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26 top things to do in california.

There's something for everyone in the Golden State.

Top Things to Do in California

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

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

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

17-Mile Drive

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

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

Carmel-by-the-Sea

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

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

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

Visit the theme parks

Courtesy of Universal Studios

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

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

Read: The Top California Theme Parks

Yosemite National Park

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

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

Explore the desert

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

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

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

Laguna Beach

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

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

See more of Laguna Beach: Things to Do | Photos

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

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

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

Read: The Top Los Angeles Beaches

San Francisco

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

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

See more of San Francisco: Tours | Photos

Alcatraz Island

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

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

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

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

See more of San Diego: Tours | Photos

Death Valley National Park

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

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

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

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

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Los Angeles

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

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

See more of Los Angeles: Tours | Photos

Indulge in wine country

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

Behold the giant sequoias and redwoods

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

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

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

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

See more of Lake Tahoe: Things to Do | Photos

Experience wildflower season

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

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

Santa Barbara

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

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

See more of Santa Barbara: Things to Do | Photos

Learn to surf at Huntington Beach

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

See more of Huntington Beach: Things to Do | Photos

Explore one or more of the national forests

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

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

Trek along the Lost Coast

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

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

Point Reyes National Seashore

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

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

Griffith Observatory

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

Hollywood Sign

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

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

Palm Springs

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

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

Monterey Bay Aquarium

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

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

You might also be interested in:

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

The 13 Best National Parks in California

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

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10 best places to visit in California

Sep 11, 2023 • 8 min read

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

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

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

Here are the best places to visit in California.

1. San Francisco

Best city for variety, iconic sights and LGBTIQ+ travel

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

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

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

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

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

2. Redwood National Park and Humboldt Redwoods State Park

Best region for magnificent trees and family travel

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

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

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

3. Sonoma Wine Country

Best region for wine and food

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

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

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

4. Highway 1

Best region for road tripping, ocean views and couples

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

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

5. Yosemite National Park

Best region for waterfalls, outdoors and family trips

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

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

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

6. Los Angeles

Best city for celebrity sightings and movie buffs

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

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

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

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

7. Monterey Bay

Best region for wildlife and family fun

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

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

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

8. Death Valley National Park

Best region for desert drama and spring trips

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

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

9. Lake Tahoe

Best region for mountains, adventure and skiing

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

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

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

10. Big Sur

Best region for coastline

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

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

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

This article was first published August 2019 and updated September 2023

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Attractions

26 incredible must-visit california tourist attractions.

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

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

1.  disneyland.

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

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

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

2.  Yosemite National Park

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

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

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

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

3.  Universal Studios Hollywood

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

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

Get your Universal Studios General Admission ticket here .

4.  The Hollywood Sign

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

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

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

5.  Big Sur

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

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

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

6.  Golden Gate Bridge

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

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

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

Book a tour of the bay around the bridge here .

7.  San Diego Zoo

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

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

Get your day pass tickets here .

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

8.  Lake Tahoe

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

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

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

9. Aquarium of the Pacific

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

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

10. Joshua Tree National Park

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

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

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

Explore the national park with this driving tour .

11. Hearst Castle

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

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

12. Griffith Observatory

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

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

13. Sequoia National Park

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

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

14. Venice Beach

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

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

15. Napa Valley

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

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

Enjoy this Napa Valley wine-tasting tour .

16. Six Flags Magic Mountain

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

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

17. Walt Disney Concert Hall

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

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

18. Dodger Stadium

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

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

19. Hollywood Walk of Fame

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

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

20. Dolby Theater

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

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

21. Santa Catalina Island

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

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

22. Death Valley National Park

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

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

23. Alcatraz Island

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

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

» Book your tour of Alcatraz here.

24. Winchester Mystery House

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

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

25. Cypress Tree Tunnel

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

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

26. Kings Canyon National Park

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

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

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

Final Thoughts on these California Tourist Attractions

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

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

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

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

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The 12 Best California Attractions

 Jen Pollack Bianco / EyeEm/Getty Images

Yosemite National Park

TripSavvy / Jess Macdonald 

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

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

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

Napa Valley Wineries

Betsy Malloy Photography

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

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

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

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

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

Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco

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

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

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

Big Sur Coastline

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre 

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

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

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

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

General Sherman Tree, Sequoia National Park

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

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

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

Hearst Castle

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

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

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

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

The Hollywood Sign

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Badwater Basin, Death Valley National Park

TripSavvy / Amanda Capritto

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

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

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

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

Iconic California Beaches

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

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

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

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

California Farm to Table Agriculture

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

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

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

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

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

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

Spring: California Poppies in Antelope Valley

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

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

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

Summer: Lassen Volcanic Park

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

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

Autumn: Fall Color East of the Sierras

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

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

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

Winter: Elephant Seal Rookery

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

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

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

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Your Trip to San Francisco: The Complete Guide

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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.

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

Yosemite National Park

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

Channel Islands

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

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

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

San Francisco

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

Death Valley

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

Big Bear Lake

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

Santa Catalina Island

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

Drive the Pacific Coast Highway

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

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

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

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

Disneyland & California Adventure

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

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

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

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

Hollywood Walk of Fame – Los Angeles

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

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

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

Recommended Experience: Hollywood Behind the Scenes Walking Tour

Universal Studios Hollywood – Los Angeles

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

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

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

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

Urban Light & LACMA – Los Angeles

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

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

Santa Monica

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

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

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

Hollywood Sign & Griffith Observatory – Los Angeles

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

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

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

Venice Canals – Los Angeles

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

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

Sprinkles Cupcake ATM – Los Angeles

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

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

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

Golden Gate Bridge – San Francisco

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

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

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

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

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

Alcatraz Island – San Francisco

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

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

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

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

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

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

Golden Gate Park – San Francisco

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

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

Chinatown – San Francisco

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

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

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

Boudin Bakery – San Francisco

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

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

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

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

Ride a Cable Car – San Francisco

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

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

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

Lands End & Sutro Baths – San Francisco

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

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

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

Angel Island – San Francisco

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

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

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

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

Napa Valley Wineries (And Beyond)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Explore the Beaches & Beach Towns

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Eat a lot of Mexican Food

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

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

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

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

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

Go Surfing (Or Learn How to Surf)

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

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

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

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

Whale Watching

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

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

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

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

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

Soak in Natural Hot Springs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Visit the National Parks

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

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

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

Yosemite National Park

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

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

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

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

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

Joshua Tree National Park

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

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

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

Sequoia National Park & Kings Canyon National Park

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

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

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

Lassen Volcanic National Park

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

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

Death Valley National Park

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

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

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

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

Channel Islands National Park

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

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

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

Pinnacles National Park

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

Read our guide to visiting Pinnacles National Park .

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

Balboa Park – San Diego

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

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

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

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

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

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

San Diego Zoo & Safari Park – San Diego

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

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

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

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

USS Midway Museum – San Diego

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

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

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

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

La Jolla – San Diego

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

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

Coronado Island – San Diego

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Go Skiing or Snowboarding

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

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

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

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

Walk Amongst the California Redwoods

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

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

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

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

Monterey Bay Aquarium – Monterey

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

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

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

Experience the State Capital – Sacramento

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

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

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

Point Reyes National Seashore & Tomales Bay

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Catalina Island

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

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

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

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

Palm Springs

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

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

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

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

Flower Fields

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Winchester Mystery House – San Jose

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

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

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

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

Santa Barbara

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

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

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

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

17-Mile Drive – Monterey

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

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

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

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

California Amusement Parks

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

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

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

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

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

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

Explore Hidden Caves

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

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

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

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

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

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

Visit the Monarch Butterflies

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

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

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

Highway 395

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

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

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

Hearst Castle

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Embrace the Diversity

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

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

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

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

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

Salvation Mountain & Slab City

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

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

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

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

Queen Mary – Long Beach

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

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

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

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

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

Explore the Best Literary Spots

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

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

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

See the Barking Elephant Seals

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

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

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

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

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

Road Trip the Rugged Northern California Coast

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Other Things to do in California

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

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

Best Time to Visit California

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Mimi McFadden Founder & Editor-In-Chief

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

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

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• 20 Must Visit Attractions In...

Must-Visit Attractions in California

California is a diverse and exciting state, and there’s always something to see and do. Whether you’re interested in museums, the outdoors, family fun or just some adventure, the Golden State is for you. While on your trip, make sure to stop at these top attractions.

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips , compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips .

Death Valley

Nestled in between Eastern California and Nevada is Death Valley. You can explore the magnificent Titus Canyon, colorful desert rocks and sand dunes or wander around the nearby eerie ghost town of Rhyolite . Once you reach the salt flats in Badwater Basin, you’ll be standing on North America’s lowest point. Due to the extreme temperatures, it’s best to visit in the cooler seasons – Death Valley recently reached a scorching 130F (54C).

Hearst Castle

Hearst Castle in San Simeon is a National Historic Landmark and a fascinating must-see. The land started out as a ranch, owned by George Hearst in 1865. His son, William Randolph Hearst, inherited the property and built the estate to showcase his immaculate art collection. The castle and grounds comprise 165 rooms, and 127 acres (51ha) of gardens, terraces, pools and walkways. It’s technically still unfinished, despite its size, as William Hearst was forced to leave the castle due to ill health.

The Hollywood Sign

Don’t miss this world-famous landmark. Although you can’t hike directly to the Hollywood Sign when you’re in Los Angeles, there is a legal trail that allows you to look out over the sign, which dates back to the 1920s when it was used as an advertisement for a real-estate venture. The sign originally read Hollywoodland, but when the Great Depression hit, maintenance on the sign stopped, and eventually, the ‘land’ part was taken down. These days, it’s one of the most popular selfie spots in the world.

Balboa Park

Balboa Park is where culture, science and nature come together in a 1,200-acre (486-ha) space. There are gardens, walking paths, museums and several theaters to explore and discover. It’s even home to the San Diego Zoo. Whether you’re a nature lover, animal fan or simply looking to have some fun, the vast number of entertainment options at Balboa Park will see you right. When you head to the zoo, don’t miss the elephants and the polar bears – they’re a must-see.

Monterey Bay Aquarium

Monterey is a gorgeous town on the coast of California, and its dramatic coastline is some of the most spectacular in the world. All of that ocean means that their aquarium is a sight for sore eyes. Here, you can see otters, countless species of fish, octopus, jellyfish and much more. Learn about the many wonders of the ocean through various exhibits, which will appeal to people of all ages. The aquarium even has a restaurant and, of course, a gift shop with all the fluffy, stuffed sea creatures your heart desires.

La Brea Tar Pits

Here, the Ice Age comes to life. La Brea Tar Pits , located in LA next to the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), were formed over thousands of years as the natural asphalt seeped up to the surface. There is also a museum that takes visitors through the whole story of what exactly is happening to the earth in this spot. If you time your visit right, you can even watch active digs. As you stroll by, you can imagine the huge creatures that walked the earth walking beside you.

Lassen Volcanic National Park

Located in Northern California, Lassen Volcanic National Park is home to acres of bubbling mud pots, spectacular views and lava rocks. Wander the numerous sulfur mines, mountain streams and lakes, along with over 150mi (241km) of hiking trails. Of course, you can’t miss stopping at the Devastated Area, which is laden with lava rocks from the volcano’s last eruption. You can even stay in the park in a cute wooden lodge or on a campsite – all the better to see some of the wildlife in the area. If you’re lucky, you can see otters playing in the water.

Point Reyes National Seashore

Sites throughout this Marin County coastline park include the beautiful cliffside Alamere Falls at Wildcat Beach, the Point Reyes Lighthouse and extensive walking and hiking trails. And depending on when you visit, you might catch some of the most awe-inspiring glimpses of migrating gray whales. Hike up to nearby Mount Wittenberg for the most picturesque coastal views and photo ops. The coastline here is some of the most beautiful in the world – the best time to visit is around sunset, so you can watch the red sun sink over the dramatic horizon.

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

Enjoy the mile-long beach and boardwalk rides and games at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk . Adults will feel like kids again, and kids will have the time of their life, so if you’re visiting California with your family, make sure it is on your to-do list. There are a number of events that take place at the boardwalk, including movie nights on the beach, chili cook-offs and concerts, to name a few. The boardwalk has all the traditional beach activities that everyone loves – fairground rides, mini golf, shopping and, of course, plenty of delicious food.

The Golden Gate Bridge

No trip to California would be complete without a stop at the famous Golden Gate Bridge . Constructed in 1933, the one-mile-wide Golden Gate is an international emblem. Drive across the bridge, or even walk or bike the almost 9,000ft (2,743m) to take in the landmark and surrounding beauty. Culture Trip’s tip for getting the perfect view? There’s a hidden rope swing at nearby Kirby Cove that will give you an incredible, unobstructed view of the internationally recognized bridge. You don’t get a better photo op than that.

General Sherman

General Sherman is the name given to the largest known single-stem tree on the planet. At 275ft (83.8m) tall, General Sherman stands in none other than the Giant Forest in Sequoia National Park in Tulare County. It’s a bit of a hike but nothing too strenuous; just lace up your shoes and leave your car in the designated parking lot. General Sherman’s sheer magnitude will leave anyone speechless – so huge that you can’t quite comprehend its size until you’re up close and personal.

Universal Studios Hollywood

Not only was your favorite blockbuster probably filmed at Universal Studios Hollywood , but it’s an amusement park too! You can discover worlds that you’ve only been able to observe on a screen. Rollercoasters, ride simulators and an impressive amount of dining options flood this park. Culture Trip’s pick for the best attraction here is the studio tour. Board an open-sided, tour guide-operated bus, and you’ll get a behind-the-scenes tour of the studio backlot. What you’ll see is dependent on what’s being filmed currently, but there are always a few unexpected surprises – and you’ll learn a few secrets of the trade.

Big Sur is the most remarkable stretch of the Californian coast, with countless places to hike, camp and picnic. Multiple overlooks will make you feel like you’ve just stepped into a postcard. This area is a low-populated part of the state, leaving more room for exploring and getting back to nature. There’s a lot of traditional American history in this area – if you’re a fan of Jack Kerouac, this was where the literary hero ended his great American road trip.

Channel Islands National Park

This national park comprises five individual islands off the coast of Southern California. These protected islands feature truly undisturbed nature and wildlife. You can only get to the Channel Islands by private boat or guided park boats, which can be arranged at the mainland visitor centers in Ventura and Santa Barbara. The isolation these islands have experienced for so many years means that the flora and fauna here is found nowhere else on earth.

Emerald Bay, South Lake Tahoe

You’ll find South Lake Tahoe and Emerald Bay high in the mountains. Mark Twain himself dubbed Emerald Bay “the fairest picture the whole earth affords.” Once you see this national landmark for yourself, you’ll see why. The water here is truly a tantalizing blue-green, just as the name suggests. Make your way to one of the clifftops for a picturesque scene of Fannette Island popping out of the water. The shimmering greens, turquoise and blues of the lake make it one that you don’t want to miss.

Vikingsholm

Also a South Lake Tahoe treasure, Vikingsholm is a castle-like architectural marvel. This lakeside ‘castle’ has a history that goes all the way back to the late 1800s and is considered to be one of North America’s finest examples of Scandinavian architecture. It was one of the first vacation homes on the lake – and what a vacation home it is. Tours are available from spring to late summer, but the beautiful landscape is worth seeing all year round.

Disneyland Park

Bring your inner child back at Disneyland , complete with themed areas, rides and shows, all based on the inspirations of Walt Disney. It’s certainly not just for kids, and the park also offers some pretty amazing fine dining and shopping. Whether you’re here to meet some of your favorite Disney characters, to enjoy scary, thrilling and cute rides or simply want to eat as many sweet treats as your stomach can manage, Disney’s claim to be the Happiest Place on Earth isn’t far from the truth.

Alcatraz Island

Jump into San Francisco’s crime history by taking a tour of Alcatraz Island . The Alcatraz prison opened in 1934 and housed some of the country’s most dangerous criminals of the time. The prison closed in 1963 due to its expensive maintenance. Today, tours of the prison take place daily. Get locked up in a real Alcatraz prison cell and catch some unique scenes of San Francisco. You’ll learn about the history of the island, why it was considered escape-proof and what happened to it after it was no longer a prison.

Griffith Observatory

Experience remarkable views of Los Angeles from the Griffith Observatory . Explore its exhibits and discover the stars at the planetarium before heading for a bite to eat in the on-site cafe – you can easily enjoy a full day out here. As well as the unparalleled views across the city (get here at sunset to watch the LA sky become painted pink, purple and red) the planetarium is one of the best and most romantic spots in the city. Get there early to beat the crowds.

San Francisco Museum of Modern Art

Take a moment, or a few, to appreciate the inspiring collection of modern and contemporary art at the SFMOMA . The wonderfully curated collection here is highly regarded on a global scale. With pieces by Frida Kahlo, Henri Matisse and Andy Warhol, you’ll find your new inspiration. Tours are available, or visitors can wander about on their own and try to make sense of the pieces and exhibits for themselves. The temporary exhibits mean that the museum never feels stale. Make sure to pop to the cafe when your feet get sore.

Malibu Beach

One of the most famous beaches in the world, Malibu is a world apart from nearby LA. Golden sand, dramatic mountains, million-dollar houses and incredible attractions combine to make this an amazing destination in which to spend some time. You can learn to surf, complete some hikes with spectacular scenery, get some shopping done and eat some of the best seafood you’ll ever taste at Malibu Seafood. And don’t forget to head to the pier for some old-school fun.

Joshua Tree National Park

The landscape in Joshua Tree National Park is like nowhere else in the world. Almost otherworldly, it takes its name from the Joshua trees – distinctive spiny trees that are found nowhere else on earth and make the horizon unique. The truly incredible landscape here is one thing, but it’s also a fun place to hang out. Joshua Tree has attracted hippies and artsy folk for decades, and you’re sure to have fun when you hang out in one of the old-timey bars, vegan cafés or atmospheric markets.

Sunset Boulevard

One of the most famous streets on earth, you can’t truly say you’ve lived until you’ve driven down Sunset Boulevard – preferably with your sunroof open or top down. Sure, it’s touristy, but some places just have a certain magic about them. There’s every kind of entertainment you could wish for here – cinemas, theaters, comedy clubs, nightclubs, fancy hotel bars and dive bars – so as long as you can find some parking (good luck!) you’re all set.

Venice Beach, LA

Venice Beach and boardwalk is one of the hotspots of LA. Famous for its countercultural, slightly wacky sensibilities, you’ll find everything from tarot readers and tie-dye t-shirts, to weightlifters and skateboarders. In recent years, the area has become more chi-chi. There are plenty of cute boutiques, adorable vintage shops, renowned restaurants and markets galore; but the area has never lost its misfit charm. You’ll fall in love – guaranteed.

Piedras Blancas Beach

Found in San Simeon, the Piedras Blancas rookery is the only elephant seal rookery in the world that is accessible and free to access. Home to a huge number of elephant seals, you won’t believe your eyes when you look out across the sand. The best time to visit is in November, when the male seals arrive for mating season. You can watch them fight for their preferred female, which looks almost like a dance or a martial art. Make sure to bring your camera for this one – you’ll want to remember it.

Additional reporting by Alice Johnston

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20 Best Places to Visit in California

By Becky Griswold · Last updated on April 12, 2024

California is known as the mecca of celebrity culture in the USA and in some ways, it is; this is where you’ll find Hollywood, after all! But there’s a lot more to this large American state than famous faces, film studios and the amusement parks that go with them. It’s also home to Silicon Valley, the global headquarters of many big tech companies. And don’t forget the iconic Golden Gate Bridge.

There’s also some fantastic natural beauty on offer in California. There are giant redwoods to see, deserts and rock formations, and fantastic beaches along the coast. It’s home to sweeping landscapes, vineyards, and a collection of cities that are as famous as the state itself: think San Francisco, Los Angeles, and San Diego. Packed full of culture and good food, the best places to visit in California are fascinating to explore.

Map of California

20. Santa Cruz

Located on the northern shore of Monterey Bay, Santa Cruz lies just to the south of San Jose and San Francisco. Known for its beautiful beach boardwalk and counterculture scene, the city is a very pleasant place to spend some time, with lots of incredible scenery nearby.

Life in ‘Surf City’ revolves around its beaches and boardwalk, which attract everyone from families and students to hippies, surfers, and street performers. As such, there is a very youthful and bohemian feel about town, with watersports such as paddle boarding, sailing, and surfing to be enjoyed.

Besides its wonderful waterfront, Santa Cruz also has a fun and lively downtown home to a plethora of great restaurants, shops, and bars. In addition, the nearby Natural Bridges State Beach and Big Basin Redwoods State Park are both well worth visiting for their lovely nature trails and spectacular scenery.

19. Sonoma Valley

Part of the San Francisco Bay Area, Sonoma Valley lies just to the north of the city, not far from San Pablo Bay. Home to lovely rural landscapes, the fertile valley is renowned for its vineyards and wineries. It was actually here that California’s world-famous wine industry began.

Much more relaxed and laidback than the glitzy and glamorous Napa Valley, Sonoma Valley is a pleasant and picturesque place to visit. In the town of Sonoma, you can find a number of excellent restaurants serving up local delicacies, as well as tasting rooms where you can sample some of the region’s fine wines.

Scattered around the Valley of the Moon (as it is also known) are sprawling estates and quaint wineries. Hiking and cycling are popular pastimes while taking a balloon ride above Sonoma Valley allows you to bask in the splendid scenery below.

18. Santa Monica

Bordered on three sides by Los Angeles, Santa Monica is a laidback beachfront city that offers a welcome respite from sightseeing around the home of Hollywood. Developed as a seaside resort town in the early 20th century, SaMo has long been a popular tourist destination due to its sun, sea and sand.

Jutting out into the Pacific is the bustling Santa Monica Pier, which sports a huge Ferris Wheel and old-fashioned amusement park. While this is great fun for the whole family, plenty of other activities can be enjoyed along its expansive beachfront, such as swimming, volleyball, and surfing.

Besides its golden sands, Santa Monica has a thriving alternative scene for visitors to delve into, with little art galleries and street murals to be found at the Bergamot Station Arts Center. A wealth of great bars, restaurants, shops, and hotels are also scattered about town catering to every budget and clientele.

17. Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a year-round desert playground on Interstate 10, connecting the Los Angeles area with Arizona. Home to many celebrities over the decades, Palm Springs is a good place to golf in the wintertime when temperatures are cooler than in summer.

The city, once popular with college students on spring break, is known for its mid-20th century modern architecture featured in many homes and business buildings. This architectural style is celebrated annually with Modernism Week. Sonny Bono, half of the defunct Sonny and Cher singing duo, once served as major of this southern California city.

While the desert oasis city once attracted Hollywood movie stars in the 50s and 60s, Palm Springs now appeals to all kinds of tourists and travellers and is home to a sizeable retiree population. There’s hiking in the nearby desert and San Jacinto Mountains as well as a plethora of museums to explore.

16. Joshua Tree National Park

Lying to the east of Los Angeles at the point where the Colorado and Mojave Deserts meet, Joshua Tree National Park is home to incredible wilderness and spectacular scenery. Named after the distinctive tree-like Yuccas that dot its diverse desert landscapes, the park has long been popular with nature lovers and outdoor aficionados.

Exploring the national park’s mountains, canyons, and rock formations really is a treat, with plenty of scenic trails and climbing routes snaking through the rugged scenery. As two separate desert ecosystems lie within the park, there is lots of diverse fauna and flora on show. Coyotes, rattlesnakes, and golden eagles can all be spotted from time to time.

While hiking, rock climbing and camping are all popular, the park’s dramatic geography and odd-shaped Joshua Trees make for some incredible photos. Such is the majesty and mystique of the Mojave Desert that U2 famously named one of their best-selling albums, The Joshua Tree, after it.

15. Laguna Beach

Set in a very scenic spot along southern California’s Pacific coastline, Laguna Beach is a beautiful place to visit with a very Mediterranean look and feel. While it is home to lots of beautiful beaches and luxury resorts, the popular seaside resort city is particularly known for its thriving artistic community.

Gorgeous public sculptures and art galleries can be found around town, with quaint cottages and artistic-looking homes and houses dotted here and there. Every summer, it hosts many fantastic events, such as the Festival of Arts, Sawdust Festival, and Pageant of the Masters, where artists showcase their latest creations.

Laguna Beach itself is just as impressive as its many artworks. Secluded coves and golden sands line the rugged cliffs that tumble down to the Pacific. While its many trails and paths are perfect for hiking or cycling, its wild waters attract surfers, and there is some exceptional scuba diving to be had beneath the waves.

14. Anaheim-Disneyland

Part of the Los Angeles metropolitan area, Anaheim is known for one thing and one thing only: Disneyland. However, this does it a major injustice. Over the years, it has slowly grown into the largest city in Orange County and so has much more going for it.

Home to a diverse range of attractions, Anaheim has pockets of great bars, restaurants, and shops, with many of these to be found clustered around downtown. It’s also a great place to visit if you want to watch baseball or hockey; both the Anaheim Ducks and Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim are based here. In addition, it boasts a large convention center and hosts many events and competitions throughout the year.

Its main draw is admittedly Disneyland, which attracts millions of visitors every year with its exhilarating rides and plethora of entertainment opportunities. Fun for all of the family, the major tourist destination is home to shops, restaurants, and hotels, with another theme park and spa located within the resort.

13. Carmel-by-the-Sea

Located just to the south of Monterey Bay, Carmel-by-the-Sea lies along California’s Pacific Coast Highway in a very scenic spot. Surrounded by dramatic cliffs and verdant hills, the oceanside town has long been popular among artists, writers, and poets due to its spectacular natural setting.

The former artists’ colony has a very quaint look and feel; this is in large part due to its charming cottages and atmospheric old houses. Its rich artistic heritage is still on show in the numerous art galleries and studios dotted about town. Fine restaurants, cosy cafes, and boutique shops abound, and there are lots of lovely inns and B&Bs for visitors to stay at.

At the heart of the small town is the beautiful white-sand Carmel Beach which over the years has been replicated and reproduced in countless paintings and artworks. While it is often shrouded in mist, its sumptuous setting and fierce sunsets make it very popular among locals and out-of-towners alike.

12. Channel Islands

Strung out along southern California’s scenic coastline, the Channel Islands are a small archipelago of eight islands surrounded by the sparkling Pacific Ocean. Five of the Channel Islands lie within a national park of the same name that protects and preserves its sensitive ecosystems. With rugged canyons, jagged cliffs, and pristine beaches, they are a fantastic place to explore.

While two of the islands are inaccessible to citizens (as they are used by the US Navy), fishing, scuba diving, and sailing are permitted in their surrounding waters. The only inhabited island is Santa Catalina, home to the small town and village of Avalon and Two Harbors.

The island has been a tourist resort since the 1920s, with chewing gum magnate William Wrigley kicking off the tourism movement. Catalina Island is, however, also a popular day trip destination since it’s just 22 miles off the coast of Los Angeles.

It’s a good place to ride glass-bottom boat to explore reefs and old shipwrecks; snorkeling and scuba diving also are popular activities. Native Americans have lived on the island for 8,000 years; you can learn more about them and the island’s history at the Catalina Island Museum. Surprisingly, the island even boasts a small population of American bison that were brought to the island during the filming of a movie.

11. Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks

These two national parks are located next door to each other in the southern Sierra Nevada Mountains, and both are famous for their enormous giant sequoia trees. These trees can grow to be more than 300 feet (90 meters) tall and their trunks can be as much as 100 feet (30 meter) wide.

Sequoia National Park, which was established in 1890, is also home to Mount Whitney, which is the highest point in the contiguous United States. Interestingly enough, Kings Canyon boasts the deepest canyon in America.

The parks are also home to a lot of wildlife species, including bobcats, gray foxes, bears and mule deer. If they’re lucky, visitors might even be able to spot bighorn sheep or mountain lions. Both parks are popular with backpackers and hikers, and there are 14 campgrounds available for visitors.

10. Redwood National Park

Home to some of the tallest and oldest trees on Earth, Redwood National Park lies on California’s Pacific Coast in the northwest of the state. Established in 1968, the park protects the towering trees and the diverse ecosystems found in the old-growth forests.

While the mountains, rivers, and gorges dotting the region make for a fine sight, it is the enormous redwoods that are the star attraction. These magnificent trees often tower over a hundred meters, and some are more than two thousand years old. Hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding beneath them is an awe-inspiring experience as natural history lies all around you.

Redwood National Park’s rugged coast boasts some particularly dramatic scenery. Here, you can go kayaking and whale watching, with the redwoods forming a beautiful backdrop to the secluded coves and beaches along the park’s shores.

9. Santa Barbara

Set in a scenic spot between the steep slopes of the Santa Ynez Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, Santa Barbara is one of California’s most pleasant and picturesque coastal cities. As it boasts a majestic mountain backdrop, beautiful beaches, and a sunny climate, it is often billed as the ‘American Riviera’.

Besides its breathtaking setting, the city itself looks a treat. Lush parks and charming Spanish-style buildings dot the palm tree-lined streets. Of its many attractions, the Old Mission is the most famous and impressive due to its lovely architecture, flower-filled garden, and centuries-old artworks. As it is also home to exquisite restaurants, boutique shops, and art galleries, Santa Barbara is often seen as an upmarket destination.

Lying just 160 kilometers to the northwest of LA, it makes for a fantastic day trip or weekend getaway, with many festivals and cultural events held here throughout the year. Whether it’s hiking along the scenic coastline, surfing at the beaches, or visiting the nearby vineyards and wineries, Santa Barbara certainly has something that appeals to everyone.

8. Napa Valley

Located in California’s Bay Area, Napa Valley has long been a popular tourist destination and is famed for its beautiful landscapes and world-class wineries. Driving around its rolling hills and fertile vineyards is the best way to explore the region’s sights and scenery, although the roads can get quite busy in the summer months.

While most people come to sample the valley’s delicious wines, many gourmet restaurants, classy bistros, and award-winning spas are also dotted about. As such, it is a wonderful place to relax and unwind, with plenty of boutique hotels and luxury resorts to indulge yourself at. Napa also offers excellent hiking, golfing, and horseback riding, while hot air balloon rides above its idyllic countryside make for an unforgettable experience.

The most popular thing to do is embark on a wine tasting tour. The region has more than 200 wineries for you to choose from. Set among row upon row of grapevines, the gorgeous estates are lovely to visit. Sampling some of the excellent local wines in the sunshine is what Napa Valley is all about.

Located between the Carmel Highlands and San Simeon, Big Sur is a large, rocky stretch of the Californian Coastline. True to its name, Big Sur covers a rather large expanse of the coast; although it doesn’t have any official boundaries, it lines around 70 miles (110 km) of the California’s famous Highway One.

The area is a magnet for travelers on road trips, who are attracted by the incredible jagged rocks, towering redwood trees and breathtaking beaches along the route. More than just beautiful scenery for driving through, the area also provides plenty of top hiking opportunities which wind their way through the several state parks encompassed by Big Sur. These are home to sights, such as the iconic Bixby Bridge and rock towers at Pfeiffer Beach.

Big Sur’s towering seaside cliffs and ocean views have acquired an almost mythic reputation. As such, millions of people visit the region each year for its epic wilderness, stunning views, and ample outdoor recreation opportunities.

6. Lake Tahoe

The largest alpine lake in North America, Lake Tahoe lies high in the Sierra Nevada mountain range, straddling the California and Nevada state line. Long a popular tourist destination, its beautiful blue waters lend themselves perfectly to all kinds of outdoor activities, while a number of towns and cities dot its scenic shores.

Sparkling in the sun, Lake Tahoe stands out delightfully against the majestic mountains and forests that surround it. The lake became a vibrant winter sports destination after the 1960s Winter Olympics were held in Squaw Valley on the North Shore. Summer brings hiking in the mountains and boat trips on the lake, as well as days spent lazing on the shore, swimming, and BBQs.

Lake Tahoe is a great place to relax, unwind, and immerse yourself in nature, but it also has some pretty towns and cities to discover. The Nevada side of the lake attracts gamblers due to its many casinos, while Tahoe City and South Lake Tahoe have lovely beaches. In addition, Reno isn’t too far away if you want to head to a larger city at some point.

5. San Diego

Often called ‘America’s Finest City’, sun-kissed San Diego is home to miles of golden sands, a laidback surfer culture, and many world-class attractions . The second-largest city in the state, it lies on Southern California’s scenic coastline, just north of the Mexican border.

While lounging on beautiful beaches such as Mission Beach and La Jolla Shores is a must when in town, San Diego also boasts fantastic museums and historical sights. Many of these are in Balboa Park, which is also home to the world-famous San Diego Zoo. In addition, Downtown has plenty of great shops, restaurants, and bars, as well as numerous beautiful old buildings – such as Mission San Diego de Alcala – which highlight the city’s rich Spanish heritage.

See also: Where to Stay in San Diego

San Diego’s warm climate lends itself perfectly to all kinds of outdoor activities, with swimming, surfing, and watersports being very popular. Hiking and cycling along the stunning coastline is also a lovely pastime, and Tijuana is just a short drive away should you feel like a day trip to Mexico .

4. Death Valley

Home to a harsh and unforgiving environment, the fittingly named Death Valley lies in the arid Mojave Desert. Set in a national park of the same name, the valley boasts awe-inspiring landscapes and spectacular scenery.

From snow-capped mountains to colorful sand dunes, the unique desert landscapes of Death Valley are like no other place in California. Places of interests include the scenic vista of Zabriskie Point and historic sites like Scotty’s Castle, the Wildrose Charcoal Kilns and ruins of ghost towns.

The park is also home to the barren Badwater Basin, which is the lowest point in North America, as well as the fiery Furnace Creek – one of the hottest places on Earth. There are also towering mountain ranges as well as epic dunes, steep gorges, and life-giving oases.

Numerous hiking trails and mountain bike paths weave their way around the park’s diverse desert landscapes, too. As Death Valley covers a vast area, it’s a good idea to stock up on water and gas before entering the national park.

3. Los Angeles

The second-largest city in the USA, Los Angeles is located in southern California surrounded by the Pacific Coast, mountains and valleys. Known as the City of Angels, the city offers a wide range of attractions and beaches, including wild-and-crazy Venice Beach and Malibu, the sandy playground favored by movie stars.

Travelers to Los Angeles , can find some of the best-known amusement parks on the planet here, including Disneyland and Universal Studios Hollywood. Los Angeles is also one of the best places in the United States to go in search of celebrities. Tourists can look for celebrity homes or shop at the designer stores in Beverly Hills that cater to the stars. And in L.A., travelers can also visit and eat at the same famous restaurants that the celebs and the rich and famous dine at.

See also: Where to Stay in Los Angeles

2. Yosemite National Park

One of the most famous and popular national parks in the US, Yosemite is visited by millions of people every year. Located in the western part of the Sierra Nevada mountain range, the park is home to some of the country’s most impressive and recognizable vistas.

Attractions include Glacier Point, with incredible views of the Yosemite Valley, the nature center and Yosemite Museum and historic places like the LeConte Memorial Lodge and the Ahwahnee Hotel.

Tucked away among its mighty peaks, sweeping canyons, and endless verdant forests are countless lakes and streams, as well as a myriad of scenic trails and paths. Hiking, rock climbing, and horseback riding around the remote wilderness is a delight. The park is most known for its gigantic granite domes and cliffs, which make for distinctive and dramatic sights.

Besides the hulking El Capitan and huge Half Dome, the park also boasts groves of the giant sequoia and a number of towering waterfalls. Of these, Yosemite Falls is the most spectacular: it plunges 739 meters down the steep rockface.

1. San Francisco

One of the most famous and photogenic cities in the world, San Francisco is renowned for its scenic beauty, iconic sights , and open, accepting culture. Set on a peninsula with the beautiful San Francisco Bay on one side and the Pacific Ocean on the other, it is one of the States’ most popular tourist destinations.

Often shrouded in mist, San Francisco’s many hills are home to a myriad of diverse neighborhoods where gorgeous streetscapes with lovely old Victorian architecture on show. Superb theaters and museums can be found around Union Square, while Fisherman’s Wharf is the tourist center of the city. This is home to Pier 39, which boasts great shopping, dining, and entertainment options, as well as sunbathing seals and views of the bay. From here, you can take trips to Alcatraz Island and its famous federal prison (now as museum).

A very vibrant yet sophisticated place, San Francisco truly has something for everyone to enjoy and taking a ride on one of its cable cars is simply a must. These shoot you to the top of its steep hills where you can bask in the breathtaking views of the city and bay below and see the iconic Golden Gate Bridge stretching away into the distance.

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Reader interactions.

October 7, 2016 at 6:34 am

Where is LAKE TAHOE????????

September 8, 2016 at 4:18 am

It’s a bit SOCal-centric. There are awesome places in Northern California too.

May 11, 2016 at 12:28 pm

Yosemite is the one of the best places in the world.

April 9, 2016 at 10:31 pm

I enjoyed Yosemite and San Diego and LA, but as a person living in CA, I don’t think San Francisco would be the top #1. I think #1 would be Yosemite or San Diego.

February 6, 2016 at 9:39 pm

LA was amazing Feel like a free state to have expression Spirit and financial success. I enjoyed Rodeo drive Bel Air West Hollowood and so many more…..you have to know HOW to live there ????

June 28, 2015 at 5:10 am

I love the waterfalls in Yosemite. It was so attractive. And also San Francisco was epic. The golden gate bridge was so beautiful. But,my favorite is LA. It’s just so big and wide and has many attractions.

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20 Best Places To Visit In California (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: February 4, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

1. Los Angeles

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read next: 25 Best Things To Do In Northern California

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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24 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Los Angeles

Written by Brad Lane , Joni Sweet , and Lana Law Updated Dec 26, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

The sprawling city of Los Angeles, in Southern California, is filled with year-round attractions and things to do. It has long been known internationally in the film and entertainment industry, particularly for Hollywood , a place that has drawn aspiring actors and actresses from across the country for over a century.

Today, LA is a culturally diverse city with a reputation for being the creative center of America. The thriving culinary scene, incredible shopping, outstanding museums, and fun family attractions are some of the top things to do in California . And with abundant sunshine and moderate to hot weather throughout the year, a suitcase typically includes shorts and T-shirts for almost any visit.

Sunseekers coming to enjoy the warm climate and beaches will find plenty of things to do and interesting neighborhoods to explore. Upgrades to the public transportation network in recent years and the addition of a Metro Bike Share in downtown LA have made getting around and sightseeing easier than ever.

For families, nearby Disneyland and Universal Studios are key places to visit that often warrant repeat visits.

To help plan your sightseeing itinerary, see our list of the top tourist attractions in Los Angeles.

1. Universal Studios Hollywood

2. griffith park and griffith observatory, 3. disneyland resort, 4. hollywood, 5. the getty center, 6. petersen automotive museum, 7. santa monica, 8. natural history museum of los angeles county, 9. california science center, 10. the broad, 11. the original farmers market, 12. los angeles county museum of art (lacma), 13. venice beach, 14. beverly hills, 15. la brea tar pits, 16. battleship iowa museum, 17. runyon canyon park, 18. little tokyo, 19. melrose avenue, 21. long beach, 22. the nethercutt collection, 23. the getty villa, 24. museum of contemporary art (moca), where to stay in los angeles for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to los angeles, map of tourist attractions in los angeles, los angeles, ca - climate chart.

Highlights: Massive amusement park with movie-themed rides and entertainment

Universal Studios Theme Park is known for its mind-blowing rides based on blockbuster movies, but it is also a working movie studio and an attraction everyone can enjoy. The highlight for most is the ever-changing selection of rides, ranging from simulators to roller coasters. Favorite movie and TV-themed rides and sets include The Wizarding World of Harry Potter , The Simpsons , Transformers , Jurassic World - The Ride , and Despicable Me Minion Mayhem.

To save time standing in long lines consider purchasing a Skip the Line: Front of Line Pass at Universal Studios Hollywood . This handy ticket gives you a one-time fast entry to each of the park's rides, attractions, and shows, as well as behind-the-scenes access to select attractions.

When you are tired of the rides, you can check out CityWalk , a three-block entertainment area, with shopping, dining, and theaters. Another option is a guided tour of the studios to explore behind-the-scenes of some of Universal's most popular movie sets. The VIP Experience allows you opportunities to see the sets and areas not open to the general public.

Address: 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, California

Highlights: Sprawling public park with observatory and many other tourist attractions

Griffith Park , in the eastern part of the Santa Monica Mountains, and covering an area of 4,210 acres, is the largest city park in Los Angeles. It's home to the Los Angeles Zoo , the Griffith Observatory, a planetarium, and a Greek theater. It's also home to golf courses, tennis courts, hiking trails, and a riding center created for the 1984 Olympic Games. And walking trails and scenic drives through the mountains offer views over the city and beyond.

The Griffith Observatory is one of the city's most interesting experience-based attractions, and it's all free to the public. On the grounds are exhibits and telescopes. The main highlight is a look through the Zeiss telescope , used for viewing the moon and planets. You can use the telescopes free each evening the facility is open. Also on-site are solar telescopes used for viewing the sun.

The park and observatory are named for Griffith J. Griffith, who donated the greater part of the parkland to the city in 1896 and willed funds to the city for the creation of the observatory.

Highlights: Massive theme park in Anaheim with Star Wars rides and other attractions

Just outside Los Angeles, Disneyland is California's premier family vacation destination, attracting visitors since the 1950s. Disneyland Park , with rides and experiences in elaborately created theme sets, is what most people picture when they imagine Disneyland. The Disneyland California Adventure Park , created during one of the expansions, holds even more action and adventure, with seven lands based on movie themes.

Relatively new to the scene are several Star Wars-themed rides. They include Star Wars Rise of the Resistance and The Millennium Falcon: Smuggler's Run. The rides are in the new Star Wars Galaxy Edge area, which is full of shops and restaurants made out to look like the Black Spire Outpost on the planet of Batuu.

Beyond the rides and Disney characters wandering the streets, the resort also offers a full complement of features and services for a complete vacation. Hotels, restaurants, shopping, and all kinds of entertainment options are available at Disneyland Resort.

Anaheim, home to Disneyland Resort, is also worth exploring on a weekend trip. Several outdoor dining and shopping areas extend from the park throughout the city, including the historic downtown core of Anaheim, known as Central City .

Read More: Things to Do in Anaheim, California

Highlights: Hollywood sign, Walk of Fame, shopping, dining

Hollywood is a suburb of Los Angeles and a destination with its own unique history and iconic sites. Hollywood attractions are closely associated with the film industry and the glamour of the silver screen.

The hillside Hollywood sign , Hollywood Boulevard , and the Chinese Theatre are some of the top places to visit. If you're lucky, you might even spot a celebrity or two out for a shopping trip on Rodeo Drive. A fun family activity in Hollywood is finding all your favorite actors' stars among the 2,500 plus on the Walk of Fame .

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Hollywood

Highlights: Esteemed cultural center and museum with beautiful landscaping

The Getty Center is a huge complex measuring 0.75 square miles and set on 110 acres on a hilltop in the Santa Monica Mountains. The unique building and the beautiful grounds provide the perfect setting for this impressive museum. Collections include European paintings, drawings, sculpture, and decorative arts, as well as 19th- and 20th-century photography.

The views from the museum grounds out over Los Angeles are incredible. Book a table at The Restaurant and enjoy a casual lunch while soaking up the scenery.

The Getty Center is one of two locations of the J. Paul Getty Museum, created by the late oil magnate, J. Paul Getty. The Getty Villa , set in a recreated Roman country house, deals with art from the Stone Age to the end of the Roman Empire.

Address: 1200 Getty Center Drive, Los Angeles, California

Highlights : Extensive car collection housed in an eye-catching museum building

Car lovers will not want to miss the incredible assortment of vehicles at the Petersen Automotive Museum . Spread over four floors are a mix of permanent and temporary exhibits featuring more than 300 cars and motorcycles, ranging from perfectly preserved items from 1886 right through to concepts for the 21st century.

The museum underwent major renovations and is now one of the most modern institutions of its kind. The exterior façade is an eye-catching architectural masterpiece. For an additional fee, you can sign up for either a 90- or 120-minute guided Vault tour, which provides additional insight into rare and unusual cars.

The museum is also host to a regular series of special exhibits featuring new, old, and unusual cars from the past, along with ones you might see in the future.

Address: 6060 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, California

Highlights : Popular beach with pier, promenade, and miles of sand connected by bike path

Santa Monica is a unique destination that is both chic and laid-back, with a population that ranges from surfers, skateboarders, and yoga devotees to techies and business people.

The beautiful stretch of golden sand along the coast and the famous Santa Monica Pier , with its iconic Ferris wheel, are what most tourists come to enjoy, but you can find a variety of experiences in this beachfront city next to LA.

The downtown district of Santa Monica is lively throughout the day and night. Shoppers will find a range of options, from quirky vintage stores to high-end boutiques. Check out the Third Street Promenade for shopping and people-watching, including catching the various street performers.

For a little activity, check out the 26-mile bike path along the waterfront. This lengthy paved path spans nearly the entire Santa Monica Bay coastline, connecting all the best beaches near Santa Monica . A few visitor favorites include Venice Beach to the south and Will Rogers State Beach to the north.

Getting to Santa Monica is now much easier since the opening of the new Expo Metro line, connecting downtown LA to Santa Monica.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Santa Monica, CA

Highlights: Expansive museum with dinosaur skeletons, SoCal history, and seasonal exhibits

While the Natural History Museum has numerous galleries and an extensive permanent collection that covers a range of topics, it is best known for its collection of dinosaurs. The 14,000-square-foot Dinosaur Hall has an awesome display of dinosaur skeletons, including a series of Tyrannosaurus rex fossils, known as the growth series, featuring three full skeletons that range from baby to adult. Also on display are a Triceratops and a Stegosaurus.

The museum deals with the natural history of California and areas throughout the world. Becoming Los Angeles , which explores the past 500 years of history in Southern California, is another must-see exhibit. The Discovery Center and Insect Zoo offers hands-on experiences and is particularly interesting for younger visitors.

Address: 900 Exposition Boulevard, Los Angeles

Highlights: Science exhibits on space travel and underwater ecosystems, Imax theater

The California Science Center , open to the public free of charge, is home to the Space Shuttle Endeavour , as well as other major exhibits. Mission 26: The Big Endeavour is currently on display at the Samuel Oschin Pavilion, while the new Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center is being built.

You can see the space shuttle, as well as artifacts from the space mission, and learn all about it and the people involved in the program.

Other exhibits at the Science Center cover such topics as the living world, technology, and ecosystems. The Ecosystems exhibit features an impressive 188,000-gallon kelp tank, as well as live plants, animals, and fish. In addition to the permanent exhibits, the California Science Center also features special exhibits, for an ever-changing selection of things to see.

Address: 700 Exposition Park Drive, Los Angeles, California

Highlights : Free contemporary art museum with a massive collection and always-rotating displays

The Broad opened in late 2015 and was immediately an overwhelming success and has remained popular. The museum focuses on contemporary and postwar art , with some large and dramatic installations. More than 2,000 works of art are on display in this unique building, with a "veil-and-vault" concept.

Tickets are free of charge for general admission, but these are often booked out in advance. Standby tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis on the day of admission, but this will usually require some wait time in a line, particularly on weekends. Admissions to some special exhibitions do carry a fee.

The museum was founded by Eli and Edythe Broad, who have been long-time collectors of postwar and contemporary art.

Address: 221 S. Grand Avenue, Los Angeles, California

Highlights: Open-air market offering fresh produce and local goods every day of the week

The Los Angeles Farmers Market first started in 1934 as a very modest affair that sprung from the hardships created by the Great Depression. At the height of the economic depression, eighteen farmers came together and set up stalls on a piece of open land near Wilshire Boulevard in order to sell their produce direct to the consumer.

This experiment was so successful that the market continued to expand. At that time, it truly was a fruit and vegetable market, but over the years the market has grown to accommodate more and more vendors. Today, the market hosts vegetable and other food stands, as well as restaurants and specialty shops. You can find everything from jewelry and candles to kitchenware and toys.

If you are looking for things to do at night in Los Angeles, the market hosts a variety of entertainment, including free evening concerts on Friday nights in summer.

Address: 6333 West 3rd Street, Los Angeles, California

Highlights: Iconic art museum spread across several buildings and exhibits

The Los Angeles County Museum of Art lays claim to being the largest art museum in the western United States , with almost 130,000 pieces spanning from antiquity through to modern times. Of particular note are the outstanding collections of Asian, Latin American, and Islamic Art.

The huge complex consists of a number of separate buildings that have been acquired and renovated over the years. The most recent expansion, known as the Transformation, saw the opening of several new buildings on the western half of the campus, designed by Renzo Piano Building Workshop. The LACMA is next to the La Brea Tar Pits on museum row.

Address: 5905 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles, California

Highlights: Sunny beach with snaking bike path and bohemian shopping corridor

Venice Beach deserves its reputation as a place to see and be seen, making it perfect for people-watching, although the area definitely has its own unique vibe. This stretch of golden sand and the Venice Beach Boardwalk are always thronged with people walking, cycling, rollerblading, and jogging.

Eclectic shops and street performers of all kinds line the walkway. The Skatepark , also just off the beach, is frequented by some of the area's best skateboarders, and nearby are a number of creative art installations. At the appropriately named Muscle Beach , gym members pump iron in the hot California sun.

Food stalls selling everything from shaved ice to kettle corn and funnel cakes make you feel like you're walking through fairgrounds. You can also find some good restaurants here. This is not a typical family beach, but it's well worth a visit.

Highlights: Chic Golden Triangle of fashion, several public parks, nearby mansions

Beverly Hills borders Los Angeles to the west, encompassing 5.7 square miles tucked beneath the Santa Monica Mountains. And within this small footprint are some of the poshest streets in America, including the world-famous Rodeo Drive .

Rodeo Drive, Santa Monica Boulevard, and Wilshire Boulevard converge in Beverly Hills to create the city's " Golden Triangle " of upscale retail and dining. This luxe thoroughfare is worth the visit even without shopping, as the glamour spills out onto the sidewalks with celebrity sightings and luxury cars.

And there are a lot more things to do in Beverly Hills besides shopping and dining. The city is very walkable with several gardens, historic buildings, and public art throughout. Spend some time at Beverly Gardens Park for a sample of these first-class public spaces.

Highlights: Indoor and outdoor exhibits detailing the incredible natural history of the area

In Hancock Park, La Brea Tar Pits offers a unique opportunity to see live excavations of fossils and learn about the process. The Tar Pits were formed 40,000 years ago, when oil seeped through the rock, entrapping passing animals, which would get stuck in the substance. The tar then preserved the fossils throughout the ages, leaving behind an incredible glimpse into another age.

The museum at la Brea Tar Pits (formerly the George C. Page Museum) shows reconstructed fossils of prehistoric animals found at the site, as well as the process of fossil recovery. You can see bones being worked on and learn what takes place behind the scenes, before skeletons are able to be displayed.

The museum displays fully reconstructed fossils of a variety of mammals including mammoths, saber-toothed cats, dire wolves, and others, all dating from between 40,000 and 10,000 years ago. An outdoor area displays replicas of extinct animals.

Plans are in the works for a renovation and new design. The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County is reviewing plans from architecture teams in the hopes of reinventing this unique attraction.

Address: 5801 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles

Highlights: Guided tours of a retired battleship

The Battleship Iowa Museum is an imposing sight on the waterfront close to the Port of Los Angeles and is a great family activity. You can wander throughout this massive battleship and see what life at sea would have been like for the sailors on board.

Included with admission is a self-guided tour showcasing the history of the ship. One of the highlights is a look at the massive 16-inch guns. Kids enjoy a free scavenger hunt, searching the ship to find the 10 secret locations of Vicky, the ship's dog (displayed on posters or in augmented reality).

For those wanting to really get behind the scenes, for an additional fee you can take the Full Steam Ahead Guided Tour , which allows you access to the inner workings of the ship, including the engine room, boiler room, and the Combat Engagement Center, among other restricted areas. Note that dates and numbers are limited for this tour, and it should be booked well in advance.

Address: 250 S Harbor Blvd., Low Angeles, California

Highlights: Beloved hiking area with great views and celebrity sightings

Runyon Canyon Park is a 160-acre park known for its hiking trails and magnificent views of Downtown Los Angeles . Its convenient location near Hollywood and the Hollywood Hills makes it a popular place with celebrities —if you've seen paparazzi photos of celebs hiking in Los Angeles, they were probably taken at Runyon.

Trails run from 1 to just over 3 miles and range from easy to strenuous. For some of the best views, hit the East Trail from the Fuller Avenue entrance. It passes through two beautiful lookouts: Inspiration Point and Cloud's Rest.

Parking can be particularly tricky on the streets near Runyon Canyon Park, so be sure you leave ample time to look for a spot, or consider using a ride-share service.

Highlights: Japanese restaurants, historic fire tower, wishing tree, gardens

Los Angeles is home to one of just three remaining Japantowns in the United States: Little Tokyo. The petite neighborhood packs tons of culture, cuisine, and color into about five city blocks.

The Japanese Village Plaza is considered the central gathering place. Lit by red and white paper lanterns, this pedestrian-only plaza feels like it was plucked from Tokyo and dropped into Downtown Los Angeles. Check out the Yagura Tower at the First Street entrance—this replica of a rural Japanese fire tower has been greeting visitors for nearly 50 years.

In addition to popular shops, like Nijiya grocery store and the Sanrio Hello Kitty boutique , another major attraction is the wishing tree . People from around the world jot down their hopes and dreams on colorful paper strips, then hang them from the tree's branches in hopes that they'll come to fruition. Reading the notes is deeply touching.

Come hungry—Little Tokyo has some of the best Japanese restaurants in Los Angeles. Slurp ramen noodles at Hachioji , fill up on okonomiyaki (a Hiroshima speciality!) at Chinchikurin , and satisfy your sweet tooth with fresh mochi from the 120-year-old Fugetsu-Do Bakery Shop .

Interested in learning more? Enjoy a more detailed read with our article on Visiting Little Tokyo: Come for the Ramen, Stay for the Culture.

Highlights: Vintage shopping, murals, comedy clubs

Melrose Avenue is one of the city's most famous streets due to its large number of vintage shops with funky storefronts. On the two-mile span from La Cienega Boulevard to La Brea Avenue, you can shop at more than 15 vintage stores , some of which have been adding vibrancy to this street for decades.

The west side of Melrose tends to have higher-end shops, like Decades , which is beloved for its dazzling designer gowns from as far back as the 1930s . Head east and you'll get a lot more bang for your buck at mega vintage shops like Wasteland , American Rebel, and American Vintage. Browsing the racks at these stores feels like digging for wearable treasure, and no matter what your style or budget, you'll likely find a unique piece to upgrade your wardrobe.

Once you find something you love, wear it right out of the store for an impromptu photoshoot at one of the many murals on Melrose. The famous pink wall on the Paul Smith flagship store is popular among the influencer crowd.

Comedy clubs are another highlight on Melrose. Get your laughs with stand-up a t Hollywood Improv or sketch comedy at The Groundlings.

Read More: Vintage Shopping on Melrose: Retro Treasures on Los Angeles' Trendiest Street

Highlights: Beautiful oceanfront city with several public beaches and posh places to visit

The Santa Monica Mountains meet the Pacific Ocean in Malibu, on the far western coastline of LA County. This dramatic backdrop sets the scene for many Malibu attractions and things to do , while beachside mansions and the occasional celebrity sighting help set the tone for Malibu culture.

Exploring some of Malibu's best beaches is one of the best ways to enjoy the city. All are within an hour's drive of Los Angeles, depending on traffic, and each offers a different beachscape to enjoy. From the broad shores of Zuma Beach to the wild landscape surrounding El Matador State Beach, the coastline appeals to both relaxing and adventurous outings alike.

Malibu is also home to several seafood restaurants worth the drive alone. The famous Neptune's Net perhaps has the most notoriety, partly thanks to its roles in movies like Point Break and The Fast and the Furious . Other spots with menus worth perusing include Dukes Malibu and Paradise Cove Beach Cafe.

Highlights: Vibrant city with a long beachfront, several city parks, and family attractions

Long Beach is another community in the Los Angeles area that's easy to spend a day exploring. It borders LA to the south, about 20 miles from downtown, and extends along San Pedro Bay. The miles of beach in Long Beach are common motives for a visit, capped off by a tourist-friendly and attraction-filled waterfront downtown district.

Things to do in Long Beach's waterfront district include a visit to the historic Queen Mary ocean liner , due to reopen in late 2022; the Aquarium of the Pacific ; and exploring the unique shops at Shoreline Village . You can also catch the Catalina Express for a trip to Santa Catalina Island .

And it's not just the ocean to explore in Long Beach. Several of the city's best parks also offer inland attractions, like the historic Bixby Park or sprawling El Dorado East Regional Park. El Dorado East is also home to the lovely Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden , filled with tranquil appeal.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Long Beach, CA

Highlights: Classic antiques with an emphasis on vintage vehicles spanning the last century

If you're a fan of antique, vintage, and classic cars, this is the place to visit. The Nethercutt Collection displays an outstanding array of American and European automobiles from the 1890s to the 1990s. The pristine condition of these vehicles and the variety of models is beyond impressive. The history of the cars and descriptions of their previous owners are displayed with the vehicles.

The museum also showcases a collection of antique furniture and mechanical musical instruments. Outside, you can see a restored steam locomotive and railcar.

Address: 15151 Bledsoe Street, Sylmar, California

Highlights: Stunning courtyard, gardens, and rare art and sculpture collections

The Getty Villa is the other site operated by the Getty cultural institution, located near the ocean in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood of Los Angeles, just east of Malibu. It's set within a photogenic recreation of a Roman country house with decorative gardens and courtyards.

On display throughout the Getty Villa are ancient artworks and relics, ranging from marble statues to rare coins and jewelry. Different exhibits are found around every corner on the first and second floors of the museum, and in combination with the landscaped settings, expect to spend at least two to three hours exploring the grounds.

Highlights: Downtown museum with satellite locations and ever-changing art on display

The Museum of Contemporary Art ( MOCA ) consists of two separate facilities and is dedicated to works from the 1940s onwards. Pieces from the permanent collection are on display, and regularly changing exhibits feature new works and emerging media.

The MOCA Grand , on Grand Avenue, is the museum's primary facility, with the main galleries, as well as the largest museum store. The MOCA Geffen is in Little Tokyo, in what was formerly a police car warehouse.

Double Negative is another art location associated with MOCA, located in the desert in Moapa Valley on Mormon Mesa near Overton, in Nevada. This land art by Michael Heizer was acquired by the museum and can be visited free of charge.

Santa Monica Hotels

• Shops, fabulous restaurants, blonde beaches, and the famous Santa Monica Pier make this a natural magnet for tourists and locals alike. Easy access to Beverly Hills and Rodeo Drive are also a bonus for sightseers. The Viceroy Santa Monica and the eco-conscious boutique Shore Hotel are popular high-end accommodation options, and the stylish Shutters on the Beach exudes all the casual elegance of a family beach house.
• For those seeking a fantastic salt-laced location without breaking the bank, try the Ocean View Hotel .

Beverly Hills Hotels

• Famous for the designer shops along Rodeo Drive, this exclusive celebrity enclave offers some plush hotels in a quieter setting than Hollywood, but still with easy access to all the movie-themed attractions. Top high-end hotels include the famous Beverly Hills Hotel on Sunset Boulevard , The Peninsula Beverly Hills , the Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel , and the Maybourne Beverly Hills .
• For those seeking the glamour without the price tag to match, the Sonder Beverly Terrace is a great option.
• Farther north, the Hotel Bel-Air pampers guests amid 12 acres of flower-flecked gardens.

Hollywood Hotels

• Star struck travelers headed for the Hollywood Walk of Fame, the Hollywood Bowl , and Universal Studios should stay here in the heart of movie land. Close to Beverly Hills, Hollywood oozes with celebrity glitz and glamor without gauging the wallet. The Hollywood Roosevelt and the Hollywood Celebrity Hotel are both highly rated options in the area.

Anaheim Hotels

• Families headed to the theme parks with the kids in tow usually base themselves here in a whimsical Disney-themed hotel. Popular options include the Disneyland Hotel and Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa , an easy stroll from the Disney theme parks.
• Sonesta ES Suites Anaheim Resort Area is a more affordable option with convenient apartment-style accommodation.

Downtown Los Angeles Hotels

• Bristling with new restaurants and art galleries amid the skyscrapers, Downtown LA is finally finding its soul. Sports fans catching a game at the Staples Center, hipsters, foodies, and business travelers often base themselves here and score cheaper hotel rates than at the typical tourist hot spots. Popular quality hotel choices include the luxury Omni Los Angeles at California Plaza near the Walt Disney Concert Hall , and the more modestly priced Doubletree by Hilton .

See the Sights:

• One of the best ways to see Los Angeles is on a Los Angeles City Sightseeing Hop-on Hop-off Tour , which offers a fun overview of the city with maximum flexibility. Enjoy 360-degree views from the open-air bus and hop on or off at more than 50 locations, including Beverly Hills, Hollywood, downtown LA, and Santa Monica. Choose between a 24- or 48-hour ticket.

Save Money:

• If you plan on visiting multiple attractions while you're in the City of Angels, the Go City: Los Angeles Explorer Pass is a great way to save money. This versatile card gives you discounts at top Los Angeles attractions. You can choose between two and seven attractions from a list of 30.

Los Angeles notoriously enjoys warm weather throughout the year. However, the best seasons to visit are the "shoulder seasons," including spring (March, April, May) and fall (September, October, and November). The air is easier to breathe this time of year, and the streets are less crowded with tourists.

June, July, and August are still some of the most popular times to visit Lost Angeles. And for good reason. The hot weather beckons for the beach and the late evenings extend a day of exploring. Expect to pay the highest rates for things like lodging and transportation this time of year.

The winter months, including December, January, and February, are suitable months to visit. Expect slightly colder temperatures that keep most people away from the beach. But, with average daytime temperatures still in the 60s Fahrenheit, it's often a welcomed warm escape from other parts of the country.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Around Los Angeles: If you are spending time in the area and considering exploring outside the city, start your planning with a read through our articles on the Top Day Trips From Los Angeles and the Best Weekend Getaways from Los Angeles . From LA, choices range from hopping a ferry to Santa Catalina Island or heading to the desert for a visit to Palm Springs or Joshua Tree National Park .

More on California

50 Most Beautiful Places To Visit In California In Your Lifetime

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: July 1, 2019  - Last updated: October 16, 2023

Some of the most beautiful places in the US are definitely located in California!

Apart from Orange County , Santa Cruz , and San Jose , California has no shortage of incredible locations, and as such, it can be hard to figure out where to go.

With a myriad of different places to feast your eyes on, you will have no shortage of breathtaking sights to visit in California.

To help you out, here are the 50 most beautiful places in California to visit in your lifetime.

Table of Contents

1. Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is one of the top must-see places in all of America, not just California!

Located in the Sierra Nevada mountains, it boasts a wide range of attractions, including five cascading 1,000-foot waterfalls, imposing sequoia trees, and 13 spacious campgrounds.

Visitors can enjoy such gorgeous, scenic locations as Glacier Point, which overlooks Half Dome, High Sierra, Tenaya Canyon, and even the Vernal and Nevada Falls in the distance.

There’s also the famous Valley View, which can be found within the Yosemite Valley, home to the Cathedral Rocks, El Capitan, Merced River, and more.

2. Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is a little coastal town that provides Mediterranean-esque vibes, relaxation, and plenty of lovely beach locations for those looking for some fun in the sun.

Butterfly Beach, located in this spot, is easily one of the best places to visit in California, and it is a go-to destination for many celebrities!

Apart from the appealing beaches, you can also stroll around and take in the sight of rustic villas, engaging hiking trails, and fascinating markets and shops in State Street.

There’s a lot to enjoy and explore, and when you’re done, you can watch the stunning sunset!

Planning a trip to Santa Barbara? Check out the best things to do in Santa Barbara !

3. Santa Catalina

Santa Catalina

Santa Catalina is the perfect destination for a weekend trip in California.

Visitors can access the island via one of three ports and a short ferry ride, and then they’ll be basking in great warm weather with lots of activities to take part in!

You can take a romantic walk down to Lover’s Point, explore in a rented golf cart, enjoy a jeep tour, have a blast with multiple different water activities like diving, kayaking, and parasailing, and even go hiking!

Plus, there’s lots of delicious food to try out while you’re there.

4. Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe is known for arguably being the most stunning body of water in all of California.

Located in the mountains of Sierra Nevada, this freshwater Alpine lake is extraordinarily clear, and there are plenty of trails to hike around the area to see the lake in all its glory.

Lake Tahoe is breathtaking no matter which part of it you’re in, but noticeably great areas to visit are Emerald Bay.

It’s an astonishing inlet with flawlessly blue waters and plenty of amenities for tourists, and Sand Harbor, which makes for an impeccable beach experience surrounded by nature.

5. Pacific Coast Highway

Pacific Coast Highway

The Pacific Coast Highway may “just” be a road to help you get from some parts of California to the others, but there’s a reason it’s so well-known for its road trip value.

The scenery you see along the way through this Star Memorial Highway is nothing short of remarkable!

As you drive down this highway, you’ll see so many great locations to stop if you so choose, making it perfect for a thorough road trip of California.

Sure, thinking of a road as a gorgeous location to take a trip to isn’t the most conventional, but you’ll find that many people consider it among their top destinations.

6. Napa Valley

Napa Valley

Napa Valley consists of rolling hills, old architecture, and, of course, the beautiful vineyards that stretch as far as the eye can see.

There are more than 400 wineries in the region, which was once home to Patwin Native Americans, with its vineyard cultivation beginning sometime in the 18th century.

If you like, you can ride a hot air balloon to view the amazing tourist spots from above or take a trip to downtown Napa to enjoy a mix of modern luxury and old-fashioned whimsy.

It’s no surprise that this is a must-stop spot along your journey through California!

7. Mono Lake

Mono Lake is ancient, yet just as enticing as ever.

It is a saline body of water that doesn’t hold any fish due to its salt content, but alkali flies and brine shrimp enjoy the habitat significantly.

The entire location looks otherworldly thanks to numerous tufa rock formations, making it easy to see why this is one of the most awesome locations in California for a trip!

You can explore the region with a walking tour, a kayak tour, and other similar expeditions.

It’s located on one of the Sierra Mountain’s slopes and isn’t that far from Yosemite, so it’s a great stop along your travels.

8. Redwood National and State Parks

Redwood National and State Parks

The Redwood National and State Parks are extraordinarily delightful places, made up of a wide variety of different parks which all line up along the coast of Northern California.

Visitors can take their pick of which one to stop at, or even visit them all one by one!

Within these parks, you’ll find towering redwood trees arching 300 feet into the sky, remnants of the ancient Jurassic Period and an intimidating sight to behold.

There’s a park that caters to the interests of everyone, so you’re sure to find one that gives you the experience you’re seeking!

9. Death Valley

Death Valley

Sure, Death Valley is a bit of a downer of a name, but there’s a reason this is one of the most sought-after tourist attractions in California.

Its landscape holds nothing back in providing an entrancing and stunning appearance, with rolling hills illuminated under the burning sun in the hottest place in the country.

There are a large number of unique and interesting spots in Death Valley.

The most famed is Zabriskie point, which allows you to overlook Badwater Basin (the lowest point in the whole nation) while keeping your eyes on the rising Panamint mountains that loom up ahead.

There’s also the Mesquite Sand Dunes, which provide fascinating geological terrain to explore.

10. Laguna Beach

Laguna Beach

Laguna Beach is an absolutely breathtaking location.

This small town is the quintessential California experience, packed with splendid beaches of all kinds, ranging from large to small and from quiet to populated.

Crescent Bay and Main Beach are some of the most renowned for their beauty.

But it’s not just beaches that visitors can enjoy in this region!

Head to Crystal Cove State Park for a more untamed glimpse of the shore, or visit Heisler Park to spot exquisite wildflowers, trees, and other forms of flora.

If you’re going to this state, you just can’t miss this location!

11. Burney Falls

Burney Falls

Burney Falls is a beautiful 129-foot waterfall that releases a lot of water out into the equally lovely Lake Britton – a whopping 100 million gallons on a daily basis, in fact!

Underground springs provide extra water, so these falls never cease in their rush.

Dive in for a cool swim, or just enjoy the mist wafting off the massive cascade!

Once you’re done checking out Burney Falls, you can go sightseeing around the McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park, which is the place these falls call their home.

Go camping, hiking, and even fishing, and take all the photos that you like of this paradise in California.

12. Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest

Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest

The Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest houses outstandingly old flora – some of the oldest in the world, not just in California!

The USDA states that some of these bristlecone pines are more than 4,000 years of age.

Among these phenomenal wonders of nature, you’ll also find the Patriarch Tree, the largest of all trees of its kind on the planet.

Enjoy a picnic, a hike, or just a little excursion surrounded by some of the best flora you’ll ever see.

13. Glory Hole

This amusingly named location may have a fun, odd sound to it, but it’s an incredibly beautiful spot that you just have to see.

It is a part of Lake Berryessa, a reservoir located in Napa County, where it formed due to the Monticello Dam’s construction.

The recent drought in California has caused some issues, but you can still easily see this alien-looking spillway that drains downwards in a majestic and terrifying whirlpool to the deep, dark depths of the water.

Make sure you keep your distance and just admire it from afar!

14. Cypress Tree Tunnel

Cypress Tree Tunnel

The Cypress Tree Tunnel is one of those cool places you just can’t miss.

Located in Point Reyes, this “tunnel” consists entirely of Monterey cypress trees which arch overhead, forming an ethereal and whimsical bit of scenery that looks like it came out of a children’s fairy tale, not from California!

The branches on these trees lock into each other, creating the perfect shady walkway that is full of photo opportunities.

Visitors will have the most enjoyable time in the late afternoon, which is when the lighting is at its most aesthetically pleasing.

15. Ojai Valley

Ojai Valley

Ojai is a beautiful little town that is laid-back, relaxed, and rustic – perfect for a calmer California vacation.

It houses quaint shops, inns, hotels, and vineyards, and there’s a farmer’s market as well as fresh, interesting foods to try out.

Go hiking through the valley to see all there is to see or ride a bike west to go towards the beach, where you can enjoy a serene day of sun and surf.

Don’t forget to watch the sunset, glowing pink as it illuminates the mountains!

16. Bowling Ball Beach

Bowling Ball Beach

Bowling Ball Beach is one of those standout points of interest in California that is unlike anything you’ve ever seen before.

Located on Schooner Gulch State Beach, this nice stretch of coast is completely naturally filled with spherical rocks, made from sandstone after years and years of erosion.

You can see the full majesty of these “balls” during low tide, and you only need a short walk to get there.

To exercise caution, though, as erosion continues and may cause some cliff areas to be unstable.

17. Salton Sea

The Salton Sea is definitely one of the best places to visit in California.

This saline lake lies inland at the Sonoran desert, a result of burst dams from more than 100 years ago.

This lake lies 235 feet underneath sea level and is the largest lake in the whole state.

This location gives off a melancholic vibe due in part to its ghost town, which formed around the lake and was once considered the new Palm Springs .

Today, it is largely abandoned, and you can explore houses left to rot, a fascinating and funny museum, and the lake itself.

18. Big Sur

We can’t mention beautiful places in California without mentioning the Big Sur, a favorite coastal spot among visitors.

It stretches across 90 miles and houses a number of delightful sights, including jagged hills, the iconic cobalt McWay Falls, and the highly photogenic Bixby Creek Bridge, which is among the biggest, tallest of its kind in the world.

There is also, of course, Pfeiffer Beach, which is full of purple sand left behind by garnet erosion, mixing in with white and black grains for a spectacular sight.

It may be less popular than other beaches in the area, but it’s still an incredible find.

19. Dana Point Harbor

Dana Point Harbor

Dana Point Harbor is one of those tourist attractions that just seems to have everything.

It’s an amazing place to get delicious, fresh seafood while enjoying the stunning beaches.

You can go whale watching, fishing, or shopping, and there are plenty of great dining options, too.

It may not be as action-packed as some other locations, but this is one of the most relaxing and peaceful things to do in California .

It’s perfect for those looking for a little respite from the hustle and bustle of city life!

20. Big Bear Lake

Big Bear Lake

Big Bear Lake is located in the San Bernardino Mountains, and it showcases a one-of-a-kind side of California: one involving its greenery, nature, and all things down to earth.

Even its attached town is worthy of the trip, providing visitors with calm relaxation and a happy atmosphere.

This spot also offers some of the best camping opportunities in California, if you’re feeling up to it!

If not, just enjoy the beautiful sight of the turquoise waves lapping against the shore.

It’s not a trip that you’ll soon forget!

21. Rainbow Falls

Rainbow Falls

Rainbow Falls in undisputedly one of the most beautiful places in California.

Located in Madera County, this waterfall rushes down from its 101-foot height.

It earned its name because, at the right time, a rainbow can be seen emerging from its mist.

To guarantee that you’ll see it, head over at midday when the sun is at its highest.

It’s about a 3-mile round hiking trip to get to this stunning location, and on the way, you can go sightseeing.

Enjoy the park wildlife, peek at the lower falls, and watch the rush of the San Joaquin River.

22. Fern Canyon

Fern Canyon

Fern Canyon is endlessly iconic, making it one of the best canyons in California.

Its walls scale upwards 50 feet, coated in lush green ferns. The aesthetic of the scenery will provide a feeling of leaping back in the past to when dinosaurs roamed the planet!

In fact, multiple dinosaur documentaries have been filmed here, and some Jurassic Park scenes, too.

Some of these ferns truly are ancient, and visitors will be treated to seven different kinds, some of which are more than 300 million years old.

This short and easy but highly rewarding trail is designated an International Biosphere Reserve and is a real feast for the eyes!

23. Los Angeles County Museum of Art

Los Angeles County Museum of Art

It may stand out a little on this list, but you’ll be missing out if you don’t visit the Los Angeles County Museum of Art while you’re looking for what to see in California!

It boasts numerous fun displays, including prolific and extensive collections of art from a wide variety of cultures.

Of course, there’s also Urban Light – an art installation in the museum that holds the restorations of an impressive 202 antique street lamps made from cast iron.

It’s a very Instagrammable location, and it’s a magical sight to behold!

Address:  5905 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036, USA

Visiting Los Angeles soon? Check out some of the best things to do in LA !

24. Griffith Park

Griffith Park

If you’re looking for cities to stop by in California, Los Angeles may just top your list thanks to the beautiful Griffith Park .

Founded in 1896, it spans 4,300 acres and is a favorite of visitors, with plenty of activities to engage in.

This park is the second largest of its kind in the state of California, and it’s not just all greenery.

It holds a zoo, botanical gardens, a theatre, a museum, and the ever-popular Griffith observatory, which gives you a breathtaking view of the state, all the way up to the iconic Hollywood sign.

Address:  4730 Crystal Springs Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90027, USA

25. Lava Beds National Monument

Lava Beds National Monument

The Lava Beds National Monument consists of over 700 caves, 25 of which have tubes made entirely out of lava.

You can crawl through them and gaze in awe at this otherworldly location, which is definitely among the must-see places in California.

Visitors can find out how these lava tubes formed at an information center.

While you’re there, you can go looking for different bats or check out Mushpot Cave, which is the only one in the entire site that is illuminated for an even more whimsical experience.

Address:  1 Indian Well Hqts, Tulelake, CA 96134, USA

26. Huntington Gardens

Huntington Gardens

The Huntington Gardens were once owned by Henry Huntington, who was a wealthy railroad magnate.

These days, this 120-acre expanse of land is one of the best places to see in California, attracting all sorts of people looking for a fun excursion.

There are countless landscaped spots throughout these gardens, inspired by different regions.

If you’re more interested in history, you can head to the Huntington Library, where American and European art, manuscripts, and books of surprising rarity all wait for perusal.

Address:  1151 Oxford Rd, San Marino, CA 91108, USA

27. Hearst Castle

Hearst Castle

Hearst Castle is an elegant, graceful, and opulent attraction which is one of the nicest places of interest in California.

It was built by William Randolph Hearst, who set to work building the regal building after receiving his father’s land inheritance.

The castle has 165 rooms, and it is set on a 127-acre space of land.

Within it, you can find pools, walkways, gardens, terraces, fountains, and plenty of areas in the complex to explore.

Hearst’s collection of antiquities is truly a fascinating sight to behold, and if you visit, you’ll be able to marvel at artifacts from a variety of cultures.

Address:  750 Hearst Castle Rd, San Simeon, CA 93452, USA

28. Cabrillo National Monument

Cabrillo National Monument

The Cabrillo National Monument is one of those beautiful places in California that you just can’t miss.

Named after Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo, it boasts gorgeous tide pools that can be viewed from the location.

You can also take a short walk to the brilliant Point Cabrillo Light Station.

Meanwhile, a hidden sea cave lurks, closed to the public due to potentially hazardous conditions, somewhere nearby.

Many people still choose to make it one of their destinations, though, heading over during the low tide and enjoying the secluded spot.

We’re not saying you should do the same, but it’s a fascinating concept to think about!

Address:  1800 Cabrillo Memorial Dr, San Diego, CA 92106, USA

Traveling to San Diego soon? Check out our list of things to do in San Diego !

29. The Flower Fields

The Flower Fields

If you love flowers, The Flower Fields located in Carlsbad  is among the tourist attractions in California that you just have to visit!

Spanning 50 acres, these rolling fields contain dazzling flowers known as Giant Tecolote Ranunculus flowers, which come out in full vibrant force in spring.

The optimal time to come here is between early March to early May, and this is when the ranch opens up to the public, too.

Wander through the dazzling fields of breathtaking flowers.

You can even have lunch here on one of the numerous picnic tables available, and if you can’t bring your own food, there are plenty of light refreshments sold.

Address:  5704 Paseo Del Norte, Carlsbad, CA 92008, USA

30. Muir Woods National Monument

Muir Woods National Monument

The Muir Woods National Monument is home to the most beautiful redwood trees in California.

These gargantuan wonders of nature tower overhead in awe-inspiring glory, seeming to stretch on forever in their quest to touch the sky above.

Redwood trees are believed to be the tallest on the planet, and they’re not just impressive in height – their width spans outwards, often reaching diameters wider than that of a car.

Trek down through the numerous trails and take in all the wooded wonder of lush, emerald greenery surrounding you – a true paradise in California.

Address:  1 Muir Woods Rd, Mill Valley, CA 94941, USA

31. Sturtevant Falls

Sturtevant Falls

Sturtevant Falls is an incredible spot for sightseeing.

Located in the Angeles National Forest, in Big Santa Anita Canyon, this waterfall measures fifty feet in height, and the cliff that it spills generously out of is coated in untamed algae and moss.

When you look into the water, you’ll see hues and tones of various colors playing against the ripples.

This location looks just like the backdrop from a postcard, and that’s plenty of reason to check it out!

32. Gray Whale Cove State Beach

Gray Whale Cove State Beach

Gray Whale Cove State Beach is one of the best beaches you’ll find in this state, making it a surefire hit among the top places to visit in California.

It is packed with rugged land that is perfect for hiking through, with plenty of trails to follow and explore.

Nearby, visitors can also check out the Pillar Point State Marine Conservation Area as well as the Montara State Marine Reserve.

There’s lots of wildlife to see and over 40 miles of trails to trek through if you’re feeling up to it!

Address:  Half Moon Bay, CA 94019, USA

33. Glass Beach

Glass Beach

Glass Beach is a fun and unique location in California.

Unlike most beaches, it isn’t coated in sand – instead, along its shores lie hundreds and hundreds of little bits of glass.

This glass comes from all sorts of items, whether ceramics, bottles, or other artifacts, and they washed in from garbage cliffs left by early settlers.

Visitors can enjoy treasure hunting across this delightful shore, which offers just as much rest and relaxation as any other beach, with a little extra pizazz and a special twist.

Do note that rules on whether you can take home a piece of glass differ, so read up before you go!

34. Natural Bridges

Natural Bridges

The Natural Bridges are one of the most fascinating points of interest in California.

Technically, these structures are called “karsts”, and they are created due to water erosion that slowly carves shapes out of soluble bedrock.

Located in the remnants of Coyote Creek, this staggering and astounding formation is so purposeful and imposing that it’s hard to believe it all happened naturally!

You can explore the area with waterproof clothing; bathing suits are preferred with how wet it’s going to get.

35. Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve

Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve

The official flower of California is the poppy, so it would be a crime not to join visitors in flocking to the impeccably beautiful Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve in the Mojave Desert.

In wildflower season, poppies grow in full force, typically in bright orange tones that you can see from a distance away!

The optimal time to head to this treasure in California is between March and May, which is when all the flowers bloom.

It’s such a huge location that even during its most popular times, you won’t feel like it’s too crowded to move.

Address:  15101 Lancaster Rd, Lancaster, CA 93536, USA

36. Bumpass Hell

Bumpass Hell

Bumpass Hell is a geothermal location in Lassen Volcanic National Park, a quieter and less frequented park in California.

It is packed with geysers, mud pots of boiling liquid, steam vents, and an uncommonly stained geography making it phenomenal to behold.

Sure, the sulfur can cause a bit of a stink in the area, but it’s still a nice little place to explore just for its scenery, history, and peculiar value.

You can find this unbelievable spot in the Sierra Nevada mountain range.

Be sure to stop by the Big Boiler, which is a fumarole that is among the hottest on the planet!

37. Encinitas Meditation Gardens

Encinitas Meditation Gardens / Wonderlane / flickr

Want a holiday away from the bustling crowds?

The Encinitas Meditation Gardens is one of the best places to visit in California for a slice of scenic gorgeousness without overpopulation.

Subtly colorful flora and ponds full of koi fish await you here, where they provide ultimate serenity.

Encinitas itself, meanwhile, is a little coastal town that has delicious açai bowls and plenty of down-to-earth opportunities to explore.

It is a breath of fresh air away from the hectic chaos of many other popular locales.

Address:  215 W K St, Encinitas, CA 92024, USA

38. Alamere Falls

Alamere Falls

Not only is Alamere Falls one of those beautiful spots you need to see once in your lifetime, but it’s also a pretty rare natural occurrence: a tidefall.

Essentially, its rushing water flows straight into the ocean – a unique sight you won’t see often in places across the country, let alone in California!

It’s a long hike to the waterfall’s base, but it’s very worth the 10-mile round trip.

While you’re at it, you can view the Pacific Ocean from cliff tops and even stop by Bass Lake to enjoy a little rope swing action.

39. Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is among the most loved tourist spots in the state, and it’s easily one of the most beautiful places in California.

According to legend, the trees that populate the area, called Joshua trees, were given a Biblical name by Mormons who traveled through the area.

If you’re a rock climber, you’ll love tackling this very rough and tricky terrain to get to the more than 5000-foot-tall Keys View.

If not, you can enjoy the sight of the incredible trees with their thick, rugged trunks or head over to the Cholla Cactus Garden for more desert plants.

40. Sonoma Valley

Sonoma Valley

Napa Valley can get overcrowded with tourists.

Sonoma Valley is a great alternative within California that provides all the wonders of wine country with half the crowd and on a lower budget.

The vineyards are stunning and stupendous, and along the sides of the valley, you’ll find beautiful coastline.

Sure, it’s not as popular as Napa Valley, but Sonoma Valley is still one of the marvelous places to see in California.

It doesn’t matter if you like wine or not – the vineyards are lovely enough!

41. Thousand Island Lake

Thousand Island Lake

Thousand Island Lake is famous for being a little difficult to get to, but it’s very rewarding if you make it there!

Sitting just beneath Banner Peak in the range of Sierra Nevada, this alpine Lake lies in wait in the Ansel Adams Wilderness.

The lake is full of multiple small little islands and feels delightful to take a dip in!

The journey to this California lake is just as beautiful as the lake itself.

You’ll see mountain peaks covered in snow, waterfalls cascading in glimmering streams, and transparently clear lakes full of refreshing cool water.

42. The Giant Rock

The Giant Rock

The Giant Rock sounds a little dull, but you’ll find that it’s one of the best spots in the Mojave Desert.

It spans across 5,800 square feet and is a completely free standing rock that is the biggest the earth has to offer.

It’s extremely tall, too – around seven stories in height!

If you’re looking for where to visit in California, this surprisingly all-natural sight is definitely worth the trip.

You’ll be amazed that something so massive can naturally exist, and how it came to stand alone like that is astonishing, too!

43. Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is packed with the well-known sequoia trees, one of which is the largest single stem tree on earth, not just in California!

It is known as the General Sherman and it can be found in the park’s Giant Forest area.

While you’re in the park, have fun by taking in the gorgeous scenery.

View Mount Whitney’s 14,505-foot peak, walk along hiking trails, and take in the sight of unique flora and fauna.

44. Golden Gate Bridge

Golden Gate Bridge

Not many of the most tourist-worthy spots in California are in cities, but the Golden Gate Bridge stands out due to its stellar, astounding splendor and grandeur.

Over 40 million cars drive across it annually, so there’s really no excuse not to be a visitor to this marvel of modern engineering.

Around the bridge, stunning natural water laps beneath. There are lots to do in the area – you can head to Sausalito by ferry for a quick day trip, or ride a bike around Fisherman’s Wharf.

Don’t forget your camera – the Golden Gate Bridge is the most photographed bridge in the world!

45. Alcatraz Island

Alcatraz Island

It’s odd to think of Alcatraz Island as a place to go in California, but it’s a once-in-a-lifetime type of activity that you’re sure to remember.

Located just off the shore of San Francisco by 1.25 miles, this island holds the infamous Alcatraz military prison, federal prison, and fortification.

While, here you can explore the island on a guided tour and see the dated architecture, hear old legends, and view gardens and remodeled buildings.

It’s an unusual slice of California that makes for a great stop on your journey.

Planning a trip to San Francisco soon? Make sure to check out our list of things to do in San Francisco !

46. Mossbrae Falls

Mossbrae Falls

Mossbrae Falls earns its downpour from a spring, and it empties its bowels into the Sacramento River.

Its canyon walls are, as its name suggests, coated in thick moss, which creates an otherworldly sort of appeal.

Located just beneath Shasta Springs, this waterfall is easily one of the most gorgeous points of interest in California if you’re into waterfalls and a spot of fun.

It looks like it came out of some old storybook!

Traveling to Sacramento soon? You’ll definitely love our list detailing the best things to do in Sacramento !

Bishop is one of those destinations that is perfect for nature-lovers.

This small town offers access to the 14,246-foot White Mountain Peak, which is a great excursion for passionate hikers who love working up a real sweat for picturesque, breathtaking, rewarding views!

Sure, it may not be the most popular location, but Bishop is still one of the best places to go in California.

You can visit their cultural center, museum, or city park.

There’s also the Sad Boulders, an area for hiking and bouldering, which is open to the public for all your climbing needs!

48. Monterey Beach

Monterey Beach

Monterey Beach is among the most beautiful ones along the coastline of Pacific Coast Highway in California.

Known also as Carmel-By-The-Sea, it provides wondrous views of tidepools, white sand, and teal waters – everything you need for the quintessential beach vacation.

Visitors to this beach can go surfing, whale watching, or wildflower hunting, and they can visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium to see some great marine wildlife up close!

If you go during the summer, your chances of spotting whales breaching the surface of the water are surprisingly high, so plan accordingly.

Planning a trip to Monterey soon? Be sure to check out our list of things to do in Monterey !

49. Nit Wit Ridge

Nit Wit Ridge / Damian Gadal / flickr

The Nit Wit Ridge has a bit of a funny name, but it’s a tourist attraction for a reason.

It is a large, rustic castle that is perched over the top of a hill. It is a folk-art-type structure built on 2.5 acres of land.

The very second you visit its large expanse, you’ll wonder how such places can exist in California at all!

Feel free to explore the palace and its open rooms.

You’ll be surprised by the dissonance between the old and the new – some ancient aspects linger, mingling with more modern innovations.

It’s truly an experience you have to have at least once in your life.

Address:  881 Hillcrest Dr, Cambria, CA 93428, USA

50. Painted Canyon

Painted Canyon

The Painted Canyons are relatively easy to hike through, so it’s perfect for beginners, or just those who want a more laidback excursion in California.

Visitors to these canyons need to climb ladders to get to where they need to go on this dessert excursion.

The walls of these canyons do, in fact, appear painted – stripes of red, green, pink, gray, and brown are streaked across the walls, pass through crevices and enjoy the surprisingly cool walk through this spot in the Mecca Hills.

It’s a great go-to location for anyone visiting California!

Address:  Painted Canyon Rd, Mecca, CA 92254, USA

Start Planning Your Trip To California

The Golden State is definitely one of the best places to visit in the world as it is full of beautiful attractions to feast your senses upon.

The next time you plan a trip to visit this enchanting state, make sure you make the time to stop at some of these places to go in California!