10 best places to visit in California

Alexis Averbuck

Sep 11, 2023 • 8 min read

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

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

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

Here are the best places to visit in California.

A smiling woman takes a photo with smartphone while standing at a vista at the Golden Gate Bridge above San Francisco, California

1. San Francisco

Best city for variety, iconic sights and LGBTIQ+ travel

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

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

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

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

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

Hikers in Redwood National Park, California

2. Redwood National Park and Humboldt Redwoods State Park

Best region for magnificent trees and family travel

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

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

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

3. Sonoma Wine Country

Best region for wine and food

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

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

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

4. Highway 1

Best region for road tripping, ocean views and couples

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

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

Visitors enjoy the view from Glacier Point lookout in Yosemite National Park, California

5. Yosemite National Park

Best region for waterfalls, outdoors and family trips

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

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

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

Friends roller skating on the boardwalk in Venice Beach on the Santa Monica promenade in Los Angeles, California

6. Los Angeles

Best city for celebrity sightings and movie buffs

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

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

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

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

The tail of a humpback whale rises above a flock of birds and the Pacific Ocean near Monterey Bay, California

7. Monterey Bay

Best region for wildlife and family fun

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

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

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

8. Death Valley National Park

Best region for desert drama and spring trips

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

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

A paddleboarder goes for a morning cruise around the shore of Tahoe City. Lake Tahoe is a high alpine lake located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, California.

9. Lake Tahoe

Best region for mountains, adventure and skiing

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

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

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

Two cyclists on Highway 1 on the Big Sur Pacific Coast of California.

10. Big Sur

Best region for coastline

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

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

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

This article was first published August 2019 and updated September 2023

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

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

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

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

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

1. Emerald Bay State Park, Lake Tahoe

A sunrise over Lake Tahoe's Emerald Bay with billowing clouds and rainbows.

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

2. Ferry Building and waterfront, San Francisco

A building with a colonnade of arches and a tall clocktower, with the Golden Gate Bridge in the background.

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

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

3. Yosemite Valley

A dusting of snow covers the trees around a pool of water reflecting Half Dome in Yosemite Valley.

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

McWay Falls drops over an 80-foot cliff onto the beach, with waves lapping at the base of the cliff.

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

5. Badwater, Death Valley National Park

People walk in Badwater Basin, a dry lake bed, with mountains in the distance.

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

6. Hidden Valley, Joshua Tree National Park

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

7. South Fork, American River, near Placerville

River guide Kyle Brazil uses oars to steer and propel an inflatable raft in the American River.

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

8. Grand Central Market, Los Angeles

Blurred people in front of fruit and vegetable stands at an indoor market.

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

9. Torrey Pines Gliderport, La Jolla

Distant silhouette of a person walking along the beach with rocky cliffs at Torrey Pines Beach.

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

10. Chicano Park, San Diego

Colorful murals featuring Mexican imagery at Chicano Park.

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

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

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23 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in California

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

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

Palm Springs

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

Joshua Tree

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

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

Santa Monica Pier

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

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

Mammoth Lakes

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

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

Santa Barbara

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

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

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

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

Disneyland Resort/Christian Thompson

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

Yosemite National Park

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

Channel Islands

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

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

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

San Francisco

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

Death Valley

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

Big Bear Lake

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

Santa Catalina Island

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

Redwood National Park

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

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

Laguna Beach

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

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

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10 Amazing Places to Visit in California

April 4, 2023.

We’re bringing you the best places to visit in California to see everything the state has to offer. From beaches to deserts to mountains, and from northern California to southern California – this is the ultimate list of beautiful and unique places to visit in California.

We grew up in California and spent years traveling from north to south and east to west and even with our 30+ years of exploring the sunshine state, we still haven’t seen it all! There are limitless amazing places to visit and experience in California, these are just the top on the tip of the iceberg.

This list even brings you to three national parks! California has so much to see, it’s a big state! We take this list from north to south, but to visit all 10 in one trip would take you several weeks. Plan on epic road trip, or plan to visit multiple times so you can take your time to enjoy each.

What are the best places to visit in California?

  • San Francisco 
  • Solvang and Santa Barbara
  • Death Valley
  • Palm Springs

p.s. download our free Coastal Day in San Diego itinerary before you visit #10

10 best places to visit in california youtube

Beautiful Places to Visit in California – Episode Transcript

2 (58s): Welcome to this week’s episode of the Travel Squad podcast. Today, we’re diving into our home state of sunny, California to bring you 10 amazing Places To Visit In California.

3 (1m 9s): I mean, you hear me say this all the time on the podcast west coast, best coast, best state, California. Love it, love it, love it. Born and raised here my whole life. So we have to give a little bit of love to California every once in a while. And this episode is going to do that, but of these 10 amazing places that we’re going to visit and list not all of them are the typical California places that you’re going to think of. You’ll notice we left LA off intentionally and a little bummed out about this. We’re not going to give too much love to our not true hometown, but our hometown next door to her hometown Capitol of California Sacramento. I love it. We’ve had an episode on it, so we’re not mentioning it here, Sacramento, our Capitol and LA left off intentionally,

1 (1m 51s): California is such a beautiful state and I’m so happy to call California home. And we were actually talking about this before we recorded the episode that, you know, we live in Southern California now, but we all came from Northern California and we feel like we really didn’t explore as much of Northern California as we really should have when we lived up there. And now we’re booking all of these trips to go north and do those trips. So, you know, it’s very interesting. I wish that when I was younger, I was more inclined to do small weekend trips to some of the places that we’ve visited in Northern California.

2 (2m 23s): Well, I will say when we were younger blogs weren’t as big, there was no tick talk Instagram. Wasn’t like it is now. It was harder to discover these places and we also didn’t have as much money.

1 (2m 34s): Of course, that’s true.

2 (2m 35s): So we’re making up for it now.

1 (2m 37s): Yes. So we have a list of 10 beautiful places to visit here in California. I’ve personally been eight out of 10 on the list and we are pretty much listing them from like north to south, almost so really excited to dive in and talk about these destination.

3 (2m 53s): But before we give you the full 10, we got to give you the tips.

2 (2m 56s): Tips always come first. Yes. First step California is a long state. It could take you over 12 hours to get from the north to the south end. So you could do all of these in one road trip, but you could also do them in multiple smaller trips.

3 (3m 11s): And on top of that, unfortunately, public transportation in California really isn’t that great. You’re going to need a vehicle to do this. Maybe in some locations they have regional transit and things of that nature, but for the most part, you’re going to need a vehicle unless you’re going from one place to the next, taking the train, which we do have beautiful scenic routes via train along the coast, but they are not bullet trains is going to take you a very long time to do that. So if you’re willing to do that for the scenic view, but do keep in mind, not really good public transportation, don’t

2 (3m 43s): Even get me started on the bullet train.

3 (3m 44s): I’m ready for it. I’m upset that it’s not.

2 (3m 46s): We voted for it in 2008 and it is nowhere near ready.

3 (3m 50s): And by the time they build it with whatever technology they were going to do with outdated technology now. So they just need to scrap it and start again. But yeah, we’re getting a little frustrated here. You could see that there is no public transportation. That’s good in California. So keep that in mind as a tip

1 (4m 4s): And believe it or not, California does have some remote places. So people don’t realize that. And so you may want to download offline maps because he may be driving through a remote place that doesn’t have really good self service. For example, on our list, we are going through some forested areas. And so I don’t want to give it away, but you may lose service there.

2 (4m 22s): Our gas is also expensive, like many other things here. So use the gas buddy app to try to find good prices. If you are going to do this all in one trip

3 (4m 30s): And last, but certainly not least California known for the weather we have all sorts of weather could be from scorching desert temps to really frigid snow in the mountains. But for the most part, if you’re along the coast, the weather is usually temperate and kind of the same all year round, not too dramatic, but there are different dramatic landscapes. So depending on where you’re going, and obviously the places that we list, just keep in mind, temperature can vary dramatically.

1 (4m 56s): So the first place on our list, number one is the redwoods and they are located in Northern coastal California. And you know, a lot of people think forest mountains, but this isn’t the case. The red ones are actually pretty, pretty flat. And they’re all along the coast, which is very unique. And the, the tallest trees in the world, tallest trees in the world.

2 (5m 18s): Wow. I’ve been up to Redding and up there, but I have never been to redwoods national park.

3 (5m 23s): If you’re going to be driving the scenic California one, you’re going to be going through the redwoods. It’s the famous coastal route from north to south, south to north vice-versa and you will pass through here, but absolutely beautiful and breathtaking and amazing, pretty close to the border of Oregon. Quite honestly, not like right on it, but definitely close. So again, we’re giving you the north and working our way down south, but the redwoods is also a national park. So not only are you seeing something very, very unique, flat forested areas when we usually equate that at least here in the United States to the mountains, you’re along the coast, tallest trees in the world, very scenic, very beautiful.

3 (6m 3s): One of the things California is most famous for.

1 (6m 6s): And so, because it is off of a highway, there’s actually no entrance fee to get into the national park, which is also pretty unique for one in California. And there’s tons of small trails, long trails. You can do so much hiking. You can go down to the beach as well. Kim, do you happen to know how tall the tallest tree in the world is

2 (6m 24s): 300 feet,

1 (6m 25s): Almost 380 feet? Ooh,

3 (6m 28s): Almost. I mean, she’s almost off by a hundred feet. What do you mean almost? She’s in the three hundreds, but she’s low three hundreds and that’s Could have said a thousand.

1 (6m 36s): Can you tell me the name of the tallest tree in the world

2 (6m 39s): That I can’t do?

1 (6m 40s): It’s Hyperion and its location in the forest is actually kept secret so that people don’t like come and cut it down or destroy it or anything like that.

2 (6m 50s): Wow. That’s sad that people would do that and they have to keep it secret for that reason. Did you see it when you were there?

1 (6m 55s): Well, they don’t have it named, like they don’t have,

2 (6m 57s): Oh, there’s no signage.

1 (6m 59s): I like that because they want to keep its location secret. So I don’t know if I came across it or not.

3 (7m 4s): I don’t think we did. I can tell you that, but really unique national park and something very unique to California also

1 (7m 12s): And right outside of the national park, you can go through one of those drive-thru trees.

2 (7m 16s): Cool,

1 (7m 17s): Cool. You get some nice pictures, memories, and it’s just a really, really beautiful park. Like when you get out of the car, you can just smell like the Redwood trees in the forest and all of that. So I would like to go back. So I would recommend you guys go, if you haven’t already. One of the cool hikes that I want to do is actually into a Fern canyon. I know you love this forever.

2 (7m 37s): I have done that hike. Oh, you have? Yes. I did a spring break trip up to Arcata, which is in Humboldt county and we hiked Fern canyon and it was amazing like ferns everywhere, epic hike. It’s very rainy drizzly up there. Yes.

1 (7m 53s): I want to go back for exactly that

3 (7m 55s): Moving south, moving on to number two, we’re still going to keep it kind of in a forested area and move to world famous. And yes, I say world famous, not just California, famous world, famous lake Tahoe.

2 (8m 6s): I love lake Tahoe. I definitely explored this area a bit. When I lived up there spent many times at the casinos and the lake, but unfortunately I didn’t explore the nature.

3 (8m 19s): Yeah. I mean, when you’re young, unless you’re really from a nature oriented family and it’s not like a hobby that develops later, you know, that is the thing you do in lake Tahoe. You go out and spend time on the lake, boating doing whatever. And you mentioned casinos. So yes, we’re talking California. Gambling is not legal in California unless it’s on native American reservations, but lake Tahoe also straddles the border with Nevada. And so as soon as you cross from California, literally right on the border, you have four casino resorts. So you have that gambling aspect of nightlife with a two up in the largest Alpine link in north America, which is like Tahoe. I think it’s like one of the five deepest lakes in the world.

3 (8m 59s): Also up there really beautiful, famous for its scheme. But yes, we did not get to experience a lot of hiking. When we lived up there, we just kind of went for the Laken casinos, which is sad. In hindsight,

1 (9m 12s): I’ve done like two hikes in the area with my dad. One of them, I lost my toenail

2 (9m 15s): On the famous toenail.

1 (9m 17s): So my dad lost his toenail too. So it wasn’t just me. I wish I spent more time in lake Tahoe. You know, there’s so much to do. Don’t know if we’ve already said it, but episode 66, go back and listen to it. I have so many places I want to go back and see it and lake Tahoe, because you can go around the entire lake and there’s different state beaches or harbors. And there’s one called sand Harbor and they have beautiful. The water’s beautiful anywhere in the lake, but the water is so clear there. And there’s these big boulders in the water that you can see. And then you can take a kayak out that is like glass bottom or clear bottom look down. It’s super scenic and

2 (9m 55s): Beautiful. There’s also hot Springs by the lake.

3 (9m 58s): Hotsprings Kim. You would be the one to bring up the hot Springs, wouldn’t you, but yeah, lots of stuff to do. Doesn’t matter when you go major winter activities. As a matter of fact, on the west side of the lake in Squaw valley, they had the Olympics there one time and lots of summer events and sports to do there also biking, hiking, et cetera. So anytime of year that you go, lake Tahoe is definitely not to be missed.

2 (10m 21s): Number three on our list goes all the way to the west coast for San Francisco. This city is so unique. It’s so fun. Everything from the buildings in like the old 18 hundreds kind of vibe that they have, the nightlife the day life, there’s the pier you can go to with the sea lions,

1 (10m 40s): Clam chowder, bulls and views of Alcatraz, which is an old prison out in the middle of the ocean. And people have actually escaped there in the past and their bodies were never found,

3 (10m 50s): Technically it’s in the bay, not the ocean Brittany, but you’re on the right track point being, it’s a prison in the middle of a body of water, but San Francisco is such a quintessential California city has a lot of amazing history that makes San Francisco what it is today. But what I really like about San Francisco is that it’s a city that gives me east coast vibes. Like it’s not a big city that I equate to the west coast, let alone California. You know, it just has that different feel to it. And it makes it really fun, really unique, but so many highlights and things to do there. Like you mentioned, Alcatraz, the pier, the golden gate bridge golden gate park, Lombard street. I mean, I could just name places to go in San Francisco.

3 (11m 33s): And I mean, the opportunities and things to do are endless out there.

1 (11m 37s): Yeah. It makes for an easy, we can trip or even longer. We’ve been several times and we feel like we haven’t even hit most of the city. You can do something different every single time you go. Really?

2 (11m 47s): Yes. I spent so much time in my, like from 18 to 25, exploring San Francisco and getting into all kinds of trouble out there. We have Good kinds of trouble, not the serious kind of trouble, but yeah. I mean, San Francisco is really fun. There’s so much to do there. We have a whole episode on it. Number 48, if you want to go back and listen to that one.

1 (12m 8s): And you know, we wouldn’t be the Travel Squad Podcast, unless we talk about bathrooms and in San Francisco, they actually have a self cleaning bathroom at the top of twin peaks.

3 (12m 18s): Well, they have multiple locations also, but one of the more touristy spots where you’ll for sure find it yes as the top at twin peaks. So it almost, I don’t want to say it looks like a port-a-potty cause it’s not a port-a-potty, but it is a toilet that when you go in the doors close automatically and when somebody exits it’s closes and sanitizes itself back down and you’re supposed to go in and I was really hyped up to use it the first time. And then, you know, I go in and yeah, they sanitize it down, but it’s sprayed with water. And then so you’re in there. And even though it’s clean, it feels dirty because it’s so wet. So it kind of creates this weird little experience

2 (12m 53s): They

3 (12m 53s): Do. They do, but better than going into a torn up bathroom, I could tell you that.

1 (12m 59s): And there’s so many places to take day trips from San Francisco. We will actually be having an upcoming episode on that. So subscribe and stay tuned to hear about that episode.

3 (13m 9s): So moving on to number four, I know we said, we’re going to give you these places listed from north to south. As we’re getting here to number four, which is Napa California’s wine country, world famous United States, famous California famous. I realized that this is actually north of San Francisco. So maybe San Francisco should have been for Napa three, but we’re going to do it in reverse order a little bit right here. So come in at number four, Napa, California.

2 (13m 35s): I have been to Napa when I used to live in Sacramento, but I was under 21. So I never got to experience the wineries and the wine tasting, which is what Napa is. So well-known for, and as I am older now, and I’m doing my research and planning a trip to Napa, there is one attraction that blows my mind and I really want to go for, and this is the Napa valley wine train.

3 (13m 60s): When I was doing some research on Napa ourselves to be like, all right, we’re going to go, how did we not go? When we lived in Northern California? Again, this is one of those places, at least for me, I know you said you’ve been, but again, not 21. I had no clue the wine train existed. This looks like you’re in a beautiful, almost turn of the century, like late 18 hundreds, like train, like classic style, traveling in opulence and luxury. And it’s really designed going through the Napa valley and Napa area. And you have amazing food served to you on the train wine tasting while you’re doing it. Also experiencing that trip. So I’m blown away and I can’t wait to go and do that.

2 (14m 38s): I love train experiences in Europe. That was one of the coolest things. So it’s very European vibe here in Napa

1 (14m 44s): And Napa is a really nice place to just relax. Also, there’s a lot of fine dining. You can take cooking classes, spa treatments, Kim and I are going to do that. Girls trails

2 (14m 54s): Trip, Jamal doesn’t want to go.

3 (14m 56s): I don’t exclude me. It don’t say I don’t want to go. The only reason why you’re saying that as, as much as I want to go to Napa, I said, ah, it’s hard because here in San Diego, we’re close to via Guadalupe, which is like, Mexico’s Napa. And I know what I could get for literally a third of the cost. But again, it is quintessential California. We have to go, they don’t have the train experience, but don’t throw me under the bus like that. Ladies, I want to go to Napa. Don’t

2 (15m 18s): Do spot treatments.

3 (15m 20s): Hell yeah. Do

1 (15m 21s): Treatment naked massage

3 (15m 22s): And not naked massage, a spot treatment.

1 (15m 24s): And they also have hot air balloon rides. And I know you don’t want to do that, Jamal.

2 (15m 28s): I want to do

1 (15m 28s): That. So it sounds like it’s going to be a girl.

3 (15m 31s): Okay. So you’re excluding me now. I see what it is. But another thing that Napa is really famous for other than the wine, if you want to do something nature oriented, they’re actually building right now, the bike, the vine trail. So this is supposed to be a really large bike trail. That’s supposed to go through the entire valley itself and like a big circle. And so part of it is built. Now you can still do it stroll through the vineyards stroll through parts of the town, but I’m excited to go when that’s open. And I would love to just like rent a bike and ride that whole thing. I think that would be a unique thing to do. Just kind of outside of Napa. Also,

2 (16m 4s): It’d be fun. I love bike riding and wine only here for it. All right. Number five on our list, going a little more south into Santa Cruz. Santa Cruz is amazing. When you think about on the east coast, Maryland ocean city, Maryland, I kind of see it as California, Santa Cruz. We have roller coasters. We have beach, we have the mystery spot. What is mystery spot?

3 (16m 29s): I mean, you kind of hit a lot of the main stuff on Santa Cruz right here. So yes we do have the Santa Cruz beach boardwalk, which is, I think the only coastal amusement park that’s still really left in the United States on the west coast, actually. So really cool about that, but getting into the mystery spot, what is the mystery spot? I’ve been an, I don’t even know what the mystery spot is. And I say that honestly in a good way. So Santa Cruz is along the coast of California along the ocean, south of San Francisco. So it’s in a mountainous region also. So it gives you that nice contrast of location on the coast, but still kind of in the mountains and forest and area. So here you are in the forested area, along the coast, and here is the mystery spot and it is supposedly at gravitational anomaly.

3 (17m 16s): That’s located in the redwoods that they have. They’re not the famous tall, tall redwoods, but still redwoods nonetheless here along the coast. And basically when you go there, you stand in a certain location and then your body tilts to another side. If you have a ball in your hand, they’ll tell you to just set it on this piece of wood. And literally the wood is rolling up and the ball will roll up. So it’s like this whole gravitational anomaly location out in the woods. And I don’t know what the science is, if it’s a trick or if it’s a real thing, but it’s crazy out there. And I highly recommend you go to the mystery

1 (17m 48s): Spot. Jamal. I went to Santa Cruz quite a long time ago. We actually went camping out there in the forest and the redwoods. And then we had to cross over some sand dunes to get to the beach. And it was really, really cool. But growing up, I had family that lived really close to Santa Cruz. So we went to the boardwalk all the time. Like we would go multiple times a year and write all of the roller coasters and just lounge out on the beach. So I grew up going to Santa Cruz quite a bit and had a really good time. So it has a special place in my heart.

3 (18m 17s): I mean, this is a place that really has it all. Coastal seaside amusement along the ocean, redwoods and forest. It’s also a university town. There’s the university of California Santa Cruz. So it has that kind of vibe going on with it too. And so it just makes for really unique California experience in city. Definitely not to be missed, especially if you are doing the one and 1 0 1 drive, you’re going to pass there, Santa Cruz, you’re going to enjoy it.

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1 (19m 56s): So working our way south from Santa Cruz, we’re headed to big Sur big Sur is so beautiful. It is the longest and most scenic stretch of undeveloped coastline in the contiguous United States, not just California, but there’s so much beauty because it’s just so rugged and so beautiful. There is a waterfall that dumps into the ocean and those are actually called tide falls. And this waterfall is called McQuay falls, beautiful iconic waterfall. And then because it’s on the coast, there is hiking and Redwood trails as well. So definitely a great place to visit can not be missed. So we were actually going to visit big Sur as a squad, once it was going to be our big Sur road trip, but then there was a huge landslide in the area.

1 (20m 44s): So we couldn’t make it on that trip. But since we’ve been back,

2 (20m 48s): It actually is pretty common with this highway. One that they’re heavy rains, the land kind of gives out and there’s landslides or mudslides, and it closes down that road. And that’s one of the only roads you can take to get up that route. So it really diverts your whole road trip, if you are planning to drive up it. And it happens like I want to say once every couple of years,

1 (21m 8s): And I love it because Kim was like, you know, we were going to drive up and I was like, oh Kim, there’s a landslide. She goes, well, you know what? They should just, you know, keep the road open if whoever wants to risk it just no. And risk of

2 (21m 20s): This was a landslide that took over eight months to rebuild the freeway.

3 (21m 24s): Should we have just written a four wheel drive and driven over the mud can. Yeah.

2 (21m 27s): But yeah, we were already road tripping on the worst rainstorm in years that California had seen after a drought. Why not add on the four wheel driving?

3 (21m 38s): I mean, it could have been an all-inclusive experience in that we did that, but no big Sur I mean it’s world famous, let alone California famous as not even a specific city. I mean, it literally is a stretch of almost 200 plus miles of really undeveloped coastline other than the road and a few small towns in between. It gives you amazing dramatic views of the California coast from beautiful beaches to rugged jagged cliffs and sea cliff. So definitely not to be missed and you’ll enjoy your time traveling through there.

1 (22m 7s): And another iconic spot in big Sur, which we were able to get to. Cause we went around the mudslide is a big speed bridge. It’s iconic photo spot. Definitely. When you go park your car and then walk, once you get the views of it, everyone starts to take pictures of it there and they’re doing it facing like the land and the mountains. No, you want to walk farther and you want to get your shots of Bixby bridge, looking out into the beautiful ocean and seeing the seaside cliffs. That’s the photo that you want

3 (22m 36s): Moving further south here through California, again, all along the one and 1 0 1, we’re getting ourselves into Santa Barbara and solving. We’re giving you a twofer here for lucky. Number seven.

2 (22m 48s): First part of this twofer is solving, which is a Danish town. They have Danish windmills, they have Danish pastries. They have Danish people.

3 (22m 57s): If you didn’t know, and we’re walking through here and just didn’t hear people speaking really good English without an accent, you would think that you’re in Europe, this area here and solving it’s about what is it? 45 minutes east into the mountains from Santa Barbara. Yeah, distance wise. It’s not very far, but you got to go through the mountains. So that’s why it creates a little bit more time to get there, but it was settled by Danish people. And so it’s really kept its Danish history and heritage. And so you’re almost in Europe when you’re here and a great town to stroll. It’s famous in the wine region right there. So you could do some wine tasting. They have some amazing vineyards also, and it gives you a foreign experience while you’re here in California.

1 (23m 39s): And you know, Kim didn’t mention the Danish pastries and I just want to stress the pastries because we to a pastry shop and we got some of the best pastries that we’ve ever eaten. They were so good that at the end of the day, we went back to pick some up to go home.

3 (23m 55s): That’s one of the things to do there, stroll the town and eat food, lots of good stuff, let alone the desserts you have to

2 (24m 1s): Do you think that solving we’ll have a Christmas market?

3 (24m 4s): You know, that’s something to look into. If they did, I would go up and spend the night out there, do some wine tasting, have the Christmas market, you know, we should petition and write to the city of solving and tell them they need a European Christmas market during that time. I think they would do it. I think that would be a hit Kim. I think you’re onto something like

2 (24m 21s): Lighting guru.

3 (24m 22s): My mind is fricking blown right now with that suggestion. We should write them and tell them.

2 (24m 27s): But if you’re in solving, you’re definitely going to want to visit Santa Barbara as well. It’s very close by it’s well-known for its wineries. It’s on the beach. So you can spend time there on the beach if you’re there in the warmer weather, but there’s a lot of nightlife there. Good restaurants, tons of wine. Did I say wine?

3 (24m 44s): Oh yeah. You know what I really like about Santa Barbara is when you’re there, you can tell it’s a Southern California town, but at the same time, you also know it’s a different Southern California talent. It doesn’t have that hustle and bustle or, and it’s not too big and spread out and crazy. It’s a really laid back atmosphere out there, but you know, you’re in California and Southern California. So it gives it that cool little awesome contrast that I really, really like about it. And it’s a great place for people who live in Southern California to really escape the big suburban and metropolis areas in which they live and get somewhere nice and quaint.

2 (25m 18s): I think my favorite experience in Santa Barbara was wine tasting at the wine tasting room that was at the end of the pier over the ocean water. Yes. And it was like loungey we were on a couch. It was so nice.

1 (25m 31s): That peer is so big. You can either walk down it or you can drive down it. And there’s actually a few parking spots there as well. But yes, that winery had an outdoor deck with ocean views. It was called the deep sea tasting room.

3 (25m 45s): Another highlight in Santa Barbara is state street. Now state street is pretty much their version of main street and it’s really, really popular for restaurants. Not too sure how it is right now, or if they’re going to keep this, I know a lot of towns and places in California, probably even across the U S also are keeping some of their COVID protocols were places that had famous stretches of dining would make it Alfresco where they didn’t have to have the permits to put out outside dining and ambiance like that strewn up lights. And so they did that during COVID. It was closed off to street traffic. And by that, I mean cars and it was only for walking and pedestrians. And that was a really, really fun experience. But even if they’ve changed that now on cars could still drive.

3 (26m 27s): That is an awesome stretch to just stroll and find a good place and bite to eat on state street.

1 (26m 32s): I definitely want to go back to Santa Barbara. I feel like we didn’t spend much time at the beaches, so that’s something we definitely need to check out. Cause we haven’t had an episode on Santa Barbara or solving. It’ll probably be twofer like we’re doing here.

3 (26m 46s): I think we need to go back, get some more content. Not that we don’t have enough good ones, but just to kind of really hammer it home.

1 (26m 51s): Yeah, I definitely agree. There’s also some good hiking in the area as well. And we did do a hike while we were in Santa Barbara. So there’s a lot to do in Santa Barbara, you know, with the wineries, the great food, the pier, the beaches, the hiking, and then the day trip to solving

2 (27m 7s): Eight on our list is death valley. It is one of the hottest places on earth. One

3 (27m 13s): Of the, or the, is

2 (27m 15s): It the hottest?

3 (27m 16s): Whew.

2 (27m 17s): Yeah, in the summer it can get upwards of 120 plus degrees. So don’t visit in the summer

3 (27m 22s): As of late, even in the one thirties. So real, real hot out there. But death valley is a national park. One of California’s nine national parks, really awesome place to go to kind of give you that different view of California that we really haven’t touched upon yet. We’re talking coastal mountains, things of that nature here we are taking you inland south to the desert region. And we have a full episode on this episode, 23, but really, really so unique desert environment. They have the Mesquite flat sand dunes. So I mean, you could see sand dunes out there, then all of a sudden you move a little bit away from those. And then you were like, I thought I was in a desert with sadden in the Sahara. And then all of a sudden it’s complete like scorched earth, desert, you know, just a really crazy different environment view of the desert and you get it all when you’re out there.

2 (28m 10s): Sabrina skis point is also really beautiful. It’s one of the most famous viewpoints in the park and it overlooks these golden colored Badlands and the area is actually called furnace Creek formation. So when you go, you definitely want to visit because this is one of the outlooks that you’ll see in tons of pictures and it is worth seeing

1 (28m 30s): Yeah. And nearby his artist drives. It’s a very, very scenic nine mile drive that passes through eroded, but very colorful desert Hills. And so you can stop your car, get out and explore a little bit. Or you could just do the scenic drive itself,

3 (28m 45s): Colorful bad lands, colorful desert Hills, sand dunes. And we didn’t mention this yet also bad water basin, which is the lowest point in north America. It’s actually 282 feet below sea level. In this area. You could see the polygon salt formations that death valley is known and famous for. So that goes back to what I was saying earlier. I mean really in death valley, you get so many different variations of desert landscape all in one. And it’s just so crazy to see. And again, don’t go during summer, unless you want to experience that heat. When we went, we went in January and it was still warm, but definitely tolerable. I don’t know if I would want to go on it’s 130 degrees out there.

3 (29m 25s): I

2 (29m 26s): Would not.

1 (29m 26s): No, I would not.

2 (29m 28s): My eyeballs will burn.

1 (29m 29s): Yes, you do have that problem.

3 (29m 31s): Like I’ve mentioned this on an episode before where, you know, I heard on the radio, they were actually talking to a park ranger out there and it happened to be like a day or two after like world record of temperature was set in death valley up in the one thirties. And she said, believe it or not, a lot of people come during this time of year because they want to experience the heat because there’s no place else in the world where you’ll feel that type of heat. She said mostly European tourists are the ones that do that. I guess it kind of makes sense because they don’t have any deserts in Europe. So they really were like, where am I going to go to feel that? And that’s the place

2 (30m 2s): I could see that, I guess.

1 (30m 4s): Yeah. And if we go back to death valley, there are some other places I want to see. Like there is a place called the devil’s golf course, which are the salt formations that look so rugged that it looks well. I don’t know what it really looks

3 (30m 16s): Like shards of glass on the ground.

1 (30m 19s): Exactly. But we were actually going to go there on our trip. I don’t know if you remember this Kim, but we would have to go off the road. I

2 (30m 24s): Remember this.

1 (30m 25s): Yeah. And it was going to take us like an extra hour or two to get out there. So we opted not,

2 (30m 30s): We were also in a car and it was like a bumpy road. And we were just like bumping along for a while.

3 (30m 35s): Yeah. And I guess it would be a good squad tip to throw in. If you go to death valley, rent a car and buy that, not an actual car, but a Jeep, a truck or some sort of high rise vehicle because certain roads are off-road, especially that one. And you don’t want a low line vehicle or one that tires aren’t really meant to do that type of terrain traversing. So you could get more out of your experience in death valley. If you rent yourself a Jeep SUV or truck,

2 (31m 5s): Number nine on our list is keeping it in the desert with Palm Springs, California. I absolutely love Palm Springs. I love the vibe there. It’s very retro. Even though it’s like a desert town, it’s very hip from all of the LA people that go there. And there’s so many cool hotels that have been modernized and they’re so unique. What do you guys think of Palm Springs?

1 (31m 25s): We really haven’t been except for the one-time Kim. We were on the girl’s trip and we had dinner in Palm Springs, but that was it. Like that’s my Palm spring experience.

2 (31m 34s): These are missing out. It’s really fun. It’s like, if you want to go to a hotel, I recommend the Cigarro hotel. It’s beautiful. It’s colorful. The ACE hotel is also really nice, but there are a ton. There there’s even a ton of really good creative, cool Airbnbs. So go there. Just plan to relax, sit in the pool because it’s very hot. Have meals are so many good restaurants there. There’s a lot of good shopping.

3 (31m 59s): I was going to say lots of spa treatments out there to do also. And if you’re big into golfing, it’s a really big golf resort area also, which is odd, like out in the desert to have really all that stuff. But it’s one of those things. It’s almost like that a Oasis in the desert and it has its history from people from LA just needing an escape. And by people from LA I’m talking like rich Hollywood people. And from there, the town has really been built and made what it is today.

2 (32m 24s): Yeah, it’s really nice. And I highly recommend it. If you are interested in hiking and it’s not in the summer months, I would recommend the Indian canyons hike. There’s tons of Palm trees. It’s a really cool place.

1 (32m 35s): And Palm Springs, isn’t so far away from Joshua tree. So you can there and see the famous Joshua trees. But again, it’s in the desert. So summer probably wouldn’t be the best time to visit

2 (32m 45s): If you’re going in the summer, just plan to be in the pool the whole time and maybe even come for splash house, an annual summer music festival

1 (32m 52s): Tattoo. Kim

3 (32m 53s): Kim knows all about flash house.

2 (32m 56s): It’s fun. It’s a very unique festival. That’s at hotel. So it’s a pool party. Music festival spread across three hotels. It’s a good time.

3 (33m 3s): And he basically hotel and pool hop from festival the festival amongst them,

2 (33m 7s): Right? Find love, who knows they may find them up.

1 (33m 11s): So number 10 on our list is our hometown of San Diego, Wu

3 (33m 16s): San Diego.

1 (33m 17s): Couldn’t leave it off the list cause we love it so much.

3 (33m 20s): And how could we leave it off the list? It’s the furthest Southern city in all of California. So if we’re working north, the south makes sense to end with San Diego.

1 (33m 27s): There’s so much to do in San Diego. Obviously everyone knows the beaches, OB PB, Cora natto, even like Solana beach. Those are great beaches to go to. San Diego is a great spot for brunch as well. People love to come on a weekend, get their brunch on San Diego has just so many foodie options to choose from. Go downtown to the Gaslamp for nightlife. I don’t know much about that, but Kim could tell you all about

2 (33m 52s): That. If you need any nightlife tips, let me know.

1 (33m 55s): And there’s so much hiking to do around San Diego. We’ve had so many episodes on San Diego, you know, like the 13 best things to do in San Diego, best hiking and San Diego day trips from San Diego,

2 (34m 6s): Brunch and San Diego,

1 (34m 8s): San Diego tacos in San Diego. We’ve have a lot of San Diego content cause we live here.

3 (34m 13s): And one of the things I just want to throw out about San Diego, if you haven’t been here as a lot of people, when they think of San Diego rightfully so they think of the coast, the ocean, et cetera, but people don’t realize you go a few miles inland. And all of a sudden San Diego becomes a desert like Southern California itself has pretty much all the desert unless you’re up in the mountains for that matter. And so you have just a wide range of things to do from the coast to go in inland a little bit desert and you go a little bit further and not too far, still from city center of San Diego. And yeah, you’re up in the mountains. We have a mountain town that’s close to here that people go to all the time like Julian. So there’s lots of stuff to do regionally that people don’t really think about when they think of San Diego and makes for a unique experience all around and the food.

3 (34m 56s): I’m just going to say it, the Mexican food down here as primetime.

2 (34m 60s): Yes. And top of all of the good food we have here, Mexican food tacos. El Gordo.

3 (35m 5s): Yeah. I don’t want to sell a short and make everyone think that’s all that we have. That’s good that the food and cuisine scene here in San Diego is actually really good. I think we’ve had like three new restaurants that have just gotten Michelin stars down here in San Diego, like our first three. So super excited about that, but I’d say Mexican food and generalities super good down here. Not to be missed. If you’re coming down world famous,

2 (35m 27s): Squaddies there. You have it. A complete road trip to California. You can hit up all the spots. You can make it multiple trips. There’s so much to do in California. So thank you for tuning into this week’s episode and hearing all about it. Keep your adventures willing with us. Follow us on Instagram and YouTube at Travel Squad Podcast, tag us in your adventures and DMS your questions of the week.

3 (35m 47s): If you found the information, this episode would be useful, or if you thought we were just playing funny, please be sure to share it with a friend that would enjoy it too. And as always, please subscribe, rate and review our podcast and tune in every travel Tuesday for new episodes,

1 (36m 0s): Stay tuned for next week’s episode, we have some more amazing adventures and tips in store for you.

3 (36m 5s): Bye everybody.

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20 Best Places To Visit In California (2024 Guide)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

1. Los Angeles

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Griffith Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Santa Barbara

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

San Diego Beach

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Death Valley National Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Big Sur

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read next: 25 Best Things To Do In Northern California

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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About the Author - Alesha and Jarryd

Hey! We are Alesha and Jarryd, the award-winning writers and professional photographers behind this blog. We have been travelling the world together since 2008, with a passion for adventure travel and sustainable tourism. Through our stories and images we promote exciting off-the-beaten-path destinations and fascinating cultures as we go. As one of the world's leading travel journalists, our content and adventures have been featured by National Geographic, Lonely Planet, CNN, BBC, Forbes, Business Insider, Washington Post, Yahoo!, BuzzFeed, Channel 7, Channel 10, ABC, The Guardian, and plenty other publications. Follow our journey in real time on Facebook , YouTube and Instagram .

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mcway falls as seen on big sur from above, one of the best places to visit in california

25 Beautiful Places to Visit in California (Vacation Spots Not to Miss!)

From redwood forests in the north to vast deserts in the south, a stunning coastline in the west to the craggy mountain peaks and alpine lakes in the east, the sheer diversity of the most beautiful places to visit in California is mind-boggling.

With more national parks than any other state in the USA and hundreds of must-explore state parks, the Golden State offers visitors an unparalleled experience when it comes to getting close to nature.

The most captivating towns and cities to visit in California are no less enticing.

Cities like San Francisco and LA are home to renowned landmarks, world-class museums and gardens, distinctive neighborhoods, and excellent eateries.

Coastal towns like Monterey, Mendocino, and Morro Bay will charm you with their relaxed coastal vibes and the opportunity to look for marine life.

view of sunrise on coronado island california with palm trees in the foreground, one of the most romantic getaways in the us

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

Whether you choose an epic  California road trip   as a means to explore the best of the state, or you choose one (or a few) places to visit, the Golden State will wow you at every turn.

While covering every fantastic weekend getaway in California would require a book, not just a blog post, we’ve curated this guide to include some of the best California vacation spots from every category, from major cities to national parks.

Here are some of the absolute best places to visit in California!

This California travel guide was written for Our Escape Clause by Golden State local Dhara from Roadtripping California . Thanks for joining us, Dhara!

Table of Contents

The Best Nature Getaways in California

Iconic california cities for weekend getaways, the best small towns in california to visit.

View along highway 1 pacific coast highway california with the ocean taking up most of the shot

One of the most spectacular stretches of coastline on the planet, Big Sur is definitely among the best places to visit in California.

Hiking is one of the most popular  things to do in Big Sur .

As you walk, enjoy the jaw-dropping vistas and wildflowers in season, and look for birds and wildlife.

Stop to snap photos of the striking Bixby Creek Bridge and the picture-postcard McWay Falls.

Look for purple sand at Pfeiffer Beach, have lunch with a view at Nepenthe Restaurant, and walk among the redwoods in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park.

bixby creek bridge on pch, one of the best vacation spots in california

Yosemite National Park

One of the country’s most-visited national parks, Yosemite National Park is famous for its towering granite domes and rock formations, and its many breathtaking waterfalls.

Tunnel View and Glacier Point, two of the most visited vista point in the park, offer fabulous views of some of the park’s best features, including Half Dome and El Capitan.

Walk the easy trail to the bottom of Yosemite Falls.

From the viewing area at the base, you can see both the Lower Fall and the Upper Fall, a total length of 2,425 astonishing feet!

Yosemite offers many epic hiking trails, including to the top of Half Dome, rock climbing, biking, scenic driving, and camping.

Yosemite national park as seen from above, one of the top national parks in america. yosemite falls is visible in the background

The largest alpine lake in the country, Lake Tahoe straddles the California-Nevada border and offers a variety of recreation opportunities in all four seasons.

Visit in the winter for world-class downhill skiing and snowboarding, and other winter sports like snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, sledding, and snowmobiling.

In the warmer months, you can relax at one of the many beaches along the shore, hike, drive the scenic road around the lake, go kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding, or take a cruise.

Surrounding places like South Lake Tahoe and Tahoe City make excellent bases and rank among the best mountain towns in California .

Regardless of what time of year you visit, there’s no doubt that Lake Tahoe is one of the top California vacation spots!

Clear water of Lake Tahoe California in summer with snowcapped mountains in the background--one of the best places to visit in the USA bucket list

Death Valley National Park

Home to the lowest point in North America, and famous as the hottest place on earth, Death Valley National Park is a must-visit for its majestic landscapes.

Sunrise is a wonderful time to visit Zabriskie Point, to watch the sun’s rays paint the badlands gold.

Also, be sure to drive up to Dante’s View for panoramas of the valley.

The enormous salt flat at Badwater Basin, the multi-hued mineral deposits of Artist’s Palette, and the sand dunes at Mesquite Flat are other unmissable sights in the park.

Given its infamy as one of the hottest places on Earth, Death Valley NP is best visited in the winter.

Martian landscape of Death Valley NP with 2 small humans in the bottom left corner. Death Valley belongs on any bucket list for the united states

Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks

At Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, prepare to gape in amazement at the size of the giant sequoias!

The General Sherman Tree, in Sequoia National Park, and the General Grant Tree, in Kings Canyon National Park, are the two largest trees in the world.

Both parks offer stunning scenery, with rock formations, mountains, canyons, and waterfalls, and the road that connects the two parks is very scenic.

person standing in front of general sherman tree, one of the most beautiful places in california to visit

Joshua Tree National Park

A hugely popular rock scrambling (and climbing) destination in Southern California, Joshua Tree National Park is famous for its magnificent rock formations and its namesake Joshua trees.

Straddling two deserts, the Colorado and the Mojave, Joshua Tree National Park has many hiking trails, varying in length and difficulty, to help you experience the park’s scenery, flora, and fauna up close.

You can also tour Keys Ranch, the former homestead of Bill Keys, one of the area’s prominent early settlers, and take in the panoramic views at sunset from Keys View.

Don’t miss the otherworldly sunrises at the Cholla Cactus Garden while you’re there–this is one of the most unique places in CA to visit!

desert landscape at sunrise in joshua tree national park, an excellent part of several of the best west coast road trips usa

San Francisco

San Francisco’s iconic landmarks, such as the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz, should definitely top your San Francisco weekend itinerary if you are visiting for the first time.

Fisherman’s Wharf is touristy, but it makes for a fun stroll, with the many shops and restaurants, the street performers, and the cute sea lions at Pier 39.

Be sure to explore San Francisco’s vibrant neighborhoods as part of your visit!

Wander through the largest Chinatown outside Asia, enjoy great Italian cuisine in North Beach, or take in the 60s vibes in Haight-Ashbury.

And allow plenty of time for Golden Gate Park during your trip to San Francisco.

Visit the Conservatory of Flowers and the Japanese Tea Garden and tour the de Young Museum and the California Academy of Sciences, too.

Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco CA shot from above on a clear day

A city that has the charming vibes of a coastal town, Monterey is one of the best places in the world to go whale-watching.

And on a cruise, you will very likely see other marine life as well: dolphins, porpoises, sea lions, and more.

In downtown Monterey, Cannery Row is touristy but makes for a fun stroll.

Once upon a time a center of sardine canning (the street is named after Steinbeck’s  Cannery Row ), today it boasts shops, restaurants, hotels, and even a couple of beaches.

Visiting the aquarium is one of the top  things to do in Monterey .

Huge tanks offer stunning views of the flora and fauna of the ocean.

It’s a very popular attraction, so time your visit for a weekday or early in the day.

Be sure to include the scenic 17-Mile Drive through Pebble Beach on your itinerary for Monterey.

With its spectacular ocean views, it is one of California’s most scenic drives.

yellow flowers blooming along pacific coast highway most beautiful places in california vacation spots

Santa Barbara

Gracious Santa Barbara is one of California’s must-visit vacation spots.

Its Mediterranean tiled roofs have earned it the nickname of the “American Riviera.”

Downtown Santa Barbara is both lively and elegant.

Stroll State Street for shopping, wine tasting, and dining.

You’ll find more top-notch restaurants and wine tasting in the nearby Funk Zone, where you can also admire the street art.

The Santa Barbara County Courthouse is a must-visit, both for the beautiful murals and tile work inside, and for the superb 360-degree views from the Clock Tower.

Old Mission Santa Barbara is one of the most beautiful Spanish missions in California.

Also do not miss the Presidio, the fort built by the Spanish, where you can see two of the original adobe buildings.

palm trees of santa barbara as seen from the ocean during a vacation california travel destination

Los Angeles

From the glamor of Hollywood to the beaches of Malibu and the vibrant vibes of downtown LA, there is no doubt that the City of Angels is one of the best places to visit in California.

But it’s also true that Los Angeles traffic is the stuff of nightmares.

So plan your sightseeing wisely, sticking to one area each day, to minimize time spent just sitting in traffic.

Hollywood is a must if it’s your first visit, although it isn’t as glamorous as it used to be.

Visit the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and snap a photo of the TCL Chinese Theatre.

Visit the Griffith Observatory for stunning views over the city. You also have a great view of the Hollywood Sign from the observatory!

Head to Santa Monica to admire the giant Ferris wheel and stroll the bluff path at Palisades Park.

Nearby Venice Beach offers excellent people watching on the boardwalk, where you can also watch street performers, shop, and eat.

Skyline of Los Angeles CA with palm trees in the forground, one of the best places to visit in the US

Known for its year-round beautiful weather, San Diego is one of the best vacation spots in California for couples, families, solo travelers, or groups.

It has something for everyone!

The sprawling Balboa Park, in the heart of downtown, offers multiple gardens and museums.

All but one of the gardens are free, and the beautiful architecture invites wandering.

Take the ferry to Coronado Island, where you can enjoy the beautiful silver sand beach and stroll the little town.

Be sure to leave room in your itinerary for two of San Diego’s most lively neighborhoods: Gaslamp Quarter, and Little Italy.

Both areas boast exceptional eateries and excellent people watching!

San Diego CA harbor with rows of sailboats in the foreground and the skyline in the back right of the photo

Palm Springs

The gateway city to the California desert, Palm Springs is known for its many resorts, golf courses, and spas.

But it is also a great destination to enjoy the outdoors!

Taking the aerial tram to the upper station on Mount San Jacinto is one of the  best things to do in Palm Springs .

The views over the desert floor are breathtaking, and there are several hiking trails to walk at the top.

Hike one or more of the palm oases at Indian Canyons or the Thousand Palms Oasis Preserve. Tour the beautiful desert gardens at Sunnylands.

Enjoy the shops and restaurants on Palm Canyon Drive, and stop to take a tour of the mid-century modern homes and buildings.

And be sure to enjoy a date shake while you are in Palm Springs!

mid century home surrounded by palm trees under a sunset in palm springs california travel

Located just south of Redwood National and State Parks in Northern California, Arcata offers history, charm, and oodles of natural beauty, from redwoods to sand dunes.

Admire Jacoby’s Storehouse, the only building left from the original structures built by early settlers in the mid-19th century.

Today, it houses shops and restaurants.

Enjoy a movie at the Minor Theatre, which dates back to 1914!

Stay in the historic Hotel Arcata , which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and also dates to the early 1900s.

woman in a yellow jacket hiking amongst the redwoods when visiting california usa

Located along the rugged Northern California coast, charming Mendocino is one of the most beautiful coastal places to visit in CA.

While the village makes for a pleasant wander, take the time to explore the many state parks around the town.

You can walk among redwoods, hike through pygmy forests, and enjoy stunning ocean views.

At Glass Beach in nearby Fort Bragg, look for colored glass honed by the waves from bottles tossed into the ocean as trash years ago.

town of mendocino california as seen from the water

The captivating town of Sonoma is located at the southern end of Sonoma Valley, one of California’s top wine country destinations.

It boasts a historic plaza and excellent farm-to-table restaurants.

Sonoma State Historic Park is an aggregation of several sites, some of which you can see right along the plaza in downtown Sonoma.

Also in the plaza is the historic (and photogenic!) Sebastiani Theatre.

There are several beautiful wineries you can tour in and around Sonoma, not only for their wine but also for their architecture and gardens.

dark purple grapes growing on the vine on a vineyard in sonoma county wine country

A quaint town located at the northern end of California’s famed Napa Valley, Calistoga is best known for its mud baths and thermal mineral pools.

It even has a geyser!

Downtown Calistoga makes for a nice walk, with many boutique stores, art galleries, eateries, and wine tasting rooms.

Shop for artisanal foods like olive oils, honey, and teas.

You’ll find many beautiful wineries around Calistoga if you want to do a tasting tour!

castle winery in calistoga california napa valley

A small coastal town located just south of Santa Cruz in Central California, Capitola is known for its colorful Instagram-worthy facades and beautiful beaches.

If you’re looking for a colorful, whimsical beach town, add Capitola to your list of California vacation spots to visit soon.

Sandy Capitola Beach is popular and can get crowded, but drive a short distance out to New Brighton State Beach for an equally beautiful but less crowded experience on nice weather days.

Stroll Capitola Village to browse the many cute boutique shops and art galleries.

Snag a table with a water view for dinner!

Many restaurants have patios with amazing views of Monterey Bay.

colorful houses on the beach of capitola california places to go

Carmel-by-the-Sea

Just one square mile in size, Carmel-by-the-Sea is one of the cutest places to visit in California.

You’ll find European-style boutiques, many art galleries, and excellent dining and wine tasting in the village.

Carmel Beach is a gorgeous stretch of white sand that’s perfect for a long walk.

Scenic Road, just above the beach, makes for a beautiful walk or drive as well.

Just south of Carmel, Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is one of the most scenic state parks in California, with many nature trails with views of the ocean.

cove beach in carmel by the sea, one of the most romantic places in usa for couples

Morro Bay has a charming fishing village feel.

It offers great beaches, scenic hiking trails, and some of the best wildlife viewing and birdwatching along the California coast.

Admire Morro Rock, a giant volcanic plug that lies just offshore and towers over the little town.

You can walk right up to the rock and look for nesting peregrine falcons.

In town, enjoy fresh-caught seafood at one of many waterfront eateries.

Browse the shops and galleries along the Embarcadero, and admire the many murals.

famous morro rock in morro bay ca with boats in the foreground

The Danish-themed village of Solvang is part of the picturesque Santa Ynez Valley, known as a wine country destination just outside Santa Barbara.

In downtown Solvang, snap photos of the beautiful Danish architecture, look for Denmark-inspired landmarks (including a Little Mermaid!), and sample aebleskivers.

There are several Danish bakeries if you want to indulge your sweet tooth and numerous wine tasting rooms.

From Solvang, you can also tour plenty of local California wineries.

Where to Stay in Solvang, California

  • Hotel Corque: This stylish boutique hotel is a short walk to Old Mission Santa Inés. Rooms are colorful and spacious, and there is a pretty garden to enjoy drinks.
  • The Winston: Beautifully decorated, luxurious and perfectly located to explore the town.

danish inspired architecture with windmill in solvang california places to visit

Laguna Beach

One of the prettiest beach towns in Orange County, Laguna Beach has that perfect laid-back California coastal town ambiance.

But there’s also plenty to do here!

Crystal Cove State Park has more than three miles of pristine beach.

But also across the road from the water, the park contains many acres of beautiful wilderness, with trails offering stellar ocean views.

Laguna Beach is known for its public art installations.

Grab a map at the visitor center and go on a self-guided tour to enjoy it!

aerial view of laguna beach california beach town

Avalon is one of two towns on Santa Catalina Island, one of the Channel Islands that lie off the coast of Southern California.

Accessed by ferry, Avalon makes for a wonderful California getaway.

Avalon offers a wealth of recreational activities in or on the water.

Go swimming, scuba diving, snorkeling, or take a kayak out to enjoy the scenery from the water.

On land, you can hike, bike, golf, or laze the day away on a sandy beach or in a spa.

Be sure to join a guided tour to explore less-developed parts of the island!

avalon ca on catalina island as seen from above, one of the most beautiful places in california to visit

Just north of San Diego, La Jolla is known for its beautiful beaches and its cute sea lions.

But from murals to museums, and hiking to hang gliding, La Jolla offers much more to see and do.

Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is one of the most beautiful state parks in California.

Hiking one of the ocean view trails here is a must!

Go shopping on Prospect Street, popularly known as the Rodeo Drive of San Diego.

You’ll find many boutiques and art galleries to browse, as well as great dining.

Beach in La Jolla California with purple flowers in the foreground, a fantastic stop on a west coast usa road trip itinerary

Mammoth Lakes

Mammoth Lakes is a popular ski resort town in the Eastern Sierra of California, but it makes for a wonderful getaway in any season.

The scenery, with tall mountains and jewel-blue alpine lakes, is spectacular.

While you’re there, take the scenic gondola to the top of Mammoth Mountain for panoramic views.

Be sure to also go boating on one of the many lakes, and hike some of the trails around the lakes and into the mountains.

In the summer and early fall, Devils Postpile National Monument is a must-visit, not only for the unique formation of basalt columns but also for Rainbow Falls, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the state.

woman standing with her dog overlooking a lake when hiking in beautiful mammoth lakes ca vacation destinations

Nevada City

Want to take a step back in time to the California Gold Rush era?

Nevada City is one of several Gold Rush-themed towns you can visit in California’s Gold Country.

In downtown Nevada City, admire the old west facades and the many historic buildings, including a much-photographed firehouse from 1861 and the state’s oldest continuously operated hotel.

Just a few miles out is Empire Mine State Historic Park, the site of one of the richest gold mines in California. You can tour some of the mine buildings, and the historic home and gardens of the mine’s owner. 

For travelers interested in the famous Gold Rush, Nevada City is definitely one of the best places to visit in California.

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20 Best Places to Visit in California

20 Best Places to Visit in California

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

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

Your Ultimate California Guide!

Unlock the best-kept secrets of Northern & Central California with my curated Google Map, showcasing 600+ accommodations, eateries, coffee shops, and unique experiences. Get the map here!

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

1. Yosemite National Park

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

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

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

2. Joshua Tree National Park

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

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

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

Helpful Guides: The Dreamiest Airbnb in Joshua Tree

3. Humboldt Redwoods State Park

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

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

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

4. San Francisco

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

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

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

5. Lake Tahoe

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

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

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

6. Sequoia National Park

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

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

7. Muir Woods

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

Helpful Guides: NPS Site for Muir Woods

8. Channel Islands National Park

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

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

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

10. Palm Springs

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

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

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

11. Napa Valley and Sonoma Valley

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

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

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

12. Santa Cruz

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

13. Death Valley

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

14. Carmel-by-the-Sea

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

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

15. Mendocino

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

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

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

16. Redwoods National and State Parks

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

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

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

17. Mount Shasta

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

18. Mammoth Lakes Area

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

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

19. San Diego

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

20. Laguna Beach

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

Save this post for later on Pinterest:

Ps — are you booking a trip soon use my booking checklist.

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

1. Book Your Flights

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

2. Book Your Accommodations

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

3. Book Your Tours & Experiences

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

4. Book Your Car

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

5. Don’t Forget Airport Lounge Access

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

6. Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

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

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

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

Xx, Jessica

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8 Unmissable Places in California to Make the Most of Your Trip

California dreaming make it a reality at one or more of these unmissable spots..

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Sonoma County

Sonoma County is all about great wines and rugged beach walks.

Photo by Carles Rabada/Unsplash

From sun-drenched beaches and rolling vineyards to towering redwoods, California is defined by its diversity. Northern California is dramatically different than its southern neighbor—you’ll want a coat in NorCal and flip-flops in SoCal—but together they boast 840 miles of striking coastline and form the third-largest state in land area. In short, California is huge.

One trip won’t do it; folks who call the state home struggle to take advantage of everything it has to offer. Simply plan on coming back again and again. Here’s a complete guide on the best places to visit in California on your next trip.

I’m heading to California for the first time. Where should I go?

Sankofa Park, part of Destination Crenshaw, in Los Angeles.

The long-awaited Destination Crenshaw is finally scheduled to open in 2024.

Courtesy of Destination Crenshaw

Los Angeles

Go to the beach. Gaze at the Hollywood sign. Maybe spot your favorite celebrity. The star power of Los Angeles (an AFAR Where to Go 2024 pick) lures travelers from around the world, but people in the know are buzzing about another upcoming premier: the opening of Sankofa Park in South Los Angeles. The park is the first phase and flagship of Destination Crenshaw , a 1.3-mile-long, open air museum with sculptures, murals, architecture, and community spaces designed to celebrate the history and future of Black Los Angeles. Look for work by such artists as Charles Dickson, Maren Hassinger, Artis Lane, and Kehinde Wiley.

Where to stay: Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows

Steps from the beach and Santa Monica Pier, the Fairmont Miramar was once the estate of the founder of Santa Monica. If budget allows, snag one of the hotel’s 1930s bungalows. (You can also find more than a dozen of our favorite L.A. hotels here .)

I want to spot marine life. Where can I do it without crowds?

Channel Islands National Park

The Channel Islands National Park is teeming with life, both inland and in the water. You’ll probably spot dolphins on the boat ride over from the mainland.

Photo by Lisha Riabinina/Unsplash

Channel Islands National Park

Sometimes called the Galápagos of North America, the Channel Islands are home to more than 2,000 species of animals and plants—and nearly 150 like the island fox and the Channel Islands slender salamander are found nowhere else. From hiking and snorkeling to backcountry camping, activities vary from island to island.

Oxnard’s Channel Islands Harbor is the closest launching point; watch for whales, seals, dolphins, and more as you make your way. The national park is accessible by private boat or park concessionaire Island Packers Cruises . The company operates four vessels that can carry anywhere from 81 to 149 passengers; all ships have restrooms and outside decks for wildlife viewing. (Other tour operators offer trips that approach the Channel Islands but do not go ashore.)

Fine-tune a day on the SoCal coast with a tour of DW Drums factory, the name behind famous drummers, including Travis Barker, Dave Grohl, and Sheila E., or tackle Oxnard’s tasty taco trail .

Where to stay: Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach

Less than a five-minute drive from Channel Islands Harbor, the beachfront property boasts 250 suites, most of which face the ocean.

I’ve sipped at plenty of wineries in Napa Valley. Where next?

Wine tasting in San Luis Obispo County.

Combine a day of wine tasting in San Luis Obispo County with a visit to the charming namesake city.

Photo by HannaTor/Shutterstock

San Luis Obispo County

Napa Valley may be California’s best-known wine region , but California’s Central Coast, about halfway between San Francisco and Los Angeles , is gaining traction in the wine world. Adelaida Vineyards ’ seasonal “Hilltop Tasting Experience” takes place at nearly the highest point in Paso Robles— approximately 2,150 feet in elevation—making it a stellar spot to watch the sunset. Tablas Creek Vineyard was the first winery in the world to be certified by the Regenerative Organic Alliance (ROA) . Founded by the Rodale Institute, Dr. Bronner’s, and Patagonia, the nonprofit uses organic certification as a baseline and requires that farmers adhere to strict standards regarding soil health, animal welfare, and social fairness.

Along with more than 250 wineries, Re:Find Handcrafted Spirits distills vodka and gin from typically discarded saignée or free-run red wine grape juice. Daily brewhouse tours at Firestone Walker Brewing Company offer a behind-the-scenes look and taste of the California-centric beer maker.

End the day walking through a field of more than 100,000 solar-powered, fiber-optic “flowers” at Light at Sensorio . A new guest artist exhibit, Dimensions by Hybycozo, is expected to open in late 2023 or early 2024, with a fifth light installation by artist Bruce Munro coming in July 2024.

Where to stay: Hotel San Luis Obispo

Steps from Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, the fifth of the Spanish missions in California, Hotel San Luis Obispo offers complimentary bikes for guests interested in cruising around the downtown area or Cal Poly’s neighboring campus.

Where’s the best place to learn how to surf?

Santa Cruz coastline

In Santa Cruz, you can watch the pros surf before attempting to stand up on a board yourself.

Photo by Gabriel Barranco/Unsplash

Hawaiian royalty introduced surfing to the United States in Santa Cruz in 1885. Newbies longing to hang 10 will find mellow waves and stellar views at Cowell Beach . For Club Ed surf school owner Ed Guzman, surfing is a family affair; his grandmother, Dorothy Becker, is said to be the first woman to perform a headstand on a surfboard in 1915.

If Cowell’s beginner breaks leave you craving an adrenaline rush, climb aboard the Giant Dipper roller coaster at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk . The National Historic Landmark celebrates 100 years of thrills in 2024.

Where to stay: Dream Inn Santa Cruz

Dream Inn is the only beachfront hotel in Santa Cruz; all 165 rooms come with a patio or balcony with views of Monterey Bay.

I want it all: art, culture, and scenery.

San Francisco city scene

We love San Francisco, for its world-class museums and restaurants, parks, views, and much more.

Photo by EQRoy/Shutterstock

San Francisco

Walk across the Golden Gate Bridge . Ride a cable car . Or take a ferry to Alcatraz Island , a former prison once home to famous convicts such as Al Capone. San Francisco has packed everything you can think of, and more, into 49 square miles.

Along with permanent works by names like Andy Warhol and Jackson Pollock, through early September 2024, you can catch two famed Infinity Mirror Rooms by artist Yayoi Kusama at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA). Not a fan of art museums? (We won’t tell.) Play your way through Musée Mécanique ’s 300 coin-operated mechanical musical instruments and antique arcade games. Most machines only cost a quarter or two.

Where to stay: The Jay Hotel

San Francisco’s only hotel opening in 2023, the Jay features 360 rooms all boasting floor-to-ceiling windows with views of the City by the Bay.

I want to go chasing waterfalls.

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is justifiably popular—but it’s easy to plan a trip during a quieter time.

Photo by Gantas Vaiciulenas/Unsplash

Yosemite & Beyond

Yosemite National Park attracts millions of visitors every year, but there’s no reason for you to hang out with the crowds. In spring, a pair of waterfalls reward hikers who make the hour’s drive from Yosemite Valley to Hetch Hetchy . A quiet, shady hike into Yosemite Wilderness Area leads to Carlon Falls . Pack a picnic and a bathing suit. Technically located outside of park boundaries, Rainbow Pool Day Use Area is a swimming hole that once served as a stagecoach toll stop.

Where to stay: Rush Creek Lodge & Spa

When you want a lodge feel, and perks like a spa, Rush Creek fits the bill.

Give me a stunning stretch of coast.

Jenner Headlands Preserve

Sonoma is known for its wine, but plenty of rugged coastal trails await too.

Photo by Danita Delimont/Shutterstock

Sonoma Coast

Forget your swimsuit, it’s about layers and hiking boots on this rugged stretch of Northern California. Any of the half-dozen trails at Jenner Headlands Preserve will impress, as the ocean views begin at the parking lot. If fewer steps is more appealing, park your car at Timber Cove Resort and follow the short path to view Benjamino Bufano’s seaside Peace Obelisk .

And because it’s Sonoma County , there’s great wine, too. The deck at Fort Ross Vineyard & Winery boasts views that can stretch to the Pacific. Winetastings are paired with small bites, but if you seek more substantial sustenance, grab a calzone (and a sticky bun, if there’s any left) from Twofish Baking .

Where to stay: The Sea Ranch Lodge

There are just 17 rooms, but fresh off a multi-year renovation, the Sea Ranch Lodge is a dreamy spot to disconnect and stare at the sea.

How about a peaceful trip into the woods?

Humboldt County

Commune with the trees in Humboldt Redwoods State Park.

Photo by Cyrus Crossan/Unsplash

Humboldt County

The Avenue of the Giants meanders more than 30 miles through Humboldt Redwoods State Park , home to the largest stand of old growth redwoods in the world. It’s easy to see why Steven Spielberg choose Fern Canyon in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park to film scenes for The Lost World: Jurassic Park. Roadside attractions—the Legend of Bigfoot or the Chimney Tree hollowed out by flames in 1914—make for a fun, quick stop.

Where to stay: Humboldt Bay Social Club

A former World War II blimp base turned teeny boutique hotel, Humboldt Bay Social Club boasts easy access to Oyster Beach, as well as an open-air bathhouse.

Visit Monaco

The Discoveries Of

35 Brilliant Things to do in California

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

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

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

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

Let’s go! 

Things To Do in California: Top 5

Explore yosemite national park.

Yosemite National Park

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

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

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

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

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

Book a Tour of Yosemite Here

Take a California Road Trip

Muscle Car for US Road Trip on the West Coast

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

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

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

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

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

Explore the Magic of Big Sur

Big Sur - West Coast USA Road Trip

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

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

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

Swing By The Golden Gate Bridge

Golden Gate Bridge

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

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

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

Delve into Death Valley National Park

Dante's View Death Valley National Park

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

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

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

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

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

Things to do in California

Go skiing in mammoth lakes.

Mammoth Lakes

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

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

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

Stargazing in Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree

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

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

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

Book a Joshua Tree Driving Tour

Have Fun at Disneyland

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

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

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

Universal Studios Hollywood

Universal Hollywood

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

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

Book Your Universal Studios Hollywood Ticket

Tahoe

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

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

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

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

Book a Tour of Lake Tahoe

Hearst Castle

Hearst Castle

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

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

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

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

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

California Wine Country (Napa & Sonoma)

Napa Valley

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

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

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

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

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

Book This Tour of California’s Wine Valley

Los Angeles

Los Angeles 12

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

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

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

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

Book This LA Hop On and Off Sightseeing Bus

San Francisco

San Francisco Cable Car

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

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

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

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

Book This San Francisco Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour

San Diego

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

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

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

Book Your USS Midway Tour Here

Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park

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

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

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

Whale Spotting at Point Reyes National Seashore

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

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

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

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

Check out the Monterey Bay Aquarium

Monterey Aquarium

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

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

Soak Up the Sun in Laguna Beach

Laguna Beach

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

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

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

Hang Out in Palm Springs

Palm Springs

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

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

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

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

Explore the Channel Islands National Park

Channel Island National Park

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

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

You can also hike along one of their many trails.

See The Butterflies at Pismo Beach’s Butterfly Grove

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

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

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

Hop on a Boat Trip to Catalina Island

Catalina Island

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

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

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

Avenue of the Giants in Humboldt Redwoods State Park

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

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

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

Kitschy Delight at Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

Santa Cruz

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

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

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

Visit The Stunning Glass Beach

Glass beach

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

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

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

Visit The Largest Outdoor Market in the United States

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

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

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

Hang Out in Danish-Influenced Solvang

Solvang

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

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

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

Alcatraz Island

Alcatraz

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

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

Book an Alcatraz Entry Ticket Here

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

Point Reyes

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

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

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

Hike The Muir Woods National Monument

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

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

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

Book a Guided Tour of Muir Woods

Check Out The Art in the Anza Borrego Desert State Park

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

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

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

Visit The Winchester Mystery House

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

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

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

Revisit the Gold Rush in Sacramento

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

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

See The Inspiring Salvation Mountain

Salvation Mountain

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

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

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

Things to do in California: Map 

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35 Brilliant Things to do in California

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

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

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26 top things to do in california.

There's something for everyone in the Golden State.

Top Things to Do in California

Looking up through sequoia trees at Redwood National Park.

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

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

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

17-Mile Drive

Lone Cypress, a prominent landmark along the 17 Mile Drive, on a foggy day

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

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

Carmel-by-the-Sea

Empty trail by the coastline at Carmel-by-the-Sea, California.

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

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

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

Visit the theme parks

"The Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts Castle" at "The Wizarding World of Harry Potter" at Universal Studios Hollywood.

Courtesy of Universal Studios

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

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

Read: The Top California Theme Parks

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite Valley National Park with a huge waterfall

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

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

Explore the desert

Springtime flowers in desert in California

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

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

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

Laguna Beach

Aerial view of residences along Laguna Beach

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

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

See more of Laguna Beach: Things to Do | Photos

Waves breaking on El Matador beach in Southern California

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

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

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

Read: The Top Los Angeles Beaches

San Francisco

Trolley cars and street in San Francisco

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

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

See more of San Francisco: Tours | Photos

Alcatraz Island

Alcatraz Island in the low sun

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

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

San Diego skyline from the ocean

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

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

See more of San Diego: Tours | Photos

Death Valley National Park

Sunrise in Ubehebe Crater at Death Valley National Park, California

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

Waterfall along coast in Big Sur, California

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

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

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

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Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Los Angeles

Aerial of Los Angeles skyline in California

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

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

See more of Los Angeles: Tours | Photos

Indulge in wine country

Vineyard in Napa Valley, California

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

Behold the giant sequoias and redwoods

Road through Sequoia National Park

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

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

Summer views across Lake Tahoe

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

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

See more of Lake Tahoe: Things to Do | Photos

Experience wildflower season

Orange wildflowers across mountain in California

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

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

Santa Barbara

Aerial of white buildings in Santa Barbara

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

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

See more of Santa Barbara: Things to Do | Photos

Learn to surf at Huntington Beach

Huntington Beach Pier at sunset with dramatic clouds and a surfer

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

See more of Huntington Beach: Things to Do | Photos

Explore one or more of the national forests

National park in California on a sunny day

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

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

Trek along the Lost Coast

The Lost Coast in California on a sunny day

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

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

Point Reyes National Seashore

Point Reyes National Seashore from Chimney Rock trail at sunset

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

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

Griffith Observatory

Aerial view of Griffith Observatory and Los Angeles city skyline at sunset in California

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

Hollywood Sign

The Hollywood Sign in the distance on Mount Lee, overlooking the Hollywood district of Los Angeles

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

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

Palm Springs

Golden light over Indian Wells Golf Resort, a desert golf course in Palm Springs, California, with view of the San Bernardino Mountains

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

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

Monterey Bay Aquarium

Orange Jellyfish in blue tank at Monterey Bay Aquarium

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

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

You might also be interested in:

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

The 13 Best National Parks in California

Parks in California

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

World's Best Places To Visit

  • # 1 South Island, New Zealand
  • # 4 Bora Bora

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The 9 Best Places to Visit in California for First-Time Visitors

The 9 Best Places to Visit in California for First-Time Visitors

California is a massive state with so much to do. We compiled a handy list of essential places to visit for first-time visitors.

California.com Team

July 05, 2023

California, the Golden State, is a dream destination that beckons travelers with its stunning landscapes, iconic landmarks, diverse cultures, and innovative spirit. From the glittering glamour of Hollywood to the rugged beauty of its national parks, and from the grandeur of its historic bridges to the charm of its coastal highways, California's allure is both timeless and infectious.

The sheer variety of attractions can be overwhelming for those planning their first trip to this dynamic state. But fret not; we've curated a list of the most unique and iconic spots that capture the essence of California. Each destination on this list offers a special glimpse into what makes California an unforgettable travel experience. So pack your bags, grab your sunglasses, and join us as we embark on a journey to the must-see destinations in California for first-time visitors.

Be aware, California is a large state, so you may only be able to reasonably hit one or two of these locations during a trip to the Golden State. However, if you're planning an extended visit and have the ability to, you can travel across California and experience most or all it has to offer. It's all about how you approach the trip and manage your time.

Hollywood Walk of Fame, Los Angeles

A visit to California wouldn't be complete without immersing yourself in the glamour of Hollywood. The Hollywood Walk of Fame, stretching along 15 blocks of Hollywood Boulevard , is an essential piece of the entertainment world's history. As you stroll the sidewalks, you'll find over 2,600 brass stars embedded in the pavement, each representing a significant contributor to the entertainment industry. Be sure to visit the TCL Chinese Theatre, a cinema palace that is rich in Hollywood history and renowned for its forecourt filled with handprints, footprints, and autographs of movie stars past and present.

10 best places to visit in california youtube

Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco

Standing as a testament to human ingenuity, the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco is a global icon recognized worldwide. This Art Deco marvel, with its distinctive international orange color, spans the entrance to the San Francisco Bay from the Pacific Ocean. Walking or cycling across its 1.7-mile length offers panoramic views of the city, Alcatraz , and the surrounding bay. Don't miss the chance to explore the visitor's center or the nearby Golden Gate Park , filled with beautiful gardens, museums, and a wealth of outdoor activities.

10 best places to visit in california youtube

Yosemite Valley, Yosemite National Park

At the heart of Yosemite National Park lies the Yosemite Valley, a spectacle of natural beauty that boasts some of the park's most famous landmarks. Granite cliffs, including the formidable El Capitan and the dome-shaped Half Dome, tower over the lush valley floor, offering rock climbers world-class challenges. Waterfalls like the majestic Yosemite Falls and Bridalveil Fall roar in the spring and glisten in the sun, while tranquil meadows provide habitats for diverse wildlife. The vista from Tunnel View, which includes El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall, and Half Dome, is one of the most photographed landscapes in the world and a must-see for any visitor.

10 best places to visit in california youtube

San Diego Zoo, San Diego

The San Diego Zoo, nestled within Balboa Park , is home to over 3,500 animals from more than 650 species and subspecies. Renowned for its expansive, naturalistic habitats and unique animal encounters, the zoo pioneered the open-air, cageless exhibits that are now standard in many zoological parks. Visitors can see giant pandas, koalas, lions, tigers, and more, all in beautifully recreated habitats. The zoo's guided bus tour and overhead gondola lift, Skyfari, provide unique perspectives of the park and are included with admission.

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Joshua Tree National Park

The magic of Joshua Tree National Park lies in its stunning desert landscapes, punctuated by its namesake Joshua Trees. These peculiarly shaped trees, reminiscent of a Dr. Seuss illustration, dominate the arid scenery, standing as a testament to the resilience of life in the desert. The park, a popular destination for hiking, rock climbing, and camping, also offers breathtaking night skies free of light pollution. The celestial display makes it a favored spot for stargazing and astrophotography.

10 best places to visit in california youtube

Big Sur Coastline, Highway 1

Often hailed as one of the greatest road trips on earth , the scenic stretch of Highway 1 through Big Sur offers spectacular coastal views. Twisting and turning along the rugged cliffs, the highway treats visitors to sights of the Pacific's endless blue waters, towering redwoods, and dramatic, rocky outcrops. Key highlights include the iconic Bixby Bridge , one of the highest single-span concrete bridges in the world , and McWay Falls, an ethereal 80-foot waterfall that plunges directly into the ocean. Various trails along the route offer hiking opportunities for explorers seeking to experience the rugged beauty up close.

10 best places to visit in california youtube

Sequoia National Park

A visit to Sequoia National Park offers the unique experience of standing amongst the world's largest trees. The General Sherman Tree, the most massive living tree on earth, has a height of 275 feet and a base over 36 feet in diameter. The park, which also includes part of the Sierra Nevada mountain range, offers breathtaking vistas, meandering rivers, and over 800 miles of hiking trails.

10 best places to visit in california youtube

Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica

With its iconic Ferris wheel, bustling arcade, and oceanfront eateries, Santa Monica Pier exudes a nostalgic, carnival-like atmosphere. The pier, which marks the end of historic Route 66, also features an aquarium, an original 1920s carousel, and offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean . Nearby Third Street Promenade provides an abundance of shopping, dining, and street performances.

10 best places to visit in california youtube

Hearst Castle, San Simeon

Hearst Castle, built by media tycoon William Randolph Hearst, is a National Historic Landmark nestled high in the hills along the Central Coast. This grand estate, filled with art, antiques, and opulent furnishings, was once a playground for the rich and famous. Now, it offers guided tours that transport you to a world of luxury, featuring stunning indoor and outdoor pools, lush gardens, and unparalleled views of the surrounding countryside.

10 best places to visit in california youtube

Each of these iconic locations offers a unique perspective into California's diverse landscapes, history, and culture, promising first-time visitors an unforgettable journey through the Golden State. Whether you're an urban explorer, a nature lover, a history buff, or a food and wine connoisseur, California welcomes you with open arms and countless adventures.

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Best places to work in 2024? Here's what US employees had to say about their employers

The winners are in for Energage's Top Workplaces 2024 competition.

Two mortgage lending companies, a certified public accountant firm, a staffing business and a credit union are among the top workplaces in the U.S.

The rankings are part of the fourth-annual survey co-sponsored by Energage and USA TODAY.

The Top Workplaces USA awards offer recognition to midsize and large organizations, including those with operations in multiple markets. Employers with at least 150 employees are eligible.

Winners are identified solely based on employee feedback gathered through the Energage employee engagement survey. Companies were chosen based on the results of surveys taken over 12 months in 2023.

The top five winners among organizations with more than 2,500 employees are:

1. Fairway Independent Mortgage Corp., a mortgage lending company based in Madison, Wisconsin.

2. Plante Moran, a certified public accountants and consultants firm in Southfield, Michigan.

3. Aya Healthcare, a travel nursing staffing firm based in San Diego.

4. New American Funding, a mortgage lending firm in Tustin, California.

5. Mountain America Credit Union, headquartered in Salt Lake City.

There are also winners in three other categories: companies with 1,000 to 2,499 employees, organizations with 500 to 999 employees and organizations with 150 to 499 people on staff. Energage ranked the top 100 employers in each of the four categories and then listed the remaining winners in alphabetical order.

More than 7,000 employers nationwide were invited to take the challenge and 2,227 followed through with an employee survey process. Ultimately, 1,531 employers received recognition.

“A Top Workplaces award brings a company’s culture strengths to the national stage, helping them differentiate in a fiercely competitive landscape,'' said Eric Rubino, Energage CEO. "It’s a morale-boosting honor for the workforce and an effective magnet for attracting top-tier talent.”

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A Total Solar Eclipse Is Coming. Here’s What You Need to Know.

These are answers to common questions about the April 8 eclipse, and we’re offering you a place to pose more of them.

  • Share full article

The sun flares at the edge of the moon during a total eclipse.

By Katrina Miller

On April 8, North America will experience its second total solar eclipse in seven years. The moon will glide over the surface of our sun, casting a shadow over a swath of Earth below. Along this path, the world will turn dark as night.

Skywatchers in Mexico will be the first to see the eclipse on the mainland. From there, the show will slide north, entering the United States through Texas, then proceeding northeast before concluding for most people off the coast of Canada.

Why eclipses happen is simple: the moon comes between us and the sun. But they are also complicated. So if you’ve forgotten all of your eclipse facts, tips and how-to’s since 2017, we’re here to explain it for you.

But before we dive in, there is one thing to know that is more important than anything else: It is never safe to look directly at the sun during an eclipse (except for the few moments when the moon has fully obscured its surface). At all other times, watch the event through protective eye equipment . Read on to learn about how to watch an eclipse safely.

What is a total solar eclipse?

A solar eclipse occurs when the moon orients itself between Earth and the sun, shielding the solar surface from our view.

In cosmic terms, it is unusual that this happens: the moon is about 400 times smaller than the sun, but it is about 400 times closer to us. That means that when these two celestial bodies are aligned, they appear to be the same size in the sky.

What other types of eclipses are there?

Annular solar eclipses occur when the moon is farther from Earth and appears too small to completely shield the sun’s surface. Instead, the outer part of the solar disk remains uncovered — a “ring of fire” in the sky.

Partial solar eclipses happen when Earth, the moon and the sun are imperfectly aligned. The moon only obscures a chunk of the sun. There will be two in 2025.

Earth can also get between the moon and the sun, creating a lunar eclipse. This can be observed once or twice a year .

How dark will it be during the eclipse?

In any given place along the eclipse path , the event will last around two hours or more.

The event will commence with a partial solar eclipse, as the moon takes a small bite out of the sun’s edge, then consumes more and more of its surface. According to NASA , this can last anywhere from 70 to 80 minutes.

The phase of the eclipse where the moon has completely blocked the sun’s surface is called totality. This is the only time the event can be viewed with the naked eye.

The length of totality varies by location. In April, some places will experience this phase for more than four minutes; others, for only one to two minutes.

During totality, the sky will get dark as night and the temperature will drop. Wispy white strings of light from the sun’s outer atmosphere, or corona, will suddenly be visible. Lucky viewers may even spot a thin, reddish-pink circle around the edge of the moon. That’s the chromosphere, an atmospheric layer below the sun’s corona. Its color comes from the presence of hydrogen throughout the layer.

After totality, the sun will slowly peek out from behind the moon again — another partial eclipse that will last the same amount of time as the first one. The moon will recede until the sun is back to normal brightness in our sky.

How can I watch the solar eclipse safely?

In general, avoid looking directly at the sun without special equipment to protect your eyes. Inexpensive options for watching the eclipse include paper solar viewers and glasses. If you are using equipment purchased for a past solar eclipse, make sure to inspect it. Toss anything with scratches or other signs of damage.

According to NASA , it is not safe to look at the sun through any optical device while using paper glasses or viewers. To watch the eclipse through cameras, binoculars or telescopes, buy a special solar filter.

The only time you can view a solar eclipse with the naked eye is during the moments of totality. Once the moon begins to reveal the surface of the sun again, return to watching the event through protective equipment to avoid injury.

What happens if I look at the eclipse without protection?

In general, staring directly at the sun, even for a few seconds, can cause permanent damage to your eyes . This can range from blurry or distorted vision to something even more serious, like blind spots. Because there are no pain receptors in the retina, you won’t feel it while it’s happening.

The same is true during an eclipse — except during the brief moments of totality, when the moon has hidden the face of the sun. At all other times, use protective eye equipment to view the event.

What do I do if I can’t find eclipse glasses?

If it’s too late to get glasses or viewers, there’s always a do-it-yourself option: a pinhole camera to indirectly experience the eclipse. You can create one using cardstock , a cardboard box , a kitchen strainer or even your fingers . These designs project an image of the eclipse onto the ground or some other surface that is safe to look at.

Where are the best places to watch the eclipse?

The total eclipse will sweep across large portions of Mexico, the United States and eastern Canada. For the most dramatic show, it’s best to experience the eclipse along the path of totality , which is where the moon will completely blot out the sun.

The Path of the Eclipse

On April 8, a total solar eclipse will cross North America from Mazatlán, Mexico, to the Newfoundland coast near Gander, Canada. Viewers outside the path of the total eclipse will see a partial eclipse, if the sky is clear .

10 best places to visit in california youtube

Percentage of

the sun obscured

during the eclipse

Indianapolis

Little Rock

San Antonio

10 best places to visit in california youtube

Viewers near Mazatlán, a beach town on the Pacific shoreline of Mexico, will be the first place to experience totality on North America’s mainland. Various sites in Mexico along the eclipse’s path will experience the longest duration of totality — as long as four minutes and 29 seconds.

Cities across the United States, including Dallas, Indianapolis and Cleveland, will most likely be hot spots for the upcoming eclipse. Other notable locations include Carbondale, Ill., which also saw totality during the solar eclipse in 2017; small towns west of Austin, Texas, which are projected to have some of the best weather in the country along the eclipse path; and Niagara Falls, if the skies are clear. Six provinces of Canada are in the path of totality, but many of them have a very cloudy outlook.

When does the eclipse begin and end?

The show begins at dawn, thousands of miles southwest of the Pacific shore of Mexico. The moon starts to conceal the sun near Mazatlán at 9:51 a.m. local time. Viewers near Mazatlán will experience totality at 11:07 a.m. for four minutes and 20 seconds.

Then the moon’s shadow will swoop through Mexico, crossing over the Texas border at 1:10 p.m. Eastern time. Totality in the United States will start at 2:27 p.m. and end at 3:33 p.m. Eastern time.

Canadians will experience the solar eclipse in the afternoon for nearly three hours. The eclipse concludes beyond Canada’s boundaries when the sun sets over the Atlantic Ocean.

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How long will the eclipse last?

The duration of totality depends on how far a given location on Earth is from the moon. Places with the longest totality are closest to the moon and farther from the sun. The speed of the lunar shadow is slowest over spots with the longest totality.

In April, the longest period of totality will occur over Durango, a state in Mexico, for a total of four minutes and 29 seconds. Along the centerline, the location of shortest totality on land is on the eastern coast of Newfoundland and Labrador in Canada, for about two minutes and 54 seconds. But totality is even shorter along the edges of the total eclipse path; in some places, it lasts less than a minute.

How fast does the eclipse move?

Solar eclipses may seem to happen slowly, but the moon’s shadow is racing across the surface of Earth. Exact speeds vary by location. Eclipse calculators estimate the shadow will move between about 1,560 and 1,600 m.p.h. through Mexico, and more than 3,000 m.p.h. by the time it exits the United States. The eclipse will reach speeds exceeding 6,000 m.p.h. over the Atlantic Ocean.

When was the last total solar eclipse in the United States?

According to the American Astronomical Society , total solar eclipses happen once every year or so, but they can only be viewed along a narrow path on Earth’s surface. Many occur over water or other places that can be difficult to reach. A given location will experience totality once in about 400 years.

But some places get lucky: Carbondale, a college town in southern Illinois, saw the total solar eclipse in the United States on Aug. 21, 2017, and will experience another one this April. San Antonio experienced an annular eclipse last October, and is also in the path of totality for this year’s eclipse.

Do other planets experience solar eclipses?

Yes, any planet in our solar system with a moon can experience a solar eclipse. In February, a Martian rover captured Phobos , one of the red planet’s moons, transiting the sun.

The moons on other planets, though, appear either smaller or larger than the sun in the sky . Only Earth has a moon just the right size and at just the right distance to produce the unique effects of totality.

How will things on Earth change during the eclipse?

As the eclipse approaches its maximum phase, the air will get cooler, the sky will grow dimmer, shadows will sharpen and you might notice images of crescents — tiny projections of the eclipse — within them. Along the path of totality, the world will go dark while the moon inches toward perfect alignment with Earth and the sun.

Animals will also react to the solar eclipse. Bees stop buzzing , birds stop whistling and crickets begin chirping. Some pets may express confusion . Even plants are affected, scientists found after the solar eclipse in 2017 . They have diminished rates of photosynthesis and water loss similar to, though not as extreme as, what happens at night.

What if I can’t get to the path of totality?

Viewers in locations away from the eclipse path will see the moon partially blot out the sun, though how perceptible the effects are depends on the site’s distance from the centerline. (The closer you are, the more remarkable it will be.) Still, it won’t be quite like experiencing the eclipse during totality.

Remember that you should always wear protective eye equipment while watching a partial eclipse.

If you can’t make it to the path of totality but still want to experience it, many organizations are providing live video streams of the eclipse, including NASA and Time and Date . The Exploratorium, a museum in San Francisco, will also offer a sonification of the eclipse and a broadcast in Spanish.

What have we learned from solar eclipses?

In the 1800s, a French astronomer discovered the element helium by studying the spectrum of sunlight emitted during an eclipse. These events also allowed the first scientific observations of coronal mass ejections — violent expulsions of plasma from the sun’s corona — which can cause power outages and communication disruptions on Earth. Scientists also confirmed Einstein’s theory of general relativity, which says that massive objects bend the fabric of space-time, during a solar eclipse in 1919.

And there is more to discover. This April, NASA plans to fly instruments on planes to capture images of the solar corona, and launch rockets to study how the drop in sunlight during an eclipse affects Earth’s atmosphere. A radio telescope in California will try to use the moon as a shield to measure emissions from individual sunspots .

The public is joining the fun, too. During the eclipse, a team of ham radio operators will beam signals across the country to study how solar disturbances can affect communications. Some people along the path of totality will record sounds from wildlife . Others will use their phones to snap pictures of the eclipse to help sketch out the shape of the solar disk .

An earlier version of this article referred imprecisely to eclipse on other worlds. Some appear larger than the sun in sky, they are not all partial eclipses.

How we handle corrections

Katrina Miller is a science reporting fellow for The Times. She recently earned her Ph.D. in particle physics from the University of Chicago. More about Katrina Miller

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13 Charming Towns in the U.S.A. That You Should Put on Your Bucket List

Posted: March 23, 2024 | Last updated: March 23, 2024

<p>The U.S.A. has unique places to see and add to your bucket list. Many places get overlooked as you fill out your travel plans. If you are looking for new places to check out, these 13 charming towns should be on your bucket list. Let’s take a look at these lovely towns. </p>

The U.S.A. has unique places to see and add to your bucket list. Many places get overlooked as you fill out your travel plans. If you are looking for new places to check out, these 13 charming towns should be on your bucket list. Let’s take a look at these lovely towns. 

<p>Are you looking for the perfect place to retire? You’re not alone. Millions of Americans are planning their retirement, and many are looking for a city that offers an excellent quality of life, a low cost of living, and plenty of activities to keep them busy.</p><p><a href="https://thefrugalexpat.com/best-us-cities-to-retire-in-2023/">The 10 Best US Cities to Retire In 2024 Will Make You Feel Like You’ve Stepped into a Retirement Dream</a></p>

1. Charleston

Southern charm meets beautiful architecture, rich history, and delicious food. Charleston is one of the most charming little cities in the U.S.A. It has a vibrant food scene with seafood, Southern cuisine, and BBQ. If you are looking for a place with water, grand architecture, and fantastic food, then Charleston should be a good place to visit. 

<p>Savannah, Georgia, is a smaller, charming town than Charleston. It is another lovely town filled with a rich history and beautiful architecture, boasting Georgian and some Gothic features. It also offers an excellent destination for foodies, with Southern cuisine and other international flavors. </p>

2. Savannah

Savannah, Georgia, is a smaller, charming town than Charleston. It is another lovely town filled with a rich history and beautiful architecture, boasting Georgian and some Gothic features. It also offers an excellent destination for foodies, with Southern cuisine and other international flavors. 

<p>The oldest city in the U.S.A. is charming St. Augustine in northern Florida. It has a Spanish Colonial feel with amazing beaches, great restaurants, and a charming shopping center. Take a look at Flager College, which boasts a beautiful campus in the heart of St. Augustine. If you are done with the town, visit the beach and enjoy the Atlantic coast. </p>

3. St. Augustine

The oldest city in the U.S.A. is charming St. Augustine in northern Florida. It has a Spanish Colonial feel with amazing beaches, great restaurants, and a charming shopping center. Take a look at Flager College, which boasts a beautiful campus in the heart of St. Augustine. If you are done with the town, visit the beach and enjoy the Atlantic coast. 

<p>The picturesque town of Portsmouth is full of elegant houses, charming little shops, and beautiful parks. This charming little town is a place to come relax, enjoy time off, and enjoy the views of the town. The Piscaqua River presents picturesque views and is a must-see on your Portsmouth trip. </p>

4. Portsmouth, New Hampshire

The picturesque town of Portsmouth is full of elegant houses, charming little shops, and beautiful parks. This charming little town is a place to come relax, enjoy time off, and enjoy the views of the town. The Piscaqua River presents picturesque views and is a must-see on your Portsmouth trip. 

<p>Cape May is a place many visitors put on their bucket list. The Victorian homes and pastel-colored houses offer many residents and guests a beautiful stroll during the early hours of the morning. One of the best parts of Cape May is the opportunity to do a great bit of bird watching. It is known as one of the best places for bird watching, and from March to December, there is a season of great whale watching. </p>

5. Cape May, New Jersey

Cape May is a place many visitors put on their bucket list. The Victorian homes and pastel-colored houses offer many residents and guests a beautiful stroll during the early hours of the morning. One of the best parts of Cape May is the opportunity to do a great bit of bird watching. It is known as one of the best places for bird watching, and from March to December, there is a season of great whale watching. 

<p>If you are looking for the outdoors and an island feel while visiting a charming town, then look no further than Bar Harbor, Maine. This picturesque little town sits near the Acadia National Park, which boasts many outdoor activities you can partake in. The town also sits on Mount Desert Island, which makes it one of the most pristine and picturesque towns to add to your bucket list. Here, you can do boating, fishing, hiking, and even horseback riding. If you are tired of outdoor things, take a trip to go whale watching. Then, take an afternoon to sit and enjoy some of the great restaurants in the area. There are many things to enjoy while visiting Bar Harbor. </p>

6. Bar Harbor, Maine

If you are looking for the outdoors and an island feel while visiting a charming town, then look no further than Bar Harbor, Maine. This picturesque little town sits near the Acadia National Park, which boasts many outdoor activities you can partake in. The town also sits on Mount Desert Island, which makes it one of the most pristine and picturesque towns to add to your bucket list. Here, you can do boating, fishing, hiking, and even horseback riding. If you are tired of outdoor things, take a trip to go whale watching. Then, take an afternoon to sit and enjoy some of the great restaurants in the area. There are many things to enjoy while visiting Bar Harbor. 

<p>Take some time to venture back in time to the Old West. That is that feeling when you go to Deadwood, South Dakota. The streets are lined with shops, casinos, and salons ready for people to come and take a peak. If you have not heard of Deadwood, that is ok. The town was mentioned in the HBO series with the same name. If you get a bit bored with the rest of the city, you can venture off to the Black Hills, which are nearby, and continue to explore. It is not every day you come upon a town you just see in those old western movies still hopping today. </p>

7. Deadwood, South Dakota

Take some time to venture back in time to the Old West. That is that feeling when you go to Deadwood, South Dakota. The streets are lined with shops, casinos, and salons ready for people to come and take a peak. If you have not heard of Deadwood, that is ok. The town was mentioned in the HBO series with the same name. If you get a bit bored with the rest of the city, you can venture off to the Black Hills, which are nearby, and continue to explore. It is not every day you come upon a town you just see in those old western movies still hopping today. 

<p>The town of Avalon, California has colorful buildings and a beautiful coast showing off pristine waters. Located on Catalina Island, this town looks like it comes straight off the coast of Italy with hills and beautiful buildings. There are numerous activities, such as sailing, bicycling, and trotting down Front Street, looking for items to purchase. It is a place that many should visit to give you a great vacation and rest from the busy go-go life. </p>

8. Avalon, California

The town of Avalon, California has colorful buildings and a beautiful coast showing off pristine waters. Located on Catalina Island, this town looks like it comes straight off the coast of Italy with hills and beautiful buildings. There are numerous activities, such as sailing, bicycling, and trotting down Front Street, looking for items to purchase. It is a place that many should visit to give you a great vacation and rest from the busy go-go life. 

<p>Orange Beach, Alabama, could be one of those charming towns you may be looking for. Sitting on the Gulf in Alabama, this lovely town offers relaxing walks on the boardwalk, beautiful views of the Gulf, and many activities to keep you busy on the water. If you are also looking for food, this charming town is stacked with many options offering seafood and Southern Cuisine. </p>

9. Orange Beach, Alabama

Orange Beach, Alabama, could be one of those charming towns you may be looking for. Sitting on the Gulf in Alabama, this lovely town offers relaxing walks on the boardwalk, beautiful views of the Gulf, and many activities to keep you busy on the water. If you are also looking for food, this charming town is stacked with many options offering seafood and Southern Cuisine. 

<p>Located in the heart of Georgia, Madison is a picturesque town with great Antebellum architecture and excellent little restaurants where you can enjoy some of the fantastic food of this charming town. The Morgan County Courthouse is a building of note that is a must-see when visiting Madison. </p>

10. Madison, Georgia

Located in the heart of Georgia, Madison is a picturesque town with great Antebellum architecture and excellent little restaurants where you can enjoy some of the fantastic food of this charming town. The Morgan County Courthouse is a building of note that is a must-see when visiting Madison. 

<p>Visiting Europe is something on many people’s bucket list, but some small charming towns in the U.S. offer the same feel. Nestled in the Cascade Mountains of Washington is a city that resembles a small Bavarian Village. That is Leavenworth, Washington. With a nutcracker museum and German halls serving brats and beer, you may have found your European vacation spot in the mountains of Washington. Every October, they hold their annual Oktoberfest celebration. It is a great place to visit. </p>

11. Leavenworth, Washington

Visiting Europe is something on many people’s bucket list, but some small charming towns in the U.S. offer the same feel. Nestled in the Cascade Mountains of Washington is a city that resembles a small Bavarian Village. That is Leavenworth, Washington. With a nutcracker museum and German halls serving brats and beer, you may have found your European vacation spot in the mountains of Washington. Every October, they hold their annual Oktoberfest celebration. It is a great place to visit. 

<p>If you’re feeling a bit adventurous and want to see canyons and have outdoor activities galore, the charming town of Sedona could be the place to escape to. It sits surrounded by red-rock monoliths, and people often go to explore the regions surrounding the town. At night, the skies are full of stars, allowing guests to not only enjoy the day’s adventures but also be amazed at the sights of the stars. </p>

12. Sedona, Arizona

If you’re feeling a bit adventurous and want to see canyons and have outdoor activities galore, the charming town of Sedona could be the place to escape to. It sits surrounded by red-rock monoliths, and people often go to explore the regions surrounding the town. At night, the skies are full of stars, allowing guests to not only enjoy the day’s adventures but also be amazed at the sights of the stars. 

<p>One of the prettiest towns in all of the U.S.A. is Carmel-by-the-Sea. It houses boutiques, European-styled cottages, and a great wine scene. It is hard to pass this up as you start to explore the Monterey area of California. Jot down this name, and put it on your bucket list. </p>

13. Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

One of the prettiest towns in all of the U.S.A. is Carmel-by-the-Sea. It houses boutiques, European-styled cottages, and a great wine scene. It is hard to pass this up as you start to explore the Monterey area of California. Jot down this name, and put it on your bucket list. 

<p>The U.S. is full of many different charming towns. There are older towns on the coast, like Charleston, Savannah, and St. Augustine, that combine history and beautiful architecture. Then you have towns like Leavenworth that have great European influences. There are so many great, charming towns to put on your bucket list. You just need to start traveling to see them all. </p>

Charming Towns in the USA to See

The U.S. is full of many different charming towns. There are older towns on the coast, like Charleston, Savannah, and St. Augustine, that combine history and beautiful architecture. Then you have towns like Leavenworth that have great European influences. There are so many great, charming towns to put on your bucket list. You just need to start traveling to see them all. 

<p>Next, we have South Carolina, another southern state known for its warm weather and laid-back lifestyle. The state offers a lower living cost than other popular destinations like California and New York.</p><p>South Carolina also has a growing job market in manufacturing, tourism, and healthcare fields. The state’s greenery and natural beauty make it an attractive place to live.</p>

Top 10 Best Places in the US to Live Comfortably on Less Than $3,000 a Month

Are you sick of seeing your income vanish as soon as it is deposited? Do you wish you could put your hard-earned money to better use? In this article, we’ve curated a list of the top 10 best places in the US to live comfortably on a budget of less than $3,000 a month. We’ll explore cities that offer affordable housing, a low cost of living, and excellent quality of life factors. So, tighten your belts, and let’s embark on a journey to find your perfect affordable oasis!

<p>As you enter the golden era of retirement, searching for the perfect place to relax, rejuvenate, and reinvent oneself becomes paramount. The United States, a land with diverse cultures, climates, and landscapes, offers treasures that beckon retirees with promises of serene living, engaging community activities, and picturesque settings. From the coastal charms of California to the historic allure of New England and the warm embraces of the Southern states, these 16 enchanting locales stand out as the best places to retire in the U.S.</p><p><a href="https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/other/16-best-places-to-retire-in-the-us/ss-BB1k5LAA?disableErrorRedirect=true&infiniteContentCount=0">16 Best Places To Retire in The U.S.</a></p>

16 Best Places To Retire in The U.S.

As you enter the golden era of retirement, searching for the perfect place to relax, rejuvenate, and reinvent oneself becomes paramount. The United States, a land with diverse cultures, climates, and landscapes, offers treasures that beckon retirees with promises of serene living, engaging community activities, and picturesque settings. From the coastal charms of California to the historic allure of New England and the warm embraces of the Southern states, these 16 enchanting locales stand out as the best places to retire in the U.S.

<p>Welcome to the ultimate American travel guide! The United States is a mosaic of cultures, landscapes, and histories, making it a top destination for travelers worldwide. From iconic landmarks to natural wonders, this list showcases the 11 most visited places in the U.S. Each one is not just a destination but an experience, a story waiting to be told. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or planning your first adventure, these places are must-visits on your bucket list.</p><p><a href="https://thefrugalexpat.com/most-visited-places-in-the-u-s/">The 11 Most Visited Places in the U.S. That Are a Must on a Bucket list</a></p>

The 11 Most Visited Places in the U.S. That Are a Must on a Bucket List

Welcome to the ultimate American travel guide! The United States is a mosaic of cultures, landscapes, and histories, making it a top destination for travelers worldwide. From iconic landmarks to natural wonders, this list showcases the 11 most visited places in the U.S. Each one is not just a destination but an experience, a story waiting to be told. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or planning your first adventure, these places are must-visits on your bucket list.

The 11 Most Visited Places in the U.S. That Are a Must on a Bucket list

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