub-covered rolling hills.

Humboldt County is an escape to the great outdoors, a remote area of redwood groves, secluded beaches, and rushing rivers. The combination of fragrant forests and salty ocean breezes give the air an invigorating quality.

While the wide-open spaces and towering trees may make you feel small, the incredible scenery instills a respect for nature. This unspoiled environment provides an inspiring backdrop for hiking, hunting, fishing, and outdoor adventures.

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as an International Biosphere Reserve, the Redwood National and State Parks (which comprise four separate parks: Redwood National Park, Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park, and Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park) contain the world's oldest and tallest redwood trees, some reaching over 375 feet in height.

Many of the best hikes in the Redwood National and State Parks are found at Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park . This lush old-growth redwoods park features a scenic 10-mile drive, 75 miles of trails for hiking, picnic areas, plus a pristine beach.

Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park is most famous for Fern Canyon . This fern-covered canyon traversed by a fresh-water creek was the filming location for some scenes in The Lost World: Jurassic Park movie.

A little over an hour south of Redwood National and State Parks is Humboldt Redwoods State Park , California's biggest redwood state park (covering 53,000 acres), which includes the world's largest old-growth redwood forest (17,000 acres).

Not to be missed is the Avenue of the Giants in Humboldt Redwoods State Park. Be sure to drive through at least part of this 32-mile-long route through the forest to admire the lofty redwood trees and get a sense of the forest's enormity. The park also has 100 miles of hiking trails with plenty of variety for all fitness levels.

Amid the magnificent redwood forests along the Humboldt Bay is the historic seaport of Eureka , Humboldt County's main urban center. Among the top attractions of Eureka , the Historic Old Town boasts hundreds of ornate Victorian buildings. The most notable is the Carson Mansion built in the 1880s for lumber baron William Carson.

Several of the old Victorians have been converted into bed-and-breakfast hotels, such as the luxurious Carter House Inns . Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the English Tudor-style Eureka Inn (now part of the Trademark Collection by Wyndham) was built in 1922 for nature-loving vacationers.

If you don't care much about high thread-count sheets and prefer to sleep under the redwood trees and stars, Humboldt County has camping sites in pristine locations.

Among the best campgrounds in the Redwood National and State Parks are Mill Creek Campground in Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park, the Elk Prairie Campground in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, and the Jedediah Smith Campgrounds at Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park.

Read More: Best National Parks in California

One of California's top off-the-beaten-path destinations , Mammoth Lakes in the Eastern Sierra Mountains is a mecca for outdoor adventures. The sunny weather and crisp mountain air invigorate the body and soul, while the incredible scenery provides an amazing setting for hiking and mountain biking.

Mammoth Lakes has more than 300 miles of hiking trails in diverse wilderness areas such as Devils Postpile National Monument and the backpacking routes along the Pacific Crest Trail and the John Muir Trail . The landscape varies from peaceful valleys, meadows, crystal-clear lakes, and pine forests to high-mountain desert and granite crags, including a summit that soars to 11,053 feet.

With nearly a hundred lakes, as well as streams and creeks, Mammoth Lakes is an incredible place for fishing during the season, which runs from the end of April through early November. An exception is made for catch-and-release fishing, which is allowed year-round at the Upper Owens River and East Walker River.

In the winter, Mammoth Lakes is popular for cross-country skiing, alpine skiing, and snowboarding, as well as ice skating and sledding. The alpine ski terrain at the extensive Mammoth Mountain Ski Area covers over 3,500 acres with 175 trails. Because of the abundant snowfall at this high-alpine location, the downhill ski season extends as late as August.

Any time of year, Mammoth Lakes is ready to welcome visitors to its gourmet restaurants, rustic lodges, and upscale mountain resorts.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Best Beaches in California: Searching for the perfect beach destination in California? Have a read through our list of best beaches in California to learn about the wide variety of beaches. Be sure to plan ahead and book a place to stay.

Outdoor Adventures in California: Exciting adventures await at the nature sites of California. Favorite things to do include exploring the best hiking trails in California and camping beneath the giant sequoias in Sequoia National Park. In wintertime, powder hounds hit the slopes at California's ski resorts , whether it's black diamonds at Palisades Tahoe or the bunny hills at Sugar Bowl.

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The 15 best places to visit in California

The best places to visit in California include sunny beachside towns, snowy mountain resorts and sprawling metropolises

The best places to visit in California need little introduction. Thanks to a wealth of attractions and on-screen appearances, the Golden State enjoys a prominent place in the world’s collective imagination. California is more than palm trees and sunshine though; it offers a wonderfully diverse landscape of mountains, deserts, beaches , and vineyards. Plus, within each of these distinct settings, you’ll discover unique pockets of vibrant culture, stylish design, and some of the  best restaurants on the West Coast. California is the stuff of road trip dreams, and you can start mapping out your next adventures with the following alluring destinations.

RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best  things to do in California

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Best places to visit in California

1.  yosemite.

What is it? Quite possibly the most spectacular showcase of the Earth’s natural beauty.

Why go? The few Californians who admit to having never visited this tourist-populated national park risk ridicule by fellow residents. Why? Because even regular visitors are left dumbstruck by Yosemite ’s grand-scale natural wonders. The park spans nearly 750,000 acres, but most visitors are content sticking to Yosemite Valley thanks to blockbuster attractions such as Vernal Falls, Mirror Lake, and Half Dome. For more solitude, seek out Tuolumne Meadows, Wawona, and Hetch Hetchy which once rivaled Yosemite Valley’s scenery before it was dammed up to serve as a reservoir for San Francisco ’s drinking water.

Discover the best things to do in Yosemite 

2.  Napa Valley

What is it? Take an especially scenic patch of California countryside, and add relaxed vibes, world-class dining, and a hell of a lot of exceptional wine.

Why go? Thanks to a balmy climate, Insta-worthy wineries, and a breathtaking setting of rolling vineyards backed by mountain peaks, even your favorite wine tastes better in Napa Valley. The region is comprised of numerous small towns with their own distinct flavor, from The French Laundry’s tony home of Yountville to the laid-back, mineral springs-rich town of Calistoga. Don’t pass up downtown Napa whose historic riverfront streets are currently experiencing a renaissance.

Discover the best  things to do in Napa

3.  Big Sur

What is it? Redwoods meet the sea at this nature-filled escape perched high above the Pacific.

Why go? Big Sur encompasses a wide, forested swath of California’s central coast, yet you’ll find most lodging, restaurants, and attractions in and around Big Sur Village. For your basecamp, pitch a tent at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, or bed down in one of the outdoor-chic cabins at Glen Oaks. During the day, frolic in the crystalline pools found along the Big Sur River (the best are at The Gorge in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park), hike down to mesmerizing Partington Cove, and join the hundreds of other tourists photographing iconic McWay Falls. Cap the night with sweeping vistas and a sunset cocktail and at Nepenthe, and wake to a hearty breakfast around the wood-fired hearth at the ridiculously cozy Deetjen’s restaurant.

4.  Lake Tahoe

What is it? The second largest lake in the nation is a year-round destination for skiing, watersports, and alpine splendor.

Why go? While the U.S. abounds with famed ski resorts, only Tahoe offers those coveted bluebird days after a night of fresh powder. Yet, the region draws the most crowds during the summer when visitors can hike waterfront, cliffside trails, raft the gorgeous Truckee River, and fling themselves off granite boulders into the lake’s clear, turquoise waters.

Discover the best things to do in South Lake Tahoe 

5.  Palm Springs

What is it? Originally popularized by Sinatra-era celebs, this serene desert escape is finding a new audience with mid-century style and a popular music fest.

Why go? In a state renowned for blending natural beauty and stylish design, Palm Springs still stands out. It’s home to the largest collection of mid-century modern structures in the world, many of which you can admire via self-guided tours (stop by the visitors center housed in a particularly striking example). Plus, half the fun of weekending in Palm Springs is the many reimagined inns and motels that serve as de facto showcases for the town’s fetching, mid-century mod style. And, each spring, you’ll want to don your best boho duds for the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival which takes place in neighboring Indio.

Discover the best  things to do in Palm Springs

6.  Healdsburg

What is it? The chic epicenter of Sonoma County’s wine and food scene.

Why go? No need to pull straws for a designated driver thanks to Healdsburg’s walkable central plaza brimming with tasting rooms and upscale restaurants. Check in to one of the town’s luxe hotels—Harmon Guest House, The Duchamp—and stroll to plaza hotspots such as the loungey tasting room of Banshee Wines, the lively, bocce ball-equipped patio at Campo Fina, and the exquisite dining room of the three Michelin star Single Thread.

7.  Santa Barbara

What is it? A seaside gem in Central California.

Why go? The town’s slogan “The American Riviera” feels like a marketing ploy...until you visit in person. Lush, Spanish Colonial architecture from the early 20th century are tucked between the bewitching Santa Ynez Mountains and the sparkling Pacific Ocean. Stroll main drag State Street whose shops and restaurants are often situated in hidden, Spanish-style courtyards, before ending up at palm tree-lined East Beach. For more seaside splendor, hop on a rental bike, and pedal the shorefront to Butterfly Beach which fronts the spectacular—and spendy—Four Seasons Biltmore. Come evening, find drinks, eats, and a fun crowd in the lively Funk Zone. Just make sure to tour the enchanting gardens at Lotusland before you leave town.

Discover the best things to do in Santa Barbara

8.   Mendocino

What is it? A rugged stretch California coastline with a few nods to New England.

Why go? The Infinitely charming town situated on coastal headlands and comprised of New England style homes—thank its early settlers—has historically drawn lovestruck couples to cutesy B&Bs. Thankfully, the grandma-pleasing decor found in many inns is slowly giving way to contemporary furnishings. Plus, Mendocino isn’t just for the lovey-dovey set. Outdoor adventures abound including hiking fern-laden redwood groves and dramatic coastal bluffs—check out Van Damme and Russian Gulch State Parks—and kayaking wondrous sea caves. At night, the region’s exceptionally dark skies are awash in millions of stars.

9.  San Diego

What is it? Beaches, beer and border culture help define this sunny SoCal town.

Why go? San Diego combines the best of California’s cities and beach towns with a fun, sophisticated food and drink scene and miles of sandy shores. Twenty-somethings will find no shortage of shots in party spots such as Pacific Beach and the Gaslamp District, while foodies should gravitate to Little Italy and North Park. In burgeoning Barrio Logan, find a hip Mexican-American community populated with stylish cafes, breweries, and eateries. Beachgoers will be happy in La Jolla and Coronado Island. Just don’t miss a Mai Tai at one of the many tiki bars—False Idol, Grass Skirt, Fairweather, for starters—that feel right at home in the city’s tropical environs.

Discover the best things to do in San Diego

10.  Los Angeles

What is it? This oft-misunderstood city is the cultural hub of California (and yes, that includes insanely good tacos).

Why go? Despite what you might have heard, there are numerous ways to do this multifaceted city, most of which are not always apparent to newcomers. No doubt you’ve seen Santa Monica beaches and Beverly Hills boutiques portrayed on-screen, yet you’ll have to seek out the Persian dishes of the westside’s “Tehrangeles,” the majestic architecture and nightlife of downtown LA , and the fun, hipster scenes found in Echo Park , Silver Lake  and Highland Park . Plus, LA art galleries  are the best in the state, exhibiting both the modern ( The Broad , MOCA , LACMA ) and the quirky ( Museum of Jurassic Technology , Velveteria, Museum of Neon Art ). As for those tacos, just walk down any street.

Discover the best things to do in Los Angeles

11.  San Francisco

What is it? Home to more than a few California landmarks— Golden Gate Bridge , Chinatown , Alcatraz — San Francisco charms with hilltop vistas and exceptional eateries.

Why go? It’s compact size and colorful street life means you can enjoy seeing the city’s attractions all on foot. Plus, there’s always good eats within reach as eating and drinking is considered SF residents’ favorite pastime. Nosh your way through the marketplace at the waterfront Ferry Building , explore Chinatown’s moody alleys, and bar hop in the Mission . Bonus points for visiting Oakland ’s hip boutiques and laid-back eateries across the bay.

Discover the best things to do in San Francisco

12.  Orange County

What is it? The home of Disneyland offers more magical reasons to linger.

Why go? In Orange County , the thrills don’t stop at the Dumbo ride. Anaheim bustles with innumerable craft breweries, Laguna Beach hides some of the most beautiful beaches in California , and South Coast Plaza is a shopping mecca for more than just real housewives. To see what the cool kids are up to, check out Costa Mesa and Downtown Santa Ana which features a collection of hip boutiques and the county’s best nightlife.

Discover the best things to do in Orange County

13.  Santa Cruz

What is it? The birthplace of mainland surfing is redefining the modern, California surf town.

Why go? Featured in the pioneering surf flick “The Endless Summer” and home to where surf legend Jack O’Neill invented the wetsuit, Santa Cruz has had surfing in its DNA since three Hawaiian princes introduced the sport here in the late 1880s. Yet, the city’s iconic surf style has gotten an upgrade in recent years. Shop stylish, surf-inspired boutiques such as Berdel’s, Sawyer Land & Sea Supply, and Home/Work, before chowing down on contemporary seaside grub—fish tacos, poke bowls—at Steamer Lane Supply.

Discover the best things to do in Santa Cruz

14.  Sea Ranch

What is it? A Northern California coastal nirvana made even more alluring by striking, 70s-era modernism.

Why go? Watch your blood pressure drop and social media shares soar at this quiet coastal community where the primary activity is marveling at the surrounding coastal landscape. You can book a room at the waterfront Sea Ranch Lodge, yet most visitors are here to stay in one of the sleek, wood-sided modern vacation homes designed to blend into the coastal landscape. Design fans also shouldn’t miss the vibrant super graphics found inside the Moonraker Athletic Center.

15.  Catalina Island

What is it? Southern California without the freeways.

Why go? Reached by a 60-minute boat ride from Long Beach, the island escape feels surprisingly remote. A swinging destination during the 1930s, the tiny town of Avalon today offers more mellow thrills. Tour the island’s Art Deco masterpiece, the Catalina Casino, kayak offshore waters, and sip seaside cocktails at the Descanso Beach Club.

Discover the best things to do on Catalina Island

Explore more of California

The 9 best national parks in california.

• Things to do

Fancy a weekend getaway under a canopy of giant Sequoias or a day trip to see Southern California wildflowers? 

The 15 best California State Parks

California State Parks are like having a Disneyland for every corner of the state.

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55 Fun & Best Things to do in California [2024 Bucket List]

* This article contains affiliate links, which help run this site at no extra cost to you.

TL:DR: As someone who grew up in California and has spent 28 years here, some of the best things to do in California include the following:

• As must-see top tourist destinations, you can’t miss visiting Disneyland, the Hollywood Sign, the Golden Gate Bridge, the redwoods, and Napa Valley wineries.
• For free activities in California, check out the Hollywood Walk of Fame, stroll along the Venice Canals, take in the views at Griffith Observatory, and explore Balboa Park or Golden Gate Park.
• To experience the local side of California, eat lots of Mexican food, try the secret menu at In-N-Out Burger, visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium, see the elephant seals, and spend time on the beautiful beaches.
• To embrace the diverse history and cultures of California, explore San Francisco’s Chinatown, LA’s Little Tokyo, and other cultural neighborhoods in the big cities, visit literary landmarks like Jack London State Park, and tour some of the historic Spanish missions.

Although there are a lot of stereotypes about California (and Californians), you really can’t put the people or the landscape into a box – it’s much too varied.

There is SO much more to discover here than just famous people, sunshine, Hollywood, and Disneyland. 

I hope you’ll get to experience both the local aspects and tourist attractions around California through these recommendations. 

These are my favorite must-have experiences and the best things to do in California, as someone who has spent 80% of her life living in three different regions of the Golden State.

Let’s start with the most popular things to do in California that everyone should do at least once to fully embrace everything the Golden State has to offer.  

If you’re wondering what to do in California, these are the top California sights and experiences you absolutely can’t miss in the state. 

Get Your FREE California Travel Planner + printable checklists for 101 things to do in California!

Table of Contents

Drive the Pacific Coast Highway

Highway 1, also called the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), is well known as one of the most scenic routes in the world.

Officially starting from Leggett in Northern California and stretching down to Dana Point in Orange County, the Pacific Coast Highway takes 15-20 hours to complete without stops or much traffic.

But believe me, the trip is worth it. Along the way, you’ll experience stunning coastal views, seaside towns, hushed redwood forests, and more. 

Read my full guide on how to plan the perfect Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip . Plus, where to stay and where to eat on the way . 

Disneyland & California Adventure

One of those very fun things to do in California that’s on every first-timer’s bucket list – experiencing Disneyland and California Adventure is a must if you’re visiting California. 

Whether you excitedly jog from ride to ride, grab a treat from a themed land, or watch the fireworks show at night, you’ll want your day to last forever (especially if you know how to use the FastPass correctly).

If you only have time to visit one, definitely head to Disneyland. It’s a classic and worth a visit if you’ve never been. However, if you can fit in both parks over a couple of days, do it! 

Read my full guide to the best things to do in Orange County .  

Hollywood Walk of Fame – Los Angeles

Posing with a sidewalk star along the Hollywood Walk of Fame is practically a rite of passage for a California vacation. It’s also one of LA’s most beloved free attractions and one of the most popular things to do in California!

The world’s most famous sidewalk boasts 2,500 stars (and counting) and is one of the first places to visit if you’re new to LA and want to soak up the most popular sights. 

If you are looking for a particular star, there’s an online tool available called “Star Searcher” .

Recommended Experience: Hollywood Behind the Scenes Walking Tour

Universal Studios Hollywood – Los Angeles

Universal Studios Hollywood is part amusement park part studio tour, with plenty of attractions to keep the whole family entertained for a day. 

Take a tour of some of Hollywood’s most popular movie and TV sets, ride Revenge of the Mummy and the Jurassic World ride, and head over to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter for a pint of butterbeer. 

After you’re done with the rides, shows, and tours at Universal Studios, grab dinner and go shopping at Universal CityWalk Hollywood. 

You can grab your tickets for Universal Studios Hollywood ahead of time here.  

Urban Light & LACMA – Los Angeles

This Insta-worthy art installation is one of the hallmarks of the Los Angeles Contemporary Museum of Art (LACMA) .

Besides Urban Light and Levitated Mass (be prepared to feel very, very small), LACMA is home to some incredible exhibits such as Miracle Mile by Robert Irwin.

Santa Monica

People flock to Santa Monica in droves for a chance to show off their swimsuit bods and take in its sandy beach and the historic Santa Monica Pier.

After shopping at 3rd Street Promenade and riding bikes along the beach, head to the Santa Monica Pier to explore Pacific Park, full of carnival games and rides.

It’s the perfect spot from which to watch the sun go down over one of the most iconic spots in California. 

Hollywood Sign & Griffith Observatory – Los Angeles

Perched on the south-facing slope of Mount Hollywood, Griffith Observatory is an astronomer’s dream with its own planetarium, the Tesla Coil, and public telescopes.

As if those weren’t enough, from the Griffith Observatory, visitors are treated to free admission, stunning Greek-inspired architecture, and world-class views of the Los Angeles Basin and the Pacific Ocean. 

In the distance and a short hike away from Griffith Observatory, you can make out another iconic Los Angeles landmark in the distance, the Hollywood Sign. 

Venice Canals – Los Angeles

A taste of Italy can be found near Venice Beach at the Venice Canals. This picturesque residential district has been a unique attraction in Los Angeles since 1905.

It’s a fun place to simply walk around and admire the man-made canals and postcard-worthy views. 

Sprinkles Cupcake ATM – Los Angeles

Ever since Sprinkles Cupcakes first launched in Los Angeles, this dessert chain has amassed a cult following that can’t get enough of their mouth-watering treats.

Get your fix of delicious frosting and cake from the pink Sprinkles ATM in Beverly Hills to see what all the fuss is about (you won’t be disappointed). 

Read my full bucket list of the best things to do in LA . 

Golden Gate Bridge – San Francisco

One of the most popular places to visit in California, San Francisco is an eclectic and condensed city known for its fog, tech scene, classic landmarks, and layered history. 

This is the spot to see a completely different side to the Golden State compared to cities like Los Angeles and San Diego. And, of course, the top sight to see in the city is the Golden Gate Bridge.  

The Golden Gate Bridge provides an unforgettable walk or bike ride with the most surreal experience of all: top-of-the-world views and a gentle sway from the suspension cables.

Climb to the top of the South Tower. When you look down, a grated catwalk makes you feel as if you’re floating on air, gazing straight down 750 feet to the water.

Not a fan of heights? Keep your feet firmly on the ground from with the Best Golden Gate Bridge Viewpoints .

Alcatraz Island – San Francisco

If you want to visit Alcatraz Island, a pro tip is to buy tickets early! Tickets to Alcatraz Island are wildly popular and sell like hotcakes, sometimes selling out two months in advance in the summer. 

Once you get off the ferry at Alcatraz Island, you’ll soon discover why tourists flock to this now-abandoned maximum-security prison that once held the likes of Al Capone, George “Machine Gun” Kelly, and other notorious criminals. 

Its unique and layered history, stellar audio tour, and views of the San Francisco skyline are hard to beat.

If you’re feeling brave, you could even sign up for a night tour of one of California’s most famous islands .  

Grab your Alcatraz tickets here + a San Francisco City Tour .

Read my full guide to the best things to do in San Francisco at night .   

Golden Gate Park – San Francisco

The equivalent of New York’s Central Park (but much bigger), Golden Gate Park is a hotspot for outdoor and cultural activities in San Francisco.

Not only can you visit the De Young Museum, Japanese Tea Garden, and San Francisco Botanical Garden within its leafy boundaries, you can also check out the Buffalo Paddock and see American bison grazing on the wild grasses!

Chinatown – San Francisco

San Francisco’s Chinatown is truly a sight to behold, with the gilded Dragon’s Gate and glowing red lanterns looming over you at its entrance.

This place has been the bedrock of the Chinese-American community since the days of the Gold Rush, so it makes sense that its alleys and buildings are rife with history.

You can easily get a bag of fortune cookies for a steal at the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory, help yourself to some egg tarts, grab a Mai Tai from Li Po, or enjoy dim sum during your time in Chinatown.

Boudin Bakery – San Francisco

The weather in San Francisco is best described as “perpetually chilly,” which means that it’s always soup weather!

San Francisco bakery chain, Boudin Bakery , is world-famous for its sourdough bread bowls, and, if you didn’t know already, San Francisco sourdough is kind of a thing. 

You really can’t beat a piping hot bread bowl of clam chowder after a brisk afternoon outside.

Not feeling sourdough? There are a number of other classic San Francisco treats to try around the city, like Cioppino, fresh Dungeness crab, Mai Tais, Irish coffee, fortune cookies, and Mission burritos. 

Ride a Cable Car – San Francisco

You’ll notice San Francisco’s iconic cable cars gliding up and down steep streets in the busiest parts of the city. In operation since 1873, the cable car was one of the city’s first forms of public transportation. 

Today, more tourists than locals use cable cars to get around but it’s still one of those quintessential things to do in San Francisco with a first-time visit. 

Take the stress out of buying tickets. Read my Guide to Cable Cars in San Francisco .

Lands End & Sutro Baths – San Francisco

Located in the northwest corner of San Francisco in the Presidio neighborhood, the Lands End trail is where you’ll find some of the best bayside views featuring the Golden Gate Bridge.

Start from the historic ruins of the Sutro Baths and make your way toward the Golden Gate Bridge. The views are unbeatable on a sunny, clear day.   

Read my full guide to the best urban hikes in San Francisco . 

Angel Island – San Francisco

Angel Island is the second-largest island in the San Francisco Bay Area, offering amazing views looking out at the San Francisco skyline. 

Once an immigration station, Angel Island is now a national historic landmark and state park located right in the middle of the San Francisco Bay. 

Spend an afternoon hiking around the island, visiting its many historic buildings, and walking up to its highest peak for stunning views of Karl the Fog rolling into the city before the ferry comes to take you back. 

Read my full guide to the best things to do in San Francisco . 

Napa Valley Wineries (And Beyond)

California wine predates California statehood, with Spanish Missionaries planting the first grapes in the 1700s.

From there, it steadily grew into becoming the wine region it is today, which is known as one of the best in the world.

With 138 American Viticultural Areas (or AVAs) and over 4,000 wineries that produce over 80% of the wine made in the US, California is serious about wine and its winemaking culture. 

Napa Valley wine country tends to get most of the attention. It’s the most popular wine region in California with beautiful scenery and castle-like wineries and it’s conveniently located an hour north of San Francisco, making it perfect for a weekend getaway . 

With that said, there are plenty of other wine countries to explore besides Napa wine country, such as Sonoma, Paso Robles, the Santa Cruz Mountains, Auburn, Anderson Valley, and Temecula, among many others.

If you can only pick a few places to go in California, Big Sur should be on your bucket list. Doing a road trip down the Big Sur coastline is easily one of the most beautiful things to do in California. 

This roughly 87-mile-long stretch of relatively undeveloped waterfront and scenic nature between Carmel-by-the-Sea and Hearst Castle is one of the prettiest parts of California. 

Whether you drive it entirely or stop in for just a hint of Central Coast beauty, Big Sur is where you come to see it all: bluffs, sea, and endless sky.

Explore the Beaches & Beach Towns

With 840 miles of sparkling coastline and hundreds of sandy beaches, it’s hard to know where to start when it comes to exploring the beach culture in California. 

In the north, especially around the Mendocino coastline and above, you’ll find a more rugged and undeveloped coast that beckons you to get away from it all. 

To the south, you’ll find pristine, picture-perfect beaches filled with people, great weather, and popular resorts. 

The Los Angeles and Orange County beaches and beach towns are usually what you think of when you think of “beach culture” in California, with that endless summer vibe and long, sandy stretches to lay out on. 

Spend the day in Malibu on one of its scenic beaches or hiking trails looking over the Pacific Ocean.

Grab a bike and ride the 21-mile Marvin Braude Bike Trail that cuts through some of LA’s most popular beaches.

Or rent a car and check out the best beaches along the Pacific Coast Highway all the way down to Dana Point. 

If you’re looking for cute beach towns to discover, make a stop in Santa Cruz and Capitola , Pismo Beach, Morro Bay , or Carmel-by-the-Sea. 

Whichever beaches and beach towns you decide to add to your California to-do list, there are fantastic options up and down the state, it just depends on what you’re looking for. 

Eat a lot of Mexican Food

One of the best things about California is the abundance of amazing Mexican food. 

Crawl up and down State Route 99 to seek out the region’s finest taco stands, mulita specialists, enchilada masters, pan dulce shops, and more. 

Grab fresh churros and champurrado from one of the many food trucks around LA. Head to San Diego to taste its famous fish tacos, which can be found for as little as $2 on Taco Tuesdays.

And you can’t leave the state without trying the fusion “California Burrito” that sounds disgusting to anyone who isn’t from here (who puts french fries in a burrito?), but believe me when I say it’s delicious. 

Lastly, in San Francisco, you won’t want to miss out on the rice-heavy, huge Mission-style burritos that are so unique to the city. 

Go Surfing (Or Learn How to Surf)

The Beach Boys said it best in their song, “Surfin’ USA” when they talked about California being the best place to surf in the country. 

For those who already know how to catch a wave, head to popular spots like San Onofre State Beach, Trestles, Huntington Beach, Mavericks Beach, or Steamer Lane in Santa Cruz. 

For beginner surfers , there are plenty of spots up and down the coast that provide perfect conditions for those just getting their feet wet. 

If you want to learn how to surf or you’re just getting started, head to Linda Mar Beach in Pacifica, Cowell Beach in Santa Cruz, Mondo’s Beach in Ventura, Surfrider Beach in Malibu, or La Jolla Shores in San Diego. 

Whale Watching

Throughout the year, various types of whales make their annual migration from Alaska to Mexico and back, which means the whole coast of California is a prime whale watching area. 

From Mendocino to the Monterey Bay and down to San Diego, you’ll find whale watching opportunities and tours on offer at most times of the year. 

Sometimes you don’t even have to go on a whale watching tour, you can just see them at a distance from the beach because they come in so close to the shore (although it helps if you have binoculars ). 

The most common whales that migrate along the West Coast are gray, blue, and humpback whales.

You’ll most likely spot gray whales and orcas from December to May, humpback whales from May to November, and blue whales from July to October. Dolphins can be spotted year-round from the coast as well. 

Soak in Natural Hot Springs

If you’re looking for fun things to do with friends in California, there’s nothing better than soaking in a natural hot spring with an incredible view in front of you. 

With California’s geothermal nature, it’s not surprising that there are a number of great hot springs to be discovered around the state, both free and at resorts and spas. 

Most of the best hot springs are in Northern and Eastern California, especially around the Eastern Sierra region, although there are a few that can be found in Southern California as well. 

Read my full guide to the best California hot springs to learn more. 

Straddling the state line of California and Nevada, Lake Tahoe is a stunning alpine lake in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. 

In fact, Lake Tahoe is one of the clearest, largest, and deepest alpine lakes in the entire world.

The deep cerulean blue of Lake Tahoe combined with the pine tree-rimmed shoreline and a backdrop of snow-capped mountains sets it apart as one of the most unique destinations in the world.

A trip to Lake Tahoe can be anything you want it to be. In the summer, take advantage of the many state parks and hiking trails around the lake, do some adventure water activities, or discover hidden beaches . 

In the winter, hit the slopes at one of the 15 ski resorts, go snowshoeing, or enjoy après-ski happy hour drinks around the fire. 

If all else fails, there’s always testing your luck at the casinos on the Nevada side of South Lake Tahoe. 

Read my full guides to the best things to do in Lake Tahoe , North vs South Lake Tahoe , Lake Tahoe camping , and where to stay in Lake Tahoe . 

Visit the National Parks

California has the most national parks out of any other US state with nine in total. 

Visiting them is not only one of the best things to do in California, it also allows you to see the diversity of the landscape and just how impressive it can be. 

These are some of my favorite parks that are worth a visit for different reasons – just don’t forget your national park passport . 

Yosemite National Park

If there’s one park to visit in California, it’s Yosemite National Park . At Yosemite National Park, take in the incredible views at Glacier Point, Tunnel View, Valley View, and Olmsted Point. 

Hike to the top of Yosemite Falls or snag a permit to tackle the famous Half Dome hike. 

Or if you’re feeling adventurous, witness the awesome beauty of Yosemite National Park in winter when most of the crowds are gone and the park becomes a hushed winter wonderland. 

Whenever you decide to visit, spending the weekend at Yosemite National Park is one of the most popular and iconic things to do in California. 

Read our two days in Yosemite itinerary , and our guides to experiencing the Yosemite Firefall and how to get from San Francisco to Yosemite .

Joshua Tree National Park

One of my favorite places to travel in California is Joshua Tree.

Joshua Tree National Park is the complete opposite of Yosemite National Park. Instead of sheer cliff faces, pine trees, and high altitudes, you’ll find a dry desert full of funky-looking Joshua Trees, palm trees, and old mines. 

At Joshua Tree National Park, tackle a desert hike or go rock climbing, take in the sunset from Keys View, walk around a cholla cactus garden, enjoy the stellar stargazing while camping (or glamping ), and tour a piece of California’s pioneer past at Keys Ranch. 

Sequoia National Park & Kings Canyon National Park

Located at the southern end of the Sierra Nevada mountain range, Sequoia National Park and Kings Canyon National Park are often grouped together because they’re right next to each other. 

At Sequoia National Park, take in the view from Moro Rock, see General Sherman (the largest tree in the world), and tour the dark cavern that is Crystal Cave.   

At Kings Canyon National Park, drive the Kings Canyon Scenic Byway, visit General Grant Grove, and have a picnic at the scenic Zumwalt Meadow. 

Lassen Volcanic National Park

Home to all four types of volcanoes (shield, composite, cinder cone, and plug dome), Lassen Volcanic National Park literally bubbles, steams, and roars.

This is where you can really see California’s volcanic past and geothermal nature come to life. Walk through the burping Bumpass Hell, take in the reflections at Manzanita Lake, and climb up a volcano called Cinder Cone. 

Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park is a place of extremes. Really, the best way to describe its atmosphere is post-apocalyptic. 

Don’t let its intense nature scare you away though, Death Valley National Park is one of the most distinctive parks in the world that should be on everyone’s bucket list. 

Head to Badwater Basin to visit the lowest point in North America (282 feet below sea level), take in Zabriskie Point at sunrise or sunset, and enjoy the colorful hues at Artist’s Palette. 

Read our guide to the best things to do in Death Valley .  

Channel Islands National Park

The most remote and hardest to get to of the national parks in California, Channel Islands National Park takes some advanced planning to visit but it’s well worth the journey. 

Choose from one of five islands that make up the national park and plan to spend a night or two camping to get the full experience. There aren’t any restaurants, hotels, or other conveniences on the islands, so you’ll want to be prepared. 

Santa Cruz Island is the best for first-time visitors. Don’t miss out on signing up for a kayaking tour to explore its unique sea caves. 

Pinnacles National Park

Established in 2013, Pinnacles National Park is California’s youngest national park. An easy day trip from San Francisco, come here to witness majestic California Condors in the wild, see unique rock formations, and explore dark and musty caves. 

Read our guide to visiting Pinnacles National Park .

Looking to see all of California’s national parks in one trip? Read our itinerary for an epic California national parks road trip .

Balboa Park – San Diego

San Diego might not have quite as many iconic tourist attractions as SF and LA, but there’s still a lot to love about “America’s Finest City.” 

From family-friendly points of interest to those pristine beaches you can only get in Southern California, there are a ton of bucket list activities to enjoy in San Diego. 

San Diego also has some of the best free things to do in California (and on the West Coast as a whole) with its variety of outdoor activities, nearby nature spots, and hiking trails. 

And one of my favorite free things to do in the city is visiting Balboa Park.

Home to multiple museums, performing arts venues, and gardens, the 1,200-acre Balboa Park is a stunning monument to Spanish Renaissance architecture and the pride of San Diego.

Must-sees are El Prado, the Botanical Building, and the Old Globe Theatre (a replica of the Globe Theatre in London).

San Diego Zoo & Safari Park – San Diego

San Diego Zoo & Safari Park are so huge that it’s easy to spend the whole day admiring the many animals that live in each park.

The panda and gorilla exhibits are always a hit at the San Diego Zoo and you can easily get your steps in wandering from the Australia exhibit to the Tiger Trail and Africa Rocks.

If you want to observe exotic animals up close, the Safari Park is a great option to see your favorite giraffes, lions, and zebras out in the open.

Grab your skip-the-line tickets for the San Diego Zoo here and for the Safari Park here . 

USS Midway Museum – San Diego

The USS Midway Museum is a hotspot for maritime lovers and an opportunity to step onto the Midway aircraft carrier itself.

You can explore the Midway and the other exhibits (including flight simulators and the Battle of Midway Theater) on your own with the self-guided audio tour.

Otherwise, you can join the guided Island Tour (included with the price of admission) with one of the museum’s experienced docents.

Get your skip-the-line ticket here for the USS Midway Museum. 

La Jolla – San Diego

I might be biased since I went to school at UC San Diego, but I think La Jolla is one of the prettiest neighborhoods in San Diego and a tourist attraction in its own right. 

Head over to Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve to hike amongst golden-hued cliffs and coastal views, grab brunch in downtown La Jolla, and snorkel the 6,000-acre Underwater Park.

Coronado Island – San Diego

With panoramic views of the San Diego skyline, the historic Hotel del Coronado, and plenty of sandy beach areas, Coronado Island is the perfect place to spend a sunny afternoon. 

You can walk around the Coronado peninsula in about two hours, grab a pint at Coronado Pub, or simply relax on the beach while taking in the windswept views. 

Read my guides to the best things to do in San Diego and the best camping near San Diego . 

Order from In-N-Out Burger’s Secret Menu

A must-do on any California road trip and one of the best cheap things to do in California is to grab a meal from In-N-Out Burger. 

With 256 locations just in California, it’s usually pretty easy to find an In-N-Out Burger nearby, from San Francisco to Los Angeles and beyond.

If you want to get the most out of your visit to California’s most famous burger joint, look up the secret menu on Google ahead of time. You can thank me later once you try animal style.

Go Skiing or Snowboarding

One of the great things about California is its diverse landscape. You could spend the morning at the beach and later that day be skiing or snowboarding in the mountains. 

Most people probably don’t think of winter sports when they think of California, but skiing and snowboarding are some of the best things to do in California during the colder months. 

Head to Lake Tahoe, Mammoth Lakes , Big Bear , Mount Shasta, or Mt Baldy to test your skills on the slopes and enjoy California’s version of a winter wonderland.

Read our guides to the best snowboard pants for women and the best snowboard gloves .  

Walk Amongst the California Redwoods

One of the best things to do in California is to hike through a hushed coastal redwood forest, there’s nothing else quite like it in the world. 

California’s redwoods, also known as Sequoia sempervirens or Hyperion, are not only the tallest trees in the world, they’re also pretty ancient, with some of them reaching 2,000 years old. 

A few popular spots to see California redwoods include Muir Woods National Monument, Avenue of the Giants, Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, and Redwood National and State Parks. 

Read my detailed guide to the best places to see redwoods near San Francisco .  

Monterey Bay Aquarium – Monterey

The Monterey Bay Aquarium is all kinds of cool, educational, and inspiring and one of the top things to do in California that should be on everyone’s bucket list. 

Located along the coast in Monterey , this is a must-see in California and a great place to visit for anyone who loves the ocean, whether you’re a kid or an adult.  

During your visit, explore the Monterey Bay Aquarium’s diverse marine life, many educational exhibits, and unique sights like its 28-foot kelp forest.   

Experience the State Capital – Sacramento

Often overlooked for other California hot spots, Sacramento is an underrated destination and one of the best places to visit in California to get to know the state capital and the state’s pioneering history. 

Choose from one of the many top things to do in Sacramento, such as stepping back in time in Old Sacramento, touring the California State Capitol building, or walking around the historic Sutter’s Fort. 

If you’re looking for outdoor activities, you can do a float trip on the Sacramento River , bike the American River Bicycle Trail, smell the flowers at McKinley Park, do a self-guided street art walk, or go for a hike at one of the many nearby parks. 

Point Reyes National Seashore & Tomales Bay

One of the most impressive parks and top things to do in the Bay Area, Point Reyes National Seashore boasts gorgeous coastal views, bountiful wildlife, and a good dose of history. 

Head to the more than 100-year-old Point Reyes Lighthouse. Have a picnic at one of the park’s breezy beaches and take a picture in the Cypress Tree Tunnel. Then go for a coastal hike or try and spot animals at Tule Elk Preserve and Elephant Seal Overlook. 

Nearby, visit the small towns of Point Reyes Station, Tomales Bay, and Marshall to try some of the best and freshest oysters in California from Hog Island and The Marshall Store. 

If you’re staying overnight, don’t miss the nighttime kayaking tour to discover the bright green bioluminescence that lights up Tomales Bay. 

Local tip: Located only an hour north of San Francisco, Point Reyes is not only a bucket list destination, it’s also one of the foggiest places in the world and the windiest place on the Pacific Coast.

Make sure to bring layers and don’t be surprised if you’re met with dense fog at some point during your trip. 

Read my guide to the best things to do in Point Reyes . 

Catalina Island

Whether you’re exploring the beaches , zip-lining with panoramic coastal views, partying it up at Descanso Beach Club, sipping on a buffalo milk cocktail, shopping the local boutiques, camping at Parsons Landing , or going for a hike , there’s something for everyone on Catalina Island. 

If you’re looking for more adventure, hike the multi-day Trans-Catalina Trail to see a different side of the island and spot the famous Catalina bison along the way.  

This is also a great tour to get you started with seeing the most scenic spots around the island. 

Read my guide to the perfect day trip to Catalina Island . 

Palm Springs

Visiting Palm Springs for a rejuvenating desert getaway has been one of the top things to do in California for decades, whether you’re a famous socialite, tourist, or burnt-out LA local. 

Besides its many pools and spas, Palm Springs is known for its mid-century architecture, famous house tours, pool parties, desert hikes, and LGBTQ-friendly nightlife. 

Palm Springs is the perfect destination to visit year-round for anyone who’s looking to get away from it all in the California desert.

Read my guide to the best things to do in Palm Springs . 

Flower Fields

California has a lot of Instagram spots but some of the most famous revolve around wildflower season in the spring and summer.

In fact, I’d go as far as saying that frolicking through flower fields is one of the top things to do in California. 

Head to the flower fields in Carlsbad to walk amongst 50 acres of every shade of Giant Tecolote Ranunculus flowers from March to May. 

Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve, the Santa Monica Mountains, and Anza-Borrego State Park are all popular places to see California’s state flower up close and in the thousands from mid-February to May.

If sunflowers are more your thing, there are a number of bright yellow fields that can be found in full bloom off the side of the road in Yolo County in June and July. 

And finally, lavender farms are also a popular thing in California, especially around Napa and Sonoma. 

Head to spots like Lavender Bee Farm, Bees n Blooms Sonoma, and Monte Bellaria di California in mid-May to mid-July to make all of your purple-infused lavender-smelling dreams come true. 

Winchester Mystery House – San Jose

One of the top things to do in the Bay Area, see a haunted house come to real life on a Winchester Mystery House tour in San Jose.

This Victorian mansion is the result of decades of architectural oddities, no master building plan, and the whimsical tastes of heiress Sarah Winchester.

Sarah Winchester’s spirit-warding touches such as decoy bathrooms, the number 13, and spider-web motifs throughout the manor only add to its mysterious and spooky nature. 

Read our guide to the best things to do in San Jose .

Santa Barbara

There are a lot of beautiful spots along the Central California Coast, but one of the prettiest is Santa Barbara. 

Located between Big Sur and Santa Monica, Santa Barbara is all about Spanish colonial architecture, fresh seafood, and multi-hued sunsets. 

It has fantastic beaches with resident seals, stellar shopping along State Street, and impressive coastal scenery dotted with palm trees that can only be found in California. 

If you’re looking for fun things to do in California for couples, Santa Barbara is an ideal getaway with its scenic nature, perfect weather, and a plethora of romantic activities. 

17-Mile Drive – Monterey

There are a lot of scenic coastal drives in California, but one of the most popular routes that doesn’t skimp on good views is the 17-Mile Drive . 

Starting from Monterey and traveling through the gated community of Pebble Beach on the way down to Carmel-by-the-Sea, the 17-Mile Drive is a good introduction to Central California scenery at its finest. 

Famous sights on the route include the Lone Cypress Tree, Bird Rock, and Del Monte Forest. 

Non-residents have to pay a $10.25 toll to drive the 17-Mile Drive but it’s worth it for the beautiful route and gorgeous seaside views. 

California Amusement Parks

If you’re looking to partake in fun California activities, checking out one of the state’s many amusement parks is a good option. 

There’s a lot more to California’s theme park scene than just Disneyland and Universal Studios. 

Head to California’s Great America, Six Flags Discovery Kingdom, Six Flags Magic Mountain, Six Flags Hurricane Kingdom, Knott’s Berry Farm, Knott’s Soak City, or Raging Waters for theme parks full of rollercoasters, waterslides, and plenty of thrill rides.

If you’re looking for more of a classic theme park vibe and more than just rollercoasters, make a visit to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. 

The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is the oldest surviving amusement park in the state and one of the few oceanside amusement parks in California and the West Coast as a whole.

In Southern California, get your thrills at Knott’s Berry Farm, Six Flags Magic Mountain, and Knott’s Soak City. Or, head to the all-ages family-friendly theme parks like Balboa Island’s Fun Zone, Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier, Legoland, or Belmont Park in San Diego. 

Explore Hidden Caves

Looking for adventurous things to do in California? The Golden State is home to a number of hidden caverns that are open to the public. 

Some of the most popular caves in California can be found at the Lake Shasta Caverns. 

Accessible by guided tour, you’ll find a 300-foot man-made tunnel into the mountainside where you’ll be immersed in a subterranean wonderland, sure to impress even the most skeptical visitors.

Otherwise, a trip to Moaning Caverns and Mercer Caverns in the Sierra Foothills is another good option to make your spelunking dreams come true. 

If you don’t want to do a guided tour, you can always explore the caves of Pinnacles National Park on your own. 

Or, for a truly impressive experience, make the trek to Lava Beds National Monument, a spot that features over 700 caves, a look into California’s volcanic past, and Indigenous American art in Tulelake. 

Visit the Monarch Butterflies

Although marine life usually gets most of the attention on the West Coast, one of the most magical things to see in California is a eucalyptus forest that’s filled with thousands of monarch butterflies. 

There are two spots in California that are known as migration hot spots for monarch butterflies – Natural Bridges State Park in Santa Cruz and the Monarch Butterfly Grove in Pismo Beach (south of Big Sur).  

The butterflies start nesting around late October and stay until mid-February (they can leave as early as January though so it’s good to check ahead of time). November is usually the best month to see the most butterflies. 

Highway 395

Although not as popular as the Pacific Coast Highway, one of the best things to do in California to see a different side of the state is a road trip through the Sierra Nevada, along Highway 395. 

A Highway 395 road trip is one of those bucket list experiences, full of panoramic views featuring mountainous landscapes, pioneering history, ghost towns, and hot springs. 

Top attractions include Travertine Hot Springs, Bodie Ghost Town, Mono Lake, June Lake, Mammoth Lakes, Devil’s Postpile Monument and Rainbow Falls, Hot Creek Geological Area, Wild Willy’s Hot Springs, Bishop Creek, Ancient Bristlecone Forest, and Alabama Hills. 

Hearst Castle

One of the best bucket list things to do in California, Hearst Castle , also known as Hearst San Simeon State Historical Monument, is located along the coast just south of Big Sur. 

Attracting around 750,000 annual visitors, Hearst Castle (really, more of a mansion museum) is a National Historic Landmark. 

It was built by the famous California architect, Julia Morgan, and owned and lived in by newspaper tycoon, William Randolph Hearst, from 1919 to 1947.

Hearst had very interesting interior decorating tastes that would best be described as “eclectic gaudiness,” but a guided tour is worthwhile to explore the historic, sprawling property, and the hundreds of rooms within it.  

40 minutes northwest of Santa Barbara you’ll find Solvang , a unique danish-themed town and a top attraction on the Central Coast. 

Solvang is known for its Danish-inspired architecture complete with windmills and wineries, as well as Danish bakeries and the bountiful amount of Danish flags within city limits.  

So where did all this Danish inspiration come from? The city was founded by a group of Danes in 1911 who were trying to escape the intensely cold Midwestern winters.

The city has never forgotten its roots nor its love for all things Danish since then. It’s one of those bucket list destinations that’s fun to visit on a California road trip. 

Read our guide to the best things to do in Solvang .

Embrace the Diversity

California is a place of diversity and not just in terms of its landscape. The Golden State is a melting pot of different cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives. It’s one of the reasons why it’s such a welcoming and progressive place. 

This is why embracing California’s diversity is something you should definitely experience while visiting California. 

One of the most fun ways to do this as a tourist is to find cultural neighborhoods within major cities. These neighborhoods tend to be historic and feature fantastic food, distinctive architecture, regular cultural events, and unique museums.  

A few of the best cultural neighborhoods in California include the following:

• Chinatown and Japantown in San Francisco
• Little Portugal and Japantown in San Jose
• Chinatown in Sacramento 
• Little Manila in Stockton
• Cambodia Town in Long Beach
• Koreatown, Little Armenia, Little Tokyo, Historic Filipinotown, Little Italy, Thai Town, Chinatown, and Little Ethiopia in Los Angeles. 
• Little Saigon in Orange County
• Little Italy, Old Town, and Little Saigon in San Diego

Salvation Mountain & Slab City

One of the more unique things to do in Southern California, a few miles away from the Salton Sea, visionary Leonard Knight took it upon himself to create an actual mountain out of adobe, straw, and non-toxic paint.

Today, Salvation Mountain attracts thousands of visitors every year with its candy-bright colors and biblical murals.

Even if you’re not religious, Salvation Mountain is worth visiting due to its sheer creativity.

Nearby Slab City is an unincorporated community in the middle of nowhere, a place that can only be found in the California desert.

Queen Mary – Long Beach

Note: The Queen Mary is currently closed while it goes through a change in ownership. There’s no definite reopening date yet, although some people speculate it could be sometime in 2022 or 2023.  

One of the more unusual things to do in California, it’s not every day you get to explore a supposedly haunted ship turned hotel in the Long Beach Harbor. 

The RMS Queen Mary operated from 1934 to 1967 as a transatlantic liner, cruise ship, and military transport. 

This 1,019-foot boat is now permanently docked in Long Beach as an interactive museum, featuring three restaurants, 346 hotel rooms, and guided tours to explore the layered history of this famous ship.

Read our detailed guide to the best things to do in Long Beach . 

Explore the Best Literary Spots

California has been home to plenty of famous authors throughout the years, from Jack London to John Steinback, Joan Didion, Henry Miller, Gertrude Stein, Theodor Geisel (aka Dr. Seuss), and Charles Bukowski, to name a few.  

If you’re a fan of books and literature, one of the best things to do in California is to pay homage to these great writers by visiting the places they lived, worked, and adored the most. 

A few literary attractions in California include Jack London State Historic Park in Sonoma, Robert Louis Stevenson Museum in Napa Valley, Jack Kerouac Alley and the Beat Museum in San Francisco, the National Steinbeck Center in Salinas, and the Henry Miller Memorial Library in Big Sur.  

See the Barking Elephant Seals

If you’re looking for unique wildlife things to do in California besides whale watching, seeing elephant seals in their natural habitat is another bucket list experience to enjoy in the Golden State. 

Two of the best places to see California elephant seals are Año Nuevo State Park near Santa Cruz and Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery near Hearst Castle. 

These windswept points in California are not only scenic spots to while away an afternoon, but also home to large elephant seal colonies where you can watch seals fight over mates, welcome pups into the world, and molt.

The best time to see elephant seals at their most active are the months of January (breeding and birthing), April (molting), and October (juvenile haul-out). 

Local tip: Guided tours are required from mid-December through the end of March at Año Nuevo State Park.

Road Trip the Rugged Northern California Coast

Although most people stick to seeing the sights between San Francisco and Los Angeles, one of the more unique things to do in California is to take a road trip up the Northern California Coast. 

From San Francisco to the start of the Oregon Coast, the Northern California coastline is the best place in North America to immerse yourself in giant redwood forests.

It’s also a great place to explore historic lighthouses, unique beaches, and small, welcoming coastal towns along the way.    

It’s the perfect bucket list trip for anyone who’s looking for more rugged landscapes and remote wilderness.  

Don’t miss stops in Bodega Bay, Jenner, Mendocino, Fort Bragg, Ferndale, Eureka, and Crescent City. 

Top sights along the way include Bodega Head, Fort Ross, Bowling Ball Beach, Point Arena and Point Cabrillo Lighthouses, Russian Gulch State Park, the colorful Glass Beach, the Skunk Train, Railbiking, Avenue of the Giants, Fern Canyon, and driving through the Klamath Tour Thru Tree.

Read my guide to the best things to do in Mendocino .

Other Things to do in California

And finally, a few other places and things to do in California that I couldn’t fit into this already massive post but deserve a mention. 

• Admire the majestic Burney Falls
• Take a tour of the Jelly Belly Factory
• Try garlic ice cream in Gilroy
• Catch a sports game, take your pick from MLB, NBA, NFL, MLS, or NHL
• Dance the weekend away at a music festival – a few to choose from include Coachella, Outside Lands, Stagecoach, BottleRock Napa Valley, and Lightning in a Bottle
• Go whitewater rafting 
• Eat at the nicest Taco Bell in the World in Pacifica
• Birdwatching at Elkhorn Slough
• Go for a hike in Calaveras Big Trees State Park 
• Visit Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
• Explore the Forestiere Underground Gardens in Fresno
• Drive the scenic Fresno County Blossom Trail
• Do a self-guided tour of the local breweries, especially in craft beer hotspots like San Diego (read my guide to the best California breweries )
• Make a stop at the iconic Madonna Inn (and sneak a peek at the bathrooms) 
• See the oldest tree in the world at the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest
• Visit apple orchards in the fall in places like Julian or Apple Hill (read my guide to the best things to do in Julian )
• Get into the fall spirit at a Half Moon Bay pumpkin patch (Half Moon Bay is the pumpkin capital of the world)
• Hear the whistling sand dunes at Mojave Preserve
• Watch the sunrise at Fonts Point at Anza Borrego Desert State Park
• Snap a picture with the metal sculptures near Anza Borrego Desert State Park at Galleta Meadows
• See the fall foliage in June Lake and Bishop Creek 
• Ride an ATV over the Oceano Sand Dunes
• Road trip the 21 California Missions (from San Francisco to Santa Barbara, Los Angeles, and all the way down to San Diego)
• Take a day trip to Mexico

Best Time to Visit California

As you can probably gather from this massive list of things to do in California, there’s really no bad time to visit California. 

The majority of the state has nice weather for year-round outdoor activities like surfing, hiking, and road trips. 

You can also find winter wonderlands in the colder months, colorful fall foliage in autumn, and vibrant wildflowers in the spring and summer.  

With that said, there are a couple of things to note if you’re planning a visit to California.

First off is fire season. August through October is peak fire season and you can expect at least a handful of wildfires happening in different parts of the state during this time of the year.

The second thing to note is the landslides in the spring, especially around the Big Sur coastline. These aren’t as common as wildfires, but after a day or two of heavy rain in the spring, it’s not uncommon to hear about parts of the coastline succumbing to erosion. 

Lastly, although summer is a popular time to visit, we get “June Gloom” on many parts of the coast and “Fogust” in the Bay Area, with overcast skies most days.

Spring or fall is usually when you’ll find the overall best weather throughout the state. 

If you’re looking for a full guide on more things to do in California and how to road trip the Golden State, I wrote a whole book on it. You can check it out here .  

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Mimi McFadden Founder & Editor-In-Chief

Mimi McFadden initially started The Atlas Heart in 2013 to write about her adventures abroad. But since 2019, The Atlas Heart has become a love letter to the Golden State. Mimi enjoys sharing her first-hand knowledge and expertise with the places she knows so well and making the most comprehensive travel guides possible. When she’s not hiking and exploring new places in California, she loves to travel abroad, read in her cozy chaise lounge, play basketball, and connect with friends and family over board games. Over her 28 years in California, she has lived in Santa Cruz (18 years), San Diego (5 years), and the San Francisco Bay Area (5 years), where she currently resides.

Looking for more California travel inspiration? Check out these related posts below!

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Hi, I'm Mimi! I'm an outdoorsy Californian who has spent over 28 years immersed in the incredible natural beauty that California has to offer. My goal is to inspire others to get out and find their next adventure in California. Whether it’s escaping to an alpine lake in the Sierras, finding peace among the giant redwoods, or road tripping down the PCH, there’s always more to explore in this beautiful state.

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Yosemite National Park

TripSavvy / Jess Macdonald 

You can see the Yosemite Valley an infinite number of photographs and films, but none of them can capture its stillness on a foggy morning, the thunderous roar of spring waterfalls, the resounding crack of frozen-solid Yosemite Falls thawing on a winter morning, or how small you'll feel next to its soaring granite walls.

It's as if Mother Nature put all her most spectacular elements in one spot so she could admire them all at once: the tallest waterfall in the United States (Yosemite Falls), the world's largest granite monolith (El Capitan), the Mariposa River and Half Dome.

Yosemite National Park , America's second national park, is justifiably popular, and even a short visit to the famed valley is worth your time. Stay longer, and you can enjoy more, photographing the Yosemite Valley from Tunnel View, peering down on it from Glacier Point and venturing outside it to visit the Mariposa Grove of giant redwood trees, Tuolumne Meadows or Tenaya Lake.

Napa Valley Wineries

Betsy Malloy Photography

These top California attractions are the short list of things that everyone should think about doing when visiting the Golden State.

Our first "must-do" is a visit to the Napa Valley in northern California. Other parts of California might make wine that's just as good, but none have the draw of the Napa Valley . 

In 1976, the wine-tasting event commonly called the Judgment of Paris (depicted in the film Bottle Shock ) thrust California wines onto the world wine stage. But wine-making in Napa started long before that. Napa winemakers have been perfecting their vintages for a century and a half, starting in the mid-1800s when early settlers planted grapevines and dug wine caves into the valley's hillsides.

The "valley" in Napa Valley is narrow and scenic, barely five miles wide and running for about 30 miles between the Mayacamas and Vaca Mountains, its two main thoroughfares lined with vineyards and winery tasting rooms.

Napa wineries offer many ways to taste wine from walk-up tastings to paired wine dinners. Choose any of the wineries featured in the  Guide to the best Napa Valley wineries and you will enjoy your experience.

Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco

This iconic red-orange bridge has been featured in the movies and is a long-standing symbol of San Francisco. The perfect marriage of geography and design makes it appealing to the eyes.

Golden Gate views are so varied that you could spend an entire day just driving around admiring it. One of the draws is the landmark engineering achievement it represents. Its feet rest in some of the world's most tumultuous water, its cables drape across the first bridge support ever constructed in the open ocean and it boasts a construction safety record that was extraordinary for its day. The ​ Golden Gate Bridge officially opened on May 27, 1937, the longest bridge span in the world at the time.

To get a sense of the size of the Golden Gate Bridge, take a walk across it. There is a pedestrian walkway and distance is 1.7 miles (one way). You'll be standing 220 feet above the water at mid-span. The boats passing under the bridge will look very small. On foggy days you may find that on the San Francisco side things are socked in, but as you walk toward the Marin County side, the sun may magically appear.

Big Sur Coastline

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre 

Along the section of California's coastline between Hearst Castle and Carmel, the land plunges precipitously into the Pacific Ocean, with what seems to be a little bit of highway clinging to the cliffs. California Highway One takes you along a stretch of road with powerful scenery. There are turnouts where you can admire the ocean and the cliffs of Big Sur.

You can drive those 90 miles straight through in about three hours or linger a bit, have a meal overlooking the coast at Nepenthe restaurant , tour the Point Sur Lighthouse , or check out the purple sand at Pfeiffer Beach . For an even more intensive experience, consider an overnight stop at Ventana Inn .

There are man-made structures to wow you as well. Thirteen miles south of Carmel you'll encounter one of the world's highest single-span concrete arch bridges, Bixby Bridge, constructed almost 90 years ago. Over 260 feet high and over 700 feet long, it is an engineering masterpiece, and probably the most photographed object along the route.

As you might expect in such a rugged part of the coast, slides can cause temporary closures so it is wise to check the road reports before making your plans to Highway One through Big Sur. 

General Sherman Tree, Sequoia National Park

The world's largest tree is an impressive 275 feet tall and 36.5 feet wide (83.8 by 11.1 meters). It's an awe-inspiring experience to stand at the foot of the General Sherman Tree, craning your neck to see the top, looking at branches thicker than you are tall.

Nearby and only slightly smaller are eight of the 20 biggest trees on earth, some of them as old as 3,500 years.

This little strip of mountain terrain is the only place in the world where Sequoiadendron giganteum grow. Sequoia National Park encompasses the Kings River Canyon, a place John Muir called "a rival of Yosemite," yet, by comparison, it's nearly free from the crowds that flock to Yosemite.

Hearst Castle

Hearst Castle was the residence of newspaper publisher William Randolph Hearst, and in 1954 it was turned into a California State Park. The main building at Hearst Castle is a massive, 56-bedroom, 61-bathroom mansion, built on a remote hilltop overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

The castle is surrounded by three guest houses that are larger than most people's homes, 127 acres of gardens, an outdoor swimming pool named after the Roman god of the sea, tennis courts and, in Hearst's day, the world's largest private zoo.

Hearst Castle could justifiably be called a monument to eccentric excess, on a scale not possible in the twenty-first century. And that may be what makes it so fascinating.

The spot alone is worth a journey, just for the views of the Pacific Ocean and surrounding terrain from the top of Enchanted Hill. You can the castle, skillfully assembled by architect Julia Morgan incorporating Hearst's monumental collection of European antiquities. You can also get a glimpse into the life of the newspaper mogul who created it; his home movies are almost as much fun to watch as the house is to tour.

The Hollywood Sign

The Hollywood of the past with movie studios and homes of movie stars is more of a romantic dream than a reality in the 21st Century, but there's one attraction you can see that's iconic Hollywood for sure - the Hollywood Sign.

Sitting on a hillside facing the Los Angeles basin with 9 of the 13 original letters that once read Hollywoodland surviving, is the large but simple white sign. The sign was erected in 1923 by a developer who invested in the upscale real-estate development called Hollywoodland, capitalizing on the growing recognition of Hollywood as a romantic, movie industry mecca.

It's survived fires, vandals, the elements, attempted real estate development and attempts at imitation. 

When you see the Hollywood sign , and you can from lots of places around town, you'll want to savor the memory of a bygone Hollywood. You can hike up for a closer view of the sign but no one can get very close anymore as its fenced off.  

Disneyland holds an important place in American culture. The first theme park ever still sets the standards for all others, regularly raising the bar in innovative entertainment and family-oriented fun.

Disneyland was the first of two theme parks built at the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California, and opened on July 17, 1955. It is the only theme park designed and built to completion under the direct supervision of Walt Disney.

Where else could you watch a grand parade, see blazing fireworks, soar over London and take a ride through outer space all in one day?

Disneyland has grown from a theme park to a vacation destination. There are three hotels on the property, making visits convenient and keeping the magic alive when you leave the park. New rides, attractions, and shows are added and old favorites upgraded to keep things fresh.

Badwater Basin, Death Valley National Park

TripSavvy / Amanda Capritto

It's hard to resist the appeal of extremes and Badwater Basin is not only the lowest spot in the United States at 282 ft (86 m) below sea level but also the site of the highest temperature ever recorded. It was 134 degrees F (56.7 C) there on July 10, 1913. It's only 85 miles away from Mount Whitney, the highest point in the contiguous United States.

All of Death Valley looks like it was designed by a minimalist, and Badwater could be the starkest spot in the entire national park, a wide, flat salt pan. 

Death Valley is a fascinating place to visit. In the spring, the wildflowers are amazing. The landscape is changing, however, after massive flooding in 2015 . Scotty's Castle , a dream home in the desert, providing a window into the life and times of the Roaring '20s and Depression '30s, is closed until 2020 at least but there are ranger tours that bring visitors to look at the reconstruction.

You can visit in summer but must be prepared for harsh conditions. Spring and fall are ideal. There are several entrances into this vast national park but the Furnace Creek Visitor Center is the ideal place to start your trip into Death Valley.

Iconic California Beaches

California's beaches are part of its mystique, embedded in pop culture since the Beach Boys crooned about them and Frankie Avalon kissed Annette Funicello on a beach towel in the movies.

Surfing is also an integral part of California beach culture, so important that cities go to court for the right to call themselves Surf City. And some of the world's biggest waves draw elite surfers to the Mavericks surfing competition  near Half Moon Bay—but only when the waves are big enough.

If you're from a landlocked place, a visit to a California beach is an absolute must. Even if you live near the sea, you won't have to look far to find a California beach that's different than what you have at home. In California, you can find urban beaches lined with houses and sidewalks, rocky sea stacks bathed in mist, beaches covered in purple sand, or pebbly stretches full of sea glass.

One way to see the diversity of California beaches is to drive California Highway One . The drive begins in San Diego, at the southern end of the state, then travels north to beach towns, through elegant Santa Barbara, then north to Big Sur. Continue on to more beaches and attractions in Carmel, Monterey, and Santa Cruz. Highway One ends in scenic San Francisco.

California Farm to Table Agriculture

When visiting California, it's important to seek out the local farmers' markets. It's a great way to experience one of the great pleasures of living in California, where ninety percent of all the fresh vegetables consumed in the United States are grown.

Buy a single peach, a vine-ripe heirloom tomato or a basket of berries picked ripe that morning. On the coast, visit farm stands and buy fresh artichokes or Brussels sprouts.

Besides all the great produce, you'll find things at the farmer's market you can take home as a gift or edible souvenirs: dried fruits, jam, honey, herbs, handmade jewelry - and you'll always find a few eat-on-the-spot food stands as well.

Farmers markets happen somewhere almost any day of the week and in summer, a trip to an evening neighborhood market lets you feel like a local. You'll find markets in the San Francisco area , in the rich Central Valley and in towns all through California . 

Finding California's Best: Spring, Summer, Winter, Fall

Our last must-see is actually four attractions, one for each season of the year.

Spring: California Poppies in Antelope Valley

Every few years, conditions align to bring out a wildflower display in California's Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve that could leave you nearly speechless. It's a magical experience to find yourself in a landscape ablaze with orange flowers as far as you can see in every direction. 

You'll see California poppies on hillsides and along highways when the timing is right. 

In general, the poppies bloom from mid-February through mid-May. 

Summer: Lassen Volcanic Park

California summers can be extraordinarily hot inland and extraordinarily foggy at the coast. And finally, it thaws out enough in northern California for Lassen Volcanic Park to open. The southernmost volcano along the Pacific Coast last blew its top in 1915, 65 years before the Mt. St. Helens' eruption.

Lassen can be a spectacular stop. The park is centered on the lava dome, one of the most massive on earth, with bubbling mud pots and steaming fumaroles, and places with colorful names like Bumpass Hell.

Autumn: Fall Color East of the Sierras

Golden colored aspen trees seem to spill down the mountainsides like drips down the sides of an untidy painter's bucket. They reflect in clear mountain lakes while individual branches of gold, heart-shaped leaves arch delicately over mountain streams.

The best places to see golden aspen trees in California are on the eastern slope of the Sierras along US Highway 395. The eastern Sierras provide a perfect storm of conditions for the trees to grow. They don't tolerate shade and thrive best in the plentiful sunshine, which they get under the open skies of Eastern California.

The town of June Lake and June Lake Loop are the perfect locations to start your leaf peeping. Along a 15-mile loop drive that passes through the town, you'll pass four lakes that provide the perfect mirror for the colorful foliage. 

Winter: Elephant Seal Rookery

Male Northern Elephant Seals stretch 14 to 16 feet long and weigh as much as 5,000 pounds, sporting a long, fleshy snout that inspired their name. They and their females spend ten months a year at sea, coming ashore along the California coast in December for a wild, two-month orgy of birthing, feeding, fighting, and mating.

Piedras Blancas , near Hearst Castle in central California, is a place you'll often see the elephant seals gather. It is a protected area. 

If you can't make it to Piedras Blancas, you can also see the elephant seals on docent-led tours at Ano Nuevo State Park south of San Francisco, but you'll need reservations.

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10 Top Tourist Attractions in California

By Kay Pierce · Last updated on February 4, 2024

With so many man-made attractions, natural playgrounds and dramatic landscapes that are all world-famous, it is no wonder that California attracts millions of visitors from all over the globe.

Only in this state can one experience the likes of stunning coastal drives, a forest of the world’s tallest trees, a lake that offers year-round fun, magical theme parks and shows starring killer whales. To learn more about what to see and do in the Golden State, check out the following top tourist attractions in California .

10. Redwood National Park [SEE MAP]

The Redwood National Park is much more than tall trees. In this vast parkland of woodlands, rivers and miles of spectacular coastline, visitors can enjoy a wide range of fun outdoor activities. There are several interesting exhibits, guided walks and nature programs on offer at the various visitor centers.

Activities include horse riding and mountain biking along well-maintained trails, fishing for salmon and rainbow trout and kayaking down the trickling rivers. Scenic routes through the forest allow visitors to admire the amazing redwood trees, wildlife and waterfalls while a drive along the coastline offers breathtaking views of the ocean and glimpses of gray whales and seabirds.

9. SeaWorld San Diego [SEE MAP]

Situated in sunny San Diego , SeaWorld is characterized by its theme of marine mammals, daring rides and live shows. Through shows, displays and enclosures people can learn about the world’s oceans and the creatures that inhabit them such as dolphins, killer whales, walruses, penguins and Polar bears.

Rides include a flume roller coaster, rafting through the Shipwreck Rapids and a simulated helicopter ride to experience the Wild Arctic. The main attraction however is the Shamu Show, which involves dancing fountains and talented performances by killer whales.

See also: Where to Stay in San Diego

8. General Sherman [SEE MAP]

General Sherman is a Giant Sequoia located in the Giant Forest of Sequoia National Park in California. The trees of the Giant Forest are among the largest trees in the world. In fact, if measured by volume, five of the ten largest trees on the planet are located within this forest.

With a height of 275 feet the General Sherman tree is the largest of them all. The tree is believed to be between 2,300 and 2,700 years old.

7. Venice Beach [SEE MAP]

Venice Beach is one of Los Angeles , most popular beaches. The sandy three-mile beach here is just one of the attractions.

During the summer season and on weekends, the Ocean Front Walk fills up with street performers and people just doing their thing: biking, rollerskating, swimming, sunbathing, and people watching. Muscle Beach is a special area where fanatic bodybuilders pump iron in a public show of strength.

6. Dante's View - Death Valley [SEE MAP]

Set high on top of the Black Mountains, Dante’s View is a terrace that offers stunning views of Death Valley. This unique valley is home to the lowest point in North America, Badwater Basin, as well as to the hottest and driest areas in North America. How hot is Death Valley? Well, temperatures in Death Valley’s Furnace Creek once reached a sizzling 134 degrees °F (57 °C).

Because temperatures can be so extreme in Death Valley, travelers are advised visit Dante’s View early in the morning, especially during the hottest months of the year.Travelers who visit Dante’s View on a clear day may be able to see Badwater Basin, the lowest point in the contiguous United States, and Mt. Whitney, the highest point.

5. Disneyland [SEE MAP]

Located in Anaheim , Disneyland is a world-famous amusement park where Walt Disney movies and characters all come to life in a magical, make-believe kingdom. Featuring thrilling rides, roller coasters, dazzling shows and colorful districts packed with restaurants and shops, Disneyland offers adventure for the whole family.

In themed neighborhoods like Main Street, USA, visitors can step back into the early 1900s, visit Tarzan’s Treehouse in Adventureland or meet Disney characters like Mickey Mouse, Goofy and Donald Duck in Mickey’s Toontown.

4. Big Sur Coastline [SEE MAP]

Stretching about 90 miles along the Central Coast of California is one of the most scenic driving routes in the world. Known as Big Sur, this stunning coastline covers an area between Carmel and the foothills of the Santa Lucia Mountains.

Most of the 3 million drivers who visit Big Sur every year travel the popular Highway 1 to admire and photograph some of the country’s most dramatic scenery. Attractions along the route include the historic 40-foot Point Sur Lighthouse, Bixby Bridge, which is one of the world’s tallest single-span bridges, and the splendid, 80-foot McWay Falls plunge directly into the ocean.

3. Lake Tahoe [SEE MAP]

Created about 2 million years ago during the Ice Age, Lake Tahoe is one of the largest lakes in the world. The lake is located along the border between California and Nevada . Surrounded by majestic mountains, this popular tourist attraction offers exciting events and activities all year around.

In the winter, the main activities are snow skiing, snowmobile riding, snow-tubing and snowshoeing at one of the ski resorts. From spring to fall, visitors can enjoy a host of water sports and other activities like sailing, kayaking, jet skiing, paddle boating and swimming.

2. Golden Gate Bridge [SEE MAP]

The Golden Gate Bridge near San Francisco is one of the most visited tourist attractions in California and the US. Spanning over the San Francisco Bay for more than a mile, this famous landmark is one of the world’s most photographed bridges.

The famous red-orange color of the bridge was specifically chosen to make the bridge more easily visible through the thick fog that frequently shrouds the bridge. The splendor of this bridge can be experienced by driving, walking, cycling or participating in a walking tour to learn about the rich history of the bridge.

See also: Where to Stay in San Francisco

1. Tunnel View - Yosemite National Park [SEE MAP]

Located in Yosemite National Park in the Sierra Nevada Mountains of central eastern California, Tunnel View is an overlook where visitors can enjoy amazing views of El Capital, Bridalveil Falls, Half Dome and the gorgeous Yosemite Valley.

The overlook, which was first built in 1993, was renovated in 2008. Tunnel View is very popular with park visitors, and it attracts between 5,000 and 7,000 visitors a day during the tourist high season. Travelers can find Tunnel View at the east end of the Wawona Tunnel off of Wawona Road.

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Reader interactions.

May 16, 2017 at 8:50 am

great I used to live in California great place but they should add Lego land

May 1, 2017 at 4:46 pm

We are from Europe and we love San Diego, and do not like Disneyland !!! Santa Monica nothing special , beach, like all beaches in California, they all good.

October 30, 2016 at 7:51 pm

You missed such interesting places as Slab City and the nearby Salton Sea — not commercialized or publicized, but therein lies much of their fascination. Only a two- to three-hour drive from San Diego, and a vastly more interesting experience, away from the massed crowds

April 13, 2015 at 6:01 pm

planning our trip (June 2016) from Michigan to Yellowstone, Grand Canyon and finally to Yosemite before returning home. Want to take in as much as we can in our 30 days. California sure looks like the place to spend extra time in.

July 5, 2014 at 6:03 pm

Okay I’m going to assume this list is geared towards people that don’t get out much. Redwood forest awesome! Big Sur is a must! But please let’s just discuss Sea World, Disney Land and Venice Beach…for all you east coasters Disney Land is a joke compared to Disney World rest assured you will be dissapointed and Venice beach as much as I love it, it’s honestly a s**t hole the water is gross and the boardwalk is basically a tackier version of canal street if such a thing exists and SEA WORLD?! REALLY?! Maybe after we can petition to reopen the roman colosseum…

June 23, 2014 at 7:25 pm

this is very good info for a first time visit to California

June 17, 2014 at 11:07 pm

had an amzing time at disney land and at the national park 😉 thanks for the most fun!!

May 24, 2014 at 1:02 pm

I have been in Redwood National Park.I will also in the near future visit Disneyland with my family.My son will be very happy.

May 20, 2014 at 5:04 pm

i obviously love the san diego and disneyland parks, and they are full of imagination and fun

March 1, 2014 at 5:07 am

Pretty good list. I’d include the Monterey / Carmel area on the list as well. There’s tons of wildlife, beautiful views, good food and one of the best aquariums in the world. Also, I want to note that there’s a lot more to do in Sequoia, and neighboring Kings Canyon National Parks , than just visiting General Sherman. General Sherman is impressive but I found other parts of the parks much more interesting and less crowded. My wife and I have written extensively about the California nature scene on our travel blog: triptwitch.com

February 20, 2014 at 2:46 pm

Hopefully soon I could explore any of these listed attractions in California. My kids will be thrilled about Disneyland.

January 18, 2013 at 11:14 am

Well, I guess we’ve seen about half of the major attractions so far anyways. The kids’ favorite is of course Disneyland. I love Yosemite, and it looks like we’re going to have to go see old “General Sherman.” That tree is huge!

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Attractions

26 incredible must-visit california tourist attractions.

Stretching along the Pacific Coast for hundreds of miles, California is filled with redwood forests, massive mountain ranges, and pristine beaches. The state offers breathtaking landscapes, each potentially the perfect setting for the ultimate California road trip .

It’s true that a lot of California’s top rated tourist attractions are nature-made, not man-made, like in other places in the United States. To me, that makes California the perfect place to unplug and get outside, refuel your mind, and leave the stress behind.

There’s plenty to do around this gorgeous state, so strap in and get ready for an action-packed vacation. This guide to the top California tourist attractions will help you plan your next Cali itinerary. Read on to discover the top tourist attractions and the best sights in California.

» Looking for more inspiration along the route? Check out all our guides to San Francisco , Los Angeles , Santa Barbara and San Diego. Find the best beaches in Monterey , waterfalls in Southern California , and national parks.

» Check out these 10 Gold Rush Towns In California To Visit.

Table of Contents

The Best Places to Visit in California – 25 Top Tourist Attractions

1.  disneyland.

A household name around the entire world, Disneyland Resort is split into two renowned theme parks (Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure). It’s really THE top attraction in California. And, you don’t have to be a kid to find something amazing there. We go at least once every year to see any new stuff. Check here for the best times to make the trip.

The rides are based on Disney franchises like Toy Story, Cars, and The Pirates of the Caribbean. Its latest addition—Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge—ensures that everyone can geek out regardless of age.

Planning your trip? We’ve got tons of helpful Disney planning guide s from our awesome list of 40 essential tips , to how to get to Disneyland , where to stay near Disney , what to pack , what to wear , where to park , and what to eat in both Disneyland and California Adventure.

2.  Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is one of the most-visited National Parks in the entire US. It’s an absolute masterpiece of scenic landscapes, mountains, valleys, rivers, and waterfalls.

The park is home to famous sheer granite wall faces that have drawn adrenaline junkies for years. Yosemite is also the home of Mariposa Grove—a stand that holds some of the oldest and largest giant sequoia trees ever.

See our guide to the top sights in Yosemite . Yosemite is an easy day trip from San Francisco , though you will loves the views enough to spend a week.

You can book this day trip from San Francisco to Yosemite for the ultimate trip.     

3.  Universal Studios Hollywood

Getting behind the scenes of iconic movies or immersing yourself in the worlds of your favorite franchises is a recurring theme and a great starting point for your next vacation in California.

Get magical at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter or go prehistoric in Jurassic World. Sets from these and other famous movies are open to the public. Restaurants live shows, and retail stores here are dedicated to these and many other movies.

Get your Universal Studios General Admission ticket here .

4.  The Hollywood Sign

A staple of the Los Angeles landscape is the iconic Hollywood Sign . Viewing the 45-ft tall sign on top of Mount Lee is guaranteed to happen regardless of where you are in the city.

Whether you are simply taking in the scenery of the mountain or getting up close and personal by hiking up through Griffith Park. The sign easily features as one of the top California tourist spots.

See the best Los Angeles has to offer with this full-day iconic LA tour . Did you know that there’s a hike you can take to the Hollywood sign. See this and other great Southern California hikes.

5.  Big Sur

A picturesque stretch of road, Highway No. 1 starts a few miles from Carmel and the great beaches of Monterey and winds its way to Salmon Cove. This piece of road-trip heaven bears the title of ‘Big Sur’.

Driving this road with epic views of the coast will soon become your next favorite place to see in California. Set right in the middle of sandy beaches and teeming forests, Big Sur delivers epic scenes such as McWay Falls, Bixby Creek Bridge, and Pfeiffer Beach.

Make this part of a larger Northern California road trip to see it all.

6.  Golden Gate Bridge

As one of the best cities in California , San Francisco does quite throw around its weight as one of the top tourist attractions in California already. The Golden Gate Bridge is California sightseeing at its best.

The bridge is so iconic a landmark that it instantly comes to mind whenever anyone thinks of America. Truthfully pictures of the bridge do not do it justice. The vermilion orange giant set against San Francisco Bay needs to be experienced firsthand.

With so many great things to do in San Francisco , it should definitely be on your California itinerary.

Book a tour of the bay around the bridge here .

7.  San Diego Zoo

The San Diego Zoo holds the title of the most popular zoo in the entire US. It draws nearly four million people annually, and it’s easy to see why.

The zoo is home to over 650 species of animals, which are displayed in the many varying sections of the zoo. These include Africa, Australia, the tropics, and the arctic.

Get your day pass tickets here .

As long as you’re going to be in San Diego, you should also see all the other things that make this city great for visitors, like the USS Midway museum.

8.  Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe is the largest alpine lake in North America. Lake Tahoe offers you something to do no matter the time of year .

In and around the lake, you can look forward to activities like hiking , mountain biking, boating, and more. That’s just for summer . During the winter months , skiing and snowboarding take the limelight.

Get the best Lake Tahoe experience with this 2-hour sailing cruise.

9. Aquarium of the Pacific

The Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach is home to a whopping 12,000 creatures native to the Pacific. With over 100 exhibits, you can look forward to seeing everything from frogs to giant deep-sea denizens such as Leopard sharks.

Considering the Pacific is the most diverse ocean, this aquarium showcases the widest variety of ocean life in the US, and you can book your admission ticket here .

10. Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree is a massive 800,000-acre national park made up of giant boulders, rock formations, and desert landscapes. It’s filled with a variety of places to visit, such as Keys View and the Cholla Cactus Garden.

The parks northern entrance is located in Twentynine Palms but it also spans the Colorado desert and the Mojave desert in parts of California, Arizona, Utah, and Nevada.

The landscapes within the park have made it a popular destination for music festivals, camping , hiking, and stargazing opportunities unlike any other. While in the park, be sure to check out Skull Rock, a huge boulder resembling an alien-like skull.

Explore the national park with this driving tour .

11. Hearst Castle

Officially called the Hearst San Simeon State Historical Monument, this incredible 165-room monument was built by newspaper mogul William Randolph Hearst in 1919.

This modern-day castle’s construction was never completed, even after 28 years. The result of different architectural designers is a blend of different architectural styles, which makes it one of the top tourist places in the State. At one point, it was home to the world’s biggest private zoo. There is still wildlife roaming on the property today.

12. Griffith Observatory

The stellar Griffith Observatory is the best place if you feel like getting unforgettable glimpses into space. It features a live narrated planetarium show and houses numerous giant telescopes which are open to public use.

Home to the Zeiss Telescope, you can catch unprecedented views of our solar system at the observatory. And, if you’re done inside, Griffith Park surrounds the observatory, which delivers excellent views and hikes of the region.

13. Sequoia National Park

The national park is home to many giant sequoias, which happen to be the oldest living trees on the planet. Being between 2,000 and 3,000 years old, these trees are a must-see.

Inside the park, there is also Mt. Whitney, which is the highest mountain in the continental US. Whether you want to head there for a hike, to marvel at the massive sequoias, or just find some serenity, this park offers it all.

14. Venice Beach

Venice Beach is one of America’s most famous beaches , with a world-renowned boardwalk. The beachfront stretches for miles, and there are many different recreational areas that line its edges.

Visitors to the beach can enjoy a number of activities as there are basketball courts, skate parks, and volleyball nets available. Venice Beach is also legendary among surfers, with pristine waters and giant waves—perfect for any extreme sports fan.

15. Napa Valley

Napa Valley is nothing less than stunning. The valley’s many rolling hills, beautiful vineyards, and architecture are incredibly picturesque.

Speaking of vineyards, the Napa Valley is one of the best California wine regions , home to over 400 wineries. Although famous for its wine, there are many other things to do when in Napa. Taking a hot air balloon tour over the area is a must.

Enjoy this Napa Valley wine-tasting tour .

16. Six Flags Magic Mountain

Six Flags Magic Mountain will have your heart racing in the ultimate theme park dedicated to as much adrenaline as possible. The park boasts more than 100 rides, of which 19 are solely there to test your mettle and bravery.

The Goliath is one of the longest roller coasters in the world and has a 281-ft descent. The park also has a wide variety of live shows for some good entertainment and great restaurants for when you get hungry.

17. Walt Disney Concert Hall

Music lovers finding themselves in LA can delight in the most acoustically advanced music venue in the world—the Walt Disney Concert Hall .

Not only is the musical nature of the building unlike anything else, but the concert hall is visually stunning. The venue is the home of the Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra. Many internationally famous musicians have also performed intimate and amazing shows here.

18. Dodger Stadium

You can’t experience one of the best states in America without the joy of going to a Major League Baseball game. Dodger Stadium in LA is the home ground for this national sport.

Get tickets to one of the many games hosted at the stadium, or opt for a tour of the stadium to delve into its history. With seats for 56,000 fans and scenery filled with towering palm trees around the stadium, sports fanatics and scenery-chasers will feel at home.

19. Hollywood Walk of Fame

The globally known 1-mile stretch along Hollywood Boulevard represents over 2,700 of the world’s most famous celebrities. Tour the boulevard with an exciting hop-on-hop-off bus tour.

As if getting up close with the famous stars lining the boulevard isn’t enough, you’re bound to see your favorite celebrity strolling by. Well, technically, you’ll be surrounded by impersonators—but you’d be hard-pressed to find the differences rather than similarities.

20. Dolby Theater

While you’re ‘stargazing’ on Hollywood Boulevard, pay a visit to the Dolby Theater . The pioneer playground for modern innovations in sound and visuals, this theater is one-of-a-kind.

The annual host for the Academy Awards and a popular stage for artists such as Celine Dion, the theater also hosts international performances like Cirque du Soleil. Though you’ll find impersonators on the street, inside the Dolby Theater is where you’ll meet the real celebrities.

21. Santa Catalina Island

One of the smaller islands off the California coast, this little piece of paradise is a favorite for tourists looking for unique beaches, great hiking , and amazing views.

The island has a rich history and various ways to explore this. Avalon Beach is where you’ll head for crystal clear Pacific waters to snorkel and dive. Heading out onto the sea on a glass-bottom boat is truly fun. You can also visit the Avalon Underwater Dive Park for more fun.

22. Death Valley National Park

The notorious Death Valley is a premier spot for sightseeing in California. Salt fields, parched landscapes, sand dunes, mountains, and rock formations make this one of the most inhospitable terrains in the world.

Don’t be scared off, though, as the national park has a distinct beauty to it. Numerous viewpoints and short trails flow through areas such as Stove Pipe Walls, Badwater Basin, and Dante’s View.

23. Alcatraz Island

Escaping from Alcatraz was said to be impossible. Only three inmates were rumored to have done so, but nowadays, there are millions heading toward the prison rather than running from it.

As one of the most popular tourist attractions in California, you can head to the island via a ferry from San Francisco. Once there, you can choose a number of tours to explore the prison. There is much to explore, with locations such as the Warden’s House and the lighthouse.

» Book your tour of Alcatraz here.

24. Winchester Mystery House

If you love a good mystery and enjoy some good old-fashioned scares, the Winchester Mystery House in San Jose is perfect for you. It’s one of the most haunted places in America, and sure to spook any who visit.

Beyond its structural beauty and completely crazy layout and design, the history of the house is what draws crowds. Try your hand at figuring out where all the ghosts come from, but be ready for goosebumps.

25. Cypress Tree Tunnel

If you’re after something straight from a fairy tale, Point Reyes is your go-to. Featuring locations such as the Cypress Tree Tunnel , where you might want to get some peace and quiet or snap the most striking social media shots, you’ll be spoilt for choice.

The trees down this tunnel interlock, creating a perfect cove of tree trunks lining an eerily whimsical walkway.

26. Kings Canyon National Park

Kings Canyon National Park is a majestic and often underrated gem nestled in California’s rugged Sierra Nevada mountains. As a first-time visitor, you’re about to embark on an adventure through one of America’s most stunning natural landscapes.

Encompassing a vast expanse of over 460,000 acres, Kings Canyon is renowned for its dramatic scenery that includes deep valleys, soaring mountains, and ancient giant sequoias. The park is divided into two main areas: the Grant Grove, home to the iconic General Grant Tree, one of the world’s largest living trees, and Cedar Grove, located in the heart of the canyon.

The park’s namesake, Kings Canyon itself, is one of the deepest canyons in North America, rivaling the more famous Grand Canyon in depth. The rugged terrain, dotted with serene meadows and powerful waterfalls, is a paradise for hikers and nature enthusiasts. You’ll find trails ranging from easy strolls through sequoia groves to challenging backcountry treks in the High Sierra.

Final Thoughts on these California Tourist Attractions

It’s impossible to capture everything that makes California a traveler’s paradise, and even more difficult to choose just a few highlights. No matter what you want to do or hope to experience during your trip to California, there is something for everyone.

Everything from sports, art, nature, science, and adventure, these must-visit California tourist attractions are only a taste of what you can expect. Get ready for a journey like you’ve never had before and head out to the wonderland that is California.

Like this article? Save it on Pinterest so you can find it again. FOLLOW US on Pinterest and Facebook for more California travel inspiration and tips!

Laura is a travel fanatic who loves seeing and doing new things. She lives in Ventura, CA, and spends a lot of time exploring California’s cities, beaches, and national parks.

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » California (CA) » 30 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in California

30 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in California

California , the golden state, offers some of the most beautiful and spectacular sights and places to visit! Just browse through these awesome pictures and be amazed by it’s beauty.

1. Yosemite Falls, Yosemite National Park

Yosemite Falls are popular with visitors from around the world. Much of the water that crashes down the falls and into the lake below comes from snowmelt. Yosemite falls itself is the fifth highest waterfall in the world and from top to bottom it is 2,425 feet. The falls are at their most spectacular in May and June, once the snow has melted the falls become a trickle and you then need to wait for the cooler weather again.

2. Sturtevant Falls, Big Santa Anita Canyon

Sturtevant Falls are located in the foothills of the Angeles National Forest. The falls themselves are fifty foot in height and look exceptionally beautiful due to the moss and algae that grows on the cliff. This makes the colours you see as the water runs distinctive and mesmerizing.

3. California’s Pacific Coast Highway

The Pacific Coast Highway in California is one of the most beautiful drives there is. It runs along most of the coastline of California and is famous across the world for its beautiful scenery. The route is a designated blue Star Memorial Highway as a way of recognition to those that serve in the U.S. armed forces.

4. Santa Cruz, California

Santa Cruz is one of the surfing mecca’s of the United States. The city itself is only small with a population of approximately 50,000 but the beautiful beaches and bohemian vibe attracts many visitors from across the world. The all year summer feel adds to the feeling of never ending paradise that you will always feel in this city.

5. Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is named this because of the Joshua trees that are native to the park. The area is a designated wilderness and encompasses two very different deserts. Visitors to the park can experience camping, hiking, and climbing.

6. California Street Cable Car

The California Street Cable Car is the last manually operated cable car system left in the world. It is an icon of San Francisco and during its peak there were twenty three lines running through the city. Now there are just three remaining and they make for a beautiful view when you are visiting the city.

7. Pfeiffer Beach

Pfeiffer Beach is a quiet, beautiful and unusual beach. The locals visit the area regularly but to the tourist the beach is still fairly unknown. The sand at the beach is an unusual purple colour and this is caused by the manganese garnet particles that get washed down from the neighbouring hillside.

8. San Diego

Along the coast of the Pacific Ocean is the vibrant and gorgeous city of San Diego. There are plenty of beautiful beaches to explore which when tempered with the mild climate of the area make this a fantastic place to visit. San Diego has the nickname “America’s Finest City” which should say it all really.

9. Lava Beds National Monument

There are 25 lava tube caves that you can visit when you are in Tuelake. When you climb down into the caves it will be like nothing you have experienced before. The caves have tubes that are made out of lava and a visitor center that explains their creation.

10. Big Sur

Big Sur was derived from the Spanish words ‘el sure grande’ which means ‘the big south’. The area is lightly populated and sits at the south of the city of Monterey. There are some stunning views to be had whilst you are in this small area which makes it very popular with tourists.

11. McWay Falls

McWay falls is an 80 foot waterfall that is located in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. The fall is actually classed as tide fall due to its close proximity to the ocean. The waterfall used to flow directly into the ocean but following a landslide in 1985 the terrain was altered and it now flows into an inaccessible beach.

12. San Francisco

San Francisco is surrounded by the Pacific Ocean and is famous for the stunning Golden Gate Bridge, colourful houses from the Victorian age and the last remaining cable cars. The city has many huge skyscrapers that make for a beautiful view. Just off the coast is Alcatraz Island which was home to the famous prison.

13. Vernal Falls

In the Yosemite National Park you will come across Vernal Falls. A 317 foot water fall that falls into the Merced River. The falls run all year round but at certain points of the year they break into multiple strands when the volume of water decreases.

14. Monterey Beach

Monterey Beaches are made up of a selection of Beaches that range from tiny little jewels to large area of sand. Each beach is unique and offers plenty of recreation facilities from kayaking to surfing to diving.

15. Emerald Bay

Emerald Bay is a small island that sits within Lake Tahoe. The bay has now been designated a National Natural Landmark due to the natural beauty that this small island provides. There are two camping grounds and a scenic foot trail that goes around the outside of the island.

16. Muir Woods

Muir Woods is part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area and a hot spot for tree lovers. The forest is often covered in a fog that comes from the coast. There are countless redwood trees growing in the area that use the fog that seeps in to stay moist during the dry summers.

17. Napa Valley

In the north of California you will find the Napa Valley. The area is famous for its beautiful landscapes and legendary wineries. The area is perfect for those that want to get away from it all and pamper themselves for a few days in the award winning restaurants and spas.

18. Cathedral Peak

Cathedral Peak is one part of the mountain range known as the Cathedral Range. The peak got its name because of the shape of the peak that looks like a cathedral. Glacial activity formed the peak and it has remained in its current form for many years.

19. Mariposa Woods

Mariposa Woods are a grove of giant sequoias. When you arrive you will feel like you are in a fairy-tale as the trees get taller and taller the further in you go. Some of the trees are between 1900 and 2400 years old with the star of the show being the giant sequoia named ‘Grizzly Giant’

20. Giant Rock In Landers

The Giant Rock is a real natural beauty and one that you must see whilst on a trip to landers. The boulder is in the Mojave Desert and covers an area of 5,800 square feet. The rock is seven stories high and known to be the largest free standing rock in the world.

21. Glacier Point

Situated well above the Yosemite Valley is Glacier Point. A viewpoint that stands at an elevation of 7,214 feet. From here you can stand back and catch amazing views of the Yosemite Valley, Vernal Fall, Clouds Rest and Nevada Fall.

22. California One Highway

Running from San Diego to San Francisco is the California One Highway. One of the most celebrated driving roads in the world. You will travel through wine country and beaches along this winding coastal drive. An absolute must for anyone who loves a road trip.

23. Big Basin Redwoods State Park

Big Basin Redwoods State Park is the oldest State Park in the country and here is where you will find the Waddell Creek Watershed. This area was formed when the rim was uplifted and the centre eroded, leaving the beautiful bowl shaped area you can see today.

24. Humboldt Redwoods State Park

Inside Humboldt Redwoods State Park you will find Rockefeller Forest which is the largest contiguous forest of coast redwoods in the world. Many of these trees grow to over 91 metres in height and the ‘Stratosphere Giant’ was at one point the tallest redwood known to man.

25. Mendocino Coast

Mendocino Coast is a nature lover’s paradise. With breath taking scenery and rock formations that have been carved by the wind. There are tide pools and secret coves to explore as well as wetlands filled with birds and other wildlife. A truly fantastic place to explore when you need to get everything.

26. Bishop, California

Bishop in California is a small town that offers much to the person who loves the great outdoors. You can trek to the top of White Mountain Peak which is 14,246 feet at its altitude and offers stunning views of the landscape below.

27. Oxnard Dunes

Oxnard is a small city in California that has many beautiful beaches and dunes to visit. You can enjoy quiet beaches that let you take in beautiful sunsets or you can choose to walk along the dunes for an equally stunning view.

28. China Beach in San Francisco

In the Sea Cliff neighbourhood of San Francisco is China Beach, a small cove that is one of the cleanest and most looked after beaches in the state. The cove was originally used as a campsite for Chinese fisherman that worked in and the bay.

30 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in California:

• Yosemite Falls, Yosemite National Park
• Sturtevant Falls, Big Santa Anita Canyon
• California’s Pacific Coast Highway
• Santa Cruz, California
• Joshua Tree National Park
• California Street Cable Car
• Pfeiffer Beach
• Lava Beds National Monument
• McWay Falls
• San Francisco
• Vernal Falls
• Monterey Beach
• Emerald Bay
• Napa Valley
• Cathedral Peak
• Mariposa Woods
• Giant Rock In Landers
• Glacier Point
• California One Highway
• Big Basin Redwoods State Park
• Humboldt Redwoods State Park
• Mendocino Coast
• Bishop, California
• Oxnard Dunes
• China Beach in San Francisco

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25 Amazing Places To Visit In California In Winter

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With sunny beaches, snowy mountains, tall redwoods, sand dunes, the golden state of California is a state of endless contrasts, and there’s no better time to experience its diversity than in December. Whether you’re seeking snowy mountain getaways or sun-soaked coastal views (in December!), California has it all.

Having lived in California for over 15 years and visited each of these stunning destinations multiple times, I’ve become an expert in discovering the best spots this state has to offer.

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I’ve experienced the magic of December in California firsthand, from cozy ski lodges in the Sierras to the vibrant holiday lights in Santa Monica.

In this guide, I’ll share my top recommendations for the best places to visit in California during this festive season categorized by nature/snow places, cities and wine getaways.

NOTE: While we try our best to provide all the information necessary for your visit, please note that details such as the dates and festivals are subject to change. We highly recommend you confirm the details personally before visiting.

Table of Contents

Summary Of Top places to visit in California in december

Cities and towns to visit in december in california.

If you plan to visit only one place in California in December, make it San Diego.

San Diego is one of my favorite cities in California and one I go back to every year or more. It is one of the warmest and sunny cities in California in December and a must visit if you have not been yet.

In addition to the weather being perfect, San Diego also hosts multiple festive activities in December like the Parade of Lights and Balboa Park December Nights.

WEATHER IN DECEMBER

Perfect temperatures of mid-50s to low 70s (°F)

THINGS TO DO

There is no shortage of things to do in San Diego.

Spend the day at Balboa Park and check out the San Diego Zoo as well as Old Town San Diego.

One of my favorite things to do in San Diego is visiting La Jolla. Watch the sunset at La Jolla Cove, go kayaking or boutique shopping in the village.

For nightlife, head to Gaslamp Quarter lined with amazing restaurants and clubs.

Check out my post on best places to eat in San Diego for the best cafes, tacos and restaurants.

For holiday events, check out Balboa Park December Nights and San Diego Bay Parade of Lights.

And don’t miss the amazing sunsets from various beaches all along San Diego’s coast!

If you plan to spend a long weekend, checkout my 3 day San Diego itinerary.

BEST HOTELS TO STAY

There are many different options to choose from but here are some of my favorites.

Fairmont Grand Del Mar : A Mediterranean-inspired resort with world-class dining, a spa, and access to golf courses and nature trails. I love Fairmont properties and Fairmont Del Mar is a class above the rest!

La Valencia Hotel (La Jolla) : A stunning Mediterranean-style hotel in La Jolla, known for its luxury amenities, ocean views, and close proximity to the upscale shopping and dining in La Jolla Village. La Jolla is one of my favorite places to stay and this hotel is the best!

Pendry San Diego : A great option in the Gaslamp Quarter with a rooftop pool and close to downtown attractions.

Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is another favorite place of mine to visit in December. I’ve been to Santa Barbara numerous times and love the mild weather and holiday fervor of December.

If you prefer a day trip from LA or stop on the way, I have the perfect day trip itinerary to Santa Barbara.

Mid-40s to mid-60s (°F)

The Parade of Lights is a must visit in December to start off the holiday season. Stop by Stearns Wharf and enjoy seafood at one of the restaurants.

Explore State Street , the heart of downtown Santa Barbara which beautifully decorated for the holidays in December. It is a fun street to stroll and stop for dining.

For more traditional sighseeing places, visit Mission Santa Barbara, the Santa Barbara Courthouse and the Santa Barbara Zoo.

The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara : A beachfront resort offering Mediterranean-style elegance, ocean views, a full-service spa, and fine dining.

Belmond El Encanto : A beautiful hillside resort with luxurious bungalows and panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.

Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort: For an option closer to the beach and downtown, Hilton beachfront hotel is the perfect choice.

Palm Springs

December is THE best time to visit Palm Springs. While everywhere else in California is cold, Palm Springs desert area is pleasant and perfect to spend time by the pool, hike or chill outdoors.

Sunny days with temperatures in the range of mid-40s at night to mid-70s (F) during the day.

Ride the  Palm Springs Aerial Tramway  up to the top of  Mount San Jacinto for breathtaking panoramic views of the desert and snow-capped mountains.

Hike the Indian Canyons  amidst lush palm oases and stunning desert landscapes. Explore the trails at  Palm Canyon ,  Murray Canyon , and  Andreas Canyon .

Check out Robolights  – a quirky holiday light display that features sculptures made from recycled materials, lit up with holiday lights. 

Stroll along  El Paseo , Palm Springs’ version of Rodeo Drive, and enjoy holiday shopping at high-end boutiques and galleries. The street is also beautifully decorated during the holidays.

Palm Canyon Drive  in the heart of downtown Palm Springs is another street to shop and eat and beautifully decorated during holidays.

If you like a more relaxed experience, spend the day golfing or relax at the spa and pool.

The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage : A stunning luxury resort with panoramic views of the desert, a world-class spa, and fine dining.

La Quinta Resort & Club : A historic resort with spacious casitas, pools, tennis courts, and access to some of the best golf courses in the area.

Catalina Island

Catalina Island is another one of my favorite places to visit in California. It feels like being in Europe without actually traveling across the ocean.

December is an excellent time to visit Catalina Island, as the weather is mild and the island feels festive with holiday fervor.

INSIDER TIP: The tickets to Catalina Island ferry get sold out pretty fast. Be sure took book your tickets as soon as you can especially on weekends.

Mid-50s to mid-60s (°F)

Explore the town of Avalon. Avalon is one of my favorite towns in California and it turns so festive in December with festival lights and displays. Take a stroll along  Crescent Avenue , visit local shops and boutiques.

If you enjoy hiking, spend a day exploring Catalina Island’s scenic trails.  Avalon Canyon  offers beautiful hikes, including the  Garden to Sky Trail with panoramic views of the ocean.

Explore the  Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden – home to native and rare plants of the island.

Explore Catalina Island’s marine life without getting wet by taking a  glass-bottom boat tour . This is one of the most popular things to do on the island so book your tickets early!

Visit Catalina Island Museum to learn about the Island’s history from its Hollywood connections to its natural beauty.

Avalon Hotel : A boutique hotel with rooftop deck with stunning views of Avalon Harbor. This is one of the most romantic hotels and this is where we stayed during our trip. Loved it so much!

Mt. Ada : Another boutique, historic hotel offering panoramic views of Avalon and the Pacific Ocean with exclusive, personalized service.

Pavilion Hotel: A beachfront boutique hotel located steps from Avalon Bay with modern amenities and relaxing garden courtyards.

Santa Monica & Malibu

Santa Monica and Malibu are the most sought after holiday destinations by people all over the world. The cooler weather and a break from the summer crowds makes December an ideal time to visit these two cities.

Mid-50s to low 60s °F

Santa Monica is so festive in December with holiday lights and decor everywhere. Visit Santa Monica Pier and Third Street Promenade for beautiful holiday decorations.

Walk or bike the Santa Monica Beach Path that runs from Santa Monica to Venice Beach.

Visit the most beautiful Getty Villa in Malibu. The  Getty Villa  is a museum dedicated to ancient Greek, Roman, and Etruscan art and a stunning place to visit for photography.

Enjoy hiking the Solstice Canyon or Escondido Falls in Malibu. End the day with wine tasting in Malibu.

Don’t miss Malibu Pier and Malibu Farm Cafe for incredible farm to table fare.

If you prefer some TLC, spend the day at Burke Williams Spa. It is one of my favorite spas to visit and is an exclusive one with amazing amenities like sauna, steam room along with the spa.

Take one of the best scenic drives along the Pacific Coast Highway from Santa Monica to Malibu.

Shutters on the Beach (Santa Monica) : A 5 star beachfront hotel with ocean views and super easy access to the Santa Monica Pier.

The Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows (Santa Monica): Fairmont properties are some of my favorite luxury hotels and this Santa Monica one lives up to the expectation with incredible ocean views, lush gardens, and high-end amenities.

This is where I stayed with my family during last visit to Santa Monica and absolutely enjoyed the service.

Nobu Ryokan Malibu (Malibu) : A beautiful, minimalist oceanfront retreat with private bungalows and unique ambience.

Can you think of any place more festive than Disneyland in December? I can’t! If you love holiday festivities, you must visit Disneyland in December.

Disneyland is the most magical places to visit in December in California with sparkling lights and holiday-themed parades.

Typically ranges from the mid-40s to low 60s (°F).

Disneyland Park and  Disney California Adventure Park  are beautifully decorated for the holidays and are probably the best places to visit during December.

Watch the beautiful “A Christmas Fantasy Parade” which features Disney characters in festive costumes, holiday floats, dancing reindeer, and Santa Claus himself.

If you are visiting in the month of December, don’t miss the most magical “Believe… In Holiday Magic” fireworks  show, which lights up the sky above Sleeping Beauty Castle. 

Over at  Disney California Adventure Park , check out the  Festival of Holidays  celebrates diverse holiday traditions with live entertainment and holiday themed food and drinks.

There are many more holiday themed events at Cars Land, Haunted Mansion and many more that you will absolutely enjoy!

Disneyland Hotel : A Disney themed classic and located within walking distance of the park.

Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa: A stunning luxury resort offering direct access to Disney California Adventure Park, complete with a full-service spa and upscale dining.

The Westin Anaheim Resort : If you prefer something other than the Disney resorts, choose Westin, another classic hotel close to the park.

Sausalito & Marin County

To the north of San Francisco and on the other side of Golden Gate Bridge is Sausalito and the beautiful Marin County region.

While there are many things to do in San Fracisco , Sausalito and Marin County are better places to spend time in December.

This region north of San Francisco is quieter and more peaceful with beautiful views and stunning landscapes.

Mid-40s to mid-60s

One of the highlights of the holiday season in Sausalito is the  Sausalito Lighted Boat Parade . Nothing screams festive season than boats decked out in festive holiday lights cruising around the harbor.

Explore the towering redwoods of  Muir Woods National Monument.

December is also a good time to hike the scenic trails of  Mount Tamalpais State Park for panoramic views of the ocean.

Sausalito’s waterfront and downtown area are filled with charming boutiques, galleries, and shops. In December, the town is beautifully decorated for the holidays, making it a festive spot to shop for gifts.

Casa Madrona Hotel & Spa (Sausalito) : A boutique luxury hotel with breathtaking views of the bay and a full-service spa.

Cavallo Point Lodge (Sausalito): A historic lodge at the foot of the Golden Gate Bridge with gourmet dining, and a wellness spa.

Pismo Beach

Pismo Beach in Central California is another great town to in December. December is the beginning of the Monarch Butterfly Migration and one of the most breathtaking places to see the Monarch Butterflies is in Pismo Beach.

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Mid-40s to low-60s F

Don’t miss the Monarch Butterfly Grove. December is the peak season for viewing the monarch butterflies at the  Monarch Butterfly Grove . Thousands of butterflies migrate to this eucalyptus grove for the winter and is one of the most stunning sights to see.

Drive on the beach at Pismo State Beach. It is one of the very few beaches in California where you can drive on the beach. Also check out the Oceano dunes and ride as ATV while you are there.

Walk along the Dinosaur Caves Park for scenic views of the ocean.

If you love wine, go wine tasting in Edna Valley. Edna Valley is a short drive from Pismo Beach and is a beautiful place to visit with rolling vineyards and wineries.

For Oceanfront dining, check out Ventana Grill and The Oyster Loft. We dined at Ventana during our last stay and the food is delicious!

Check out the Christmas decor and holiday lights in the nearby towns of San Luis Obispo and Arroyo Grande.

Dolphin Bay Resort & Spa : A beachfront luxury resort with ocean-view pool and beautiful rooms.

The Cliffs Hotel & Spa: Perched atop a bluff, this luxury resort features ocean-view rooms and easy beach access.

Cambria & Morro Bay

The beach towns of Cambria and Morro Bay are fun to visit in December. Cambria has one of the best Christmas markets and lights display in California and a must visit in December.

Mid-40s to low-60s.

The  Cambria Christmas Market  is one of the most festive events and a must visit in December. This European-style holiday market features thousands of twinkling lights, holiday displays, artisan vendors, live music, and seasonal treats.

Visit Hearst Castle that is just a short drive from Cambria. Hearst Castle  is a popular attraction that offers tours of the grand estate built by media mogul William Hearst. It is beautifully decorated during the holidays and a must visit.

Enjoy a beautiful sunset at Moonstone Beach in Cambria.

Watch the Morro Bay Boat Parade hosted in early December.

Explore Downtown Cambria and Morro Bay State Park.

Oceanpoint Ranch (Cambria) : A rustic oceanfront resort with cozy ranch-style rooms and easy beach access.

El Colibri Hotel & Spa (Cambria) : A boutique hotel close to Moonstone Beach.

A roadtrip from San Francisco to Mendocino is a perfect peaceful getaway in December. December is a good time to cozy up by the fireplace watching the sunset in Mendocino.

A bit chillier with temperatures ranging from mid-30s to low-50s.

Visit Mendocino Headlands State Park  or  Point Cabrillo Light Station for a walk and a chance to spot the whales.

For dramatic coastal views and rugged cliffs, explore the trails in  Mendocino Headlands State Park .

Visit the Mendocino Botanical Gardens for some peace and quiet time.

On your way back, stop for wine tasting in the beautiful Anderson Valley. It is one of my favorite wine regions with chill vibes and friendly atmposphere.

The Stanford Inn by the Sea : An eco-friendly, luxury resort with stunning ocean views, cozy fireplaces, and an organic restaurant. I absolutely loved the vegan restaurant.

Heritage House Resort & Spa : A cliffside resort with ocean views and direct beach access.

If you live in Northern California, Santa Cruz is a quick and easy getaway to visit in December. The crazy crowds of summer are gone and the town is festive and cozy with holiday lights.

Mid-40s to mid-60s (F)

Enjoy the holiday lights and ocean views of the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk minus the craziness of the rides.

Board vintage holiday train decorated with holiday lights and enjoy Christmas carols, hot cocoa, and Santa Claus.

Enjoy a peaceful day admiring the towering redwoods in  Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park .

For amazing coastal views, visit Wilder Ranch State Park . It is one of my favorite places to visit especially in spring when the wildflowers bloom. It is one of the best places to see wildflowers near SF Bay area.

There are many more things to do like exploring Santa Cruz Downtown, Natural Bridges State Park and Capitola just a short drive from Santa Cruz.

Dream Inn Santa Cruz : A beachfront luxury hotel with ocean views and direct access to the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.

Chaminade Resort & Spa: A hilltop resort with fine dining and panoramic views of the Monterey Bay.

Monterey & Carmel-by-the-sea

Carmel-by-the-sea is one of my favorite towns to visit near SF Bay Area and is even more beautiful during the holidays. It is easily one of the prettiest towns in California. Adding Monterey to the trip makes it a perfect itinerary for a December visit.

Mid-40s to low 60s (°F)

A stroll through downtown Carmel is a must. Carmel is especially charming in December, with its storybook cottages, art galleries, and boutiques decorated for the holidays.

Take a scenic drive along the famous  17-Mile Drive  through  Pebble Beach with views of the Lone Cypress and beautiful coastal views.

Visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium and the famous Cannery Row in Monterey.

Go wine tasting in Carmel Valley and take a drive along the beautiful Big Sur Coast.

The Inn at Spanish Bay (Pebble Beach) : A luxury resort with stunning ocean views, world-class golf, and fine dining. It is one of the top golf destinations in the world and an amazing place to stay.

L’Auberge Carmel (Carmel-by-the-Sea) : A historic, boutique hotel located just steps from the beach and downtown Carmel. It is another one of my favorites in Carmel.

Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa (Monterey): A waterfront luxury hotel offering sweeping views of Monterey Bay and easy access to the famous Cannery Row.

Wine Getaways to Visit in December in California

Napa valley.

Napa Valley has my heart. This is where I fell in love with wine and is one of my most visited regions in California.

With fewer crowds compared to the busy harvest season, December is a wonderful time to visit Napa Valley.

You get to enjoy more personalized wine tastings and special holiday events at the wineries. 

The weather in December is cooler, with temperatures ranging from the mid-40s to mid-60s (°F).

Enjoy intimate winetastings and tours at few of the most beautiful wineries in Napa Valley. Some of the best wineries to visit in Napa Valley are Domaine Carneros, Castello di Amorosa, Opus One to name a few.

Or better yet, drive along the scenic Silverado trail or Hwy 29 and stop by the wineries along the way.

If you are not into wine, check out one of the olive oil tastings offered at several wineries.

Visit the beautiful towns of Yountville, St. Helena and check out the markets or lunch at a restaurant. Yountville is one of my favorite places in Napa Valley and I absolutely love the restaurants there.

December is the perfect time to indulge in Napa Valley’s renowned culinary scene. Dine at Michelin-starred restaurants like  The French Laundry ,  Bistro Jeanty , or  La Toque .

Enjoy a hot air balloon ride with sprawling views of vineyards.

Check out the festive downtown of Napa and stop for dinner.

Auberge du Soleil : A romantic, five-star resort with Michelin-starred dining, stunning views, and an award-winning spa.

The Estate Yountville: A luxurious hotel offering world-class dining, and a central location in the heart of Yountville, perfect for exploring nearby wineries.

Carneros Resort and Spa : A countryside retreat featuring cozy cottages, a farm-to-table restaurant, and beautiful vineyard views.

Healdsburg is a charming town with relaxed vibe and a perfect alternative to Napa.

December is perfect to visit Healdsburg as the Downtown is quite festive with Christmas decor and festive lights.

Temperatues range from the mid-40s to mid-60s (°F).

Try winetastings and tours at some of the best wineries in Healdsburg area.

Healdsburg lights up with holiday spirit in December. Check out the Healdsburg Holiday Tree Lighting and enjoy a leisurely stroll along Healdsburg Plaza.

Be sure to dine at one of the several farm-to-table restaurants in Healdsburg.

Visit the nearby Alexander Valley, Russian River Valley and Dry Creek Valley for unique wines and tours. These are the regions that I frequent time and again and love them so much.

Shop at one of the many boutique stores in Healdsburg for unique finds.

Hotel Healdsburg : A chic, modern hotel in the heart of downtown with a spa, fireplace suites, and proximity to top wineries.

H2hotel : A sustainable and modern eco-luxury hotel with easy access to downtown Healdsburg’s restaurants and wine-tasting rooms.

Madrona Manor : A historic inn offering Victorian elegance with luxurious accommodations and a fine-dining restaurant perfect for the holiday season.

Paso Robles

Paso Robles is less glitzier than its Northern cousin Napa but it is one of my favorite wine regions in California.

December is a great time to visit Paso Robles and the temperatures are milder to explore and the Downtown is full of festive spirit.

Cozy up with a glass of wine by the fireplace or enjoy the vineyards in a peaceful setting.

Check out the best wineries in Paso Robles like Tablas Creek, DAOU Vineyards, Justin Vineyards.

Don’t miss the  Vine Street Victorian Christmas Showcase , a festive event where the historic neighborhood is transformed with lights and holiday displays. The  Paso Robles Downtown City Park  also comes alive with lights.

One of the best nearby attractions is the  Sensorio Light Show  with a stunning immersive experience. It a must visit in Paso Robles area.

Enjoy farm-to-table dining at my favorites – Thomas Hill Organics or The Hatch Rotisserie.

If you are a beer person, check out the famous  Firestone Walker Brewery , one of Paso Robles’ top craft breweries.

Hotel Cheval : A boutique luxury hotel offering refined elegance, located just steps from downtown Paso Robles’ shops and restaurants.

Allegretto Vineyard Resort : A Mediterranean-inspired resort with beautiful vineyard views, a full-service spa, and exceptional dining.

Temecula, being the most popular wine region south of Los Angeles, gets quite busy during summer and harvest season. So December is perfect to visit if you prefer lesser crowds and cooler temperatures.

Low-40s to mid-60s (F)

Enjoy holiday-themed wine tastings and events at one of the popular wineries like South Coast Winery ,  Wilson Creek Winery ,  Ponte Winery , and  Leoness Cellars .

Explore  Old Town Temecula , which comes alive with festive decorations and holiday lights in December. Take a stroll and explore the charming shops, art galleries, and restaurants.

For a unique experience, enjoy a hot air balloon ride. I did a hot air balloon ride in Temecula years ago with family and loved it so much.

Check out Temecula Chilled , a month-long event filled with holiday cheer, including lights, decorations, and themed attractions throughout the city.

Try outdoor ice skating experience at Temecula IceFEST .

South Coast Winery Resort & Spa : A beautiful winery resort offering luxurious villas, a full-service spa, and breathtaking vineyard views.

Carter Estate Winery and Resort : A refined estate with private bungalows, an exclusive wine-tasting experience, and gorgeous vineyard surroundings.

Mild weather, festive lights, holiday wine events make visiting Santa Ynez Valley an ideal spot to visit in December.

Low 40s to mid-60s (°F)

Spend a day wine tasting at iconic wineries such as  Sunstone Winery ,  Bridlewood Estate Winery , and  Fess Parker Winery .

Visit the Danish town of Solvang. And don’t miss the  Solvang Julefest , a traditional Danish-inspired holiday celebration with lights, and unique shopping experiences.

Explore the charming town of  Los Olivos , which is beautifully decorated for the holidays. Stroll through its boutique shops, art galleries, and tasting rooms.

For a unique way to explore the scenic beauty of Santa Ynez Valley, consider taking a guided horseback ride through the vineyards. 

The Inn at Mattei’s Tavern : A historic inn offering fine dining and perfect atmosphere for relaxation.

Fess Parker Wine Country Inn: A boutique hotel located in the heart of Los Olivos, offering easy access to wineries and top-notch amenities.

Nature And Snowy Places To See in December

Lake Tahoe in December turns into a winter wonderland. Not just Lake Tahoe but the lakes near Lake Tahoe are amazing to visit in December.

While Lake Tahoe is popular for its summer activities , winter is perfect for snow sports and cozy mountain getaways.

Temperatures usually range from the low 20s to mid-40s (°F) and ideal for snow sports.

Visit the world-class ski resorts of Heavenly, Squaw Valley (now Palisades Tahoe), Northstar, and Kirkwood for a day of skiing or snowboarding.

The Heavenly Village in South Lake Tahoe is a great spot to check out Christmas decorations, ice skating and festive markets.

Check out the Gondola ride at Heavenly Village for panoramic views of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding snow covered mountains.

You can also enjoy a myriad of winter activities like snowshoeing, sledding, tubing and cross-country skiing.

There are many other lakes near Lake Tahoe that are worth exploring while in the area.

The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe : A ski-in/ski-out resort with mountain views, fine dining, and a world-class spa.

Edgewood Tahoe Resort : Known for its stunning lakeside location, this resort offers a blend of luxury and nature with golf, spa services, and cozy accommodations. This is my favorite hotel to stay in Lake Tahoe.

Resort at Squaw Creek: Located in Olympic Valley, this resort offers ski-in/ski-out access, a golf course, and year-round outdoor pools. Squaw Valley is another personal favorite that is a great place to stay anytime of the year.

Yosemite National Park

December transforms Yosemite’s granite cliffs and waterfalls into a winter paradise.

Visiting Yosemite in December offers a unique, quieter experience with far fewer crowds. Snow blankets the valley, creating postcard-perfect scenes while activities like snowshoeing and cross-country skiing make for a magical adventure. 

The weather in December typically ranges from the mid-20s to the low 50s (°F), with higher elevations receiving more snow.

Enjoy winter hikes, ice skating at Curry Village, and snow play.

Don’t miss a visit to Badger Pass Ski Area, California’s oldest ski resort, for a round of skiing and snowboarding.

The Ahwahnee Hotel : Yosemite’s historic hotel offers stunning views, fine dining, and a cozy fireplace.

Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite : Tenaya is a personal favorite. It a luxurious mountain resort just outside the park offering winter activities, a spa, and holiday events.

Big Sur is one of the most stunning coastlines in the world and one of my favorites to getaway from SF Bay Area.

While it may be a bit chilly and not perfect beach weather, it is still a great time to visit Big Sur in December with far fewer crowds. In fact, I stayed at the Post Ranch Inn in December and had the most wonderful time.

December is also the perfect time for whale watching.

Cooler temperatures range from the mid-40s to low 60s (°F)

December marks the start of the gray whale migration along the California coast. You can spot these majestic creatures from various lookout points, such as  Point Lobos State Natural Reserve ,  Garrapata State Park , and along  Highway 1 .

Visit one of Big Sur’s most iconic landmarks,  McWay Falls , a stunning 80-foot waterfall that cascades directly onto the beach. 

Big Sur is known for its incredible hiking trails, which are particularly enjoyable in December when the weather is cool. The most popular ones are the Pfeiffer Falls Trail, McWay Falls Trail and Buzzard’s Roost Trail  for panoramic views of the ocean and redwood forests.

Cozy up at Post Ranch Inn or Ventana and explore the nearby trails, pools and fully relax. Or enjoy a spa day.

Stop by Bixby Creek Bridge , one of the most photographed spots along Highway 1.

Big Sur is definitely one of the best romantic weekend getaways from San Francisco Bay Area.

Post Ranch Inn : An eco-luxury resort perched on cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, offering stunning views and an infinity pool. I stayed at Post Ranch Inn during our stay in December and it is still one of the most memorable places I had stayed in.

Ventana Big Sur: A luxury resort with spacious suites, Japanese baths, and a full-service spa, perfect for relaxation amid the natural beauty of Big Sur.

Big Bear Lake

Big Bear is a popular snowy retreat to visit in Southern California.

In December, Big Bear Lake offers a mix of sunny days and snow-filled landscapes ideal for skiing, snowboarding, and sledding.

Temperatures typically range from the mid-20s to mid-50s (°F).

Enjoy winter sports at Snow Summit and Bear Mountain Resorts

Alternatively, try snowshoeing, snow tubing, and cozying up in mountain cabins. Most cabins come with a bath tub to enjoy relax after a long day at the ski resort.

Check out the town’s holiday events like Christmas tree lightings and festive decorations.

Big Bear Frontier : A rustic yet upscale lakeside retreat offering cozy log cabins and beautiful lake views.

The Lodge at Big Bear Lake : A premier resort offering comfort and proximity to the village and ski slopes.

Lake Arrowhead Resort and Spa : Though slightly further away, this resort offers upscale accommodations with lake views and a relaxing spa.

Mammoth Lakes

If you love winter sports, Mammoth Lakes is another great place to visit in December with fewer crowds than Lake Tahoe.

Mammoth Mountain typically receives a good amount of snow by December creating ideal conditions for winter activities.

Temperatures range from the low 20s to mid-40s (°F).

Enjoy a day of skiing and snowboarding for all levels at Mammoth Mountain, one of the premier ski resorts in California.

Explore the beautiful winter landscape on snowshoeing trails around Mammoth Lakes. Popular routes include the scenic Tamarack Cross-Country Ski Center and trails around Convict Lake.

Check out Mammoth Ice Rink for outdoor ice skating.

Ride the Mammoth Mountain Scenic Gondola to the summit for breathtaking panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks. 

Relax in one of the many natural hot springs in the area, such as Wild Willy’s Hot Springs

The Westin Monache Resort : A luxury resort offering spacious suites, a heated outdoor pool, and close proximity to Mammoth Mountain.

Tamarack Lodge & Resort : A charming lakeside lodge perfect for a romantic winter getaway, with cross-country skiing right outside your door.

Channel Islands National Park

If you love nature and ocean, Channel Islands National Park is one of my favorite places to visit in December. It is one of the best National Parks in California but so underrated.

The mild weather is perfect for hiking, kayaking and whale watching.

Ideal weather with daytime temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to low 60s (°F).

Visit Santa Cruz Island for incredible hiking trails and kayaking through sea caves. For a detailed guide, check out my day trip and free itinerary to visiting Santa Cruz Island.

Another great island to visit is Anacapa Island for panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.

Watch the whale migration by joining a guided whale watching tour or from the shore of  Santa Cruz Island  or  Anacapa Island

If you don’t mind the winter waters, you can try snorkeling or diving.

There are no hotels to stay in Channel Islands National Park area. You can choose to do a day trip or camp in Santa Cruz island.

The closest hotels are in Santa Barbara and Ventura.

Death Valley National Park

December is one of the best times to visit Death Valley National Park, as the usually scorching desert cools down to pleasant temperatures.

The winter months also bring fewer crowds making it a bit more peaceful experience.

In December, daytime temperatures range from the mid-60s to low 70s (°F), with cooler nights in the 40s.

December’s milder temperatures make it the perfect time to explore the park’s many trails. Popular hikes include:

• Golden Canyon to Red Cathedral : A moderately challenging hike through colorful canyon walls.
• Mosaic Canyon : A scenic hike with polished marble walls and narrow passages.
• Badwater Basin : The lowest point in North America, where visitors can walk on the vast salt flats.

Check out the unique Badwater Basin. At 282 feet below sea level, Badwater Basin is the park’s iconic salt flats. 

Take advantage of the comfortable temperatures for long scenic drives:

• Artist’s Drive and Artist’s Palette : A 9-mile drive that takes you through vibrant, multicolored hills, best experienced in the soft light of late afternoon.
• Dante’s View : A panoramic viewpoint over Death Valley and one of the best places to catch a sunrise or sunset.
• Twenty Mule Team Canyon : A less-traveled dirt road that winds through a maze of colorful badlands.

Explore Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes. These stunning sand dunes near Stovepipe Wells are perfect for walking, photography, and experiencing the desert’s vastness.

Try star gazing at this International Dark Sky Park. December’s long nights offer some of the clearest and darkest skies in the country.

Check out sunrise or sunset at Zabriskie Point , one of the most popular spots in Death Valley.

The Inn at Death Valley : A historic hotel offering stunning views, palm gardens, a natural spring pool.

The Ranch at Death Valley : A more family-friendly option with modern amenities, close to Furnace Creek and many park attractions.

Joshua Tree National Park

As the temperatures cool down, December provides ideal conditions to visit Joshua Tree National Park.

December’s mild weather allows visitors to explore the park’s stunning rock formations, iconic Joshua trees, and expansive desert landscapes without the excessive heat.

The desert cools down to comfortable temperatures in December, ranging from the mid-40s to mid-60s (°F) during the day.

Hiking is a popular activity to do in December due to the pleasant temperatures.

Some popular hikes include:

• Hidden Valley Trail : A short, easy loop that takes you through a scenic valley surrounded by towering rock formations.
• Ryan Mountain Trail : A more challenging hike with rewarding panoramic views of the park from the summit.
• Barker Dam Trail : A family-friendly hike that passes through Joshua trees and boulders, with a chance to see the historic Barker Dam and petroglyphs.

Joshua Tree is world-famous for its rock climbing and the cool weather of December is perfect for climbing its many boulder formations.

Joshua Tree offers incredible stargazing opportunities, especially in December when the skies are clear and crisp.

Explore the unique Cholla Cactus Garden . This unique garden is home to dense clusters of cholla cacti and is an incredible spot to visit during sunrise or sunset.

The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage : Located about an hour away, this luxury resort offers a desert oasis with panoramic views, a world-class spa, and fine dining.

Sands Hotel & Spa : A stylish boutique hotel in nearby Indian Wells, offering luxury and a relaxing ambiance.

There are many unique and exquisite AirBNBs within Joshua Tree that are great to stay.

Final Thoughts

California offers an incredible variety of places to visit in December, each with its own unique experiences.

Having lived in California for over 15 years and visited these destinations across different seasons, I can confidently say that December brings a special charm to these spots.

Whether you prefer whale watching along the coast of  Big Sur , skiing in Lake Tahoe , or enjoying holiday festivities in  Santa Barbara , wine tasting in Healdsburg , there’s something for everyone.

While this list highlights some of the best options, there are many more places across the state worth exploring during the winter months. Wherever you choose to go, you’re sure to find the perfect winter getaway.

Looking for Spring getaways in California, check out the best flower fields to visit in California.

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I am Aswani Kurra. I am a luxury travel expert and a Certified Sommelier who traveled extensively in Italy and the Mediterranean and lived in multiple countries including the state of California for 15 years . Join me as I share luxurious itineraries and bucketlist destinations from vineyards of California to the rolling hills of Tuscany, sweeping views of the Amalfi Coast and more.

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The 21 Best California Tours

Make the most of your time in the Golden State with one of these top-rated tours.

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Explore California's cities, coasts and cultures on these tours.

With its beaches , lakes , mountains, vineyards and national parks , California is full of unforgettable experiences. But its sheer size can feel overwhelming, even for the seasoned traveler. Relying on the knowledge and expertise of a local can help you make the most of your visit. After consulting traveler opinion and expert input, U.S. News compiled the best California tours. Whether you want to savor a glass of wine in Napa Valley or marvel at Yosemite's peaks, there's a tour for you.

Note: Some tour providers on this list may be running more limited operations due to COVID-19 or may impose testing or vaccine requirements. Check with your tour operator about availability before you book.

San Francisco: Painted Ladies Tour Company – San Francisco City Tour

Cruise around San Francisco in a vintage Volkswagen bus with the Painted Ladies Tour Company. On the two-hour San Francisco City Tour, which welcomes up to seven participants, you'll see sights like Lombard Street, Union Square , Chinatown , the Golden Gate Bridge and more. Plus, you'll make three stops for photos. Tourgoers say this is a fun and unique way to sightsee around San Francisco and describe the guides as funny and well-versed in the city's history.

Ticket prices start at $85 for adults and $65 for kids ages 1 to 12. Discounts are available for seniors ages 65 and older. Tours are generally available multiple times a day from 8:30 a.m. to 1:45 p.m. They depart from Fisherman's Wharf or Union Square. The company also offers tours of Sonoma in its signature Volkswagen buses.

[View & Book Tickets: Option 1 | Option 2 .]

Los Angeles: Six Taste – Downtown LA Food Tour

According to reviewers, the Downtown LA Food Tour from Six Taste is a great way to start off your Los Angeles visit. During the roughly four-hour tour, you'll enjoy more than seven tastings as you traverse 12 city blocks. In between bites, your guide will share information about the city's art deco architecture and its unique history. Plus, you'll pay a visit to the Grand Central Market – LA's largest and oldest public market. Tastings on the tour may include Cantonese barbecue pork, gelato, homemade pasta and French dip sandwiches, among other dishes. Note that the tour is not suitable for vegan or gluten-free diets.

Tickets cost approximately $75 per person. Tours are generally available on Saturdays and Sundays at 11 a.m. Craving more? Six Taste offers a variety of tours in other parts of the city, including the Arts District and Santa Monica .

[ View & Book Tickets .]

Napa: Platypus Wine Tours – Napa Valley Join-In Tour

You and up to 11 other participants will visit three wineries within Napa Valley on this popular shuttle tour. Wineries visited vary by the day, but you can expect to stop at small, intimate locations, such as Tedeschi Family Winery and Hans Fahden Vineyards. Travelers highly recommend the tour, citing the personable, informative guides as highlights. Reviewers are also pleased with the wineries visited. Tours are generally available daily, departing at 10:30 a.m. and returning at 5 p.m.

Tickets start at $119 per person and include round-trip Napa hotel transportation, a picnic lunch and bottled water. Note that winery tasting fees are not included and generally cost $20 to $25 a person. The company also operates winery tours through Sonoma, in addition to private tours.

[View & Book Tickets: Option 1 | Option 2 | Option 3 .]

San Diego: San Diego Seal Tour

According to reviewers, the San Diego Seal Tour is a great experience, whether you're traveling with your family or by yourself. During the approximately 90-minute excursion, you'll cruise through the streets of San Diego in an amphibious vehicle before splashing into the San Diego Bay. As you keep your eyes peeled for sea lions, seals and dolphins, your captain and first mate will offer an overview of San Diego history. Along the way, you'll pass by attractions like the USS Midway Museum , Point Loma and Shelter Island. Tours depart on the hour from downtown's Seaport Village from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the summer and from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the winter.

Ticket prices start at $44 per adult, $25 for kids ages 4 to 12 and $10 for children 3 and younger. You can take advantage of a slight discount if you purchase your tickets online in advance. Tickets that combine a Seal tour with a tour on the Old Town Trolley are also available.

Los Angeles: Pedal... or Not – LA Electric Bike Tour

Cycle your way through sunny Santa Monica on this three-hour electric bike tour. Along the way, you'll see Santa Monica Pier , Venice Beach , Muscle Beach and the Venice Canals, among other sights. According to tourgoers, guides are knowledgeable and friendly, and the bikes are easy to use. Though the bike allows you to switch between pedaling and using the electric motor, the company still recommends that participants be comfortable riding a bike. The company provides helmets.

Tours are generally available daily at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Tickets start at $79 per participant ages 13 and older. Children younger than 13 cannot participate in the tour. You can also book this as a private tour for between two and six riders. Tickets for the private tour option start at $99 per person.

San Diego: Flagship Cruises and Events – San Diego Full Bay Harbor Cruise

Enjoy views of the Coronado Bridge , military ships, waterfront landmarks and marine life on this two-hour cruise around San Diego Bay. Along with 360-degree views of the harbor, you'll also enjoy live narration from the crew, who share details about San Diego history and the military ships that dock in its harbor. Cruisers call this a must-do in San Diego, praising the views and interesting narration. Reviewers say this is a great thing to do on your first day in San Diego.

Tickets cost approximately $35 for adults, $32 for seniors and military members and $17.50 for children ages 4 to 12. Tours depart from 10 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. every day, though there may be fewer cruises in the winter months. If you're short on time, you can opt for the company's hourlong cruises, which sail around either the north or south harbor. Whale watching excursions and dining cruises are also available.

San Diego: San Diego Whale Watch – Whale Watching Tour

San Diego offers travelers the rare opportunity to observe whales migrating through its nutrient-rich waters year-round. For help spotting these magnificent sea creatures, hop aboard a tour with San Diego Whale Watch. The company's three-hour whale watching cruise features live narration from a certified marine biologist, along with indoor and outdoor seating, a snack bar and beverages. Reviewers report spotting plenty of whales and dolphins and praise the clean boat. Others say the crew is well-versed in the bay's marine life and describe the trip as educational.

Morning tours depart at 9 a.m.; afternoon tours depart at 12:30 p.m. Tickets start at $48 for adults and $44 for children 17 and younger and seniors 62 and older. Sunset cruises are also available.

Santa Barbara: Sustainable Wine Tours – Shared Wine Tour

If you're interested in visiting the private vineyards and estates in Santa Barbara 's wine country , consider this seven-hour tour. You and up to seven other travelers will stop at wineries that use small-production techniques and demonstrate a commitment to sustainable, organic and biodynamic agriculture. Travelers say this is a great tour if you want to visit small, family-owned wineries. Reviewers are complimentary of the accommodating, expert guides and say this tour is much more than a wine tasting since you have the chance to meet the producers and owners.

Tickets, which include tasting fees and lunch, start at $193 per person for tours offered Sunday to Friday and $218 per person for Saturday tours. Tours are generally available daily, with pickups beginning at 10 a.m. Private wine tours are also available.

Palm Springs: Big Wheel Tours – Joshua Tree National Park Jeep Tour

If you're visiting Palm Springs and looking for a rugged adventure, consider this Joshua Tree National Park Jeep tour. You'll ride through the Little San Bernardino Mountains on backcountry trails through the Colorado and Mojave deserts, reaching an elevation of 4,000 feet. Reviewers say the views are incredible and highly rate the guides, who they say provide an engaging commentary about the park's history and the animal and plant species that call it home. Set aside at least four hours for the entire experience.

Tickets cost approximately $180 per person. Tours depart twice daily at 7:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. and include round-trip hotel transportation from select area hotels. If you're looking for an experience that still gets you out in nature, but isn't as adrenaline-fueled, consider the company's biking and hiking tours.

Carmel: Carmel Food Tours – Carmel-by-the-Sea Classic Food Tour

Taste your way through Carmel on this three-hour food tour. Stops along the way may include a farm-to-table restaurant, a bakery, a honey company and a tavern, for a total of up to seven tastings. As you digest between each location, your guide will share stories of Carmel's history and architecture, and offer recommendations for the remainder of your visit. Travelers are particularly impressed with the guides, who they describe as smart, funny and informative.

Tours are generally available Friday and Saturday at 11 a.m., though an additional Thursday morning tour is offered from May to October. Tickets cost approximately $110 per person. If you'd prefer to explore Carmel on two wheels rather than your own two feet, consider the company's Carmel Bikes, Bites & Bevs tour.

Monterey: Monterey Bay Whale Watch – Daily Trips

The Monterey Submarine Canyon offers a rich feeding ground for whales, which is why travelers can often spot these gentle giants year-round. Though you may be able to view whales from the shore, a boat tour like the ones offered by Monterey Bay Whale Watch is the best way to see them. Four-hour morning cruises and up to 3 1/2-hour afternoon cruises are offered all year long. January through March is the best time to see gray whales, dolphins and killer whales, while humpback, blue and killer whales can often be spotted April through December. Reviewers appreciate the onboard marine biologist and the cleanliness of the boat. Many call this the highlight of their trip to Monterey .

Ticket prices vary by season and by day of the week, but generally, tickets for adults start at $65 for a morning trip and $60 for afternoon tours. For children ages 4 to 12, prices start at $53 for a morning outing and $48 for an afternoon excursion. Children 3 and younger can join for $15. Winter cruises depart at 10 a.m. and 2:30 p.m., with additional tours at 9 a.m. and noon on select Saturdays and Sundays. Spring, summer and fall tours depart at 9 a.m., 10 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. Eight-hour and 12-hour trips are also available on select days.

Yosemite: Discover Yosemite – Yosemite Full Day Tour

According to reviewers, this tour is a great way to see the highlights of Yosemite in a short amount of time. During the daylong (up to nine-hour) bus tour, you'll see some of the park's top attractions , including Half Dome , Vernal Fall , El Capitan and Bridalveil Fall , among other sights. Tourgoers rave about the expert guides, who they describe as knowledgeable, accommodating and interactive. The tour offers round-trip transportation from communities surrounding Yosemite, including Bass Lake, Coarsegold, Oakhurst and Fish Camp.

Ticket prices vary by season. From Dec. 1 to March 31, tickets start at $180 for participants ages 16 and older and $90 for kids ages 3 to 15; from April 1 to Nov. 30 tickets start at $190 for travelers 16 and older and $95 for children. The cost includes the tour, water, lunch and park fees. Discover Yosemite also offers private tours of the park, among other options.

Los Angeles: A Day in LA Tours – LA City Tour

If you only have a limited amount of time in Los Angeles, consider this daylong bus tour. Over the course of the 7 1/2-hour excursion, you'll see some of the top attractions in Los Angeles, including the Santa Monica Pier, the Hollywood Walk of Fame , the Original Farmers Market and more. Along the way, your driver (who also doubles as your tour guide), will provide information about the history and current culture of Los Angeles. For many reviewers, their guide's insightful and entertaining commentary was the main reason they'd recommend A Day in LA Tours. Others praise the pacing and organization of the tour and say this is a great way to see a large portion of the city in a short amount of time.

Tours depart daily at 9:45 a.m. Tickets for adults start at $104 and $94 for kids ages 12 and younger; children 2 and younger can tag along for free. The tour price includes bottled water and round-trip transportation from your Los Angeles hotel. The company also offers a version of this tour that departs from Anaheim – perfect for if you need a day away from Disneyland .

San Francisco: Cruisin' the Castro Walking Tours – LGBTQ Castro Tour

If you've ever wondered how San Francisco's Castro District became synonymous with gay culture, you'll want to add this tour to your itinerary. During the two-hour LGBTQ Castro Tour, you'll learn how the LGBTQ community dates back to the California gold rush, the history of the iconic rainbow flag and the AIDS epidemic. Among the sites you'll visit are Harvey Milk Plaza and the Rainbow Honor Walk. Tourgoers applaud the guides for their informative and engaging storytelling and say the tour is an important, and at times emotional, experience if you're interested in LGBTQ and San Francisco history.

Tours are available Tuesday and Thursday through Saturday at 10 a.m. Tickets start at $30 for participants ages 5 and older. The company notes that adult situations and sexual content are referenced during the tour, so parental discretion is advised. Tours meets at the corner of Castro and Market streets.

San Francisco: Best Bay Area Tours – Hidden Gems of Yosemite Day Trip

According to reviewers, the Hidden Gems of Yosemite Day Trip is a great addition to any San Francisco visit. The tour, which is limited to 15 participants, picks you up at your San Francisco hotel before taking you on a scenic drive to the national park. Once inside the park, you'll enjoy free time at famous sights like Yosemite Falls where you can either follow the company's hiking suggestions or simply enjoy a picnic. From March to November, you'll also enjoy a guided hike through the Tuolumne Grove . Tourgoers speak highly of the passionate guides, who they describe as experts in all things Yosemite. What's more, reviewers say guides are quick to share their favorite photo spots and even play photographer. In total, the entire excursion lasts about 14 hours.

Tickets, which include round-trip hotel transportation, cost approximately $200 per person ages 13 and older and $150 per child 12 and younger. Lunch is not provided, but the bus will make several stops for tourgoers to purchase water, snacks and lunch. Best Bay Area Tours also offers trips to Sonoma, Sausalito and the Russian River Valley, among other locales.

San Francisco: Red and White Fleet – California Twilight Cruise

Many travelers call the California Twilight Cruise the highlight of their trips to San Francisco. During the 90-minute cruise, you'll sail past Alcatraz and under the Golden Gate and Bay bridges as you admire views of the San Francisco skyline. Reviewers recommend dressing warmly and arriving early to board so that you can score a seat on the top deck of the boat for the best views.

Tickets cost approximately $50 for adults and $40 for children ages 5 to 17. During the summer months, cruises depart daily; during the fall and winter months, trips are only available Thursday through Sunday. Departure times vary by month. Prefer to admire the city during the day? Red and White Fleet also offers two daytime cruises ranging from one hour to 90 minutes.

Sonoma: Sonoma Valley Wine Trolley – Sonoma Wine Tours

Visit a total of three Sonoma wineries on this six-hour wine trolley tour. Each stop includes a semiprivate tasting with a winery representative who is on hand to answer any questions and give a background of the winery. Locations you may visit include Jacuzzi Family Vineyards , Mayo Family Winery and Valley of Moon Winery, among others. Reviewers say this is a great way to see the area and appreciate the knowledgeable, personable guides. Tours are generally available daily and depart from Sonoma Plaza at 10 a.m. You'll return to the plaza around 4:30 p.m.

Trolley tickets start at $115 per person. Note that while lunch and bottled water are included, tasting fees at the wineries are not; tasting fees range from $25 to $35 per person. If you do not pay the tasting fee, you won't be allowed in the winery. Tourgoers must be 21 years or older.

Los Angeles: Bikes and Hikes LA – Griffith Observatory Hike

Spending time in Griffith Park is one of the top things to do in Los Angeles. If you're intimidated by the park's more than 4,000 acres, consider signing up for the Griffith Observatory Hike from Bikes and Hikes LA. During the 2 1/2-hour, 3.5-mile hike, you'll trek to one of the highest peaks in the park, snap plenty of pictures of the iconic Hollywood Sign and enjoy skip-the-line access to Griffith Observatory. Reviewers rave about the knowledgeable, entertaining guides and say this hike is strenuous, but manageable. Along with the views, travelers appreciate the amount of history guides share during the tour, as well their recommendations for other things to see and do in LA. Tours are available twice daily at 10 a.m. and sunset. The sunset tour meeting time varies depending on the time of year, but generally it departs at 3 p.m. from November to mid-March and at 4:30 p.m. from mid-March to November.

Tickets start at $28 per person. Note that the tour is only recommended for participants ages 6 years and older (strollers are not permitted). If you're short on time, the company also offers abbreviated 90-minute hikes. Prefer to explore on two wheels? Bike tours are also available.

[View & Book Tickets Option 1 | Option 2 | Option 3 .]

San Francisco: Extranomical Tours – Redwoods and California Wine Country Tour

Visit Muir Woods National Monument , Napa Valley and Sonoma on this approximately 10-hour daytrip from San Francisco. The guided bus tour includes time to explore the giant redwoods in Muir Woods, wine tastings in both Napa and Sonoma and plenty of photo stops along the way. Tourgoers rave about the guides, who they describe as engaging, funny and informative. Reviewers also assure that the tour never feels rushed and that you're given plenty of time at each stop to explore. Tours depart daily at 7:30 a.m.

Tickets start at $159 for participants ages 12 and older and $122 for children ages 6 to 11. Note: While tasting fees at the wineries are included, entrance to Muir Woods and lunch are not. You have the option to buy lunch on your own or pay extra to add lunch to your booking. Extranomical Tours offers a variety of excursions to Yosemite, San Francisco and Monterey.

Palm Desert: Red Jeep Tours – San Andreas Fault "Bones of the Earth" Jeep Tour

This tour manages to appeal to history buffs, geology nerds and adrenaline junkies all at the same time. During the three-hour Jeep ride, your guide will maneuver through the geological cuts and canyons of the San Andreas Fault Zone. You'll also get out and hike between the canyons, and enjoy a guided tour through a recreated Cahuilla Indian village. Reviewers describe guides as informative and say this trip offers much more than scenery – expect to learn about the geology of the area, as well as the history of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, who once occupied this land. Tours are offered at 8 a.m. daily. An additional 1 p.m. tour is available from October to May.

Tickets start at $150 for adults ages 18 and older and $135 for children ages 3 to 17. The company also offers Jeep and hiking tours to Joshua Tree National Park and Painted Canyon, among other locations.

Los Angeles: Warner Brothers Studio Tour

Get a behind-the-scenes look at the Warner Bros. Studio on this approximately three-hour tour. You'll cruise around the lot on a custom tour cart to see backlot sets and additional production areas. You'll also have free time to explore the "Stage 48: Script to Screen" exhibit, which includes the Central Perk set from "Friends," as well as "The Big Bang Theory" sets, classic costumes and more. Your tour concludes at "Action and Magic Made Here," which showcases recreated sets, props and costumes from the DC Universe and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Reviewers give this tour high marks for its informative, entertaining guides. Tourgoers also praise the amount of sets, costumes and props on display.

Tours are available Thursday through Monday from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Tickets cost approximately $70 for participants ages 11 and older and $60 for children ages 5 to 10.

You may also be interested in:

• The Best San Diego Tours
• The Best Hollywood Tours
• The Best Los Angeles Tours
• The Best San Francisco Tours
• The Best Resorts in California

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

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17 Best Coastal Towns in California to Savor Your Summer Beach Days

Summer is here, and if you’re dreaming of sun-soaked days and sandy toes, you’re in for a treat! Having lived in this golden state for three years, with two of those years dedicated to the incredible experience of vanlifing along the West Coast, I’ve driven to see many sunsets in many different coastal gems.

As a transplant to Los Angeles, I never knew that beach town to beach town could have such different vibes, but Venice is definitely not the same as Laguna Beach. I’m excited to share with you a guide to my favorite and the best coastal towns in California.

1. Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is the epitome of coastal fun, blending its iconic boardwalk with a lively surf culture. The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, one of the oldest amusement parks on the West Coast, features the historic Giant Dipper roller coaster, a thrilling ride since 1924.

Beyond the rides, you can stroll along the wharf, where sea lions often lounge and local seafood is always fresh. Downtown Santa Cruz is just a short walk away, where it has an eclectic mix of shops, cafes, and street performers that give the town its unique vibe.

Best Things to Do: Ride the historic Giant Dipper at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and check out the sea lions at the Santa Cruz Wharf. Surfing enthusiasts should hit Steamer Lane, one of California’s top surf spots.

2. Laguna Beach

Laguna Beach is renowned for its seven miles of hidden coves, tide pools, and beautiful beaches. The town has a thriving arts scene, including over 100 galleries and the annual Pageant of the Masters.

Main Beach is the heart of Laguna, a sandy escape right near the bustling downtown area. Here, you’ll find everything from quaint cafes to high-end boutiques, all with that laid-back beach town feel.

Best Things to Do: Laguna Beach’s Heisler Park has great scenic walking trails and picnic spots, while Main Beach is perfect for a day in the sun. Visit the Laguna Art Museum for Californian art and play in the tide pools at Crescent Bay. The Sawdust Art Festival is a local favorite for arts and crafts.

3. Carmel-by-the-Sea

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a picturesque town known for its charming cottages, art galleries, and white-sand beaches. The town’s fairytale-like atmosphere is enhanced by its lack of street addresses, street lights, and chain stores.

Ocean Avenue, the main thoroughfare, is lined with unique shops and world-class restaurants. Like much of California, dogs are warmly welcomed here, so you’ll see plenty of furry friends enjoying the beach and sidewalk cafes.

Best Things to Do: Ocean Avenue is the peak spot for shops and dining, and Carmel Beach is perfect for dog lovers. Visit Point Lobos State Reserve for hiking and wildlife spotting, and explore the Mission San Carlos Borromeo for some history.

4. Capitola

Neighboring Santa Cruz, Capitola’s beachfront is full of rainbow cottages. The town’s gentle waves make it a peaceful beach day. Capitola Wharf extends into Monterey Bay with fishing and beautiful views. Capitola Village is exciting with plenty to window shop past and eat in.

Best Things to Do: Explore the colorful Capitola Village and walk along the Capitola Wharf. Visit the Capitola Historical Museum and relax at Capitola Beach. New Brighton State Beach is just a short drive away for more beach fun.

5. Avila Beach

Avila Beach is a tranquil seaside town known for its gentle waves and lovely pier. The beach itself is perfect for families, thanks to its calm waters and clean sand.

Just inland, the Avila Valley has hot springs for a soothing soak. The town also has a series of hiking trails with beautiful views of the coastline and the surrounding hills.

Best Things to Do: Relax at Avila Hot Springs after a stroll on the Avila Beach Pier and visit the Point San Luis Lighthouse for a historical tour. The Bob Jones City to Sea Trail is great for biking and wine tasting at the local wineries.

6. La Jolla

A popular day trip from San Diego , La Jolla is famous for its dramatic cliffs and luxury residences. The town has a range of outdoor activities, from kayaking and snorkeling in La Jolla Cove to walking so close to sea lions, you’re only a few feet away.

Its upscale shops and restaurants are a great place to try farm fresh restaurants with a heavy Mexican influence. La Jolla Shores is a popular, family-friendly beach with gentle waves and soft sand.

Best Things to Do: La Jolla Cove is ideal for snorkeling and kayaking, while the Birch Aquarium showcases engaging marine life exhibits. Walk to La Jolla Shores Beach and explore the tide pools. Just in the north, Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve has beautiful hiking trails and is a popular spot for paragliding.

7. Pismo Beach

Pismo Beach is a classic Central Coast town known for its long pier and clam chowder scene. I can attest, the clam chowder is very good. The beach is perfect for sandcastle building and a lazy day out in the sun.

For the more adventurous, go ATV’ing or join a dune buggy tour in the nearby Oceano Dunes. The town also has a variety of laid-back shops and restaurants that line the streets.

Best Things to Do: Walk the Pismo Beach Pier for fishing and ocean views, and ride ATVs on the Oceano Dunes. Try the famous clam chowder at Splash Cafe, and visit Monarch Butterfly Grove in winter or Dinosaur Caves Park.

8. Bodega Bay

Bodega Bay’s picturesque area is famous for its role in Alfred Hitchcock’s film “The Birds.” The windswept beaches are great for flying kites, while the rugged coastlines attract photographers. The town’s seafood shacks serve up some of the freshest crab you’ll ever taste.

Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy all sorts of activities in the nearby state parks . And don’t miss out on Bodega Head for whale watching during the migration season.

Best Things to Do: Hike the Bodega Head Trail for panoramic ocean views and savor fresh crab at Spud Point Crab Company. Doran Regional Park has camping and fishing, while the Bodega Marine Lab provides guided tours.

Malibu is synonymous with pristine beaches, celebrity homes, and top-tier surfing spots. This Los Angeles day trip destination stretches along 21 miles of scenic coastline with everything from wide sandy beaches to secluded coves.

Malibu’s Zuma Beach is popular with families and surfers alike, while El Matador Beach is my personal favorite as it’s covered with sea stacks jutting out of its clean sand. All along Malibu, head inland for trails facing out into the ocean.

Best Things to Do: Surf at Zuma Beach or dine at Malibu Farm Cafe on the pier. Hike the scenic trails at Point Dume State Beach and visit the famous Getty Villa for art and artifacts. Go look at all the expensive rare cars in the parking lot of Malibu Country Mart.

10. Encinitas

Encinitas is a laid-back surfer town with beautiful beaches and botanical gardens. The town is split into several distinct areas. Moonlight Beach is perfect for families, while Swami’s Beach is a world-renowned surf spot. Downtown Encinitas is a mix of unique shops, cafes, and restaurants, great for an afternoon wandering around.

Best Things to Do: Visit the San Diego Botanic Garden for exotic plants or the Self-Realization Fellowship Gardens and surf or sunbathe at Swami’s Beach, a local favorite.

11. Mendocino

Mendocino (not the restaurant) is one of the best places along Highway 101 for rugged cliffs along the Pacific Ocean. This small village is dotted with charming Victorian homes and green gardens.

Mendocino Headlands State Park surrounds the town with several miles of coastal vista trails and opportunities for whale watching.

Best Things to Do: Hike the Mendocino Headlands State Park for cliffside views and visit the plant collections at Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens. Explore the historical Ford House Museum and walk through the quaint downtown area. Russian Gulch State Park has more trails and a beautiful waterfall.

12. San Clemente

San Clemente combines Spanish-style architecture with a strong surf culture and scenic coastal trails. Its historic pier is a central hub, surrounded by beaches that are perfect for surfing and swimming. The town’s downtown area, Avenida Del Mar, is lined with lively shops and restaurants.

Best Things to Do: Surf at Trestles and stroll down Avenida Del Mar for shopping and dining. Visit the Casa Romantica Cultural Center for art and gardens, and walk the San Clemente Pier. The San Clemente Coastal Trail is a great waterfront trail.

13. Newport Beach & Balboa Island

Newport Beach is a coastal city known for its beautiful sandy beaches and luxurious lifestyle. It has one of the largest small yacht harbors in the world. The Newport Pier provides scenic ocean views, and the surrounding area is filled with chic restaurants and boutiques. People come for the watersports, and whale watching is a fun option, too.

Nearby, take the ferry to get to Balboa Island, a place full of beach vacation homes and fun at Balboa Fun Zone.

Best Things to Do: Take a boat tour around Newport Harbor or try watersports like stand-up paddleboarding. Walk the Balboa Pier for fishing and views, and explore Balboa Island on foot or by renting a bike. Eat their famous frozen bananas.

14. Morro Bay

Morro Bay is instantly recognizable by its iconic Morro Rock, a massive volcanic plug that towers over the bay. The waterfront area is lined with seafood restaurants and galleries; you can find plenty of water activities to try out.

My favorite place is actually just south of the Rock, at Montana de Oro State Park, which I think is one of the most gorgeous State Parks in the country.

Best Things to Do: Kayak around Morro Rock for close-up views. The Embarcadero is lined with seafood restaurants and shops. Definitely go to Montana de Oro State Park at sunset.

15. Half Moon Bay

Half Moon Bay combines scenic coastal bluffs with pumpkin patches and excellent seafood. The town’s beaches are ideal for long walks, tide pooling, and picnicking. Nearby, the Half Moon Bay State Beach has miles of sandy shores with a backdrop of rolling hills. Coastal farms also offer seasonal activities like pumpkin picking in the fall.

Best Things to Do: Half Moon Bay State Beach is great for a relaxing day by the water, and visiting one of the local pumpkin farms in the fall is a must. Hike the coastal trails at the Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay, or stop by Pillar Point Harbor for fresh seafood. Mavericks Beach is famous for its big wave surfing.

16. Oceanside

Oceanside is a classic Southern California beach town with a strong arts scene. The historic wooden pier is a focal point, popular for fishing and stunning sunset views. The town has the California Surf Museum, which explores surfing culture. With excellent surf breaks and a laid-back atmosphere, Oceanside attracts surfers and those looking to relax by the sea.

Best Things to Do: Walk the Oceanside Pier and go to the California Surf Museum for surf culture exhibits. Oceanside Harbor Village has waterfront dining and boat rentals, while Mission San Luis Rey is a historical experience.

17. Pacific Grove

Driving through Pacific Grove, adjacent to Monterey, you’ll see Victorian homes and picturesque shorelines. Tide pool in Asilomar State Beach and go on walking trails along the coast. The town is particularly famous for the Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary, where thousands of butterflies gather during migration season.

Best Things to Do: Explore the tide pools at Asilomar State Beach. Visit the Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary to see thousands of butterflies during migration season. The Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History has local exhibits, and Lover’s Point Park is great for picnics and kayaking.

Catherine, a seasoned travel writer, has lived in 4 different states and explored 36 states and 28 national parks. After spending two years embracing van life, she's now dedicated to sharing her vast knowledge of day trips across America. Catherine's other works has been referenced in major publications like MSN, Self, and TripSavvy.

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25 Hidden Gems In California You Shouldn’t Overlook

Published: September 17, 2024

by Jo-Ann Wellington

California is famous for its bustling cities and iconic landmarks, but there's so much more to this diverse state. Have you ever wondered about the hidden gems in California that often get overlooked? From secluded beaches to charming small towns, California offers countless unique spots waiting to be explored. Imagine discovering a quiet vineyard tucked away in the rolling hills or stumbling upon a serene forest trail far from the crowded tourist paths. These lesser-known destinations provide a refreshing escape and a chance to experience the Golden State in a whole new light. Ready to uncover some of California's best-kept secrets? Let's dive in!

Northern California's Hidden Treasures

Northern California offers a mix of natural beauty, history, and unique attractions. Here are some lesser-known spots worth visiting.

Burney Falls This stunning waterfall in McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park is often called the "eighth wonder of the world." The 129-foot falls are fed by underground springs, making them flow year-round.

Lassen Volcanic National Park Home to steaming fumaroles, boiling springs, and active volcanoes, this park offers a unique landscape. Don't miss the Bumpass Hell trail for a surreal experience.

Point Reyes National Seashore A coastal gem with rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and scenic hiking trails. The Point Reyes Lighthouse offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.

Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens Located in Fort Bragg, these gardens feature stunning coastal views, diverse plant collections, and peaceful walking paths. Perfect for a relaxing day out.

Shasta Caverns Explore these fascinating limestone caves near Shasta Lake. Guided tours take you through a series of chambers filled with impressive stalactites and stalagmites.

Central California's Hidden Gems

Central California is often overshadowed by its famous neighbors, but it has its own share of hidden gems. Check out these spots for a unique experience.

Pinnacles National Park This park features towering rock formations, talus caves, and a chance to spot the endangered California condor. Great for hiking and rock climbing.

Solvang A charming Danish village in the Santa Ynez Valley. Enjoy Danish pastries, unique shops, and the picturesque architecture.

Carrizo Plain National Monument Known for its stunning wildflower displays in spring, this remote area offers a glimpse of California's natural beauty. The Soda Lake and Painted Rock are must-sees.

Channel Islands National Park Accessible only by boat or plane, these islands offer pristine beaches, unique wildlife, and excellent snorkeling and kayaking opportunities.

Mono Lake This ancient saline lake near the Sierra Nevada is famous for its otherworldly tufa towers. A great spot for birdwatching and photography.

Southern California's Hidden Spots

Southern California is famous for its beaches and cities, but it also has some hidden gems waiting to be explored. Here are a few you shouldn't miss.

Salvation Mountain An art installation in the Colorado Desert, this colorful mountain is covered in murals and messages of love. Created by Leonard Knight, it's a testament to creativity and faith.

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park California's largest state park, featuring stunning desert landscapes, wildflower blooms, and the impressive Borrego Palm Canyon.

Ojai A small town known for its artistic community, spiritual retreats, and beautiful valley views. Visit the Ojai Valley Inn for a luxurious stay.

El Matador Beach A hidden gem in Malibu, this beach features dramatic cliffs, sea caves, and stunning sunsets. Perfect for a quiet day by the ocean.

Vasquez Rocks Natural Area Park Famous for its striking rock formations, this park has been a filming location for many movies and TV shows. Great for hiking and photography.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures

For those who love adventure and exploring the unknown, these hidden gems offer unique experiences away from the crowds.

Alabama Hills Located near Lone Pine, these rock formations offer stunning views of the Sierra Nevada and are a popular spot for rock climbing and photography.

Devils Postpile National Monument This geological wonder near Mammoth Lakes features striking basalt columns formed by ancient volcanic activity. The nearby Rainbow Falls is also worth a visit.

Trinidad State Beach A hidden gem on the Northern California coast, this beach offers stunning views, tide pools, and a peaceful atmosphere.

Castle Crags State Park Known for its dramatic granite spires, this park offers excellent hiking and rock climbing opportunities. The views from the Crags Trail are breathtaking.

Big Basin Redwoods State Park California's oldest state park, home to ancient redwoods, lush forests, and scenic hiking trails. The Berry Creek Falls loop is a must-do.

Unique Historical Sites

California's history is rich and varied. These hidden historical sites offer a glimpse into the past and are worth a visit.

Bodie State Historic Park A well-preserved ghost town in the Eastern Sierra, offering a fascinating look at California's gold rush era. Walk through the abandoned buildings and imagine life in the 1800s.

Mission San Juan Bautista One of California's 21 Spanish missions, this site offers beautiful architecture, gardens, and a glimpse into the state's colonial history.

Fort Ross State Historic Park A former Russian settlement on the Sonoma Coast, this park features restored buildings, exhibits, and stunning coastal views.

Railtown 1897 State Historic Park Located in Jamestown, this park offers a chance to ride historic steam trains and explore the roundhouse and workshops.

Hearst Castle A lavish estate built by newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst, featuring stunning architecture, art collections, and beautiful gardens. Tours offer a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the early 20th century.

Discovering California's Hidden Gems

California offers more than just its famous landmarks. Hidden gems like Mendocino Coast , Anza-Borrego Desert State Park , and Shasta Lake provide unique experiences. These spots offer a mix of natural beauty, adventure, and tranquility. Exploring places like Solvang , a Danish-inspired village, or the Alabama Hills with its stunning rock formations, can make your trip unforgettable. Don't miss out on the Glass Beach in Fort Bragg or the Salvation Mountain in the Colorado Desert for something truly unique. Each destination has its own charm and story. Whether you're into hiking, history, or just relaxing, California's lesser-known spots have something for everyone. So next time you plan a trip , consider venturing off the beaten path. You'll find that these hidden gems make your California adventure even more special.

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• A Guide to Visiting California’s 9 National Parks

By Cole Novak

Wine legends head to san diego this october, where to see celebs at the 2024 del mar wine + food festival, same same, smoke & salt teams launching freyja.

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Franklin D. Roosevelt once said, “There is nothing so American as our national parks.” But one could argue that there is nothing so Californian —after all, we have nine of ’em, more than any other state. Each offers spectacular landscapes for outdoorsy types to explore, whether you’re road-tripping and looking for scenic pit stops, seeking a challenging summit , or wanting to reconnect with nature. From Yosemite’s towering granite peaks to Kings Canyon’s marble caves, here is your complete guide to visiting all of California’s national parks . 

Channel Islands National Park

As California’s least-visited national park , Channel Islands supplies a near-untouched glimpse of pre-industrial California. Situated across five islands that were historically inhabited by the Chumash people, the park encompasses 346 miles of land accessible by ferry or private boat. 

Popular activities include beachside camping , kayaking through sea caves, and hiking to scenic viewpoints like Inspiration Point on Anacapa Island. The park is home to endemic wildlife like the adorable Santa Rosa Island fox , deer mouse, and several species of birds. The underwater ecosystem is equally fascinating—more than 100 shipwrecks and mesmerizing reefs make it a prime spot for divers .

Tips for Visiting Channel Islands

• Getting There: Ferry from Oxnard or Ventura
• Fees: No entrance fee; ferry tickets start at $70 through Island Packers
• Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer (blue whale–watching takes place April through September)
• Must-Visit Attractions: Inspiration Point, Scorpion Anchorage Harbor, Painted Cave, Anacapa Island Lighthouse

Map of Channel Islands National Park

Death Valley National Park

The hottest place on Earth, Death Valley National Park is a land of extremes, from the lowest point in North America at Badwater Basin to the soaring Panamint mountain range. While much of the park may seem lifeless at first blush, it’s teeming with critters, such as bighorn sheep, jackrabbits, and sidewinder rattlesnakes. 

Stargazing, camping, and off-roading are common activities here, and be sure to check out Zabriskie Point at sunrise for an unforgettable view. The Furnace Creek Visitor Center offers an ideal spot for a photo op next to the iconic Death Valley thermostat and is the last vestige of civilization before you lose cell service in deeper areas of the park. Embrace your inner geek and follow the self-guided Star Wars filming location tour , and don’t miss Artists Palette for a striking view of rolling, pastel-colored hills. 

Tips for Visiting Death Valley

• Getting There: Via CA 190 and SR 374 (east) or CA 190 and SR 178 (west)
• Fees: $30 per vehicle ( printable pass available for dirt road access)
• Best Time to Visit: Spring for milder weather and desert blooms
• Must-Visit Attractions: Zabriskie Point, Artists Palette, Badwater Basin, Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes

Map of Death Valley National Park

Joshua Tree National Park

Joshue Tree sits wedged between three unique ecosystems: the Colorado Desert, the San Bernardino Mountains, and the Mojave Desert. Known for its iconic Joshua Trees (which aren’t actually trees, but rather a type of yucca), the national park offers more than 8,000 climbing routes , making it the ultimate destination for SoCal rock-hoppers and climbers . 

Additionally, the park also houses 300 miles of hiking trails and nine campgrounds (make sure to reserve yours in advance). Joshua Tree is a designated dark sky park , meaning you’ll have the opportunity to get awe-inspiring views of the Milky Way with minimal light pollution . While visiting, you might even spot the park’s wildlife, like desert tortoises, roadrunners, and bighorn sheep hiding amongst otherworldly, wind-forged rock formations. 

Tips for Visiting Joshua Tree

• Getting There: West entrance via Highway 62 and Park Boulevard, north entrance via Twentynine Palms, or south entrance near Cottonwood Spring
• Fees: $30 per vehicle
• Best Time to Visit: Spring or fall to avoid extreme heat
• Must-Visit Attractions: Hidden Valley Nature Trail, Skull Rock, Keys View

Map of Joshua Tree National Park

Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Park

Arguably the greatest two-for-one deal around is admission into Kings Canyon and Sequoia national parks . To the south is Sequoia National Park, home to five of the world’s biggest trees. The largest of them all is General Sherman , a giant sequoia with a towering 275-foot height and staggering 36-foot diameter. Other beloved attractions include Mount Whitney , which offers a challenge for mountaineers; Crystal Cave , which features beautiful marble stalagmites; and Moro Rock , where a 350-step ascent finishes with rewarding panoramic views of the park.

North of Sequoia, Kings Canyon (formerly known as General Grant National Park) is full of dramatic landscapes, including waterfalls , deep canyons, and winding underground caverns. Legendary conservationist John Muir once said the park rivals the beauty of Yosemite, and it even has its own granite dome, Tehipite Dome. The park encompasses 108 miles of the famous Pacific Crest Trail and 87 miles of the John Muir Trail , which connects Mount Whitney to Yosemite. If spelunking or stalagmite-gazing are your style, make sure to check out Boyden Cave and Lilburn Cave—the latter is the longest cave system in California. 

Tips for Visiting Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Park

• Getting There: Sequoia’s Ash Mountain entrance via Highway 198 or Kings Canyon’s Big Stump Entrance via Highway 180
• Fees: $35 per vehicle (covers both parks)
• Best Time to Visit: Spring, when waterfalls are in full-force
• Must-Visit Attractions: General Sherman Tree, Moro Rock, Crystal Cave, Tokopah Falls, Boyden Cave

Map of Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Park

Lassen Volcanic National Park

Lassen Volcanic National Park is home to the largest plug-dome volcano in the world, Lassen Peak, which last erupted in 1917. While Lassen is the largest, the park also houses several smaller volcanoes, making it a rare place where travelers can see all four types of volcanoes (shield, cinder cone, plug dome, and stratovolcano) in one area. Even the park’s crystal-blue Lake Almanor , one of the largest in California, was formed by volcanic activity and spans 13 miles.

If you can tolerate the rotten-egg smell, Sulphur Works is the park’s most easily accessible hydrothermal area, featuring steaming fumaroles and bubbling mud pots. In the winter, Lassen turns into a snowy wonderland, receiving some of the most snowfall in the state and offering plenty of opportunities for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Check the NPS website for road advisories, and bring a four-by-four vehicle if you have it. 

Tips for Visiting Lassen Volcanic National Park

• Getting There: Via SR 44/90 or SR 36/89
• Best Time to Visit: Summer for stargazing programs
• Must-Visit Attractions: Lassen Peak, Bumpass Hell, Kings Creek Falls, Sulphur Works

Map of Lassen Volcanic National Park

Redwood National Park

Located near the California-Oregon border, Redwood National Park is home to the planet’s tallest trees in its aptly named Tall Tree Grove . Near this grove lies the 380-foot Hyperion, the most statuesque of them all (its exact location remains a secret for conservation purposes). Though its lack of official entrances and admission fees make it easy to overlook, the park is a frequent filming location for Hollywood, with appearances in Star Wars: Return of the Jedi and the second Jurassic Park film. 

Other popular attractions in the park include Fern Canyon , a photographer’s paradise; Lady Bird Johnson Grove , which offers a scenic hike through the meadows; Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park , which contains 45 percent of California’s remaining protected old-growth redwoods; and Gold Bluffs Beach , a site for serene coastal camping.   

Tips for Visiting Redwood National Park

• Getting There: Via US 199 and US 101
• Best Time to Visit: Spring for fewer crowds and milder temperatures
• Must-Visit Attractions: Fern Canyon, Lady Bird Johnson Grove, Prairie Creek Redwoods, Gold Bluffs Beach

Map of Redwood National Park

Pinnacles National Park

Pinnacles National Park may be California’s smallest national park, but its striking volcanic formations make it a must-see. Renowned for uncanny rock pillars formed over 23 million years ago, it provides over 200 rock-climbing routes . 

Keep an eye out for California condors and endangered Townsend’s big-eared bats. This species of bat can be found in Bear Gulch Cave , a giant boulder cavern that closes to the public during pupping season in May through July. Experienced hikers can also take on the challenging, 6.8-mile High Peaks Trail or 5.6-mile Condor Gulch Trai l for epic views of the volcanic spires. 

Tips for Visiting Pinnacles

• Getting There: East and west entrances (via Highway 146 and Highway 25)
• Best Time to Visit: Winter to avoid summer heat
• Must-Visit Attractions: Bear Gulch Cave, Condor Gulch Trail, High Peaks Trail

Map of Pinnacles National Park

Yosemite National Park

The crown jewel of California, Yosemite National Park , was described by John Muir as the grandest “temple of nature” he ever visited. Originally, the valley was called Ahwahnee—meaning “large mouth”—by the region’s Indigenous people, a nod to the shape of the valley and the jagged “teeth” that surround its perimeter. Known for its granite cliffs, including the iconic El Capitan and Half Dome, the park also features roaring waterfalls, lush meadows, and towering sequoias. 

Yosemite Valley is rich in wildlife—keep your eyes peeled for deer, black bears, and even bobcats. Adventure-seekers can hike 5,000 feet to the top of Half Dome (with a permit), climb giant boulders at Camp 4 , or scale Vernal Falls . Meanwhile, more cautious travelers can admire more accessible views from Glacier Point and Mirror Lake. Remember to bring your camera to capture the beauty of Yosemite Falls , one of the tallest waterfalls in North America.

Tips for Visiting Yosemite

• Getting There: Via Highway 120, Highway 140, and Highway 41
• Fees: $35 per vehicle
• Best Time to Visit: Late spring for full waterfalls
• Must-Visit Attractions : Glacier Point, Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, Vernal Falls, Ansel Adams Gallery

Map of Yosemite National Park

Cole Novak is an award-winning writer and digital strategist with a passion for highlighting local figures, small businesses, and nonprofits. Born and raised in San Diego, Cole is passionate about photography, surfing, art, the local food scene, and the great outdoors.

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The 5 Best Tourist Attractions Along California's Scenic Coast, According To Reviews

E ven the most rugged family of outdoor adventurers arrives at a moment when they look at each other and say, "Let's just play tourist today." This means let's relax, slow down, savor the sights, and maybe see something so awesome and improbable it will set the kids to chattering like chipmunks for a few hours instead of fighting in the backseat. No kids? Then something you and your boo can giggle about later in your rooftop tent as you take a break from the stunning scenery of  California's national parks .

California is home to such a density of natural wonders that we'll never run out of mountains and waterfalls to talk about, but what about those other things that aren't majestic, and might even be a little bit kitschy, but are as memorable as all get-out? We're talking about the kind of sights that make you wax nostalgic years later when you see them in the background of a movie scene or those that make you want to dash off a postcard that says, "Having a wonderful time! Wish you were here!" We're talking drive-through trees in the redwoods, a castle built by an industry baron for a movie star, and a motel where you can sleep like a caveman.

We combed through social media, and our own considerable memory banks from generations of family vacations, to unearth the most potently unforgettable attractions out there for this list. So take a break from the soul-stirring mountain sojourns and edifying museum tours, and play tourist for the day — just because it'll make you smile.

Read more: 25 Gorgeous Islands For Vacationing That Won't Break The Bank

Chandelier Tree

Remember when your parents took you here that summer in sixth grade in their Volvo station wagon, because their parents took them in their Oldsmobile? "Blast from the past," one Tripadvisor visitor writes, "Our grandsons wanted to see a drive through tree and we took them to one that we had visited when we were kids in the 70's."

You may roll through it in a Tesla today, but the Chandelier Tree is still there, a living thing you can drive through with childlike delight. This giant Coastal Redwood three hours north of San Francisco is 2,400 years old and was hollowed out to make it into a tourist attraction in 1937. Remarkably, the over 300-foot tall tree is still thriving and even growing, so you needn't feel bad about disrespecting its integrity as you roll through as if entering a car wash. How does it stay standing? Coastal Redwoods have broad, shallow root systems that spread out up to 250 feet in all directions and intertwine with the roots of neighboring trees, making a stable base. Drive-Thru Tree Park includes a picnic area and a gift shop (postcards are making a comeback, and the ones here are doozies).

Drive-through trees were popular in the early 20th century, but some didn't survive the assault on their structural integrity for long. The Chandelier tree is one of three that remain. The others include the Shrine Tree on the Avenue of the Giants and the Tour-Thru Tree in Klamath, but the Chandelier Tree is the granddaddy of them all. It's a pretty quick detour on your way to see some trees in all their natural glory at Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park .

Hearst Castle

California newspaper mogul William Randolph Hearst spent 28 years building the Hearst Castle, a fanciful mansion in San Simeon that he shared with his movie star mistress Marion Davies. It's an essential stop on any scenic  coastal California road trip itinerary . 

Standing on a remote hilltop, it's the most over-the-top, ostentatious conglomeration of architectural styles you could ever hope to see — and good luck seeing all of its over 165 rooms. The main house, called "Casa Grande," occupies over 68,000 square feet. For the sake of comparison, that's just slightly bigger than the White House. You can start by touring the grandest rooms, plastered in ornate Gothic, Moorish, and Italianate details, with elements imported from all over Europe. Hearst and Davies hosted epic parties here, attended by a staggeringly diverse array of guests, from Winston Churchill and Howard Hughes to Buster Keaton and Joan Crawford. 

When you see the Romanesque colonnades surrounding the swimming pool you'll be reminded of Caesar's Palace, but the Hearst Castle's Neptune Pool, built in the 1920s, was putting on a show when Las Vegas was just a gleam in Bugsy Siegel's eye. Scenes from Spartacus were filmed here. 

The castle, which was the work of notable female architect Julia Morgan, remained unfinished at Hearst's death when it was donated to the State of California. Today, it is operated as Hearst San Simeon State Park. 

If you're wondering what to make of all this spectacle, one Redditor sums it up neatly, writing, "It is American in the most American way possible. It bastardizes everything, but also executes at a really high level and somehow comes out looking cohesive. The American melting pot in a nutshell." 

Madonna Inn

Redditors love steering California newbies to the Madonna Inn, and no wonder. This roadside motel is kind of like a theme park in its own right, with every one of its 110 rooms decorated according to a uniquely zany concept — there's the rock-walled Caveman Room, the hunting-themed Fox & Hound Room, and the tree-lined Jungle Rock Room. The building's white gabled and turreted exterior is like a cartoon version of a Swiss chalet, while the hot pink tennis courts scream Barbie, and the beach-entry swimming pool lends the kitsch-fest a hint of luxe. "The amazing thing is it still looks exactly like it did decades ago. My childhood memories of this place are magical," one Redditor reminisces.

If you're touring Paso Robles wine country , the Madonna Inn is perfectly located amid that region's splendid coastal scenery, but be sure to have at least one cocktail or meal here, even if you don't spend the night, because the bar, cafe, and restaurant are each more opulent and outrageous than the last. If the raspberry gimlet at the cocktail lounge doesn't get you tipsy, the whirling, swirling pink rose carpet most certainly will. Dine, if you dare, in the cacophony of questionable splendor that is Alex Madonna's Gold Rush Steak House (pictured), preferably after a raspberry gimlet or two. Those eager Redditors say to order the filet and the truffle fingerlings, with a slice of the signature pink champagne cake for the win.

Golden Gate Bridge

One of the most touristy things you can do in San Francisco also happens to be one of the best: walking across the Golden Gate Bridge. "This is a must see," one Tripadvisor visitor writes, "It is so impressive, after seeing it for years in movies we finally got to see it in real life." That is how you'll feel, too. On a day when cotton ball clouds roll across the sky, and a fleet of sailboats flying colorful spinnakers sweeps toward a finish line somewhere off Angel Island, the bridge is magical, and to slow down and take it all in, you have to get out and walk. There is a Welcome Center on the San Francisco side, and a stunning vista point immediately after the bridge, on the Marin County side, where you can overlook the silvery gleaming San Francisco skyline. Look west, and you might catch a glimpse of a bright-colored tent at Kirby Cove Campground . On a clear day, you can also see the Farallon Islands.

If you'd like a view into the history of the 1937 bridge, you can sign up for a walking tour. But our favorite way to see the bridge is to make a five-mile urban day hike out of the experience. Take the bus to the Welcome Center (the limited parking is a nightmare), then walk across the bridge and carry on down through Sausalito, where you can take the ferry back to the city for another glorious view of the bridge.

Venice Beach Boardwalk

There is no place on earth quite like the kitschy, spontaneous carnival that is the Venice Beach Boardwalk. "Here is the place you can feel the California vibe and free spirit and you can't help but charge yourself with positive energy!" one Tripadvisor visitor rhapsodized. Up to 30,000 people a day throng the two-mile-long boardwalk and bike path, and you might as well be one of them.

The historically lively oceanfront lined with T-shirt and sunglass stalls is steeped in quirkiness, with strolling musicians, artists painting portraits, and people whizzing by on Segways, bikes, and rollerblades. You'll see Muscle Beach, an outdoor gym where bodybuilders glisten in the sun — Lou Ferrigno and Arnold Schwarzenegger once trained here. There's also a skate park packed with Tony Hawk wannabes executing ollies and drop-ins. Then you can wander the beach and eavesdrop on surfers to see if they really do call one other "dude." Keep going and you'll end up leaving the frenzy behind for sunny, serene Santa Monica, with one of the best beaches in Southern California .

Eventually, you'll have had enough of the festive crowds, so head on over to stroll the Venice Canals, a residential area of homes fronting a series of shallow waterways connected by quaint arching bridges. Then head over to Abbot Kinney Boulevard, the hipster version of Venice, where you can sip on a bone broth elixir and browse through letterpress gift cards and millennial pink sweaters.

Methodology

To find tourist attractions that earn the title without falling into the "trap" category, we consulted forums and review sites in search of the iconic and quintessential, narrowing the field down to sites that inspired real emotion in visitors and created lasting memories of the kind that get passed down from generation to generation. We also drew on multiple generations of personal experience with West Coast family road trips and tapped the memories that stood out most. And finally, we looked for attractions with that ineffable "only in California" quality. Because what's a vacation without some local color?

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Read the original article on Islands .