california places to visit in summer

10 Amazing Summer Destinations in California for Families

By: Author Leslie Harvey

Posted on Published: May 22, 2023

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California is a destination that can be explored year-round, but there’s something special about summer in the Golden State. The season in California conjures up iconic moments in time and popular culture, from the Summer of Love in San Francisco to the Beach Boys’ Endless Summer.

Summer in California inspires wanderlust. With school out and pleasant weather in most corners of the state, travelers flock to California. Locals like our family enjoy weekend excursions or road trips to yet-to-be-explored nooks and crannies on our personal California bucket lists.

Where are the best California destinations for travelers with kids during the summer months? While many top family-friendly destinations like San Francisco , Los Angeles , or San Diego are a fit year round, there are a number of places that are really in their prime during the summer months.

Your best bet in the summer in California is to understand the weather differences all over the state. In our family’s travels all over California, we have found it best to stay on the coast or in the mountains in summer. The Central Valley and a lot of other inland destinations can get blazingly hot, making some destinations that might be perfect for spring break or a fall getaway uncomfortably warm from approximately June to August.

So, without further ado, family travelers should consider these destinations in California in summer.

Top Destinations To Visit in California in Summer with Kids

1. monterey.

A world class aquarium, delicious seafood and wine, amazing beaches, and plenty of outdoor space to hike and explore make Monterey an ideal family travel destination in summer. It’s no wonder that Monterey welcomes several million visitors every year.

Just be aware that a lot of other travelers are on to this little secret by now. Summer in Monterey is always busy and hotel prices are more expensive than usual during summer months. Consider staying a little bit inland to save on hotel costs. Or try to schedule a trip for weekdays to avoid the legions of weekenders escaping San Francisco (like my family!).

For activities when you get there, check out my top 10 things to do in Monterey with kids .

2. The East Bay (Oakland, Berkeley, & Alameda)

San Francisco often overshadows its neighbors to the east. Travelers who never leave the city, however, are missing out. As an East Bay resident myself (I live in Alameda) I can attest to the fact that the area is pretty glorious in the summer. The East Bay gets far less fog than San Francisco but rarely gets too hot either. A lot of family-friendly activities are far less costly. The restaurant scene rivals San Francisco’s, but with its focus slightly more attuned to comfort food, the dining experience is more kid-friendly.

Take in an Oakland A’s baseball game (while they are still here – boo to the latest 2023 stadium news!), pay a visit to Children’s Fairyland (a personal inspiration for Walt Disney when he was building Disneyland), have STEM adventures at the Lawrence Hall of Science or Chabot Space and Science Center, or play pilot aboard the USS Hornet. Although parts of Alameda County are very urban, there are lots of hiking trails as well as beaches (we are partial to Crown Beach and Crab Cove in Alameda, of course!).

Our family’s favorite place to stay when we are looking for a staycation is the historic Claremont Club & Spa by Fairmont . The hotel has an enormous pool area and other recreation options like tennis courts.

For more ideas on what to do in the East Bay, check out these top things to do in Alameda with kids or my guide to  things to do in Oakland with kids .

3. Orange County

Forget the OC cliches. The area is pretty much heaven for family travelers in summer months, with beaches and theme parks leading the list of family-friendly things to do. Orange County boasts both Disneyland and Knott’s Berry Farm as well as six world-famous beaches (Seal Beach, Huntington Beach, Newport Beach, Laguna Beach, Dana Point and San Clemente).

But lest you think a vacation to the OC is too much about leisure, there are educational opportunities for family travelers too. Stop by Mission San Juan Capistrano for a history lesson about the mission settlements in California. Or pay a visit to the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Birthplace in Yorba Linda to spark a family discussion about presidential politics.

4. Mendocino County

Go north, young families! While Napa and Sonoma may get all the press, Mendocino County just to the north of them is a smart wine country alternative in the busy summer travel months. Mendocino is still a bit undiscovered. As a result, it can really be an inexpensive and family-friendly choice.

The town of Boonville is home to the Anderson Valley Brewing Company where you can take a tour or try a few beers in the family-friendly tap room. Then head out to the coast to the towns of Mendocino and Fort Bragg. Ride the historic Skunk Train, stroll through the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens, visit Glass Beach, or explore the coast’s famous lighthouses.

Check out even more travel tips in this complete guide to visiting Mendocino with kids .

5. Gold Country (Nevada County)

Bring the Gold Rush era to life with a visit to Nevada County. The two main towns, Grass Valley and Nevada City, have numerous gold rush-related attractions for families. Make sure to explore mining history at the Empire Mine State Park and the Northstar Mine Museum.

And with an area so focused on 19th century history, you can bet that there is a serious focus on trains here too. Train-loving kiddos should be sure to make a stop at the Nevada County Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum or take a trip on the Railbus.

There are several lakes popular for summer recreation in the county so consider some time on the water as well.

Related : Guide to Every Train-Related Attraction in Northern California

6. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Lassen Volcanic National Park near Redding is one of the country’s least visited national parks. But don’t let that status fool you. It has all the geothermal intrigue of Yellowstone but without the crowds or the cost. It gets so few visitors because of its isolated location and also due to the limited number of months the road through it is open – not because of what it has to offer!

Most of the snow usually melts in June or by early July, so don’t go too early in the summer season. Always check the official website to make sure the road is open when you plan to go. The area’s high elevation keeps Lassen pleasant even in the summer months. And Bumpass Hell is one can’t-miss hike with just the right amount of challenge for younger kids.

7. Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks

Editor’s Note: As summer 2023 season approaches, be aware that some of the roads in both parks are closed due to flood and storm damage. Many attractions and some lodging options are currently closed. Check current conditions here .

Don’t want to fight the summer crowds of Yosemite ? Another less-visited national park destination, Sequoia National Park & Kings Canyon National Park, should be on your list. Kids can gawk at the world’s largest living creatures: the giant sequoia trees.

The hiking and camping opportunities are pretty endless. Make reservations early if you want to explore Crystal Cave, as tickets are limited and the area is traditionally only open in the summer ( Editor’s Note: Crystal Cave is still closed in 2023 due to fire damage, but is anticipated to reopen in 2024 ). The area has suffered some fire damage in the last couple of years, so always be prepared for the risks of travel in wildfire season , especially for visits later in the summer when fires are most common.

Related : Beginner’s Guide to National Parks Travel

8. Lake Tahoe

Let’s face it, Lake Tahoe needs to be on this list every season of the year. In summer, activities revolve around boating and beach-going and hiking and biking for adventurous families. If you are planning to take a plunge in Lake Tahoe, bring a wetsuit – it stays cold! Another popular water activity many families enjoy is floating/rafting down the Truckee River.

Consider a trip into the town of Truckee for delicious and unpretentious restaurants. And take some time for California history with a visit to Donner Memorial State Park’s Visitors Center and Museum.

Just be prepared for some serious traffic in summer, especially on weekends, as Tahoe is a popular destination for millions of Bay Area residents and other Northern Californians.

Related : First Timer’s Guide to Visiting Lake Tahoe

9. Carlsbad

Pretty much every kid has a Lego phase. And when they do, make a beeline for Carlsbad, the home of LEGOLAND California . The neighboring SEA LIFE Aquarium and adjacent LEGOLAND water park mean that you can easily spend a weekend or longer in the area.

The area has more to do than just theme parks, with numerous gorgeous beaches in town and the surrounding communities. The nearby beach towns of La Jolla to the south and Oceanside to the north are easy outings for even more coastal adventures. And of course, the city of San Diego isn’t far away either with even more family-friendly things to do.

10. Santa Barbara

Keeping things along the coast, the city of Santa Barbara is another glorious beach destination for families in summer. Located between LA and San Francisco on California’s Central Coast, it’s drivable as a weekend summer getaway for millions of Californians.

Stearns Wharf is a fun place to explore or eat. Visit the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center for some marine education. My family loved renting a surrey to bike the beach paths the last time we visited. Santa Barbara is home to one of the largest missions in California, so there are opportunities for some California history lessons as well.

Not far up the road is the city of Solvang – the “Danish Capital of America.” Families can enjoy delicious Danish food and baked goods and stroll the town to check out the architecture that naturally features a windmill or two.

Share your favorite summer travel spots in California in the comments! What did I miss?

California’s Best Destinations in Every Season

Don’t miss my travel guides for every season in California:

• Best Spring Break Destinations in California for Families
• Best Summer Destinations in California for Families – YOU ARE HERE
• Best Fall Destinations in California for Families
• Best Winter Destinations in California for Families

Disclosure: A few of the destinations in this list have provided hosted attractions or lodging to my family over the years. All opinions are my own.

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Summer in California: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

What's Special in California During the Summer

If you plan to go to California in the summer, you'll find it colored gold. After the winter rains end, the hillside grasses turn golden, their color intensifying in the late afternoon sun. It gives credence to the idea that California's nickname "The Golden State" comes from the color of its hills - although, in reality, it came from the California Gold Rush of 1849.

Summer is peak vacation season all over the state. You'll find all the major attractions packed with people and well-known hiking trails may be busier than the city sidewalks.

Summer is the time to enjoy locally grown fruits and vegetables. Especially delicious are strawberries from around Watsonville or Oxnard and stone fruits (peaches, plums, apricots and the like) from the central valley. To find a place to buy them check the farmers' market guide .

Summer is also a great time to dine outdoors, but if you're anywhere near the coast, bring a jacket. It can cool off faster (and get colder) than you might expect.

California Beaches in Summer

California beaches are best in summer, and these are the best California beaches to visit or try these top places for a California beach vacation . If you expect every one of those beaches to be sun-drenched and looking like a scene from Baywatch , you may be surprised.

California's summer coastal weather pattern has its own nickname: June gloom. In early summer, the cloudy "marine layer" hangs around over the coast all day long. It can happen even as far south as San Diego. In some years, it continues into "No Sky July." In northern California, it can start as early as "May Gray," extending into "No Sky July" and can last into "Fogust." To find out more and what to do when it happens, see the guide to June Gloom in California .

Beaches in Orange and San Diego Counties are also susceptible to so-called "red tides" in the summer when red-colored algae grow so fast that they "bloom," coloring the water in the process. It's unsightly for sure, and it's safer to avoid swimming while they're happening. Find out  everything you need to know about red tides here . 

During spring and summer, two to six nights after the full and new moons and right after high tide, thousands of small grunion fish come ashore on southern California beaches. In about 30 seconds, the female digs a small hole lays her eggs, and the male fertilizes them. The result is a summer evening's fishy version of an X-Rated movie, and thousands of people come to watch at beaches around San Diego and Los Angeles.

California Weather in Summer

California's summer weather is usually dry and pleasant, but Southern California can get unbearably hot at times.

The deserts get even hotter, forcing residents into air-conditioned comfort and keeping tourists away. Death Valley has a well-earned reputation as one of the hottest places on earth, making it a place you may want to avoid. Its highest recorded temperature was 134°F and summer highs top 120°F.

You can get details of the highs and lows around the state by consulting the guides to the average highs, lows, and more weather facts in these popular tourist destinations:  San Diego ,  Los Angeles ,  Disneyland ,  Death Valley ,  Palm Springs ,  San Francisco ,  Yosemite , and  Lake Tahoe .

What to Pack

In a single day, you could be in conditions that vary by 20 degrees or more. The desert will be too hot to think about. The mountains will be cool. It may be hot in the cities, but San Francisco may be foggy. And it's always cooler at the coast than it is inland.

You can check the average temperatures using the links above, but the only thing to do about all that variation is to know that you might need almost anything except a parka and earmuffs. The only reliable way to plan your packing is to check the forecast for a few of your destinations a few days before your trip.

Where to Go in California in the Summer

Two of California's most scenic highways are open only in the summer and either of them would make a great road trip:

• Tioga Pass through Yosemite may open anytime after April 15, depending on when they can clear the snow off the road. The drive through Tioga Pass is the most direct route to the fascinating area east of the Sierras that includes the ghost town of Bodie and the world's oldest living things - the Bristlecone Pines.
• Sequoia National Park is open year-round, but the road into Kings Canyon opens in early summer. This spectacular drive into the heart of a glacier-carved canyon is well worth planning a visit when it's open.
• Any of the seven California routes that will make you swoon (or more than one linked together) would make a perfect summer weekend trip.

These places are also at their best in summer, or only open then:

• The Sacramento River Delta is very popular for boating and water sports.
• Lake Tahoe is often thought of as a winter destination, but there's more for everyone to do there in summer.
• Some theme parks are open only in summer, and they all have longer hours and more going on.
• Yosemite High Sierra Camps and Sequoia High Sierra Camp are open only in summer. Plan ahead to get into the lottery for the Yosemite camp.
• Find the best places for a summer getaway , with fun events and plenty of sunshine.

Things to Do in California in the Summer

• Wildflower blooms continue into early summer at higher elevations. In some years, you'll find them blooming all summer along roadsides in Yosemite and Sequoia.
• Nesting season for herons and egrets continues through early July. Use this guide to find the best places to see them .
• The Perseid meteor showers occur in mid-August, with as many as 60 meteors per hour streaking through the summer night sky.  Big Sur , Mendocino, and locations along  Scenic Highway 395  are some of the best places to see it. Check the exact dates for this year's  spectacular show in the sky.

Summer Events in California

• Summer in California is the time for festivals and concerts. Almost every weekend, someone is celebrating a food or wine festival.
• Outdoor theatre performances and outdoor concerts are some of the best things to do on a summer evening. And California is the home of lots of big music festivals.
• Father's Day is the third Sunday in June. For ways to have fun with good ol' Dad,  try these great Father's Day ideas .
• Fourth of July is the zenith of summer celebration. Locales from Lake Tahoe to San Diego set off pyrotechnic extravaganzas. Use our guide to find the one that best suits you .
• Labor Day marks the end of summer, the last chance for a fun getaway with an extra day to do it. Check some of these great Labor Day ideas .

Summer Travel Tips

If you're looking for more details about visiting California in the summer, you can check these monthly guide to California in  June ,  July , and  August .

And contrary to any urban legends you may have heard, California does have four seasons. Check them out in the guides to California in Spring ,  California in Fall , and  California in Winter .

The claim that Mark Twain once said: "The coldest winter I ever spent was a summer in San Francisco" isn't true, but the sentiment is and many visitors who think otherwise end up wishing they had taken plenty of warm layers to San Francisco's Fourth of July fireworks show.

Highways are generally open in summer except for repairs and improvement projects. To be sure your route is clear before you go, check highway status .

July in California: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

January in California: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

December in California: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

The Best Spring Getaways in California

November in California: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

Scenic California Drives: 7 Routes That Will Make You Swoon

August in California: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

Weekend Getaways in California: 34 Trips You Can Take

April in California: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

July in San Diego: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

Yosemite National Park: The Complete Guide

Plan a Vacation in Pismo Beach

California's Top Summer Getaway Locations

Father's Day in California

June in California: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

Best of the West: Top Tourist Destinations

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14 Must-Visit Spots in California in Summer

From gorgeous coastline to blue skies and sunny weather, California has everything it needs to be the ultimate summer destination—in fact, many consider California to be the place of the “endless summer.” And while that’s true for many destinations around the state, visiting California in summer still requires some pre-planning as there are locales that aren’t ideal summer destinations due to scorching heat (ahem, Death Valley), and even surprisingly foggy weather like in San Francisco.

While you can pretty much get away with an idyllic vacation anywhere in Southern California in summer, crowds are another important thing to consider. Around Los Angeles, SoCal really explodes with tourism in the summer. So if that’s something you’d prefer to avoid, definitely keep that in mind. Trust me, I live here, so I know!

Thankfully, there are plenty of great, low-key options that can be taken advantage of during the summer months.

Whether you’re looking for breathtaking hikes in a National Park, city vibes, or crystal clear water and perfect surf, California in summer offers an abundance of sun-filled experiences and adventures. This post is here to guide you to the best places to visit in the Golden State during the summer season, no matter what type of trip you’re seeking!

Your Ultimate Guide to the Best Places to Explore in California in Summer

If you’re looking to plan an epic summer road trip in California, Big Sur is the ultimate destination. In fact, it’s up there on my list of best road trip destinations in the entire United States, as the coastal drive itself along Highway 1 has a front-row seat to dramatic rocky cliffs that plunge down into the most gorgeous turquoise water.

Big Sur is personally one of my favorite destinations in all of California, but in the summer months you can risk some foggy weather. That being said, a bit of fog and cloud cover can add to the drama of Big Sur and make you feel like you’re hanging out in the clouds. To avoid a completely foggy trip to Big Sur, make sure to stay over for several nights and wait to visit toward the end of the summer if you can, when better weather and smaller crowds are more common.

From a sunset photoshoot at Bixby Bridge to a walk through the redwoods, there are plenty of outdoor activities to do in the summer here. I also highly recommend taking advantage of the longer day and better weather by having beers with a view at Nepenthe (which is one of my favorite spots in Big Sur).

Read More : How to Plan an Epic Big Sur Road Trip

Sequoia National Forest 

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Despite the fact that I have only visited Sequoia National Park during the winter, it is most popular in the summer thanks to the weather and amazing hiking trails. Though I loved experiencing the majestic redwoods covered in snow, there is something about Sequoia National Park that screams summer—and a major benefit is that much more of the park is open for exploring during this season.

If you’re into camping, hiking, and just general “outdoorsy-ness,” this is the place for you! During the summer, the weather stays pretty warm, making June through August the best time to visit. That being said, this is also the most popular time in the park, so being able to plan your trip during the weekdays can help cut back on the crowds.

Keep in mind that temperatures will depend a bit on the elevation. In lower elevation areas of the park, temps can reach the mid-90s during the day, though in higher elevations it’s a bit more comfortable with highs sitting around 70 degrees Fahrenheit. The evenings are cool and remain around the low 60s.

If you’re into photography, love the outdoors, or just want to check a new National Park off your bucket list, then visiting this California gem in summer is a must.

Read More : The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Sequoia in Winter

Laguna Beach

If you grew up in the 90s/early 2000s, then I’m willing to bet you’ve heard of Laguna Beach and the MTV show that made it famous. But if not, let me introduce you to this tiny town in Orange County that is known for its crystal clear water, impeccable surf, and affluent residence. It’s a little less than two hours from L.A. without traffic, and though I love the beaches in Santa Monica and Venice, Laguna is the best place to plan a beach day during the summer.

The water is so much cleaner and warmer, and in my opinion, the surrounding scenery of the beaches is a lot more idyllic. One thing to keep in mind when planning a trip to Laguna Beach, California in summer is the fact that this town is not cheap. In fact, most accommodations will cost you a pretty penny.

However, it is possible to get last-minute deals during the weekdays, and since the beach can get pretty packed Saturday through Sunday, weekdays are more enjoyable in general. You’ll also have an easier time with parking this way.

Though it is a great place to take the kids for a family vacay, I also love visiting Laguna with girlfriends. Watch the sunset while sipping on a drink at The Deck before dancing the night away at Skyloft or enjoying a nightcap in your hotel room overlooking the ocean.

Mendocino 

Mendocino is a quaint seaside town on the northern coast of California known for its rocky beachside cliffs, local art scene, and wonderful coastline trails. Though winter is great for whale watching, summer has better weather, and since it is still a pretty low-key town, you can definitely avoid crazy crowds.

I highly recommend checking out the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens , as it is the only botanical gardens situated right above the beach. There are also great wineries and restaurants here, just be sure to make reservations early in the summer. All in all, if you’re an outdoorsy traveler with an appreciation for food and wine, then you’ll really love the natural beauty and culture of Mendocino. It makes for the perfect summertime destination for those who like a blend of outdoor excursions and more high-end experiences.

Read More : 11 Can’t-Miss Things in Mendocino

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San Diego is a super family-friendly destination, and it really is the perfect mix of big city vibes and laid-back beach town. If you’re traveling with kids, San Diego in the summer means spending your days building sandcastles on the beach or visiting  Balboa Park  and the  San Diego Zoo .

However, San Diego is just as fun for adults as it is for kids—especially in the summer! From Pacific Beach to Little Italy, San Diego has a great nightlife scene. The crowd in PB tends to be on the younger side, while the Gaslamp Quarter is more diverse in age and scene. Personally, I love Little Italy! In addition to the bars in San Diego, there are some great wine tasting rooms, and you can even book a full tour through San Diego Tours and hit all of the best spots.

During your visit, don’t miss beach days at Sunset Cliffs and sunset strolls along Torrey Pines to experience the classic California endless summer vibes.

Mammoth Lakes

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Mammoth Lakes is truly one of the most breathtaking destinations to visit in California in summer. The surrounding mountains serve as a picture-perfect backdrop to the bright blue lake, and you can take part in a multitude of outdoor activities ranging from mountain biking to hiking to kayaking.

Though Mammoth is super popular during the winter for skiing and snowboarding, the warmer weather and clear skies definitely bring crowds in the summer. In fact, typical summer in Mammoth Lakes sees about 1.5 million visitors, making it the busiest season of the year (and for good reason).

That being said, there is plenty of room to spread out and explore while being out in nature, just be sure to book accommodations in advance. Though they’re not lavish, places like the Mammoth Mountain Inn and Tamarack Lodge are cozy and conveniently located near everything.

Malibu is one of the most exclusive beach towns in Southern California, and it definitely comes alive in the summertime. If you live in Los Angeles, Malibu is the ultimate place for a beach day. Since I live in Santa Monica, it only takes me about thirty minutes to get to Malibu, so LA locals can definitely make this a day trip.

However, if you are visiting from further away, Malibu is definitely a splurge when it comes to summer vacation. All of the hotels are stunning, but they are definitely on the pricier side (especially during the summer). Some of my favorites include the Malibu Beach Inn and the Surfrider Malibu .

From Nobu to Geoffrey’s, there are some amazing upscale restaurants that are right on the coast. If you can, try to make a reservation at either place around sunset so that you can enjoy dinner while the sky lights up over the Pacific.

In addition to hitting the beach, Malibu is also great for hiking, visiting the iconic pier, tide pooling, shopping, and even wine tasting! Though Malibu Wines is one of the more popular options, I think Cielo Farms is the best place to taste some vino and take in the views.

Pismo Beach

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If you’re looking to go beach camping this summer, Pismo Beach should be at the top of your list! Though the temps stay between the 70s and 80s, you may find that there is a pretty constant layer of fog in the mornings, but it should burn off in the afternoon most days. That being said, Pismo Beach is most popular from September to November, so if you’re hoping to explore the sand dunes and check out the pier without the crowd, summer is ideal!

No visit to Pismo is complete without a visit to the Oceano Dunes SVRA for some playing in the sand dunes. It’s seriously a blast (but also sort of scary), and adrenaline junkies will definitely get a thrill. There are also about 500 camping units here. However, if you’re looking for something a bit more high-end, check out the Vespera Resort on Pismo Beach or the Cliffs Hotel and Spa .

Santa Barbara 

Santa Barbara is without a doubt one of the dreamiest and most stunning places on the California coast. Though it is technically the start of the Central Coast, some still lump it in with the rest of SoCal. That being said, I love how you can start to notice the difference in topography once you reach Santa Barbara.

From paddleboarding in the harbor to wine tasting in the Funk Zone, Santa Barbara is home to so many summer activities, making this a great place for a weekend away. It’s only about an hour and a half from Los Angeles, but if you are coming from further away, I recommend at least three days in Santa Barbara.

Once July hits, the weather in Santa Barbara definitely heats up, though I would recommend always having a light jacket or sweater on hand for the evenings. One of the most epic things to do in the summer in Santa Barbara is book a sunset sail with the Santa Barbara Sailing Center . It is the most breathtaking place to watch the sunset and you almost always get to see some dolphins during the trip.

Read More : Hotel Californian Review in Santa Barbara

If you’re looking for a true coastal getaway this summer that’s off the beaten path, then it doesn’t get better than Trinidad. This charming coastal town is located in Humboldt County, and with a population of less than 400, it is one of the smallest inhabited cities in all of California. My time in Trinidad was so peaceful, filled with days spent kayaking in the bay, beach picnics and breathtaking sunset sessions.

Though more and more travelers have discovered the beauty of Trinidad, it still sees much smaller crowds in the summer when compared to places like Carmel-by-the-Sea and Point Reyes since it’s much further north and a bit of a trek to get to.

You’ll find that the beaches here provide a totally different setting from those in SoCal, with more hidden coves and rocky features. My favorite spots in particular are Moonstone Beach and College Cove. What’s even cooler is that Trinidad provides easy to access to the beaches one day and majestic redwood forests the next, as Redwood National and State Parks are just a 25 minute drive away.

If you visit in summer though, don’t expect constant sunny skies, as Trinidad’s wet season is between June and December, so you may experience some random showers. Though they don’t last long, they often come out of nowhere (but honestly, it’s kind of cool and refreshing, especially in the summer).

Read More : Northern California Road Trip Guide for Nature Lovers

Orange County

Though Laguna Beach is technically in Orange County, I wanted to highlight the fact that the OC in general is a great place to visit in California during summer. From Huntington Beach to San Clemente, Orange County has beautiful beaches, great food, and perpetually sunny weather. Even more inland Irvine is a foodie’s dream, featuring an amazing restaurant scene that specifically highlights a variety of Asian cuisine ranging from Chinese and Vietnamese to Thai.

If you’re looking for a fun birthday or bachelorette idea, consider renting a Duffy in Newport Beach. These little boats can be driven by pretty much anyone, and it’s the perfect way to get out onto the water without having to stray too far from the coast. Even just strolling around Balboa Island and bar hopping makes for a festive weekend away.

Orange County is also known to go all out for the 4th of July, so if you’re looking to experience stunning fireworks right over the water, this is the place to be.

Channel Islands

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The Channel Islands are one of the coolest and most underrated natural places in California. Though most people have heard of Catalina, the other Channel Islands are almost completely untouched, allowing you to connect with nature and see a totally new side to the West Coast.

To access the islands, simply take a boat from Ventura (which is only about an hour away from Los Angeles). While you do have the option to camp on Santa Cruz island, day trips are also an option, and you can do everything from kayaking to snorkeling to hiking. The water here seriously looks like something from another planet, and it’s crazy to think that these islands are actually a part of California.

This is also the ultimate summer destination for animal lovers as you can expect to see creatures like the famous island fox, dolphins, colorful fish, and even sharks.

Catalina Island

Looking to take a European-esque vacation without leaving the state? Catalina Island is the closest that you can get to the Amalfi Coast or French Riviera in California. From snorkeling in the crystal clear water to posting up with a drink at Descanso Beach Club , summertime in Catalina is a literal dream.

That being said, the summer brings pretty crazy crowds, and since the island is so small, you might be a bit overwhelmed. However, the weather really is best during the summer, and if you can plan your visit Monday through Thursday, you might have better luck with hotel prices and less crowding.

To get here, all you need to do is book a boat ride through the  Catalina Express . The ride itself only takes about an hour from the ports in Long Beach or San Pedro, and it’s not uncommon to spot some dolphins along the way. Though I recommend booking a hotel for a night or two (I love The Edgewater and The Avalon Hotel ) Catalina can be accomplished in a day trip since the boats start super early and the latest leaves around 8:00 PM.

Read More : How to Spend the Perfect Weekend on Catalina Island

Lassen Volcanic National Park

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Lassen Volcanic National Park is such a beautiful and underrated National Park in California. If you want to enjoy epic views and stellar hikes without the crowds that you’ll find in Yosemite during the summer, Lassen Volcanic National Park is a great alternative. One of the best things about Lassen Volcanic National Park is the fact that even the in the summer, the weather stays pretty mild during the day but gets very cold at night (we’re talking high 30s, low 40s).

Located in the northern part of California, Lassen is best known for its bubbling mud pits which have a prehistoric feel to them. This park is very otherworldly, and it’s a really unique place to take photographs and camp out under the stars. Bumpass Hell is one of the most popular hypothermal spots and is definitely a must-see while in the park.

Camping is definitely the best option when it comes to accommodations, and there are seven different campgrounds within the park to choose from. Though they are not required, reservations are strongly recommended in the summer due to bigger crowds.

Where do you plan on visiting in California this summer?

Planning a trip right now don’t miss my go-to websites for booking everything from flights and tours, to accommodation and more:.

• Booking.com for the best hotel deals
• World Nomads for flexible travel insurance
• VRBO for awesome rentals
• Skyscanner for finding the best flight deals
• Hostelworld for budget accommodation
• Rentalcars.com for easy car rentals

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

The Best Nature Getaways in California

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

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

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

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

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

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

Yosemite National Park

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

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

Walk the easy trail to the bottom of Yosemite Falls.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Death Valley National Park

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

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

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

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

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

Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks

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

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

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

Joshua Tree National Park

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

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

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

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

San Francisco

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Santa Barbara

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

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

Downtown Santa Barbara is both lively and elegant.

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

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

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

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

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

Los Angeles

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

It has something for everyone!

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

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

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

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

Both areas boast exceptional eateries and excellent people watching!

Palm Springs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Today, it houses shops and restaurants.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

It even has a geyser!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Snag a table with a water view for dinner!

Many restaurants have patios with amazing views of Monterey Bay.

Carmel-by-the-Sea

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

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

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

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

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

Morro Bay has a charming fishing village feel.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Solvang, California

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

Laguna Beach

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

But there’s also plenty to do here!

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

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

Laguna Beach is known for its public art installations.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mammoth Lakes

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

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

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

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

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

Nevada City

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

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

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

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

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

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The 40 best California outdoor experiences. Period.

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This is the California we’ve been pining for — 40 summer destinations that call to us loudly in good times and bad.

To build this list, I thought about the places I was most eager to see, hear, feel, smell and taste again after decades of traveling the state and 14 months of staying home. There are no deserts here, because we’re talking about summer. And no theme parks, because they get enough attention. But what epic, irresistible wonders there are! I’ve road-tested them all, except for one spot 14,505 feet above sea level. (Fortunately, my colleague Mary Forgione, of “ The 50 Best Hikes in L.A. ,” has that summit covered.)

If you’re getting to know California, these 40 are great places to begin. But we’ve tried to make this list more than a starter kit. Even if you’re an old hand, there will be destinations that you’ve missed, and I’ve added a pro tip to every destination.

Has the pandemic changed these places? Yes. Scores of restaurants and other businesses are gone. Among those remaining, there are smaller staffs, more patio seats, shorter hours and tighter crowd limits. All those circumstances are evolving, so check websites.

If you have a nomination for this collection, send it to @mrcsreynolds ( Twitter or Instagram ), [email protected] or tell us here . Like us in the face of adversity, this list needs to grow and change.

Now let’s get back on the road.

The 40 best California experiences: Fall edition

The 40 best California experiences: Winter edition

American River by raft

Balboa Park

Nepenthe, Big Sur

Burney Falls

Carpinteria

Catalina Island

Chandelier Tree

Chicano Park

Cold Spring Tavern

Columbia State Historic Park

Crystal Pier

Downtown SLO Farmers Market

Glass Beach

Golden Gate Park

Griffith Observatory

Hollywood Bowl

La Brea Tar Pits

Lassen Volcanic National Park

Malibu Pier

Mammoth Mountain

Marshall Store

Monterey Bay

Mt. Tamalpais State Park

Mt. Whitney

Napa Valley Wine Train

Pageant of the Masters, Laguna Beach

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

Santa Cruz Island

Santa Monica Farmers Market

Sensorio, Paso Robles

Steamer Lane, Santa Cruz

Temecula Valley by balloon

Torrey Pines Gliderport

Trees of Mystery

Venice Beach

Ferry Building and waterfront

Yosemite National Park

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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

Irjaliina Paavonpera/Travel + Leisure

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.

James Marshall/Getty Images

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

Santa Monica Pier

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

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

Mammoth Lakes

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

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

Santa Barbara

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

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

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

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

Disneyland Resort/Christian Thompson

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

Yosemite National Park

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

Channel Islands

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

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

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

San Francisco

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

Death Valley

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

Big Bear Lake

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

Santa Catalina Island

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

Redwood National Park

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

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

Laguna Beach

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

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

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Ultimate California Bucket List: 100 Adventures You Need to Have in the State

As a state, California really does have a little bit of everything. From the scenic coastal drives and the arid deserts to towering Eastern Sierras and the large metropolitan cities, you could spend your whole life exploring this state and still not see all that it has to offer. I have spent the last five years trying to document as much of it as I can on my site, so I figured the five year anniversary would be a good time to create a bucket list of the 100 best spots I have seen over my time exploring. Check them out below and let me know what you would add to this list in the comments.

1. Marvel at Burney Falls

One of my personal favorite spots, Burney Falls in Northern California is probably the best waterfall in the entire state. Sure there are bigger ones in Yosemite, but for me, the cascading power of this waterfall makes it something I keep coming back to again and again.

• Read about it here

2. Hike to Hollywood Sign

There are few things more iconic in California then the famous Hollywood Sign. Hiking to it is a rite of passage for many a Southern California hiker, and while you can’t get that close to it, you can still look down on this icon with the city of Los Angeles behind it, making it a must do in the state.

3. Drive the Big Sur Coastline

The Big Sur coastline has been inspiring people for centuries with its rugged mountains that lead right down to picturesque beaches. Make sure you have a few days to explore though as there is so much to see.

4. Get Your Feet Wet at Fern Canyon

One of California’s best and easiest hikes, Fern Canyon in Northern California was a spot used in the filming of Jurassic Park, The Lost World. If that doesn’t tell you how beautiful it is then just remember this movie was supposed to take place on a tropical island. It is one of those hikes you won’t forget.

5. Stargaze at Glacier Point

There are lots of great places for dark night skies in California, but my favorite is Glacier Point in Yosemite. There is just something about watching the sunset fade over half dome and then seeing the stars light up the sky behind it that is just magical to me.

6. Kayak to Fannette Island in Emerald Bay State Park

In South Lake Tahoe sits one of my favorite state parks in all of California, Emerald Bay. In the middle of the bay is an island with an old tea house on top of it. Rent a kayak and paddle out to the island, where you can leave the kayak and walk up to the old tea house.

7. See the Rocks Move at the Death Valley Racetrack

No trip to Death Valley is complete without taking the 27-mile dirt road out to the racetrack where the rocks move on their own. This desolate spot, out on an old dry lake bed, is a place you need to see with your own eyes to believe.

8. Watch the Sunset over the Golden Gate Bridge

The Golden Gate Bridge is up there with the Hollywood Sign as one of the most notable man-made objects in the state. I never get tired of seeing it, as it is just so majestic. Take the time to sit and watch the sun go down on it when you are in the area. I like Moore Pier or Battery Point for this.

9. Walk up Salvation Mountain

One man’s tribute to God’s Love is a really fun road trip destination out in the Salton Sea. Sure it can be a strange place to visit and incredibly hot in the summer, but you will never forget seeing this crazy painted mountain right out in the arid desert.

10. Climb to the Highest Point in the Contiguous   USA ,  Mt Whitney

If you are a hiker then of course Mt Whitney is on your list. While it is not technical, it is a real grind to get to the top especially considering the high altitude which tops out at over 14,000 feet. However, once you get there, you will be standing on top of the tallest mountain in the lower 48, which is quite an achievement.

11. Wine Taste at the Oldest Winery in the State

In Sonoma County sits the oldest, continuously running winery in all of California. At over a century and a half old it is even on the National Register of Historical Places and it is a fun spot to say you visited when in CA. The winery is called Buena Vista, and it has an awesome old stone building that you wine taste in.

12. Explore the Capitol Building in Sacramento

Sacramento itself is a great spot to spend some time and dive into the awesome Farm to Fork scene they are cultivating. However, the most unique thing you can do in the city is visit the Capitol Building and see the different Houses represented there. I found this to be really interesting and something that should be on everyone’s list.

13. Take a Boat to the Channel Islands

The Channel Islands are one of the least visited national parks in the entire United States, which makes them an amazingly peaceful spot for exploring and for relaxing your mind. Whether it is kayaking, hiking or wildlife viewing you will find something to love on these remote islands.

14. Watch the Sunset over the Sunset Cliffs

By far one of my favorite spots for watching the sunset is the aptly named Sunset Cliffs in San Diego. I have been here countless times, and I never tire of how beautiful the area is and how amazing the sunset appears as it eases slowly down over the rocks and water. It feels remote even though it is right in the middle of one of the busiest cities in the USA.

15. See the Oldest Trees in the World

Taking the trip up to the Ancient Bristlecone Forest outside of Big Pine should be on every adventurer’s list. The oldest living tree in the world is situated up there and even if that wasn’t the case, these gnarled, and unique pine trees are a photographers paradise.

16. Walk the Cypress Tree Tunnel in Point Reyes

Sure you have seen this on one of your favorite photographer’s Instagrams, but have you thought about visiting yourself? It is such an easy spot to get to a you literally just drive up. The pictures are just incredible with the old cypress grove seeming to close in on you as you walk the road.

17. Sit at the Base of the Largest Tree in the World

Not to be overshadowed by the oldest tree in the world, the largest tree in the world is also in California, in Sequoia National Park. It is hard to comprehend when you see it as it is just so large, but it really does make you realize how small you are in the grand scheme of things.

18. Rappel into Moaning Cavern

When you think of unique adventures in California, it is hard to think of something as unique as this. In Central California, there is a cave that the Statue of Liberty could fit into and that you can pay to rappel into. It was such a crazy experience that I highly recommend you get over your fear or heights and do it as well.

19. Hike to the Top of Half Dome

Half Dome is probably the most recognizable natural attraction in California and for good reason. The hike to the top is not for the faint of heart, as you have to do 16 miles and 6,000 feet of elevation to complete it, a few hundred feet of which is by pulling yourself up anxiety-inducing cables. I was so proud of myself for finishing it, but I probably would not do it again.

20. Road Trip to the California Missions

The 21 Spanish California Missions are unique pieces of California history. If you have grown up in the California school system, then you will study them in the 4th grade, but if not you can make a fun, week-long road trip visiting these buildings, which are some of the oldest in the entire state.

21. Bike the Devils Slide

Outside of Half Moon Bay, there is an old piece of Pacific Coast Highway that was so dangerous that it was closed. When they closed it though they repaved it and made it a multi-use trail for walking and biking. It is one of the most beautiful bike trails you can do in the state as you get to look at staggering views without worrying about cars.

22. Hang Out with the Elephant Seals in Ano Nuevo

Ano Nuevo State Park is unique in California as it protects the elephant seal population but also provides an almost safari-like experience for the visitor. During the summer months, you can hike out to the area where the elephant seals are at and watch them in their natural habitat. It is a lot of fun as there are sand dunes and such which make it so you never know what you are going to find over each new hill.

23. Explore the Wine Castle in Napa Valley

Sure the true wine people might not love this recommendation, but it is just such a fun spot to explore that it is an easy suggestion for me. The castle itself has over 100 rooms and you can take a tour that takes you through dungeons, courtyards, and ballrooms. They call it the Disneyland for adults and it is easy to see why.

24. Snowshoe to Fallen Leaf Lake

During the winter months in Lake Tahoe, grabbing some snowshoes is one of the best ways you can see the area without other people. I like the trail to Fallen Leaf Lake as it is approachable for almost anyone, yet the views at the end are stunning.

25. Marvel at the Avenue of the Giants

The Avenue of the Giants rivals Big Sur for me in terms of drives that just continue to blow your mind. This ride takes you 31 miles through one of the most beautiful groves of redwoods that you have ever seen. Each bend provides another fantastic spot for a photo and you can stop at dozens of groves to explore and experience the trees up close as well.

26. Spend a Day in the Alabama Hills

While I wouldn’t recommend this during the summer, during the spring and fall the Alabama Hills are a wonderland for the adventurer. With hundreds of arches, most that don’t even have trails, you can scramble around rocks, drive the dirt roads and just get lost trying to find new rock formations.

27. Watch the Sunset over the Kelso Dunes

As one of the easiest to access set of dunes in California, the Kelso Dunes are an amazing spot to spend some time at. I will say that the hike up is not very enjoyable, but if you watch the sunset over the desert from there it is hard to beat.

28. Sit in a Hot Spring off Highway 395

There are a dozen or so hot springs around the Bishop / Mammoth area and while some are better than others, it is hard to beat sitting in a hot tub fed by natural warm water and looking out over the Eastern Sierras.

29. See the California State Fish in the Golden Trout Wilderness

The golden trout are only really found in one particular area of California, called the Golden Trout Wilderness. Located at 10,000 feet, these high altitude lakes and streams are incredible places to explore even if you don’t like to fish.

30. Hike to the World’s Largest Wooden Trestle 

As one of the tougher short hikes you can do in California, visiting the Goat Canyon Trestle is an epic bucket list adventure. This bridge is the largest freestanding wooden trestle in the world, so it makes sense that the adventure would be worth the payoff.

31. Explore the Geothermal Pools of Bumpass Hell

While nowhere near what you would see in Yellowstone, California’s geothermal area in Lassen National Park is still worth seeing. Bumpass Hell is the highlight of the area as it has crazy colors and a boardwalk that takes you right over the bubbling pools.

32. Tour the Historic Mission Inn Hotel

The Mission Inn is one of the most beautiful and historic hotels in California. It has welcomed many presidents and was the place where Richard Nixon got married. The hotel is gorgeous and really fun to walk around and explore. Bonus points for going during Christmas when they have one of the best Christmas light displays in the USA.

33. Find a Banana Slug in Santa Cruz

One of the most unique little creatures in California is the elusive and fun banana slug which hangs out in the mountains above Santa Cruz. You never know if you will stumble on one while on a trail but Big Basin State Park is a great spot to see these guys.

34. Get in the Christmas Spirit at Robolights in Palm Springs

As one of the largest private Christmas light displays in all of the USA, Kenny’s Robolights in Palm Springs is a positively uncommon experience. The robots and characters that fill this massive property are covered in more lights than you can imagine one person facilitating.

35. Drive through Bishop Creek in the Fall

Bishop Creek is one of the most beautiful spots in the entire Eastern Sierra range year-round; however, when the colors change in the fall, it becomes gorgeous. I go pretty much every year, and it never gets old.

36. Have a Drink with a Mermaid

Dive Bar in Sacramento has a full aquarium above the bar, and during select weekend nights they have mermaids and mermen that swim in the aquarium while interacting with the fish and the patrons below.

37. Marvel at the Devil’s Postpile

Located on the backside of Mammoth Mountain, Devil’s Postpile is a fantastic National Monument with a crazy rock formation. Bonus points for also hiking to Rainbow Falls while in the area.

38. Whale Watch in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is a great town in general, but when the whales are coming through the area it becomes magical. I recommend getting out on a boat and seeing the animals up close, but often you can even see them from the pier as well.

39. Wander through California’s Best Aquarium

While the Monterey Aquarium can be expensive and crowded, it truly is an amazing way to see the coast’s plethora of sea creatures. I can easily spend a half day just walking around and taking in all of the fantastic fish, eels, and seahorses they have on display.

40. Make a Frog Jump in Angels Camp

Angel’s Camp is home to a yearly fair where they have a unique event, frog jumping. While you should go just to watch the “professionals” you can also try your hand at the sport as well. This event became famous through the Mark Twain novel called “The Jumping Frogs of Calaveras County.”

41. See Yosemite’s Second Valley at Hetch Hetchy

While the issue of the dam at Hetch Hetchy is incredibly polarizing, no one can debate about the beauty of the area itself. There are miles of trails that take you around the area’s waterfalls and rivers while looking down on the lake itself.

42. Enjoy Beach Hiking at Torrey Pines State Reserve

As one of my favorite hikes in Southern California, Torrey Pines is a great spot to do some beach hiking. The trails lead to multiple overlooks while eventually taking you down to a picturesque beach as well.

43. Get a Donut at One of California Most Iconic Spots

The giant donut that sits on top of Randy’s in Los Angeles has been beckoning visitors for decades. I for one go nearly every time I am in the area and it never gets old. The donut has been featured in tons of movies as well, such as Iron Man 2. I recommend the chocolate devils food.

44. Float down the Sacramento River

One of the most popular Northern California adventures in the summer is grabbing an inner tube and just getting out on the river to float. They have one of the largest floats in California during memorial day weekend in Chico or you can avoid the crowds and go any other day of the year.

45. Backpack in Yosemite

While hiking the John Muir Trail is one of the most iconic hikes in all of the USA, most people will not have the opportunity to do it and I wanted to keep this list approachable to everyone. Backpacking in Yosemite is one of the best ways to explore the park while avoiding a lot of the crowds. I recommend doing something like Glen Aulin or Clouds Rest if it is your first time and be sure to research and understand what you are doing before you go.

46. Walk Across the Border to Mexico

Since California shares a border with Mexico, you really should visit it while living / exploring the state. Most people will choose to walk over the border at Tijuana and do some shopping, but for me I like to head east and walk over the border at Tecate. This city is home to the famous brewery and it can be fun to wander around and have a drink or a burrito then walk back across.

47. Take Surf Lessons in San Diego

If you are in California then you should try your hand at surfing, which is a relative state sport here. There is no better spot to do it then in the magical city of San Diego with its fabulous beaches and perfect weather.

48. Bike from Huntington to Newport Beach

While there are lots of great beach bike trails like San Clemente, I really like biking from Huntington to Newport. This trail lets you explore both of these fun SoCal beaches along a beautiful bike path. Stop at Wahoos in Huntington for some fish tacos after.

49. Explore the California State Railroad Museum and Old Town Sacramento

I love trains, but even if you don’t share that love, it is hard to think of anyone not enjoying the California State Railroad Museum in Old Town Sacramento. It is one of the best museums I have ever been to. Be sure to stroll the streets of Old Town Sacramento after visiting the museum.

50. Camp on Angel Island

While most people will visit Alcatraz when in San Francisco (which of course they should), Angel’s Island is a unique spot for a more private outdoor adventure. You can take a boat over and hike or camp on this island with views of San Francisco and little to no people.

51. Kayak the Sea Caves of La Jolla

La Jolla is a great spot for kayakers of all abilities to test out being in the open water. If you are more advanced though there are a few sea caves that you can navigate into which are unique to this stretch of Southern California coast.

52. Eat an Oyster from the Tomales Bay at Hog Island

Oysters are not everyone’s cup of tea, but if you haven’t had them directly from the water, then you should give them another try. Hog Island on Pacific Coast Highway is one of the most beautiful spots you will ever eat oysters, as they are pulled right out of the Tomales Bay in front of you.

53. Tour the Jelly Bean Factory

Located in Fairfield, the Jelly Bean Factory is really fun spot to explore with the whole family. Take the free tour and look out over the sea of jelly beans while getting to try each step of the creation process. I love the atmosphere they create here and eating jelly beans is just a plus.

54. Eat at a Thomas Keller Restaurant in Yountville

Thomas Keller is one of California’s most famous chefs. His main restaurant “The French Laundry” has been named the best restaurant in the world multiple times. While that spot is hard to get into and expensive you can opt to try one of his two other restaurants in the town of Yountville, my favorite is Bouchon. It’s a legit culinary adventure.

55. Harness your Inner Johnny Cash at Folsom Prison Museum

Folsom Prison was made famous by the Johnny Cash song and the concert he held in the prison. They created a small museum on site that talks about all of this and more prison history. It’s pretty crazy to go there and learn about the Johnny Cash influence while also seeing all of the different things prisoners have snuck in and other exhibits.

56. Explore the Ghost Town of Bodie

Bodie is California’s most well-preserved ghost town, and it is a blast for the whole family to visit. I always enjoy walking the streets and imagining life in this once booming town.

57. Climb the Mosiac Steps in San Francisco

This spot became popular during the rise of social media, but it is a great place for photography. You can climb the hundred or so mosaic steps; then when you get to the top, there is a park that gives you a fantastic view of San Francisco below.

58. Drive Through a Tree

Driving North on Highway 101, it is fun to pull off at one of the three drive-through trees for a fun photo.

59. Spelunk into the Caves of Pinnacles National Park

Pinnacles National Park is the newest National Park in the country, and because of that it is not very well known. The caves there are easily accessible by a short trail, and because of that, it is a unique way to get a non-guided tour cave experience.

60. See the Purple Sand of Pfeiffer Beach

Pfeiffer Beach is fantastic in its own right, but if you go right after the rain, then you will be in for a treat with the purple sand that comes down from the mountains behind it.

61. Tour the Crazy Winchester Mansion

This mansion was the brainchild of the heir to the Winchester Company fortune. She believed that she would die if she ever stopped building though, so the house has stairs that lead to nowhere, doors to brick walls and all sorts of craziness. It is so big that you walk over a mile while on the tour of it.

62. See the Dead Fish Beaches of the Salton Sea

Salton Sea is a lake that went through a massive chemical transition which killed nearly every fish that lived in it. Now it is an eerie yet beautiful spot. The state park itself has beaches with dead and decaying fish scattered all over them; it is something you have to see to believe.

63. Take a Selfie with Giant Paul Bunyon at Trees of Mystery

These 50-foot tall statues mark the entrance to the Trees of Mystery which is a fun tourist attraction in Northern California. You won’t be able to miss them when you drive up Highway 101 and why would you want to, they are awesome!

64. Find Out What the Santa Cruz Mystery Spot is All About

I am sure you have seen the bumper stickers for this crazy gravitational anomaly in Santa Cruz. It is a fun spot to bring the family and turn off your mind to marvel at the displays they created to mess with you.

65. Wander the Shores of Glass Beach

This is the beach where people threw trash, and the ocean returned beautiful pieces of glass. It is a stunning spot in Northern California with a small shore full of smooth pieces of glass.

66. Find all the Metal Statues in Anza Borrego

With over a hundred statues situated all around the park, it is an utter blast just to drive around and try and find them all. Many of them are massive like the above dragon and the scorpion, making them fantastic for photography and overall exploration.

67. Explore Olympic History in Squaw Valley

The Olympic Museum in Squaw Valley is only accessible via a tram that takes you to the top of the mountain. In the building situated on top of the mountain is the small museum itself. While there isn’t a lot to really see at the museum, it is super fun to take the tram up and see the massive Olympic Rings.

68. Hike the Rubicon Trail along Lake Tahoe

This trail goes from DL Bliss State Park to Emerald Bay. Along the way you see stunning views of the immaculate blue water stretching out in front of you. It is hard to find a more beautiful trail in the area.

69. Gaze Down at the Yosemite Valley from Taft Point

Another incredibly popular Instagram spot, I am still surprised by how many people have seen it but didn’t know how easy it was to get to. This 2-mile round trip hike is relatively flat, and it takes you to one of Yosemite’s best viewpoints.

70. W alk the Granite Steps up Moro Rock

Moro Rock in Sequoia is a short hike with anxiety-inducing granite steps that takes you to the top of a massive rock overlooking the valley. I recommend it at sunset but make sure to bring a flashlight for the walk back.

71. Visit a Bakery in Solvang

The Danish town of Solvang, along the Central Coast, is a great place to feel like you have left California. The city itself is entirely Danish inspired, and the bakeries all around town are home to some amazing pastries as well.

72. Eat at a Fairy Tale Restaurant in Santa Barbara

If you are talking about amazing places to eat, then no list would be complete without mentioning Cold Springs Tavern. With literally nothing around it, this spot has become a local favorite ever since it was a stagecoach stop over 100 years ago. Be sure to order the tri tip.

73. Indulge your Inner Movie Star at Paramount Ranch

The old movie town of Paramount Ranch is still a really popular filming location for Hollywood. Since it is on public property though, you can go explore it, even when they are filming. I love walking down the dirt streets and indulging my inner movie star here.

74. Explore the Underground Gardens of Fresno 

One of the most strange and unique spots along Highway 99, the Forestiere Underground Gardens in Fresno, are something you need to take a tour of to appreciate. The brainchild of one man over many decades, these gardens are a labyrinth of underground exploration.

75. Take a Ghost Tour of the Haunted Queen Mary

The Queen Mary is the famous ship that sits in the Long Beach Harbor and has become one of the state’s most popular museums. It is supposedly haunted and they have a fun tour that takes you on the ship and tells you about the haunting.

76. Learn at the Museums of Balboa Park

Balboa Park houses more than a dozen museums and is virtually impossible to explore without a few days. The museum’s are some of the best in the state with Museum of Man, Air and Space and the Miniature Train Museum being a few of my favorites.

77. Take the Boat to Alcatraz

Alcatraz is one of San Francisco’s most popular attractions and it is a fun spot to explore for a half day and get out of the city. Be sure to book the tour in advance though as it always books up fast.

78. Drive Historic Route 66

Route 66 ends in California. Because of that, there are a lot of adventures you can have on the Mother Road in the state. Some of the highlights for me are the original McDonalds Museum and Elmer’s Bottletree Ranch.

79. Stand on the Lowest Point in North America

Badwater in Death Valley is the lowest point in North America at -280 feet below sea level. The salt flats that stretch out before your eyes are stunning, just make sure not to go in the summer.

80. Spend a Night at Madonna Inn

Madonna Inn in San Luis Obispo is a hotel where every room is different. I love staying there and picking a new room each time. My favorite is the Old World Suite though with its rock waterfall shower and stone walls.

81. Explore California Literary History

Whether it is John Steinbeck’s Cannery Row, Mark Twain’s Angels Camp or Jack London’s Sonoma, there are so many ways you can dig into literary history all over the state.

82. Stand on the Unofficial Center of the World

Sure you really need to be committed to make it all the way to this spot, but the Unofficial Center of the World is located in California. Weirdly, it is not recognized by California itself but it is acknowledged by places like France and others. There are plenty of additional things to see here too like an original piece of the Effiel Tower.

83. Snorkel off Catalina Island

It is a joy to be able to get to an island off the coast of California after only a 45-minute drive and a 45-minute boat ride from Los Angeles. Catalina is a great spot to indulge in a slower island lifestyle for a few days and the snorkeling is the best you will find in California.

84. Wander Through an Aircraft Carrier at USS Midway

The aircraft carrier in the bay of San Diego is a great spot to bring the family and get lost exploring the massive boat. I have been a few times, and I still don’t think I have seen everything as I always seem to get lost going down all the different corridors.

85. Visit Hearst Castle

Heart Castle sits in the mountains above the central coast, and it is one of those spots I always skipped over on my trips. When I finally made it there, I was surprised by how much I enjoyed it though. It is such a crazy place full of immaculate rooms and pools, make sure to add it to your list.

86. Tour Mercer Caverns

Mercer Caverns is one of my favorite of the popular tour caves. This one has a lot of history, allows you to go deep into the cave itself and has sections where you feel like you are in an adventurous cave with steep staircases.

87. Walk out on Potato Chip Rock

Potato Chip Rock is a relatively polarizing spot in San Diego that many hikers love while other hate. I for one think it is a unique experience, so I recommend you do it if you want to get into hiking and see a fun payoff at the end.

88. Climb the Stairs to the Fire Lookout at Sierra Buttes

This hike is one of my favorites in the Tahoe area as it leads to a vertigo-inducing staircase and the ultimate payoff of a fire overlook that looks out over the area below. It is beautiful and well worth a spot on your hiking list.

89. Grab the Headlamp and Explore Lava Beds National Monument

One of the hardest to reach parks in California, Lava Beds is located in the Northern part of the state. It is an unusual spot with many really long caves that you can explore with a flashlight and a little courage.

90. Walk Across the Sundial Bridge

As you can tell, I love bridges and this one in Redding is different. It is fun to walk across as the bridge itself never actually touches the water below it.

91. Fly Over San Diego in a Biplane

While there are a ton of great experiences you can have in San Diego, I love seeing it from above. The best way I ever did that was by getting in a historic biplane and staring out over the coastline below.

92. Snowshoe to a Sequoia Grove

It is hard to ever be alone with some of the famous giant trees in Sequoia or Yosemite, but if you wait till it snows and strap on some snowshoes, then you can walk down to see the trees pretty much all by yourself.

93. Find a Mine in Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree is full of gold mines with some being nothing but holes and others still having full stamp mills. The latter of which is my favorite and it is called Lost Horse Mine, but finding any of the mines in the park makes for a fun adventure.

94. Visit Elvis Honeymoon Home in Palm Springs

Many people do not know about this unique connection between Elvis and California, but it is actually where he spent his honeymoon. The house has stayed relatively the same since that time and it has become a draw for all of the Elvis lovers out there. I wouldn’t put myself in that camp but I still found it to be a really fun place to explore.

95. Stand Under California’s Tallest Bridge in Auburn

The Foresthill Bridge in Auburn is the tallest in the state, and it is pretty scary to look out over the edge of the bridge. There are even a few trails around the area that let you walk under it and marvel at how massive it truly is.

96. Wander Land’s End and the Sutro Baths

Land’s End is one of the most picturesque trails in all of San Francisco and it is a go-to for me in the area. The trail has fantastic coastal views, the Sutro Baths, and vista points for the Golden Gate Bridge.

97. Experience the Poppy Bloom in Antelope Valley State Park

When it is in bloom, Antelope Valley is a magical field of orange that stretches as far as the eye can see. It is highly dependent on the weather we have each year, but when it is right, the poppies are mind-blowing.

98. Tour Nit Witt Ridge

The poor man’s Hearst Castle, Nit Witt Ridge is a collection of trash, art and not following building codes that lead to this crazy mansion in Cambria. They offer tours a few times a week, and it is something I guarantee you will not have seen before.

99. Stare into the Ubehebe Crater

The Ubehebe Crater in Death Valley is just another of the natural wonders you can visit in this fascinating park. It is so massive though that you need to see it with your own eyes as pictures do not do it justice.

100. Eat a Burger Animal Style at In & Out

I figured I couldn’t let this list end without the quintessential California experience of eating In & Out. This burger joint is as California as anything on the list. If you are visiting then get a double-double animal style, you can thank me later.

So there you have it, my California Bucket List suggestions after exploring for five years. Thanks for reading all the way to the end! I would love to hear what you think I left off in the comments and be sure to let me know how many you have done yourself as well.

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10 Best Destinations In California For Your Summer Vacation

Sunny days are around the corner, and these top summer destinations in California are already gearing up to give travelers a memorable vacation.

California is a haven for amazing experiences all year round, but summer is the best time to visit this state. This is because summer makes everything more enjoyable, whether it’s relaxing by the beach, hiking in the wilderness, or kayaking in the rivers. With summer almost here, this is a great time to start planning a visit to California. The list of places worth visiting in the Golden State is endless, but one can skip the rest and visit these top summer vacation spots in California for a memorable sunny season.

10 Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park remains one of the top attractions in California that’s worth visiting year-round. In summer, however, this attraction is at its best. The weather is perfect during this season, and the visibility is excellent and which makes exploring the park so enjoyable.

Visitors to Yosemite during summer will be opportune to witness the park’s natural attractions from Yosemite Falls to the giant Sequoias at their most beautiful state. Yosemite's numerous activities (besides hiking, of course) include kayaking and camping, which are also more enjoyable during this season as there is less disturbance from the weather.

9 San Francisco

San Francisco is one of the most popular cities in California, renowned for its scenic beauty and its amazing attractions, one of which is the world-famous Golden Gate Bridge and the Golden Gate Park. Summer in this city offers a great opportunity to explore its interesting attractions and also enjoy other exciting activities like hiking and cruising.

In addition, some amazing festivals are held in San Francisco during summer, which is just one more reason this city is worth visiting during this season.

Related: Safety In San Francisco: Tips For First-Time Visitors

8 Santa Catalina Island

Catalina Island is one of the most beautiful summer destinations in California; it's a great place to enjoy a relaxing summer vacation away from the noise and crowds. The island is a haven for sensational experiences like fly-fishing, cruising, zip-lining, and hiking, and these experiences are more enjoyable in summer when the weather is warm and less disturbing.

Related: The Complete Guide To Visiting California's Beautiful Catalina Island

7 Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe really lives up to the hype ; it's one of the best summer spots in California and is a place that offers incredible scenery and amazing experiences year-round. It's amazing year-round, but summer in this place, however, is perfect for those who love warm weather adventures and gorgeous natural scenery.

Summer is the best time to enjoy some of Lake Tahoe’s best activities, like hiking, kayaking, camping, and biking. The photos are even more gorgeous during this season as the atmosphere is bright, and the visibility is excellent.

6 Napa Valley

Napa Valley offers plenty to do depending on when travelers visit . Whatever the season, it is always a great place to talk about because there is so much to enjoy here. It is unlike many other of the best places in California as it combines natural scenery with exciting outdoor adventures. In particular, wine-tasting experiences in Napa are one of the top things to do in California in summer especially.

Overall, summer in this part of California is unforgettable as there are so many exciting things to experience, from music festivals to wine tours, food-tasting adventures, and more. There’s never a dull moment in Napa during summer.

5 Santa Barbara

While it is great to visit year-round, Santa Barbara is one of the best places in California to visit in summer when its beaches are in clear view and the weather is comfortable enough for enjoyable outdoor experiences. As one of the most historic parts of California, this city is also endowed with plenty of attractions that shed more light on the history of the state. Summer visitors to this city will also get to enjoy nature as it has several nature parks that host wildlife, rivers, and forests with numerous hiking trails.

4 Santa Monica

Santa Monica offers plenty of things to do ; it's most renowned for its magical beachfront, nature parks, luxury hotels, and beautiful streets where one can just roam and take beautiful pictures. The city caters to the needs of all travelers, from families to solo travelers who just want to have warm weather activities and meet new people in the process.

Of course, Santa Monica transforms into one of the best summer vacation spots in California; every one of this city’s offerings becomes more appealing and great to explore, thanks to the summertime weather. Several festivals are even held during this season, and the crowds are at their peak.

3 San Diego

Another one of the best places for a summer vacation in California is the sunny city of San Diego. Located in the Southern parts of California lies this super elegant city, where it's all sunshine and sensational vibes in summer. San Diego is particularly a great place for a family vacation as the city is home to many family-friendly attractions like the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park, Balboa Park, and SeaWorld San Diego.

Besides family-friendly attractions, San Diego also has attractions that offer all types of travelers an amazing vacation. In San Diego, travelers will enjoy hiking, cruising, surfing, whale watching, and many more exciting outdoor adventures that make a summer vacation memorable.

2 Laguna Beach

Laguna Beach is a small charming city in southern California that comes with gorgeous beaches, interesting art, and exciting adventures. Although great to visit year-round, summer is the best time to experience the natural and man-made attractions in this city. During this season, the city becomes a haven for a wide range of activities, from music festivals to wine-tasting adventures and whale watching.

This is also a great time for visitors to explore the city’s numerous art galleries and museums, which are some of the best in the country. Activities such as hiking, kayaking, cave exploration, and mountain biking can also be done in this city, and the summer weather makes them exciting.

Beaches are some of the most sought-after attractions in summer because they are superb for tackling the heat while having fun. When it comes to the best beaches in California, Malibu is at the top of the list. This area consistently finds itself among the best places in California for a summer vacation; the famous beach city is endowed with an abundance of sandy beaches that are great for relaxation and epic water sports like surfing and paddleboarding.

Beyond beaches and watersports, Malibu is also home to several hiking trails and interesting attractions like the impressive Hindu temple and the impressive canyons. In addition, Malibu is also a great place to see celebrities, as many of them live in this city and even spend their summers there.

Quirky small towns in California to visit this summer

May 23, 2019 • 9 min read

Every evening the sunset casts a rosy pink glow over everything, the perfect cap to a relaxing day in Ojai © Photoview Plus / Getty Images

It’s now nearly June, and that means summer is here — the perfect excuse for a road trip or quick getaway to explore quirky small towns.

Given that California is bigger than many countries, there are plenty of options to choose from. I grew up here and spent many childhood weekends sandwiched between two brothers on family car rides throughout the state. Although I try to avoid the nausea-inducing middle seat these days, I still love to explore California’s various destinations — with a preference for the weird and charming small towns. Here are some of my favorite California towns that you should consider this summer.

Find your zen in Ojai

There’s nowhere more hippie-cool than Ojai, an artists’ colony, spiritual-retreat town and Zen paradise. The town of 7,500 is centered around a picturesque village filled with art galleries, restaurants that serve healthy food, yoga studios, spas, aromatherapy stores, crystal shops…you get the idea — all arranged along a historic California-mission-style main street. This sun-soaked little town is a great place in which to escape. Personally, I decided Ojai was one of the coolest places I had ever seen back when I was 12 years old, and after traveling to about 15 countries, I still agree with that assessment.

Although many people come down to Ojai to relax at spas, there are a lot of activities in this little town—like  going for a bike ride  among the citrus trees or taking in the nightly “ pink moment ” just before sunset, when the light bounces off the Topatopa Mountains and the entire valley is awash in pink. Some residents believe Ojai has a special spiritual vortex. As for places to stay, there a lot of beautiful little inns, like the mission style  Su Nido Inn  or classic B and B’s like the  Lavender Inn . The food in this organic-obsessed oasis is also incredible; try smoothies, tea and vegan treats at  Hip Vegan , or enjoy tapas and local craft beers and wine at Spanish-style  Azu .

Reason to go soon:  During the first weekend of June, Ojai holds an annual music and wine  festival  with concerts and lectures; the local wineries all participate and pour. Ojai is a haven for artists and creatives, and the festival is a celebration of its Bohemian spirit.

Favorite quirky things to do:  Make sure you check out  Bart’s Books , the city’s outdoor bookstore with shelves of literature arranged around a courtyard instead of a traditional building. Also, make a visit to  Dharma & Dog , Ojai’s self-described “pets and people emporium,” which sells a combination of metaphysical supplies, such as singing bowls and eco-sourced yoga clothes, in addition to toys and raw pet food.

Hide out in Jenner

The tiny village of Jenner , with fewer than 200 people, is calm and friendly and a little weird. The town does have a twilight-zone feel, given the thick fog that often completely envelops it. The area is a quick drive from the metropolis of the Bay Area but couldn’t feel farther away from the bustle of downtown SF; it’s ideal for an unplugged weekend with spotty cell service at best.

Take the weekend to  hike along the beach ; eat some clam chowder at  Cafe Aquatica  (or just stop in for their locally roasted organic coffee);  kayak  on the ocean; and enjoy the stunning vistas that make Northern California’s coast so magical. You can also drive over to the Sonoma Coast State Park to immerse yourself in the area’s remarkable nature. The  Jenner Inn  is a sweet place at which to spend the night, serving homemade dishes and local wines. The  River’s End Restaurant & Inn  is also a good option, with a seasonal menu and beautiful ocean views. Adventurous travelers can also camp in Jenner.

Reason to go soon:  The wildflowers are in bloom through June, covering the coast in a riot of color.

Favorite quirky thing to do:  Visit Patrick’s Salt Water Taffy , a roadside pink-and-white-striped shop with hundreds of colors and flavors of taffy to choose from (I highly recommend the orange creamsicle). Patrick’s is an institution, and it’s about only 20 minutes from Jenner on the way to Bodega Bay.

Enjoy Good Food and Good Views in Point Reyes

While the Point Reyes National Seashore brings tourists from all over the world, most of them never even see the quaint town of Point Reyes Station , home to awesome farm-to-table restaurants, beautiful views and a tight-knit community of about 850 residents. Although there’s high-end dining here if you want it, I highly recommend the small and intimate  Side Street Kitchen , a stepped-up, locally sourced diner that serves incredible dishes in a bright, cozy yellow space. I love the seared bratwurst and the roast chicken (my reward after a 10-mile hiking day recently). Point Reyes is also famous for the cheesemaker  Cowgirl Creamery , which sells incredible cheese out of a restored barn in downtown Point Reyes called Tomales Bay Foods.

Reason to go soon:  The Point Reyes Lighthouse , known for its dramatic vistas and vertigo-inducing downhill hike, is currently closed for repairs. This is actually good news, because it leaves the road to the lighthouse completely empty of the usual scores of tourists. Read on to find out why.

Favorite quirky thing to do:  Along the road to the lighthouse is one of the weirdest and coolest parts of Point Reyes: the  Marconi RCA Station.   B uilt by Gugliemo Marconi, an Italian man who received the first-ever patent for radio technology in 1899. He went on to build transmitting stations all over the world, including this one, which is believed to be the only Marconi-era station left in North America. On weekends and holidays, you can still hear the signal over the radio thanks to efforts to preserve it as a heritage experience. The road leading to the station is lined with Cypress trees that form a sort of tunnel over the path, which makes for a beautiful and stunning photo opp — especially without the crowds.

Get nostalgic at Hermosa Beach

Hermosa is a nostalgic and lovely city on the Santa Monica Bay that maintains a laid-back ’70s surfer vibe that most of Southern California lost years ago. It’s unpretentious and just as bright and happy as you’d imagine a place with 200 days of sun a year might be.

You can enjoy the restaurants and shops along the town’s Pier Avenue, which runs for several miles along the ocean and is closed off to cars at the base to allow for safe and fun beach revelry. Try  Palmilla  for great Mexican food and tequila drinks, or the  Hook & Plow  for seafood and delicious craft beers. You could also lounge on the beach, which is much more chill than Santa Monica or Venice Beach, and maybe catch some live music — the town has a stacked schedule of festivals and outdoor concerts. If you’re looking for an oceanview stay, the best beachfront hotel in Hermosa is the  Beach House ;  Hotel Hermosa is also a good option - it’s courtyard has firepits and pool tables.

Reason to go soon:  Summer is a great time to visit, especially Fourth of July weekend, which the town takes extremely seriously. The whole village becomes a blur of red, white and blue for days. There is a classic parade down the main street featuring both impressive official floats and, even better, DIY ones (a few years ago, I saw an older man blazing through town on a bedazzled electric scooter wrapped in bunting and sporting no fewer than four American flags).

Favorite quirky thing to do:  Hermosa has a long greenbelt that connects all the way to nearby Manhattan Beach . Walking or biking along the path is the best way to get a sense of the Peter Pan culture of Hermosa beach. Along with the usual joggers and baby strollers, the path is also popular with wetsuited surfers and roving bands of skateboarders of all ages.

Visit the monarchs in Pacific Grove

Pacific Grove is my personal favorite alternative to the often crowded towns of Monterey and Carmel . Affectionately called “Butterfly Town USA,” it’s a stop on the route of thousands of monarch butterflies, which arrive in October of every year on their way to Mexico for the winter. The town’s monarch sanctuary is magical during the butterflies’ visit; the bright monarchs carpet the trees and fill the air. Their influence can be felt all year in Pacific Grove, though; images of them are painted on street signs and store awnings, and the residents are quick to tell you how much they love them.

Reason to go soon:  Although the butterflies won’t arrive until fall, early summer is a perfect time on the Central Coast, with consistent sunshine and blooming wildflowers.

Favorite quirky thing to do:  Make a stop at   the  Mindshop , run by the Center for Spiritual Awakening. It has just the right level of new-age charm to please any traveler looking for a touch of weird—plus, there’s a beautiful Zen garden in the back.

Experience Danish Solvang

If you can’t afford a trip to Denmark, Solvang is the next best thing. It’s a Danish village complete with tulips, windmills, warm pastries and a lot of kitsch. Founded in 1911, Solvang was the brainchild of a group of Danes in Ohio who couldn’t hack the Midwestern winters. That was good news for us, since today it’s a time warp that’s perfect for travelers. Solvang is a little bit bizarre, but that’s part of its appeal. It’s a little bit like Disneyland—suspend your disbelief, and you’ll have a lot of fun.

I recommend starting with the gastronomical. Embrace the theme and try some  ableskiver , a decadent Danish dessert with powdered sugar and strawberry jam. Then indulge in some Danish meatballs. Because my motto is that dessert should always come first on vacation. The most popular place at which to try  ableskiver  and other Danish specialties in town is  Solvang Restaurant,  beloved by both locals and visitors for its mastery of the pastry. For delicious locally sourced fare, try  Mad & Vin  inside the Landsby, a beautiful Scandinavian-inspired boutique hotel close to downtown. Don’t miss the duck-fat fries. If you’re looking for somewhere a little campier to stay to embrace the full Solvang experience, try the  Royal Copenhagen Inn ; its buildings are an exact duplicate of a street in Copenhagen.

Reason to go soon:  If you really want to dive into Danish culture, drive down to Solvang for  Danish Days,  the annual festival of patriotism, pastries and clogs that takes over the down during the third weekend of September. But the weather in the Santa Ynez Valley, the larger area that encompasses Solvang and five other wine-country towns, is lovely all summer. The local wineries offer a  summer tasting pass,  which gets you tastings at 14 participating wineries for $55, including five in Solvang.

Favorite quirky thing to do:  Once you’re satisfied with Danish treats, the real adventure can begin: ostrich petting. That’s right—Solvang has its very own  Ostrichland . You can get acquainted with 50 emus and ostriches, up close and personal.

This article originally appeared on The Bold Italic .

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18+ Best Places to Visit in California in May: Fun Pre-Summer Locations

• February 16, 2024
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There are many best places to visit in California in May as the weather across most places in the state is perfect and just starting to warm up. The flowers will be in full bloom, and it is gorgeous outside. You cannot go wrong with wherever you opt to visit in May. 

Table of Contents

Best Places to Visit In California in May: Northern California

By Shweta of Zest in a Tote

Sonoma is one of the most destination-worthy locales in Northern California and one of the best places to visit in California in May. What’s more, if you are looking for a cheaper wine-tasting experience than Napa, Sonoma is your spot. Sonoma is part of California wine country, just 45 miles north of San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge. You can take a car, your own, or rent one, to drive to Sonoma. 

Sonoma is worthy of a visit: think natural landscapes, farm-to-table fare, good accommodation options, endless outdoor activities, and, of course, wine tasting and wine buying. Spring brings new life to the Sonoma Valley. The daytime temperatures are pleasant, but the nights are cool, so you do need a layer to protect yourself. The advantage of visiting in early May is that both tourist crowds and accommodation prices are lower this time of year than the summer months. Late May to August is the peak season for Napa Valley .

There are more than 400 beautiful wineries across Napa, Sonoma, Calistoga, and Healdsburg . So there is something suited for everyone. There are many interesting things to do in Sonoma. You can take a hot air balloon ride to experience fascinating aerial views of the countryside. Foodies will love the culinary scene, artisan farmers’ markets, and food & wine experiences. 

There are also interesting festivals that happen in Sonoma in May: Alexander Valley Film Festival, the annual Bodega Bay Fisherman’s Festival, the Castles & Kites Festival, and many incredible wine events to look forward to.

By Tanya of Travels and Treasures

Planning a getaway? Santa Cruz is a lovable coastal town in California with nostalgic vibes, sunny ocean views, natural beauty, and fun attractions. It is one of the best places to visit in California in May.

May is a great time to visit Santa Cruz because the weather is mild and sunny. The crowds are smaller after spring break and summer vacations. Spring is a great time to enjoy the beach, the boardwalk, and the flowers in bloom.

The best way to get to Santa Cruz is by car. You can spend two days in Yosemite before your arrival, stay three days, then drive to San Francisco . It gave us the flexibility and convenience to drive to nearby attractions.

Alternatively, you can take public transportation, such as the Amtrak train or the Greyhound bus, but you will need to transfer to a local bus or taxi to get to Santa Cruz. Once you are in Santa Cruz, you can get around by bike, bus, or Uber. SFO and SJC are the closest airports. 

Two or three days was more than enough time to see and do things in Santa Cruz. During your stay, visit the boardwalk and the amusement park by the beach, walk and shop around the historic downtown, drive around to find quirky and nostalgic signs, walk out on Santa Cruz Wharf to watch the otters swim and play, rent bikes and ride along the coast and through the town, visited the Mystery Spot, and stopped at the Lighthouse Field State Beach to enjoy the panoramic views at sunset.

There are many hotels along Riverside Ave and neighboring streets, which make it easy to explore the coast. You can save more on accommodations by booking at the Santa Cruz Hostel.

Grass Valley

By Alexa of 52 Perfect Days 

Grass Valley is located in the Sierra Nevada Foothills of Northern California and is one of the best places to visit in California in May. May’s mild weather and blooming flowers make it ideal for exploring this historic Gold Rush-era town. With a rich history and quirky and old-fashioned charm, Grass Valley offers a blend of outdoor activities, historic landmarks, and a quaint small downtown.

A two-day stay is enough to fully experience its attractions, including the pedestrian-friendly downtown filled with unique shops and eateries that cater to diverse tastes. Other fun things to do include visiting the Empire Mine State Park, having a cocktail at the Saloon at The Holbrooke Hotel, and a visit to the Grass Valley Museum. 

A car is essential for reaching this historic Gold Rush town, located approximately an hour from Sacramento and 2.5 hours from San Francisco. Once you arrive, much of the town itself is walkable.

For accommodations, the Grass Valley Courtyard Suites provide a boutique experience with a nice breakfast and happy hour for guests. Budget-wise, Grass Valley offers options for various spending levels, ensuring visitors can enjoy its offerings without breaking the bank. Essential to know is its significance during the Gold Rush, which is celebrated through local museums and historical sites, making it a fascinating educational experience as well​​.

Lassen Volcanic National Park

By Laura of Hi Friends, It’s Laura

Like many national parks, Lassen Volcanic National Park in Northern California can be very crowded over the summer, making shoulder seasons a great time to visit. By visiting in May, you get the benefit of fewer crowds, lower risk of wildfires, and it’s dog-friendly! 

Lassen Volcanic National Park is an hour east of Redding, Cal., and three hours north of Sacramento. As the name suggests, it is a volcano, specifically a plug dome volcano, that last erupted in 1921. It has lava fields, rugged hiking trails, and sulfur springs, and it is home to the adorable pika. In the winter, Lassen is a snowshoer’s paradise. In the summer, hikers, cyclists, and campers abound. 

One reason to visit in May is that the main highway through the park, Lassen Volcanic National Park Highway, starts to be plowed from the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center in the Southwest corner of the park. Until the road is completely opened, cyclists and pedestrians with leashed dogs are welcome on the car-free road. This is a great way to enjoy the park on a paved, graded incline, suitable for families and their pets. The parks service updates on when the road is plowed and open.

If you visit in May, one day is enough to see the major sites in the southwest corner of the park. Two days would give you a chance to explore and walk the highway from the opposite northern entrance and to visit Manzanita Lake as well. You do need a car to visit Lassen as there is no public transit in the park, and it’s an hour from a major city. No matter what, Lassen Volcanic is one of the best places to visit in California in May

The best place to stay to visit Lassen is in Redding, an hour to the west. The Americana Modern Inn is a kitschy, dog-friendly budget motel that has outdoor fire pits and Adirondack chairs, air conditioning, and parking. Redding is a cute, walkable town with many bars, coffee shops, and restaurants to explore.

Redwoods National Park

By Jess of Uprooted Traveler

If you’re looking for a spring getaway in California, consider Redwoods National and State Parks along the northern coastline. It is one of the best places to visit in California in May.

May is an excellent time to visit- the trees and primeval ferns are especially lush and green, due to the springtime rain, and it’s before the summertime crowds flock to the park. 

A long weekend, like Memorial Day, is the perfect amount of time to explore the Redwoods. During this timeframe, you can squeeze in exploring some of the best things to do here. 

For example, hike through Tall Trees Grove, which has seemingly countless redwoods towering over 300 feet above the forest floor. Allegedly, the world’s tallest tree—-whose location is kept top secret—is located near this trail. 

Alternatively, the Fern Canyon Trail takes you through a lush canyon whose walls are dripping with enormous ferns. In fact, it looks so otherworldly that it was literally used as a filming location in The Lost World: Jurassic Park. Beyond its beautiful greenery, this is also one of the best places in the park to see Roosevelt Elks. 

The closest airports to the park are located in Sacramento and San Francisco, both of which are about five and a half hours south. You’ll need a rental car to drive there, but otherwise, accommodations and activities are usually quite affordable—or even free! Make the town of Eureka your homebase during your stay—not only is it centrally located in the park, but it’s full of beautiful Victorian mansions. 

Best Places to Visit In California in May: Central California

Pinnacles national park.

By Teresa of An Acre in the City

Pinnacles National Park , nestled in the heart of California, transforms into a breathtaking spectacle in May. May is when the park’s unique landscape, characterized by its towering rock formations and vibrant wildflowers, truly comes to life, making it a great destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Thus, Pinnacles is one of the best places to visit in California in May.

Visiting in May offers the perfect blend of comfortable weather and the full bloom of spring, creating an ideal backdrop for hiking and wildlife viewing. I recommend spending at least one to two days exploring the natural wonders and the park’s 30+ miles of trails.

Getting to Pinnacles is straightforward, but a car is essential. The park is about two hours southeast of San Francisco or five hours north of Los Angeles, with the nearest town being Soledad. The park has two entrances – east and west – but they are not connected internally, so plan your visit accordingly. The campground is available on the east side of the park. Nearby towns like Soledad or Hollister provide hotel options for those preferring more comfort.

Activities in Pinnacles revolve around its natural beauty. The park is famous for its challenging hikes, such as the High Peaks Trail, which offers stunning views. Be sure to scan the sky for the California condor. Rock climbing is also popular here, with routes for various skill levels. Park entry costs $30 per vehicle for a 7-day pass, or you can get the $80 annual America the Beautiful National Park pass. The park has no food options, so bring snacks with you.

An important tip for May visitors: start your hikes early to avoid the midday heat and bring plenty of water. Also, check the park’s website for trail closures and condor sightings to make the most of your visit.

By Rebecca of Veggies Abroad

Exploring California’s gorgeous Big Sur in May is ideal. You’ll have the opportunity to explore the 90-mile stretch of coastline while enjoying pleasant temperatures and seeing the area’s beautiful wildflowers in bloom. This part of California is unlike anywhere else — the dramatic coastline paired with the vibrant blue of the Pacific Ocean creates the ultimate background for nature lovers.

In May, visitors can enjoy a ton of outdoor activities, such as hiking through the iconic McWay Falls Trail, where cascading waterfalls meet the sea, or taking in panoramic views from Bixby Creek Bridge (be careful in this area as parking is minimal; many visitors park on the side of the road but crossing it can be challenging). 

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park offers opportunities for more hiking and camping amid ancient redwoods. Additionally, you might have the opportunity to catch a glimpse of migrating whales or Harbor Seals with their baby seal pups. A great place to try and spot them is Point Lobos State Natural Reserve.

To fully explore the 90-mile stretch of coastline, you will need a car, and it’s best to break your itinerary up over 3 to 5 days. It’s recommended to stay in multiple areas so you don’t feel rushed; start in Carmel-by-the-Sea near Monterey , then stay near Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, and end Near San Simeon. No matter what, Big Sur is one of the best places to visit in California in May.

Yosemite National Park

By Jamie of Photojeepers

One of the best places to visit in California in May is Yosemite National Park . The crowds of summer haven’t quite arrived yet and the weather is beginning to warm up. Expect highs in the 70s and lows in the 40s at night. You should also expect snow on the ground at elevations of 7,000 feet or higher. 

The park is also coming alive with greenery and flowers. Animals are giving birth, and waterfalls are flowing well due to snow melt. So, May is a perfect time to visit. 

However, a reservation is required to drive into Yosemite National Park on some days from April 13 through October 27, 2024. So, if you plan to drive through the park any time between 5:00 am and 4:00pm then visit their website to see what type of reservations you need . 

Once here, enjoy Yosemite and Bridalveil Falls. You can also admire incredible rock formations like Half Dome and El Capitan. You could also go biking since many of the roads in Yosemite are open now. Just rent one at Curry Village or at Yosemite Valley Lodge and make use of 12+ miles of flat trails through the valley. Afterward, visit The Ansel Adams Gallery. Enjoy a photography workshop or a free camera walk before exploring the exhibits at the Yosemite Museum.

Yosemite is packed with fun things to do. So, plan to spend at least two to four days here. You’ll also want to rent a car since this is the easiest way to explore the area, especially if you are traveling from LA or San Francisco.

You can also spend the night at Yosemite Valley Lodge since it is well-located inside the park and is a few minutes from Yosemite Falls. Just make reservations well in advance since this hotel is quite popular.

Paso Robles

By Tatiana of Family Road Trip Guru

Paso Robles is one of the best places to visit in California in May and has some amazing wine tastings . It is not too hot yet, not too crowded, and everything is in bloom. The second part of May is when lavender starts blooming in Central California, and it is the perfect time to visit a lavender farm in Paso Robles. 

Definitely check out California Lavender Honey Farm –their tours offer not just a great lavender experience, but you will also get to taste their honey, try their lavender skin products, and visit the Bee Museum they have on site. Their spring honey is also collected at the end of May so you may be lucky to get a fresh batch. It’s an excellent educational and fun tour, and you can leave the farm with a bouquet of fresh flowers.

To celebrate the lavender blooming season, Paso Robles organizes a wonderful Olive Oil and Lavender Festival on the three-day weekend in May in Downtown City Park. There are lots of vendors (lavender, olive oil, olives, balsamic vinegar, and other gourmet foods), many of which offer free tastings. There are also crafts vendors, music, and educational presentations throughout the day, and the whole event is free of charge.

Best Places to Visit In California in May: Southern California

By Serenity Lesley at Manifesting Serenity

Big Bear maintains a small-town feel that can be hard to find in the state anymore. From small-town diners, farmers’ markets, and mom-and-pop shops to even quiet hiking trails, this trail can satisfy many desires and needs for a quaint getaway. 

Two of the best times to visit are actually in Spring and all, so May is an amazing time to visit because it’s right before the rush of the summer. Which is when Arizona gets too hot, people flee, water activities become popular, and many tourists ride their electric bikes throughout town. So, May is right before the rush! Also, wintertime is known for its ski slopes and snowboarding, which makes spring and fall an even better time to explore. 

Since Big Bear is a bit smaller, if you’re looking to just relax, two weeks can be really relaxing, but if you’re looking to explore everything and then jump around, a few days would probably make you feel fulfilled.

During your stay, since it’s smaller, many of the accommodations are further apart and some are even in the deeper parts of the forest, so be sure to have a car to get around. Many accommodations are decorated to offer a bit more of a rustic charm to match the town and can range between $90 -$200+ a night, for a private home. Whereas hostels or hotels can be $50-$90 a night. Also, the average meal ranges between $20-30, but smaller hidden places usually have a better deal!

Enjoy, come hungry, be ready to explore, and you’ll have lots of space to relax! Big Bear is one of the best places to visit in California in May.

San Diego  

By Lisa Garrett of Waves and Cobblestones

San Diego is the perfect choice to visit and one of the best places to visit in California in May.  In addition to San Diego’s year-round attractions, there are plenty of festivals to enhance your stay in May. Enjoy festivities, including Cinco de Mayo and the Mardi-Gras-themed Gator by the Bay.

The San Diego Zoo is one of the most popular attractions in San Diego. Have some fun in the sun on Mission Beach, or check out the old-fashioned amusement park vibes at Belmont Park.  Naval history fans will certainly want to visit the USS Midway Museum or the Maritime Museum of San Diego and the Star of India !

Plan to spend three days in San Diego so that you can explore the city’s top attractions and neighborhoods. Fly into the San Diego International Airport, located just a few miles from downtown.  If you plan to stick to the city’s central locations, you can get by without a car.  But if you want to take a short trip to Carlsbad to see the fabulous Flower Fields, you will want your own wheels.

There are lots of great hotels and restaurants in the Gaslamp Quarter, and if you’re in the mood for some delicious Italian food, head to pedestrian-friendly Little Italy.  Since May isn’t the peak tourism season in San Diego, you should be able to find rates less than $200 a night to stretch your vacation budget.

May temperatures in San Diego are great for sightseeing, with highs near 69°F and lows around 60°F. There is generally no rain in the forecast for May, so just bring a light jacket, and you’ll be set! 

San Juan Capistrano 

By Sarah of Mukikapup’s Travels

San Juan Capistrano is located in Southern California , halfway between Los Angeles and San Diego, and is arguably the most beautiful place in Cali. May is a perfect time to visit for the weather, and you only need a couple of days to get a feel for it – but you might want an extra day or two beyond that. A car is the easiest way to get around; while it’s an expensive place to live, it’s not as expensive to visit, and parking is easy to find and inexpensive.

The best areas to stay in are either in town or near the beach. If you’re on a budget, The Best Western is ideal for in town, and The Beachfront Inn & Suites At Dana Point is what I recommend for on the beach. If you’re looking for a 4-star hotel or resort, The Inn at the Mission San Juan Capistrano, Autograph Collection is right by the mission and in town, while Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa is on the most gorgeous beach – I loved hanging out at the bar here!

In May, I recommend planning a mixture of outdoor and indoor things to do because the weather is so nice! Laguna Beach and Treasure Island Beach are gorgeous, and the town itself is free of the crazy city feeling of places like LA. I recommend taking time to tour the historic Mission, shopping and eating in The Los Rios Historic District, and also shopping and eating at Dana Point Beach & Wharf, which is also known for the high concentration of whales!

You can easily keep costs low by mostly taking advantage of free outdoor activities like going to the beach and strolling along the quaint and picturesque streets and wharf. If you have a bit of money to spend, you can find water activities. San Juan Capistrano is one of the best places to visit in California in May.

By Trijit of Cheap Travel Trail

Oceanside, often hailed as the “ most affordable beach town in California ,” is a splendid destination to explore, especially in the month of May. With mild temperatures and a refreshing breeze, May is the perfect time to experience the coastal charm without the peak summer crowds.

A recommended stay of 3-4 days allows you to savor the diverse attractions that Oceanside has to offer. While a car is not strictly necessary, having one provides flexibility to explore nearby areas like San Diego and Los Angeles. Oceanside is easily accessible by car via Interstate 5, and the closest major airport is San Diego International Airport.

For accommodations, the downtown area and the coastline boast an array of hotels and vacation rentals. The beachfront hotels provide stunning ocean views, and the downtown options offer proximity to vibrant dining and shopping scenes.

Oceanside’s 3.5-mile-long sandy beach is a haven for sun-seekers and water enthusiasts. The Oceanside Pier, one of the longest wooden piers on the West Coast, offers a picturesque stroll with panoramic ocean vistas. Water activities such as surfing, paddleboarding, and kayaking are popular along the coast. Explore the Oceanside Harbor Village, where you can dine in waterfront restaurants and browse charming boutiques. The California Surf Museum is a must-visit for those interested in the history of surfing in the region.

In terms of budget, Oceanside offers a range of options, from affordable eateries to mid-range accommodations. May allows you to enjoy pleasant weather and fewer tourists, potentially saving on accommodation costs compared to peak summer months. The laid-back atmosphere makes Oceanside a family-friendly destination. Whether you seek relaxation or adventure, Oceanside is one of the best places to visit in California in May as it promises an affordable coastal getaway with its serene beaches and diverse attractions.

Catalina Island

By Olivia of Girl with Blue Sales

Catalina Island is the perfect getaway off the coast of Southern California. Just about an hour away from the mainland by ferry, Catalina has waterfront hotels, shopping, beaches, and adventure activities. It is one of the best places to visit in California in May.

While Catalina Island is open year-round, it is at its peak in May. Visiting during this month will allow visitors to beat the summer crowds and heat, and enable them to take advantage of the spring pricing at hotels. 

The main town on Catalina is Avalon, perfectly situated right on the island’s main port. The town is built onto a hill and there are no cars allowed on the island, so visitors should prepare for lots of walking. 

Golf carts are available for rent both for transportation and as a way to experience one of the island’s self-drive sightseeing tours. Other tours and activities offered on the island include parasailing, snorkeling, zip lining, and even the island’s infamous falconry program .

It is recommended to stay at least 1 or 2 nights to fully experience what the town of Avalon has to offer. When choosing accommodation, it’s best to book close to the water to avoid lots of uphill walking. 

There is a range of price points available when choosing hotels as well, so Catalina is great for those with varying budgets. Many of the Catalina hotels offer spring sales as well, so it’s something to keep an eye out for when making those spring vacation plans thus making it one of the best places to visit in California in May.

Death Valley

By Mayuri of Fernwehrahee

If you are road-tripping around California by renting a car, Death Valley is 4.5 hours away from Los Angeles and very convenient for a weekend trip. There is no public transportation to reach Death Valley, but you can opt for tours starting from Las Vegas or Los Angeles.

Death Valley is Known as the hottest place on the earth, and visiting it in Summer is not a good idea! May is the perfect time to visit Death Valley as the summer season is just beginning. Temperature ranges from 30 to 40s, but still a good time to visit! It marks the last month of tolerable temperatures!

If you have two days in Death Valley , you can cover so many places in this unique national park of the USA. It has diverse attractions, from sandstone cliffs, beautiful canyons, volcanic craters, surprising springs, and colorful “painted” rocks. It also has the lowest point in North America – Bad Water Basin! 

A few of the must-visit places in Death Valley include Sunrise at Zabriskie Point, Ubehebe Crater, Dante’s view for panoramic views of the valley, Devil’s Golf Course, and colorful rocks at Artists Palette. You cannot miss changing colors at sunrise or sunset at Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes. 

If you want to learn the history of this area, stop by the Furnace Creek visitor center to learn more about the park’s geology, history, and wildlife. Death Valley National Park is a designated International Dark Sky Park, making it an excellent location for stargazing. If you are looking for hiking, May might not be a good month, or if you still want to maximize your time, you can hike early in the morning or late in the evening when temperatures are relatively cooler.

Also, do not forget to carry plenty of water with you and drink it regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Dehydration is a serious risk in such high temperatures. Wear sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself. Death Valley is one of the largest parks in the USA, and there aren’t many gas stations inside the park, so make sure to fill up the gas tank before your visit!

Death Valley is incredibly vast, so staying within the park is your most convenient option. It allows you to maximize your time and gives you the most flexibility. Stovepipe Village and The Ranch at Death Valley are good options for staying in the park. Death Valley is one of the best places to visit in California in May.

Santa Barbara

By Taylor at TayTrumTravels

Found between the mountains and the sea, Santa Barbara is a charming small city on the central coast of California. It is known as the American Riviera for good reason as it is one of the prettiest coastal places in the state. Thus, Santa Barbara is one of the best places to visit in California in May.

As a local, I’d recommend 2-4 days in Santa Barbara for first-time visitors. Santa Barbara is typically a more expensive place to visit, but you can find cheaper hotels in the nearby town of Goleta. If you stay in the heart of town, you probably won’t need a rental car as many things are pedestrian-friendly. 

Visiting the historic Spanish Mission built in 1820, watching seals from the pier and harbor, bike riding the oceanfront pathways, and checking out internationally famous artists at the Santa Barbara Museum of Art are some of the best things to do for first-time visitors. 

As a world-renowned wine region, Santa Barbara offers lots of local wine shops and tasting locations. If you’re interested in wine, head to the Funk Zone neighborhood. Some of the best spots are Pali Wine or the Santa Barbara Wine Collective, both with charming outdoor patios. 

There are many great dining options near the promenade on State Street. I recommend Zaytoon (Lebanese) or Loquita (Spanish). A more budget-friendly but famous option is La Super-Rica Taqueria. For the best coffee shops in Santa Barbara , try Dune or Handlebar. Both are local cafes with several locations throughout town. 

May is one of the best times of the year to walk amongst the wildflowers at the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden. Don’t miss the hilltop view of the Channel Islands from the garden. The annual collaborative event between vintners and the zoo, Roar and Pour, is also a perfect activity for adults and families. You are able to sip a variety of wines throughout the park while watching the animals in the zoo. 

Redondo Beach 

By Janelle of Make the Trip Matter

For a more unique destination and one of the best places to visit in California in May, consider visiting the adorable Redondo Beach, part of South Bay Los Angeles. The weather is generally fantastic in May, with warm temperatures and sunny skies, making it perfect for beach and outdoor activities. 

At the beginning of May, Redondo Beach hosts one of its most popular events – the BeachLife Festival, where you can enjoy laid-back music directly on the beach! There is plenty to do in the city, from strolling along the iconic Redondo Beach Pier and tasting fresh seafood to trying out water sports like paddleboarding in the harbor or taking a surf lesson at one of the popular Redondo Beach surf spots . Wander through the Riviera for boutique shopping, quaint cafes, and delicious open-air bars and restaurants.

To get to Redondo Beach, fly into Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), which is just a short drive away. Otherwise, it’s easy to access from the freeways and PCH if you are doing a California road trip. While having a car gives you more flexibility to explore the nearby attractions, it’s not a must-have so long as your accommodation is near the beach. There are also public buses and ride-share services in the area.

When it comes to accommodations, you’ll find a range of options catering to different budgets and preferences, from cheaper motels to boutique hotels and resorts. In terms of budget, you can find plenty of wallet-friendly dining options, especially if you venture away from the beach. Additionally, many of the beach activities are either low-cost or free.

Plan to stay for at least a couple of days to truly soak up the coastal vibes and explore the area at a relaxed pace. Or, stay a week or more to use Redondo Beach as a day base for exploring the surrounding Los Angeles and Orange Counties.

By Jennifer of Seeking Stamps

If you are looking to escape on a California vacation this May, consider visiting Carlsbad. With gorgeous sunny weather, miles of pristine coastline, delicious restaurants, and family-friendly attractions, Carlsbad is the perfect getaway. One of the best reasons to visit Carlsbad in May is for its sunny weather. Carlsbad has a mild coastal climate year-round. In May, daily temperatures range from the mid 60’s to upper 70’s during the day and the mid 50’s at night. 

During the month of May, warm weather makes Carlsbad the perfect destination for outdoor activities. With fewer crowds before summer tourists arrive, Carlsbad is a beach lover’s paradise. Additionally, visitors can enjoy scenic hiking trails, surfing, and water sports in the Agua Hedionda Lagoon. 

Carlsbad is one of the best places to visit in May to see gorgeous flowers. The Carlsbad Flower Fields are one of the best things to do in Carlsbad , and this seasonal attraction is only open from March until May. Visitors can gaze at fifty acres of ranunculus flowers in a kaleidoscope of colors. The Flower Fields are fun for all ages, with tractor rides, a sweet pea maze, and a playground. 

When you visit, consider staying in Carlsbad Village. This downtown area of Carlsbad has budget-friendly beach hotels, delicious restaurants, lively bars, and shopping.

Carlsbad can easily be explored on a weekend trip, or you can combine it with attractions in the greater San Diego area to keep yourself busy for a week or more. Places such as Balboa Park, Sea World, the Gaslamp Quarter, Seaport Village, and the San Diego Zoo are popular with tourists. Before your visit, plan to rent a car for convenient access to the city. 

As you can see, Carlsbad is one of the best places in California to visit in May.  With serene beaches, exhilarating water sports, and interesting attractions, Carlsbad should be your next vacation spot in Southern California and it is one of the best places to visit in California in May.

Final Thoughts on Best Places to Visit in California in April

There are many spectacular and best places to visit in California in May.  Aside from the ones listed above, make sure to check out the Central Coast , Sacramento , and Los Olivos . May is also a great time to spend a week in Central California .

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27 Best Places To Visit In Summer In The USA (2024 Vacation Ideas For Everyone)

Written By: ThePlanetD Team

United States

Updated On: April 5, 2024

The US is a great place to be when summer hits. You’ve got the hiking trails in national parks like Acadia National Park and Rocky Mountains National Park. There are the west coast beaches and major cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego. And that’s all without considering the delicious cuisine of New Orleans and the historic East Coast, with New York and Washington DC. Wherever you go in the US this summer, you will find a slightly different personality in each region.

Table of Contents

Best Summer Vacations in the USA

In this guide, we’ll introduce you to the best summer vacations in the USA. A summer vacation is often a highlight of your year. It’s the chance to explore a new national park, city, or road trip. Summer is about building memories and making new connections, enjoying the sunshine that has spread across most of the USA. Sure, these places might be busier in summer, but seeing them in their full glory makes the extra crowds worth dealing with.

There’s so much to do in the USA in summer; these top 27 places will help you create memories of a lifetime. With any of these amazing spots, you’ll have the ‘best summer ever.’

1. New York City

People rave about visiting New York in the fall and winter when the city comes to life with Christmas markets and festivity. But when it comes to the ‘city that never sleeps’, you best believe it makes full use of all those extra daylight hours. New York is one of the most fun, activity-stuffed summer vacations. As a summer getaway, New York City has so much to offer. It has pop-up events like movie screenings in Bryant Park, and even things like visiting rooftop bars become more pleasant, with longer evenings and later sunsets.

New York is one of our favorite cities. We have endless resources you can scroll through, including a guide on the ultimate one-day itinerary and a guide on our all-time-favorite things to do. In summer, you should especially check out the city’s green spaces (Central Park becomes even more sought-after) as well as day-tripping to some of its nearby beaches.

New York is fantastic to visit in the summer months because of its late-night events, proximity to beaches, and spacious green spaces.

Insider Tip: Check out beaches like Coney Island and Brighton Beach.

Where to Stay: Here’s our thorough guide on where to stay in New York City , plus our favorite hotel, Park Hyatt New York.

2. Napa Valley

Napa Valley is California’s wine country. And while this beautiful area of more than 475 vineyards and countryside towns is gorgeous all year round, summer is special. The Napa harvest season runs from August to October, meaning if you visit in August to early September you’ll visit at the height of the action. With warmer weather, you’ll have long, hot afternoons to look forward to. It’s a heavenly time to visit and indulge in wine tasting with cheese and olives.

Many vineyards are within walking distance of Napa Valley’s main towns, including Rutherford, Napa, Yountville, and Oakville. You can also enjoy activities like hot air ballooning , more reliable flights in better weather, and romantic excursions like horseback riding.

Insider Tip: If you want to dodge the main crowds, visit at the back end of summer in September or October.

Where to Stay: The Estate Yountville.

3. Las Vegas

Bizarrely enough, summer is a quiet time for Las Vegas, which contradicts many of the other destinations we have highlighted. Most of the tourism is concentrated on the spring and fall seasons, with tourists avoiding the summer heat. As temperatures can reach over 100 degrees Fahrenheit in summer months, you can see why it can put some people off.

However, if you’re selective in your sightseeing , there’s no reason you can’t enjoy Las Vegas as one of the best summer vacations in the USA. The lack of crowds is already a great start. Since much of Vegas is seen at night when temperatures are cooler, the city is actually well-suited to a summer vacation. You can enjoy attractions like the Neon Museum and the Mob Museum. And you can still take day trips to Death Valley National Park or Emerald Cave – just do so as early as possible in the morning to beat those crazy midday temperatures.

Las Vegas doesn’t follow a rule book, so why should you? Just shake up the norms around sightseeing times and book accommodation with aircon and a pool; you’ll love Vegas in summer, especially if you are a sun lover. And, if you feel like you can skip flying to Europe, seeing the Eiffel Tower in Vegas is a fabulous compromise.

Insider Tip: Keep outdoor sightseeing to the earliest hours you can manage.

Where to Stay: Here’s our thorough guide on Where to Stay in Las Vegas: Best Places and Areas and our favorite hotel is The Bellagio .

4. Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon is gorgeous in summer. We actually listed the national park as one of the best places to visit in spring with a small caveat: you are an experienced hiker and driver in icy conditions. Bryce Canyon National Park is slow to warm up, so if you’d prefer easy access, waiting until summer is ideal. It has plenty of shaded trails that experience long, crisp mornings even in the height of summer. And there’s even a free shuttle service in the summer season.

If you are looking for somewhere where you can enjoy hiking trails and dramatic Utah rock formations, Bryce Canyon National Park is our top recommendation. You can breeze through the easy Sunset Point Trail or tackle the classic, and more difficult, Navajo Loop.

Yes, Bryce Canyon is at its busiest in June, July, and August, but this is for good reason. You won’t be contending with ice and difficult accessibility. And if you are a solo hiker, these crowds can be preferable for safety in numbers. For the inexperienced and freshly solo, this national park wiggled its way onto our list as one of the best summer vacations. If you are in the area make sure to check out our guide to Utah National Parks: How to visit The Mighty 5 .

Insider Tip: Visit in September to October if you’d prefer fewer crowds.

Where to Stay: Brian Head Lodge .

5. Outer Banks

North Carolina’s Outer Banks are a timeless place to spend a summer vacation. The Outer Banks are a collection of barrier islands that start by the North Carolina-Virginia border and stretch all the way down to Ocracoke Island. They extend over 175 miles and are full of gorgeous beaches with deep blue waters.

In summer, you’ll see Cape Hatteras National Seashore at its absolute best, and you can enjoy leisurely strolls to both Cape Hatteras and Bodie Island Lighthouses. The Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge is also a haven for migratory and endangered birds. Keep your eyes peeled for warblers, sparrows, and waxwings if you’re lucky.

The Outer Banks are perfect for anyone who wants to experience beach-style summer vacations. It is also ideal for the more adventurous, especially those passionate about water-related activities and wildlife conservation. The Outer Banks are quiet and not overly developed, with just a few small towns along its length.

Insider Tip: Make sure to see the wild horses on the Outer Banks. You can take a guided tour or go it alone.

Where to Stay: Check out Island Motel OBX .

6. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The Great Smoky Mountains stretch between Tennessee and North Carolina and are a region of legendary wilderness. The mountains clocked their name for their trademark low-lying mist, which typically cloaks the forested ridges in the early morning. The national park is home to over 1,500 black bears and more than 200 varieties of birds. And that’s before you even begin to think about the over 4,000 different types of plant varieties. Regarding conservation and natural beauty, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is in a league of its own.

You can tackle sections of the Appalachian Trail and enjoy warmer temperatures by cooling off in swimming holes like the Wye and Sinks. Summer brings many water-related activities, from white water rafting through dense forests and shaded trails to hidden waterfalls like Laurel Falls. While if wildlife sightseeing is your main draw, driving Cades Cove Loop Road is a great bet, and bears and deer are most active in summer.

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the best summer vacations for nature lovers. The whole 500,000-plus acres spring into life in the summer, with wildlife more active and water activities more enjoyable.

Insider Tip: Drive Cades Cove Loop Road to spot black bears.

Where to Stay: Best Western Plus Apple Valley Lodge Pigeon Force.

Thanks to its scenic location along Lake Michigan, Chicago is a beautiful place to visit for a summer vacation. It has miles of sandy beaches along the lakefront and plentiful green spaces in the city, like Millenium Park. In warm weather, it’s one of the best summer vacation spots.

The city is rammed with things to do and tasty dishes to eat ; it’s famous for its Italian-influenced cuisine and killer pizzas, which you can enjoy al fresco in the sunshine. There’s also no better time to stroll the Chicago Riverwalk or take a boat tour. Chicago has a fast-paced personality, and if you don’t believe us, just check out the festivals coming up this summer.

Given its location on Lake Michigan, it would be a crime not to day trip to nearby towns and cities when staying in Chicago. Remember that Milwaukee has Summerfest , too. We love summers in Chicago because of its lakeside location and endless festivities.

Insider Tip: Make sure to snag tickets for Milwaukee’s Summerfest.

Where to Stay: Here’s our guide on where to stay . We’d particularly recommend Pendry Hotel.

8. Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia

History buffs, this is your time to shine. Colonial Williamsburg is the USA’s largest-ever outdoor living museum and whisks visitors back to the 18th century. The museum spans 301 acres, with two separate art museums, historic taverns, and exhibits. It’s set in a historic district within Williamsburg, and you can walk around for free. Williamsburg was one of America’s first-ever ‘planned cities’ by British colonialists, so it’s a momentous place to visit and comprehend this part of the USA’s history.

In summer, the action at Colonial Williamsburg is in full flow. You’ll see all the actors out engaging with visitors, and you’ll enjoy warmer weather to walk the streets. We’d advise against walking around in the midday heat. Still, you can plan the walking aspects for the early morning and then spend midday to early afternoon in indoor attractions, like the art museums. You can also tour Colonial Williamsburg after dark too, with haunted tours.

Colonial Williamsburg has a unique history to embrace this summer. You’ll love the experience; an outdoor museum is the perfect way to enjoy the sunshine.

Insider Tip: Plan your timings and itinerary around the hottest parts of the day, especially when visiting with children.

Where to Stay: Club Wyndham Kingsgate.

Boston is another option for history-loving summer vacation seekers. It is full of beautiful Victorian-style buildings and is brimming with Revolution history. Boston also sits on the East Coast, and it’s another place that gets off to a slow start when it comes to warming up in spring. The Atlantic breeze keeps temperatures reasonably low, meaning waiting until summer to catch Boston in warmer temperatures is best.

Boston is massively walkable if you stay downtown, so much so that it’s been nicknamed ‘America’s Walking City’. Chinatown, Beacon Hill, and Back Bay are all within easy walking distance of the city’s downtown region. And in summer, the warm weather makes Boston’s walkability even more appealing, so grab your comfiest walking shoes.

You can enjoy plenty of outdoor activities in summer , like kayaking the Charles River or strolling James P. Kelleher Rose Garden. There are also scenic trails around the waterfront and history-themed attractions like the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum.

For us, Boston’s walkability is partly what makes it such an entertaining city. And there’s no doubt that summer is the best time to go strolling and experience Boston’s history.

Insider Tip: Don’t forget to walk the Harvard campus.

Where to Stay: The Newbury Boston .

10. Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest

If you want the best summer in the great outdoors, Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest is a beautiful choice for a summer vacation. The national forest is just outside of Salt Lake City in Utah and is an accessible choice for a summer trip combined with a city break. While previously the forest was a relatively unsung tourist destination, more and more people have clocked onto its beauty. It is a bit Banff-esque, with jutting peaks that keep their snow caps way into late spring and alpine lakes. And by summer, the wildlife is in full swing.

Little Deer Creek Falls is magnificent, as is the gorgeous Amethyst Lake. You can go horseback riding, cycling, or hiking. Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest has dozens of hidden waterfalls and alpine lakes, with more challenging mountain peaks for the more experienced hikers and climbers. Mount Timpanogos via Timpooneke Trail is particularly stunning in summer.

We’d suggest fully embracing the wilderness with a camping vacation in the forest. It’s a brilliant time to safely access an area of extreme natural beauty.

Insider Tip: Late summer is typically best for dodging inevitable mosquitos.

Where to Stay: The Lodge at Snowbird.

11. Galveston

Galveston is beautifully situated on the Gulf Coast of Texas, and if you aren’t sold on Texas as a summer destination, prepare for that to change. Galveston is an island city on a barrier island blessed with miles of beaches and the gorgeous Galveston Island State Park with bird watching and boardwalks. Galveston is where to go for bird watching, fresh seafood, and pristine beaches.

In summer, you can experience Galveston’s beaches at their best. You could even enter the AIA Sandcastle Competition, which has been running for over 35 years. Regarding bird watching, it’s also an excellent time for frigatebirds, scissor-tailed flycatchers, and painted buntings. Head out with some binoculars to Galveston Island State Park and work on your tan while spotting some of the USA’s prettiest summer birds.

Galveston is, without a doubt, a brilliant beach destination for summer vacations, and it has the added bonus of fantastic bird watching. It’s a popular Texas getaway for anyone in the know.

Insider Tip: Bring binoculars and long-lens cameras so you don’t miss out on smaller or distant birds.

Where to Stay: Virginia Point INN.

We cannot have a list of summer vacation spots and not feature Miami. Miami is a little bit ‘love it or hate it,’ but that’s all part of its spunky aesthetic. There’s nothing more classic than Miami’s South Beach, with its art deco beach infrastructure. And in summer, Miami is in full flow . You can enjoy all of its beach culture, surfing, and sunbathing. The weather is perfect for day-tripping to enjoy the nearby Key Biscayne and Biscayne National Park.

Now, it is a well-known fact that summer spells hurricane season. However, July is the odd one out here, as the driest month of the year. With heat and record dry days, it’s a popular time to visit Miami, and one we’d also recommend if you want to experience the city in its summertime glory.

Insider Tip: Sign up for hurricane and weather alerts.

Where to Stay: Here’s our guide on where to stay in Miami , plus our favorite Bentley Beach Club .

13. Atlantic City

Atlantic City is a fun resort city on the New Jersey shore. It initially sprang up in the 19th century as a health resort – somewhere to head to the coast in summer for fresh air and sea. Now, Atlantic City has hit its rebellious years and instead offers a hotbed of nightclubs and casinos. It’s where to book a summer vacation if you want party culture in a less-trodden spot. Think of a quieter, coastal Vegas.

In summer, you get the most out of Atlantic City’s location, with the gorgeous boardwalk and beach access . And when it gets to midday heat, you can dash into the cooling shade of the Central Pier Arcade or cool off at Island Waterpark.

Atlantic City got our vote for its fun, party atmosphere. Plus, it is less than 2.5 hours away from New York City by car and is pretty accessible.

Insider Tip: Visit the bizarre building, Lucy the Elephant.

Where to Stay: Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City.

14. Lewes, Delaware

Lewes is tiny, a coastal blip on Delaware’s Atlantic coastline. It has a pretty big story behind it, though, as the site of the first European settlement in Delaware and a once-thriving Dutch trading post. The arrival of colonists was short-lived, though, when all settlers were killed in 1632. Despite its complex early days, the town offers far more than just colonial tales and maritime history. The town is surrounded by nature, including Cape Henlopen State Park and Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge.

The history of Lewes is best appreciated by walking the area and its surrounding nature, which is what scored it our vote as one of the best summer vacations. The warm weather helps you to spend more time outdoors and understand Lewes better. There are some cracking beaches nearby, too, like Savannah and Johnnie Walker Beach.

Insider Tip: Check out Lewes’ breweries.

Where to Stay: Home2Suites by Hilton Lewes Rehoboth Beach.

15. Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is stunning. Situated right by the Canada border, separated from Vancouver Island only by the Salish Sea, Olympic National Park is famed for its old-growth rainforests. You can walk through the magic Hall of Mosses , which only stretches less than a mile but has drooping ferns and dramatically hanging green moss from gnarled trees. It’s like something out of a fairy tale.

In summer, you can enjoy camping and hiking in Olympic National Park with warmer temperatures and lesser rainfall on your side. And if you still want some element of summer beach vacation, it also has the nearby La Push beaches with the famous Hole-In-The-Wall.

Summer is the best time to experience Olympic National Park and embrace even more of its usual magic, with leaping salmon if you visit in September and more active wildlife across the season. It’s also warm enough to enjoy its beaches better.

Insider Tip: Take the ferry to Victoria from Port Angeles to sneak in a visit to Canada as well.

Where to Stay: Pacific Inn Motel.

16. Grand Teton National Park

Now, we will mention Yellowstone, but it would be totally amiss of us not to mention Grand Teton National Park as well. These two national parks are only a couple of hours apart. Yet, they both offer an entirely different experience and outdoor activities. Grand Teton National Park is glaciated rather than volcanic like Yellowstone.

Grand Teton is a fertile region of glaciated mountains with dramatic crags and sharp ridges from centuries-old ice shaping. Its pastures now feed thousands of moose, elk, and bison. In summer, tourists can drive the park’s scenic 42-mile loop and spot wildlife out their window. You can also easily enjoy water activities like kayaking on Jenny Lake and warm weather hikes.

Much of the park closes between late fall and spring, so summer is the best time to thoroughly access Grand Teton National Park. If you want ‘full access,’ we’d suggest visiting between June and early September.

Insider Tip: Extend your stay to combine both national parks in one visit.

Where to Stay: The Virginian Lodge.

17. Orlando

Orlando isn’t known for its breathtaking scenery in a natural sense. Instead, the Florida mega city is famous for its theme parks, including Magic Kingdom and its colossal Disney castle. You could easily spend a week exploring the different theme parks and rollercoasters , making it one of the best summer vacation spots for anyone wanting to let their hair down. It’s an ideal city choice if you love theme parks and the thrill of rollercoasters.

Undoubtedly, summers are a busy time for Orlando, especially given the school holidays and kids’ appeal. We’d suggest visiting in June if you want a quieter experience or in early September when most schools have returned.

You can also take some great day trips from Orlando, like to the Kennedy Space Center or Blue Springs State Park, to snorkel with a manatee. It’s an ideal summer vacation for anyone wanting to balance theme park fun with a few cool Florida experiences.

Insider Tip: Research passes and theme park discounts.

Where to Stay: Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress Resort.

18. San Francisco

San Francisco is a golden child of the West Coast. It is mainly known for its foggy conditions, with plenty of – slightly eerie – photos of the Golden Gate Bridge shrouded in mist. It has a bit of a microclimate, with different neighborhoods experiencing different weather simultaneously because of wind patterns from its Pacific Coast location. However, the summer weather transforms the city into one of the US’ best summer vacation spots.

Fisherman’s Wharf becomes even more pleasant to walk around, as does Golden Gate Park. And there are festivals galore, from the Union Street Festival to the 4th of July celebrations. The outdoor Sundown Cinema also pops up in Dolores Park. At the same time, beach lovers can enjoy spectacular beaches like Baker Beach and Mile Rock Beach.

Like New York City, San Fran is a city that shakes itself into action over the summer, utilizing its precious green spaces and beaches. These are all the great things to do in San Francisco .

Insider Tip: Allow a few days in case of the ‘return of the fog’.

Where to Stay: Here’s where to stay in San Fran , plus its best hotel, the Four Seasons Hotel San Francisco.

19. Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is gorgeous, with sloping mountain spikes cloaked in ice and acres of alpine meadows dotted with wildflowers. If outdoor adventures are your thing, Glacier National Park really comes into its own for summer vacations. There are over 700 miles of trails to hike . With the summer temperatures underway, these are all now accessible without ice and snow underfoot.

You can hike to Grinnell Glacier, complete the Trail of the Cedars, admire multi-colored rocks in Lake McDonald, and see 35-foot Saint Mary Falls.

Glacier National Park is a real gateway into Montana, with mountain goats, grizzlies, and moose. Summer is when all these residents are most active too, so you’ll have a whale of a time choosing this park as your summer vacation.

Insider Tip: Bring bear spray – enough said.

Where to Stay: Moss Mountain Inn.

20. Zion National Park

Zion National Park , we’ll admit that we are obsessed. Like many of the beautiful national parks in southern Utah, Zion National Park is a slow starter for thawing out after winter. Spring is a tricky time as there is still ice on trails (which is a pain for sketchier routes like Angels Landing). You get all the snow melt, which makes trails like the Narrows inadvisable full of all but the most experienced hikers.

All of these factors combine to make Zion perfect for your summer vacation. Summer travelers get an easier version of the park, and if you visit in early summer, like June, you’ll still dodge the worst of the crowds. It’s incredible what waiting those extra couple of months can do regarding trail accessibility in Zion. And that’s what makes it one of the best summer vacation spots.

You can hike Angels Landing with safer footing, wade happily through the now-lower Narrows, and make your way to the Emerald Pools. Zion is all about outdoor adventure, so you want to be able to enjoy it.

Insider Tip: If you want to hike the major trails like Angels Landing, research the lottery permits beforehand.

Where to Stay: Here’s where to stay in Zion National Park . Our top choice is Zion Villa .

21. The CA-1 Section of the Pacific Coast Highway

Road trip, anyone? Some of the best summer vacations are road trips. While Route 66 is officially in its ‘too hot’ territory, the breezy CA-1 section of the Pacific Coast Highway is perfect. The highway stretches from just north of San Francisco to Capistrano Beach, covering roughly three-quarters of the Californian coastline. You pass Santa Cruz, with its die-hard surfer culture, and Monterey , with its sea lion kayaking experiences. There’s also McWay Falls – an 80-foot mammoth of a sight – and gorgeous beaches along Santa Barbara. And that’s all without mentioning the Pacific Coast Highway’s famed bridges.

If you tackle the entire stretch , we would allow around a week. It covers a whopping 600 miles. You want to be able to take your time driving and stop as much as you’d like without rushing to clock up your miles for the day, so lean towards more days.

Insider Tip: Definitely carve out time to go kayaking with sea lions in Monterey.

Where to Stay: Alila Ventana Big Sur.

22. San Diego

San Diego is beautiful in summer, with easy access to a long chain of beaches like Silver Strand and Imperial Beach. The city is fast rising in popularity because of its year-round good weather, and summer is no exception. It’s as close to Mexico as you can possibly get in terms of climate and summer sunbathing, located right near the border in Southern California.

You can make the most of the sunshine with beach days , relax shopping around Seaport Village in the San Diego harbor, and go sightseeing around Balboa Park. We love the amount of outdoor space, which makes San Diego one of the best summer vacations.

To seriously dodge the crowds, we suggest visiting San Diego in September, which is quieter. Otherwise, as a second city compared to glitzy LA, San Diego is always pleasant to visit in terms of fewer crowds.

Insider Tip: Make sure you day trip to a few different beaches.

Where to Stay: Here’s where to stay in San Diego and our top recommendation, Pantai Inn.

23. Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is easily one of the most popular summer vacations in the USA and is also a UNESCO World Heritage site. The warmer weather means easier driving conditions – wave goodbye to gritted teeth and icy roads – and in May, the North Rim reopens to tourists after its seasonal closure. The incredible weather is perfect for hiking stunning trails like South Kaibab and South Rim Trail. You should still dodge most crowds if you get there early, in June rather than July or August.

We’d also recommend summer hiking in Grand Canyon National Park because of the extended daylight hours. You have sunsets later, meaning more time to polish off your activities for the day and then head to a scenic lookout.

You’ll be able to enjoy the gorgeous North Rim, more daylight hours, and easier access. If you visit in June, you won’t have to compromise with crowd density and trail traffic.

Insider Tip: Be mindful of exposed trails in the midday heat and always abide by safety advice.

Where to Stay: Here’s where to stay near the Grand Canyon . We’d particularly recommend El Tovar Hotel .

24. Rocky Mountain National Park

Who doesn’t love the Rockies? Rocky Mountain National Park is famous for its protected mountain terrain and hiking trails like Bear Lake Trailhead . It is full of glassy lakes that reflect surrounding snow-capped mountains well into late spring, and the Rockies have some fabulous natural attractions like Lake Haiyaha. There’s no denying that it’s one of the best summer vacation spots, either; all of these attractions become suddenly more accessible in the summer season.

Everyone knows that the alpine tundra clings to its snow a little longer, and while experienced hikers and drivers may wish to skip the crowds and visit in early spring, waiting can be better. If you aren’t as confident or don’t have the right vehicle and equipment, Rocky Mountain National Park is easier to visit in summer. Be mindful of timings when embarking on trails – you can dodge most summer crowds just by being time-savvy.

Insider Tip: Pick early start times for hikes, especially on popular routes like Bear Lake.

Where to Stay: Blue Door Inn.

25. Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is one of our top recommendations for the best summer vacation spots. As a national park famed for waterfalls, nothing quite suits a summer vacation better than a shaded hike through undergrowth to some of Yosemite’s best falls. While crowds and temperatures rise, you can always find a peaceful spot amongst the park’s dense redwoods.

Carbon Falls is a great place to visit in Yosemite in summer, as it’s swimmer-friendly. Mirror Lake is a pretty trail that is minimal effort in summer at just over 2 miles in length, while Four Mile Trail is a little more challenging with sweeping valley views. And, of course, you have to see the classic Yosemite Falls.

Early summer (think June) is best for waterfalls in Yosemite National Park, as it is when the snowmelt runs off and creates more dramatic falls. You don’t want to wait until the back end of summer, like August and September, as even Yosemite Falls can look slightly pathetic in its fall power by this time of year. Some waterfalls dry completely in mid to late summer, so the early birds get the worm here.

Insider Tip: Visit on a weekday for fewer crowds.

Where to Stay: Here’s where to stay in Yosemite . Our favorite spot is Yosemite Valley Lodge.

26. Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is famously sat on top of a dormant volcano, making it a hive of volcanic activity with exciting attractions like geysers and hot springs. It also has America’s largest herd of buffalo, grizzly bears, and wolves – which are more active in summer months. With the most daylight hours and accessible trails and roads, the summer season is the ideal time to experience all the intensity that Yellowstone National Park has to offer.

You can take a summer bus tour, get a permit to go fishing and experience the thrill of white water rafting. One of the best summer activities is horseback riding, heading through remote areas of natural beauty that a car just couldn’t get you to. And, of course, there are classic attractions like Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring , and the Morning Glory Pool.

Yellowstone National Park does get busy in summer, but the increase in activity feels electric. You’ll see more wildlife and just generally enjoy easier road conditions and being outdoors more in warm weather.

Insider Tip: Get organized with trip planning as things sell out quickly.

Where to Stay: Check out our full comprehensive guide on Where to Stay in Yellowstone National Park – Guide to the Best Hotels. Canyon Lodge Yellowstone is one of our favorites.

27. Acadia National Park

We won’t lie; Acadia National Park gets busy from June until early September, so if you are visiting on summer vacation, forget having trails to yourselves. However, despite this, Acadia National Park is still one of the best summer vacation spots in the USA. The mild weather makes hiking the plethora of trails heavenly, and you can enjoy things like kayaking, rock climbing, or mountain biking without the slippery, wet rocks and mud.

You can hike the short but tough Precipice Trail, which involves narrow ledges and metal ladder rungs nailed into rock faces. There’s also Ocean Path for views of the sea and the dramatic sight of Thunder Hole, where waves spray as high as 40 feet in the air.

Acadia National Park has some of the best trails to tackle, and it’s much more fun when they aren’t covered in a layer of slippery mud. We recommend wangling your summer trip for mid to late September, just after the summer rush but before the October fall foliage flurry of tourists.

Insider Tip: Plan ahead with parking reservations to overcome the summer crowds.

Where to Stay: Bar Harbor Manor.

Best Places to Visit in Summer: FAQs

When you are planning a summer getaway, the USA has tons to offer. In particular, you should make the most of outdoor activities and nature through water sports and hiking trails. Many national parks are inaccessible over winter and early spring if you don’t have expert equipment and 4WD vehicles. So summer is the perfect time to see many national parks in the USA.

Similarly, city breaks are also a great idea in summer, as cities are starting to embrace their outdoor spaces more, like movie nights in New York’s Bryant Park .

Before you go ahead and book your best summer yet, take heed of these quick FAQs. They may sway you if you are currently in between choices.

Which place is best to visit in summer?

The Utah National Parks are much easier to enjoy in June when the trails are more accessible. But if you’d prefer a beach-style vacation, we’d recommend the Outer Banks

Where is the best place for summer vacation?

The best places for a summer vacation in the USA are New York City, Chicago, San Diego, or San Francisco for a city break. Then, for a beach holiday, we’d recommend the Outer Banks.

What is the best country to visit in summer?

The USA is beautiful to visit in summer. The country has impressive nature, and summer is the best time to experience that, be it in the city center’s green spaces or remote national parks.

Where is the cheapest place to go in the summer?

Some of the cheapest states in the USA are West Virginia, Texas, and South Carolina. This means the Great Smoky Mountains and Galveston are some of the cheapest summer vacations on our list.

Why You Should Visit The USA in Summer

As you can see, the USA is never short of summer vacation ideas. These 27 best summer vacation spots are guaranteed to keep you on your toes this July and August, yet they are just the tip of the iceberg. You’ll find hundreds more amazing destinations across the USA in summer; we just couldn’t quite fit them on the list. The country really comes into its own with the arrival of summer. It’s one of the best lights you can possibly see it in.

Looking for more inspiration? Check out our guides on the best road trips to take around the USA in 2024 and the best national parks. We’ve even got a guide on the best beaches in the USA. These 27 destinations are just the beginning; make sure to continue researching, as the USA is overflowing with amazing summer vacation ideas.

Plan Your Next Summer Vacation With These Resources

• 27 Best Places to Visit in March USA
• 28 Best Romantic Getaways in the USA
• 50 Best Places to Visit in the USA
• 27 Best National Parks in the USA To Visit
• 28 Best Beaches in the USA
• 21 Best All-inclusive Resorts in the USA

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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10 Places To Visit In California Before The End of Summer

Now is the time to embark on a journey of exploration, creating new memories, and thinking outside the box.

August 02, 2021

You’ve been to all the unique beaches , you’ve seen all the weird spots , you’ve driven past all the quirky roadside attractions ; you’ve basically checked off everything on your summertime bucket list . But there’s still something missing—it’s like, you’ve been everywhere, but something’s not right. You can’t help but think: “Is there something I’m forgetting?” 

To answer this question, yes, you probably are. Now is the time to embark on a journey of exploration, creating new memories, and thinking outside the box. From cool boardwalks and haunted spots in L.A. to free places in NorCal and just straight-up awesome must-visit locales , it’s time to compile one last bucket list of places to visit in California to end this summer with a bang. 

Unique Places To Visit In Southern California

1. USS Midway Museum

Location : 910 North Harbor Drive, San Diego

History enthusiasts, this is one of the places you want to visit in San Diego . Along the shores of San Diego Bay, the USS Midway Museum floats proudly at Navy Pier. Here, you’ll get an insider look at the longest-serving American aircraft carrier of the 20th century. Visitors explore the 29 restored aircraft at the museum, some of which have flown in World War II and the Korean War.

During the tour, you'll see the crew's sleeping quarters, ship's jail, engine, and flight control room. Take the self-guided audio tour of the San Diego museum or let the volunteers tell you all the ins and outs of this naval aircraft. Enjoy, sailor!

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2. Bart’s Books

Location : 302 West Matilija Street, Ojai

The valley town of Ojai is home to a gem that not many people acknowledge its value— Bart’s Books , the world’s largest outdoor bookstore. Established in 1964 by Richard Bartindale, this bookstore now has over 130,000 books on its shelves—you’re going to want to see this place in California . 

Today, Bart’s Books is divided into three parts—the sidewalk, outdoor patio, and house interior. The “honor system” is applied on the sidewalk, meaning you can take whatever you like and leave any sum of money in the coffee cans. Want to enjoy the smell of new books? You know where to go. 

3. Franceschi Park

Location : 1510 Franceschi Road, Santa Barbara

In the heart of the American Riviera is another magnificent place to visit in Southern California . The 15-acre Franceschi Park is named after renowned Italian horticulturist Francesco Franceschi, who owned a 40-acre parcel of land in the area. Franceschi created a garden with plants imported from all around the world—soon, it became a botanical garden and nursery. 

Nowadays, Franceschi Park serves as a place to wander, ponder, and spend time in the great outdoors. Here, you can simply relax and observe the beauty of Santa Barbara and the ocean below—a much-needed peace of mind after a busy summer.

4. Whale House

Location : 999 Adante Road, Santa Barbara

Whale House in Santa Barbara is a hidden gem and one of those unique places to visit in California . This nature-inspired fantasy villa was designed by architect Michael Carmichael and took three years to complete. Its large, gray, and shingled exterior replicates—you guessed it—a whale. There are no flat walls or straight lines in the house.

Curious to know how Pinocchio felt? The Whale House is available for rent, so hurry up and book now.

Breathtaking Places To Visit In Northern California

5. wild willy’s hot springs.

Location : Mammoth Lakes, Mono County

When life gives you lemons, you make lemonade. And when nature gives you a spa, you take a dip. Out of all the hot springs in California , Wild Willy’s in Mammoth Lakes is one of the must-visit places in Northern California . Around 750,000 years ago, a massive volcano erupted in the area, resulting in many of the regions’ natural landmarks we now enjoy. Wild Willy’s Hot Springs, along with the Sierra Nevada, were a byproduct of the eruption.

Today, visitors can find two pools in the area that are around 50 feet apart. The mineral springs are generally 97 degrees, but the smaller pool can heat up to 107. We don’t know about you, but we’re totally down to (re)treat ourselves . 

6. Bodie State Historic Park

Location : California State Route 270, Bridgeport

During the California Gold Rush , Bodie was a thriving mining town with a population of almost 10,000. The town attracted fortune hunters from all over the state. However, by the late 1800s, Bodie’s fame started fading away until it was completely abandoned. Now, it’s merely a ghost town in California that people visit every now and then. Almost 200 structures remain standing, and many of their interiors are in their original state. To step back in time, make sure to visit this town and enjoy its once functioning cars, machinery, barbershops, and houses.

7. Church of 8 Wheels 

Location : 554 Fillmore Street, San Francisco

If you’ve been looking for an abandoned church-turned-roller skating rink, look no further than the holier-than-thou Church of 8 Wheels . What was once the Sacred Heart Catholic Church is now one of the coolest rinks in San Francisco— you know what to do the next time you’re in Fog City . As one of the coolest places to visit in California , this spot is one you just can’t miss. Glide across the wooden floors, under disco balls, and led lights; the stained-glass windows depicting Jesus and Mother Mary will probably be impressed with your moves.

As if roller skating wasn’t fun enough, a DJ will make sure your spirits remain high as you skate to the beats of disco, funk, and pop music. Make sure to get there early—it gets packed.

8. Haight-Ashbury 

Location : Haight-Ashbury District, San Francisco

Welcome to one of San Francisco’s most expensive neighborhoods that just so happens to be its most striking. Known as a prominent area of the hippie and counterculture of the 60s, Haight-Ashbury is lined with impressive Victorian-style structures painted in bright colors. While the neighborhood has undergone many changes since the Summer of Love, it still preserves much of its persona.

You need a full itinerary as to how to spend your day in the neighborhood—check out these ideas. Check out the stores along Haight Street for some awesome wall art, tapestry, and books. And don’t forget to visit Hippie Hill on the east end of Golden Gate Park .

9. Japanese Tea Garden

Location : 75 Hagiwara Tea Garden Drive, San Francisco

Prepare to be enchanted by the beauty of cherry blossoms and well-groomed trees—another unique place to go in California is the Japanese Tea Garden in Golden gate Park. Here, you’ll find the oldest public Japanese tea house in the entire nation. 

The garden was created as part of the California Midwinter International Exposition of 1894. While parts of the garden are demolished now, structures like the Drum Bridge continue to stand proud. If you’re still wondering about places to travel in California , this garden tops every must-visit list.

10. Confusion Hill

Location : 75001 Highway 101, Piercy 

As the name suggests, visiting Confusion Hill will leave you puzzled. Located in the forests of Mendocino County, this amusement park opened in 1949 and has been causing trouble ever since. Among the illusions to experience include standing on a wall and throwing a ball out the window and watching it return to you—just like a boomerang. The Gravity House is designed to give the impression that people need to stand upright when they already are. As for people who go loco for locomotives, don’t forget to go on a ride amidst the woods. Now that’s one of the best places to visit in California !

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27 Summer Tourist Spots to Avoid — and Where to Go Instead

Posted: March 19, 2024 | Last updated: March 19, 2024

Destinations Best Skipped

Of all the joys of summer, crowds are not one of them. Nor are sky-high seasonal prices and tacky, pop-up attractions and tourist traps designed for the sole purpose of separating you from your money. With input and recommendations from tourism authorities and travel bloggers nationwide, we've compiled a list of more than two dozen tourist spots that, while worthy of a visit during much of the year, are probably best avoided in summer.

Editor's Note: This story was updated in March 2024.

1. Avoid: Niagara Falls, New York and Canada

Along with all the natural beauty come crowds by the busload, particularly during summer, and development that has grown to include unrelated attractions such as Ripley's Believe it or Not!, wax museums, and a Hard Rock Cafe. The bottom line: Visit in the off-season.

Instead: Tahquamenon Falls State Park, Michigan

Think of this 50,000-acre preserve of primarily undeveloped woodland as a pared-back, rustic version of Niagara Falls in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Its Upper Falls is one of the largest east of the Mississippi — more than 200 feet across, dropping nearly 50 feet, not a wax museum in sight.

2. Avoid: Black Hills, South Dakota

There's Mount Rushmore, Needles Highway winding through pine and spruce forest, and Jewel Cave National Monument — amid dispiriting tourist traps such as the Stratobowl, Dinosaur Park, and Storybook Island that landed the region on Wander Wisdom's " Ten Places to Avoid on Your Next Summer Vacation. "

Instead: Chattanooga, Tennessee

Detach from technology and unwind by riding horses or with rock-climbing or hiking Lookout Mountain (there's also a train up). An under-the-radar destination that's experiencing a renaissance, Chattanooga also has great restaurants and bars to check out.

For more great travel guides and vacation tips,   please sign up for our free newsletters .

3. Avoid: Poconos, Pennsylvania

This place for lovers — who else remembers that famous ad campaign? — in the state's northeast is known for antique shops, waterfalls, and stands of White Pines. But being two hours from New York City and Philadelphia translates into serious crowds from Memorial Day through Thanksgiving.

Instead: Northern New Mexico

Taos, a high desert highlight surrounded by the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, is home to a vibrant arts community (including free galleries), historic adobe buildings such as Taos Pueblo ($25 for adults, $22 for children 11 and older), and the Ghost Ranch in Abiquiu, where tours ($42 for adults, $25 for students) explore the geography inspiring Georgia O'Keeffe's paintings. 

Related: 18 Travel Destinations Where One Visit Isn't Enough

4. Avoid: Mesa Verde, Colorado

This national park in Southwest Colorado is famous for cliff dwellings preserved from the 1190s. The park is a cheap, must-see destination , says Joost Schreve, co-founder and CEO of the travel site kimkim , but come in summer and you'll be touring the cramped spaces with hordes of other visitors.

Instead: Canyon De Chelly National Monument, Arizona

Canyon de Chelly is less visited than Mesa Verde, but equally stunning — photographer Ansel Adams took some iconic images there. You can take a tour of the canyon with Navajo guides, Schreve says, and there's no entrance fee.

Related: 30 Stunning Photos of Iconic Landscapes in the American West

5. Avoid: Yosemite National Park, California

Beautiful sequoia trees and the granite cliffs of El Capitan and Half Dome (also famously photographed by Adams) make this park certainly worth visiting. But summer is the worst time to come to this Northern California hotspot for anyone concerned about crowds and reservations, Schreve says.

Instead: Lake Placid, New York

Writing off Lake Placid as merely a snow season destination (as many do) is a mistake, Schreve says. It has boating, hiking, and rock climbing, and visitors can test their skills as future Olympians at the warm-weather Bobsled Experience. Its Lake Placid Olympic Museum commemorating the 1932 and 1980 Winter Olympics opened in December 2022.

6. Avoid: Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

At only 16.8 square miles, Myrtle Beach averages some 18.6 million visitors annually — talk about crowded. This coastal resort area is known for celebrity-designed golf courses, a boardwalk lined by arcades, and of course the beach, attracting enormous crowds starting in June when school is out. Try September or October instead.

Instead: Ocracoke Island, North Carolina

Check out Ocracoke Island, a place to take a deep breath, slow down, and enjoy good food and nature. There's no golf here, and few fancy hotels — the island doesn't even have a stoplight. But its lifeguarded beach  was named one of the best by Dr. Beach for 2022.

Related: The 20 Best Beaches on the East Coast

7. Avoid: New York City

Sure there's lots to see and do  — Times Square, Rockefeller Center, the National September 11 Memorial & Museum, to name a few. But come summer, it's hot and sticky and packed with tourists. And it's one of the most expensive cities in the world, no matter when you visit.

Instead: Pittsburgh

Often passed over in favor of Philadelphia, Pittsburgh offers budget attractions and a buzzing food and arts scene. Among the free attractions is the Frick Art & Historical Center, showcasing an extensive antique car collection, and the University of Pittsburgh's 42-story Cathedral of Learning calls for a tour too. The Gothic Revival skyscraper, commissioned in 1921, is on the National Register of Historic Places. 

8. Avoid: Savannah, Georgia

Fascinating and historic, known for its antebellum architecture, Savannah is worth a visit. But it's probably best to plan that visit for spring or fall, saving money and yourself: The average daily temperature in July is 90 degrees, and it's all but guaranteed to be muggy.

Instead: Liberty County, Georgia

Like Savannah, there's a great deal of history to explore — minus the crowds. Trace the history of the Gullah Geechee people at a living history museum that preserves the vanishing customs brought to America from Africa. The Midway Museum ($10 for adults, $5 for children), showcases a collection of heirloom furnishing, paintings, and artifacts from the Colonial era. The Cay Creek Wetlands Interpretive Center, where the boardwalk passes through nine ecosystems, is free.

9. Avoid: Seattle, Washington

If you're not a fan of spending a small fortune on a congested summer getaway, Seattle is best avoided. The Space Needle, public market, and oysters are wonderful reasons to visit, just not at the height of tourist season.

Instead: Boise Idaho

Yes, Boise. It's affordable, with an abundance of breweries and outdoor experiences, including the free Boise River Greenbelt, a 25-mile park along the Boise River that includes treelined paths and views of wildlife.

10. Avoid: Napa Valley, California

Napa is lovely, there's no denying it, and is wonderful to visit. Napa's peak season corresponds to harvest season, August through October, which is when to expect the highest prices on everything you see and do — wine tours, meals, accommodations. Better to visit September through November, or March through May.

Instead: Walla Walla, Washington

Walla Walla is home to 120 wineries and has carved a niche as a global wine and culinary scene while maintaining a relaxed, small-town charm. Bike the farm-lined roads of Washington's unofficial wine capital by renting a cruiser for $10 an hour at Allegro Cyclery.

11. Avoid: Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

The crowding at the South Rim has become so notorious the National Park Service devotes a portion of its website to detailing  the inconveniences visitors can expect during times of huge crowds. Everyone should visit the Grand Canyon at least once in their lifetime. Just not during the summer.

Instead: Canyonlands National Park, Utah

Canyonlands, carved by the Colorado River and boasting fantastical buttes, is an underrated treasure among national parks, says Bridget Kochersperger, of the blog Where I Will Roam . And lodging and campgrounds around it are reasonably priced.

12. Avoid: Boston, Massachusetts

Faneuil Hall, The Freedom Trail, the Public Garden — Boston has attractions in spades. Come summer, all the history, beaches, arts, and stellar restaurants make it one popular (and expensive) place. Save it for the fall, when the leaves turn and crowds die down.

Instead: Concord, New Hampshire

Artisans' studios, farm-to-table eateries, and a performing arts center are some reasons to visit this once-sleepy state capital and now cultural hub — said to have the most cultural offerings north of Boston. Downtown is known for its historic buildings, public art, and unique alleys and squares.

13. Avoid: Manchester, Vermont

Another classic tourist haunt with shopping outlets and festivals , Manchester becomes crowded and expensive come summer. September through December is a better time to cross this destination off a to-do list.

Instead: Waterville Valley, New Hampshire

Dominated by 4,000-foot mountain peaks and picturesque roads, Waterville Valley is a place to slow down and enjoy New England. Go fishing, or bike or hike more than 30 miles of well-marked and maintained trails.

14. Avoid: Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Gatlinburg, on the edge of one of the country's top national parks, gets flooded with summer tourists taking advantage of countless hotels, gift shops, and restaurants on the way to Dolly Parton's Dollywood. Hold off.

Instead: Mississippi GulfCoast

A bit of New Orleans mixed with a little tropical Caribbean paradise results in long, white sandy beaches , artist communities, and a growing music scene. Don't miss the galleries and creative gatherings of Bay St. Louis; for music, head to Ocean Springs. But don't miss the miles of nature trails and bicycle trails.

15. Avoid: Lancaster, Pennsylvania

Catching a glimpse of the Amish way of life is one of the big attractions in Lancaster. But rampant commercial development competes with the horses and buggies. The Dutch Wonderland kids' park is here, and outlet shopping draws visitors seeking to capitalize on Pennsylvania's lack of sales tax on most clothing.

Instead: Texas Hill Country

This up and coming wine region is about 30 minutes outside Austin, but a world away from the big-city crowds. While taking two-lane roads past lakes in limestone canyons, don't miss Farm Road 337, where oaks and cacti cling to rock ledges, or the swimming at Krause Springs in Spicewood, a 115-acre park with 32 springs. Admission is $10 for adults, $6 for children ages 4 to 11.

16. Avoid: Ocean City, Maryland

A coastal city known for seafood, mini-golf, and a Ferris Wheel, Ocean City also has one of the best beaches on the East Coast. But its population naturally balloons between Memorial Day and Labor Day, with hordes of partying college and high school-age visitors included. Hotel prices here nearly double too. Avoid the madness by visiting in September or October.

Instead: Camden, Maine

Some tourists might head to Kennebunkport (made famous by the Bush family), but Camden is much less crowded. There was just 4,850 population at the most recent census in this seaside village of Victorian inns, boutiques, galleries, and restaurants. Also worth a visit, the 5,700-acre Camden Hills State Park has 30 miles of hiking trails, oceanside picnic areas, a campground, and a road leading to the 800-foot summit of Mount Battie.

17. Avoid: Las Vegas, Nevada

Want to score in Las Vegas? Go in the spring, or hold off on visiting until September. The crowds here in summer mean higher hotel rates and less room at the pool. And then there's the temperature: It'll be regularly well above 100 degrees. When you do go, be sure to check out these fun and affordable places  and consider leaving the Strip to discover unexpected, must-see attractions that are typically less crowded.

Instead: Salt Lake City, Utah

Double the money you save avoiding gambling and tourist traps without sacrificing fine dining (look for Takashi, which singlehandedly raised the culinary stakes in Salt Lake for Japanese cuisine) or attractions (The Leonardo museum honors Leonardo da Vinci with art, science, and technology under one roof). But there's also white sand beaches, and hiking. Because the city hasn't exploded yet, you won't be exploring these things with thousands of other tourists.

18. Avoid: Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts

Outstanding restaurants, mansions, stunning beaches, boating, biking, and unique shopping help make Martha's Vineyard a place to see and be seen, drawing countless celebrity visitors that have included presidents Clinton and Obama. But with all this fabulousness comes a seasonal surge in population to 115,000 from 15,500, sky-high prices and a whole lot of hassle. Wait until fall.

Instead: Cape Breton, Canada

Cape Breton, about 650 miles northeast of Portland, Maine, allows a true getaway for lovers of beaches and nature on a 4,000-square-mile island filled with charming inns.

19. Avoid: Jones Beach, New York

Travel + Leisure once described this overrun beach, part of Jones Beach State Park in Nassau County, as being like Grand Central Station at rush hour. It attracts about 5.1 million visitors annually to its attractions, including an outdoor concert arena and a two-mile boardwalk. It all sounds lovely ... for October.

Instead: Coeur D'Alene, Idaho

This may not seem like an obvious recommendation, but Coeur d'Alene has more than 55 lakes, and that makes for a lot of beach. Activities on scenic Lake Coeur d'Alene include boat rentals and paddle boarding, and elsewhere there's hiking, golfing, and camping, as well as weekly concerts in city parks.

20. Avoid: Venice Beach, California

With about 16 million visitors annually, this is one of the most crowded beaches in America. The colorful mix of fortune-tellers, merchants, and artists is fascinating to observe, but it's Southern California — you don't need to see them in summer.

Instead: Asbury Park, New Jersey

Famously the subject of Bruce Springsteen's 2000 song "My City of Ruins," Asbury Park has faced both economic challenges and the battering of Hurricane Sandy. But its revival has brought thriving food and live music scenes, a boardwalk (don't miss the vintage pinball machines), shopping, and art galleries.

21. Avoid: Waikiki Beach, Hawaii

From iconic Waikiki Beach you can see Diamond Head, one of the world's most popular climbable volcanoes. There's also nearly two miles of white sand, and warm, turquoise water. But if you're after solitude — or just some room to spread a beach blanket — this isn't the best choice.

Instead: Islamorada, Florida

One of the best kept secrets in the Florida Keys is more than just a beach. There are art galleries to explore, fine dining to enjoy, watersports and serious fishing opportunities — and only a 90-minute drive from Miami International Airport . Don't miss feeding the tarpon at Robbie's Marina, where dock admission is $2.50 and a bucket of fish is $5. You can also rent a kayak there, or book a tour.

22. Avoid: Virginia Beach, Virginia

Virginia Beach's oceanfront lifestyle is in full swing from May through September, meaning the city, beaches, and 3-mile boardwalk are overrun. Consider saving this destination for April or early May.

Instead: Titusville, Florida

Swap out Virginia Beach's boardwalk for Titusville's quirky downtown and you get a lot with it. Titusville is along Florida's Space Coast and home to the Kennedy Space Center, but also to the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, where visitors can see manatees, bird watch, fish, and hike for $10 admission per vehicle. For beach time, hit Playalinda ($20 per vehicle), an undeveloped and uncrowded stretch with a nearby wildlife refuge. Be warned: Playalinda draws nude sunbathers.

23. Avoid: Lake Tahoe, California

Wildly popular in winter thanks to world-class ski slopes and resorts, Lake Tahoe is also a favorite destination come summer, when its shores are awash in beach umbrellas and sun seekers. Best to visit this lake and mountain paradise from March through May, or September through November.

Instead: Fallen Leaf Lake, California

You don't have to go far to find a less crowded alternative to Lake Tahoe. Fallen Leaf Lake is about a mile south, with National Forest System water left clear by a lack of commercial development, hidden springs and waterfalls . Fallen Leaf Campground has more than 200 sites and six yurts, costing the many boaters and bikers about $41 a night without electricity.

24. Avoid: Portland, Oregon

Portland has the International Rose Test Garden, Portland Art Museum, and Saturday Market, and really comes alive from June through August. But along with the sunshine comes crowds and increased hotel prices; September is just as lovely, with a drop in crowds and accommodation prices.

Instead: Salem, Oregon

Salem and the Williamette Valley is the state's agricultural heart and known for its vineyards — it was recently Wine Enthusiast's Wine Region of the Year — and gardens, such as the 91-acre Bush's Pasture Park, where there are fruiting and flowering trees, native plants, a formal rose garden, trails and picnic areas. But don't miss exploring historic buildings such as the Bush House Museum.  

25. Avoid: San Francisco

San Francisco has much to offer with its restaurants, museums, parks, and shops. But it is one of the most expensive cities in the country, and tourists come in droves anyway. Most don't know the weather is actually better between September and November.

Instead: Santa Cruz, California

A more low-key, laid-back version of life in California, Santa Cruz offers hiking in the coastal redwood forests of Wilder Ranch State Park (day-use parking is $10), fun for all on the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk (including the iconic Giant Dipper wooden roller coaster), and, for the surfers, legendary breaks.

Related: The 20 Best Beaches on the West Coast

26. Avoid: Cape Cod, Massachusetts

For many New Englanders, Cape Cod is as much a tradition as turkey at Thanksgiving. But visiting during the peak tourist months of July and August can be punishing. Unless swimming in the best water temperatures is absolutely essential, come in May, June, September, or October.

Instead: Door County, Wisconsin

These 19 communities between Lake Michigan and Green Bay, with their lighthouses, harbors, and historic villages, are called "the Cape Cod of the Midwest." There's white sandy beaches — Peninsula State Park ($11) on Green Bay is home to the sheltered Nicolet Beach, known for its calm waters — and uninhabited islands surrounding the peninsula where birds nest. 

27. Avoid: Los Angeles, California

The City of Angels, known for its glamorous Hollywood allure and sun-soaked beaches, can be considered overhyped and overly expensive for several reasons. The city's soaring cost of living — particularly in housing and transportation — ranks among the highest in the nation ( 51% higher than the national average). This makes it challenging for the average resident to afford a comfortable and sustainable lifestyle. 

LA is also known for having some of the worst traffic in the country  — and I mean, what's worse than spending your entire vacation sitting in traffic? 

Instead: Austin, Texas

Much like Los Angeles, Austin has a thriving music scene, a strong tech industry , and a lively cultural scene. It's also known for its food (especially its world-famous BBQ  and Mexican cuisine), outdoor activities, and growing craft beer scene. While Austin's prices have also been rising , it's still much more affordable compared to LA and offers a less congested environment. 

This article was originally published on Cheapism

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• 8 Cutest Small Towns In Utah To Visit In 2024

Utah is a landlocked state with extraordinary outdoor beauty. Located in the Western United States, this state is home to some of the world's most dramatic sandstone arches and cliffs which decorate its towns with unique otherworldly scenery. From Moab, where three nearby national parks preserve stunning arches, to Kanab where a lake complements the mountains and canyons, visitors will be surrounded by a world of wonders. Yearning for a vacation in the US that feels like an adventure on Mars, visit these 8 cutest towns in Utah.

Huntsville is a beautiful town dipped in the Ogden Valley, where it radiates unique character, quaint natural beauty, and a laid-back aura. Upon arrival at this pretty destination, visitors have a handful of options on what to see and do. A good starting point is at the town's Main Park, featuring a playground, and picnic benches on a backdrop of lush greenery. More adventures await at the 2.9-mile Green Pond Loop Trail which offers great views of the Wasatch Mountains. The highlight of all outdoor experiences in Huntsville is at the Pineview Reservoir where tourists can swim, boat, kayak, canoe, fish, and sail on the lake with views of the surrounding towering mountains. After the outdoor adventures, visitors can relax and munch burgers with beer at the Shooting Star Saloon, famed as the oldest continuously running bar in Utah.

Garden City

Garden City is a pretty, little town in Rich County that deviates from the regular landscape ruggedness of wavy canyons and cliffs to feature something different for visitors to Utah. Positioned on the shores of Bear Lake, this magical town is renowned as the Caribbean of the Rockies, and the lake's beauty beckons visitors for indulgence. Adventurers can boat, kayak, fish, canoe, paddle, swim, and sail on the waters, while laid-back visitors can hold picnics by the banks. Families can have fun at the Bridgerland Adventure Park featuring gorgeous lake views and thrilling playground equipment. For even more adventures, Garden City welcomes visitors to Heritage Park featuring sports facilities, a playground, and the Garden City Fishing Pond for fishing.

Fillmore was the capital city of Utah Territory before it became a state and moved the capital to Salt Lake City . So, this town is historic and naturally alluring. On the side of history, the Territorial Statehouse State Museum and Park takes visitors back in time with governmental artifacts and other relics that reflect life in the early pioneer days. Meanwhile, the park is home to the American Rose Society Garden, where guests can enjoy picnics on its beautiful grounds after a historical exploration. On the side of fun, natural beauty, and recreation, visit the Meadow Hot Springs to bask in the warmth of three hot pools and relax like a baby. For a more sensational and unique experience, head out of town to the nearby Little Sahara Recreation Area to explore miles of gorgeous dunes with an ATV.

Kamas is a photogenic mountain town famed as the gateway to the Uinta Mountains. On arrival to this town, visitors can explore the mountain range, home to around 500 lakes including the famous Mirror Lake which offers great fishing opportunities. This lake is an easy stop on the 42-mile Mirror Lake Scenic Byway which begins from Kamas and takes one past gorgeous mountain scenery, waterfalls, picnic areas, trails, and campgrounds. In addition to the lake, Upper Provo River Falls is another must-see side attraction on this road trip as it features an overlook and spots for swimming. In town, visitors are invited to grab a tasty bite at the Mirror Lake Diner or enjoy delectable grills at the Gateway Grille.

The town of Helper lies by the Price River in Castle Valley, bustling with picture-perfect natural charms. Once here, visitors can soak in gorgeous sights and soothing sounds at the 0.4-mile Riverwalk, which also features various historic displays. The town's main street is also beautiful and a walk through it immerses one into a quaint atmosphere filled with art galleries, shops, restaurants, and an old movie theatre. Just nearby, hikers can venture out to the 2.2-mile Gordon Creek Falls trail to behold two captivating waterfalls. Away from the great outdoors, visitors can learn about the town's history as a coal mining hub and railroad district at the Helper Museum. The museum features a mock-up coal mine, a jail, dinosaur fossils, and other historic elements.

Panguitch is a scenic small town in Garfield County, renowned for the Panguitch Lake which offers incredible fishing, boating, and hiking opportunities. Nearby Panguitch, the typical dramatic Utah scenery unfolds at the Cedar Breaks National Monument featuring stunning red sandstone cliffs and spires. Cedar Breaks is also surrounded by Dixie National Forest featuring diverse landscapes, including canyons, cliffs, rivers, gorges, valleys, and several small lakes. For even more adventures, visitors can head to the nearby Bryce Canyon National Park to explore some stunning natural amphitheaters. Besides the nearby geological formations, visitors to Panguitch can watch movies and eat at the Gem Theater or stroll through the town’s beautiful main street and shop for some antiques at Panguitch Mercantile.

Kanab is a charming small town by the Kanab Creek, dazzling in stunning natural beauty. Here, visitors will be met with the signature red-rock scenery of Utah created by numerous dramatic geological formations. The town is even close to two major Utah parks - Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks, each of which features otherworldly red rock formations that glow magically during sunset. Visit these parks for unique experiences or venture into the Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park to immerse in a massive sea of red sands overlooked by sandstone cliffs.

For something away from the hard elements, visitors are invited to the nearby Jackson Flat Reservoir which is great for fishing, swimming, boating, canoeing, kayaking, and also features a beach. For an experience away from the outdoors, step into the Little Hollywood Museum to discover how Southern Utah became a prime destination for shooting many Hollywood blockbusters.

When it comes to outdoors, the town of Moab is unmatched in Utah with its vast expanse of stunning and rugged natural landscapes. The nearby Arches National Park is one of this town’s main draws and it invites hikers to explore diverse arches like the extraordinary Delicate Arch. Elsewhere, the town features Fisher Towers - a series of iconic sandstone towers that set the stage for rock climbing.

Moab is also near the Canyonlands National Park - the largest national park in Utah featuring mesas, buttes, canyons, arches, and more formations that look otherworldly and offer endless opportunities for recreation. Additionally, the Dead Horse Point State Park is just nine miles from Moab and invites visitors to come enjoy panoramic views of the Colorado River and Canyonlands from a stunning overlook. Besides the nearby parks, Moab also features interesting in-town attractions like the Moab Arts Council (great for art lovers) and Moab Recreation and Aquatic Center (great for family fun). While in Moab, be sure to enjoy a meal at Sunset Grill while gazing at the best views in town.

Utah remains a stunning state riddled with so many fascinating things to enjoy. Thankfully, its small towns are custodians of some of the state’s best offerings. These cute little destinations serve as bases to explore the dramatic sights in the Beehive State while hiding from the hustle and bustle of big cities. With the small population of these pretty little towns, visitors have an entire world of wonders all to themselves for exploration. An ideal retreat to these towns immerses one into a world of sightseeing and physically demanding adventures. With many options ranging from whitewater rafting and hiking to chasing arches and enchanting sunsets, it's impossible to stay idle in these towns in Utah.

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The 29 best glamping resorts in the u.s..

Get off the grid in glamour and comfort.

The Best Glamping Resorts in the U.S.

Courtesy of Mendocino Grove

Glamping resorts offer both adventure and luxury.

If you're enticed by the idea of camping but don't want to deal with the inevitable grunt work that comes with it, glamping (or glamorous camping) is the perfect compromise. Read on to discover the most unique glamping resorts in California, Florida, Tennessee and other destinations across the U.S.

The Resort at Paws Up: Greenough, Montana

Courtesy of The Resort at Paws Up

There's glamping, and then there's glamping at The Resort at Paws Up . One of the pioneers of modern-day glamping, The Resort at Paws Up offers six exclusive glamping camps (with prices to match), each one offering a different experience. Solo travelers and couples will love the two-story Tree Haus at the resort's adults-only retreat, called the green o. North Bank Camp – with three-bedroom, two-bathroom tents – is ideal for large families. You can book an individual tent or, if traveling with extended family and/or friends, even an entire camp. Guests can even bring along a furry friend, as this resort is dog-friendly.

Glamping guests enjoy a dedicated camping butler and, because this is an all-inclusive resort , three gourmet meals with alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages daily. Select activities such as mountain biking and snow tubing are covered in nightly rates. For additional fees you can also take advantage of the many unique guided activities and excursions you don't find at most resorts, from snowmobiling to hot air balloon rides. On-site transportation and shuttle service to and from Missoula Montana Airport, about 35 miles away, are also included in your stay.

While the lodging and amenities make Paws Up one of the best glamping resorts in the U.S., it's the staff members who have earned this resort rave reviews from previous guests. The Resort at Paws Up offers glamping mid-May through mid-October, while the green o is available for stays year-round.

Address: 40060 Paws Up Road, Greenough, MT 59823

Terramor Outdoor Resort: Bar Harbor, Maine

Courtesy of Terramor Outdoor Resort

As KOA's first foray into glamping, Terramor Outdoor Resort offers luxury tent accommodations near Acadia National Park in Maine. All tents feature electricity, Wi-Fi, portable heaters and coolers plus other convenient amenities, though the types vary in capacity from two up to five guests and whether they have a bathroom. This family-friendly resort features an abundance of amenities that travelers love, including a pool and hot tub, lawn games, live entertainment, evening campfires, stargazing lectures, and an on-site restaurant and bar where guests can enjoy craft cocktails and regionally sourced beers. Pets are also welcome at Terramor, especially in the on-site dog park.

Terramor is a designated stop for the Island Explorer, a free shuttle service that transports visitors to Acadia National Park, downtown Bar Harbor and other areas of interest on Mount Desert Island. The Island Explorer operates seasonally, from mid-June to mid-October.

Address: 1453 Maine state Route 102, Bar Harbor, ME 04609

Backland: Williams, Arizona

Courtesy of Backland

Opened in 2022, Backland is a remote resort with four glamping options: Backland Suite, Grand Suite, Sky Suite and Grand Sky Suite. The latter two feature a view of the stars from a 16-foot skylight over the bed, but all four are fitted with panoramic windows for breathtaking views of the Arizona wilderness. These luxury tents accommodate up to either four or six guests, plus no more than two pets. Each features king-sized beds, a full en suite bathroom with a shower, luxury linens, electricity, automatic climate control, an outdoor patio, a coffee maker, a minifridge, housekeeping services and some toiletries.

Backland purposefully doesn't offer Wi-Fi in the tents – only at reception – as guests are encouraged to unplug during their stay. Instead of doomscrolling on social media, you can enjoy bird-watching, stargazing and roasting s'mores over a campfire. There's also a tented spa, a restaurant and a pond with a beach. Glampers at this resort say they appreciate the cozy accommodations and peaceful atmosphere.

Backland is located less than 15 miles from downtown Williams, Arizona, close to some of the best places to visit in Arizona , including Flagstaff (about 40 miles away), Grand Canyon National Park (less than 60 miles) and Sedona , which is a roughly 60-mile drive from the resort.

Address: 6929 E. Rosilda Springs Road, Williams, AZ 86046

Klarhet: Lutsen, Minnesota

Courtesy of Klarhet

Klarhet, which means "clarity" in Swedish, aims to bring just that to its glamping guests. The intimate property is located on the shores of Lake Superior and surrounded by a regenerative food forest, where an assortment of edible plants and animals attempts to mimic natural ecosystems – and where guests are invited to take a tour.

Klarhet offers just four domes – Raidho, Dagaz, Laguz and Berkanan – which all bring the outdoors inside with stellar views of the night sky and lush greenery. Each dome is equipped with king- and queen-sized beds; sustainably sourced cotton bedding; a large fan; a toilet; a custom rainfall shower; Public Goods bath amenities; Turkish bath linens, bathrobes and slippers; and a yoga mat. Amenities at Klarhet include a communal fire pit, board games and snowshoes to use in the local state parks, where you can also hike. Recent guests praise everything about Klarhet, from the accommodations to the staff.

Address: 233 Ski Hill Road, Lutsen, MN 55612

Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo: River Ranch, Florida

Courtesy of Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo

The Sunshine State is synonymous with theme parks and beaches , so you might be surprised to learn you can also go glamping in Florida.

At Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo near Kissimmee, you can spend the night in a variety of luxury glamping accommodations, each with a private bathroom and kitchenette: Choose one of the climate-controlled luxury tents or the Luxe Conestoga Wagon, which has space for up to six guests. Regular glamping tents with separate bathroom facilities are also available. Guests of all the glamping accommodations enjoy perks such as coffee and pastry deliveries each morning and access to a personal concierge; if you opt for one of the three luxury glamping options, another special amenity is a golf cart for roaming the property.

Not only is Westgate River Ranch considered a glamping resort, but it's also the largest dude ranch east of the Mississippi. Guests are encouraged to take advantage of this property's activities and amenities: airboat and swamp buggy rides, horseback riding, an archery range, a petting farm, a weekly rodeo, an on-site steakhouse and more. Resort activities, including VIP tickets to the rodeo, are covered in rates for glamping guests staying in one of the two luxe accommodations, making the experience nearly all-inclusive. Previous visitors agree this relaxed resort is a fun alternative to the nearby theme parks in Orlando .

Address: 3200 River Ranch Blvd., River Ranch, FL 33867

Bodhi Farms: Bozeman, Montana

Courtesy of Bodhi Farms

Nestled beside the Gallatin Mountains, Bodhi Farms allows travelers to sustainably and authentically experience the beauty of Montana through immersive activities and amenities. The warmer months boast creekside yoga and spa services, farming projects such as gardening and caring for livestock, a wood-fired sauna, nightly campfires, and fly fishing both on- and off-site. Farm-to-table dining at the field kitchen restaurant – situated on an open-air patio during the summer – includes the opportunity to try the Cowboy Brunch. Complimentary breakfast is available to guests of the hotel's nine glamping tents, another highlight of this eco-resort .

Available for stays from May to October, each cone-shaped tent features either one king bed or two twin beds, plus plush pet beds for up two dogs. The accommodations are also equipped with a private porch, two lounge chairs, a hammock, plenty of natural light, and heaters and fans upon request. Luxurious bathrooms are shared yet still feel private, and Bodhi Farms provides eco-friendly toiletries and complimentary bathrobes.

Just south of Bozeman, Montana, Bodhi Farms' location makes a convenient base to visit some of the state's top attractions , including Big Sky Resort and Yellowstone National Park , one of the top-rated national parks in the U.S.

Address: 13624 S. Cottonwood Road, Bozeman, MT 59718

Camp Long Creek: Ridgedale, Missouri

Courtesy of Camp Long Creek

Named for its location on Table Rock Lake at Big Cedar Lodge (created by the founder of Bass Pro Shops), Camp Long Creek offers glamping near Branson, Missouri . Its glamping units bring wood floors and chandeliers into a canvas tent, with each offering an outdoor bathtub, a fire pit, a table and chairs, a small fridge and coffee maker, and sleeping accommodations for two. These tents are scattered around the property, so views range from the lake to the forest. All units are dog-friendly and feature a private bathroom.

When you're not white-knuckling the roller coasters at Silver Dollar City (considered one of the best amusement parks in the U.S. ) or uncovering history at the Titanic Museum Attraction, take time to enjoy the resort's activities such as golfing, hiking, or boating and fishing on the lake. Other amenities include pools and hot tubs, a fitness center, and a canteen with grab-and-go bites and beverages. Previous guests rave about the setting and conveniences of glamping at this resort.

Address: 1358 Long Creek Road, Ridgedale, MO 65739

Alila Ventana Big Sur: Big Sur, California

Courtesy of Ventana Big Sur, An Alila Resort

There are few destinations in California that offer luxury in a place where you would otherwise have to rough it. In Big Sur , a region that is only accessible via one road and doesn't always offer electricity, travelers will find a limited selection of five-star accommodations – among them Alila Ventana Big Sur .

The resort offers safari-style tents in a 20-acre redwood canyon, all equipped with plush beds, electric lamps, instant hot and cold potable water with sinks, and power outlets with USB ports. Glampers can also make use of amenities for enjoying the outdoors, such as Adirondack chairs, wood-burning fire pits and picnic tables. Restrooms and showers are available at a shared, well-maintained bathhouse.

Glamping guests can purchase the Spa Alila Day Pass, which includes one 50-minute massage or facial, one poolside entree and one nonalcoholic beverage, plus full access to the meadow pool, infinity hot tub and sauna. You also have the option to enjoy fine dining at The Sur House on-site. Some parts of the Alila Ventana Big Sur grounds are reserved for resort guests only, so glampers will not have access to certain facilities.

Address: 48123 California state Route 1, Big Sur, CA 93920

Treebones Resort: Big Sur, California

Courtesy of Kodiak Greenwood

If you want to glamp in Big Sur, you might also consider Treebones Resort, which offers yurts with king beds and modern furnishings, as well as accommodations you're not likely to find elsewhere. The Autonomous Camp Collection's twin units, which can best be described as a full apartment fit into a tent, take glamping to the next level; this solar-powered, upscale option is complete with a bedroom, en suite bathroom, lounge area and outdoor deck. For a more rustic but no less unique stay, the Human Nest campsite is exactly what it sounds like – meaning you'll need to bring your own bedding and tent for protection from the elements when you sleep on the futon pad inside this wood art.

Something else Treebones Resort has that you don't find at most glamping resorts? Sushi. The Wild Coast Sushi Bar features an omakase dining experience in which patrons sit face to face with the chef, who uses their reactions to craft the 14-course tasting menu. Previous guests say it's an absolute must when staying here. You can also dine at The Lodge Restaurant, which serves breakfast, lunch and a three-course dinner.

Other on-site amenities include a massage studio and yoga. The rugged coastline views at Treebones Resort rival many in the area, and glampers may also choose to explore the beauty of Big Sur through guided excursions.

Address: 71895 California state Route 1, Big Sur, CA 93920

Under Canvas: Multiple Locations

Bailey Made | Courtesy of Under Canvas

First-time glampers should consider Under Canvas, which offers a dozen glamping locations nationwide – including its newest outpost in Paradise Valley, Montana, near Yellowstone National Park.

Guests in the safari-style tents enjoy king-sized beds, wood-burning stoves, West Elm patio furnishings, and en suite bathrooms with organic bath products and hot running water. On-site cafe-style dining (including locally sourced ingredients) is available in addition to complimentary camp programming that spans yoga, guided hikes, live acoustic music, fireside chats and s'mores.

Other amenities vary by location. At Under Canvas West Yellowstone, there's a coffee bar and an event space just for kids, while at the Grand Canyon site, guests can sip cocktails at an outdoor bar. Under Canvas operates seasonally, with dates varying for each site.

ULUM Moab: Moab, Utah

Courtesy of Bailey Made

An elevated experience by Under Canvas, ULUM Moab – which opened in 2023 – caters to travelers in search of the ultimate luxury-meets-camping experience. As such, all Suite Tents feature a plush king bed with Parachute linens; a living area with a queen bed and chairs; an en suite bathroom with a rain shower, Aesop toiletries and Turkish cotton bathrobes; and a private deck. All accommodations are pet-friendly.

ULUM Moab also offers on-site dining, three dipping pools, a yoga deck, sound bath meditation and more – making it the perfect home base for explorations in the nearby city of Moab as well as Arches and Canyonlands national parks. Reviews of the new resort are all positive, with many mentioning the location and staff among their favorite highlights.

Address: 147 Looking Glass Road, Moab, Utah 84503

Little Arrow Outdoor Resort: Townsend, Tennessee

Courtesy of Little Arrow Outdoor Resort

Aside from Under Canvas' Great Smoky Mountains location, there are several individually owned resorts and rentals with glamping in Tennessee . Among the best options is Little Arrow Outdoor Resort, which in addition to its modernized cabins and tiny homes offers glamping tents.

These glamping accommodations come in three forms: the Luxury Glamping Lodge, Luxury Glamping Tents and Primitive Glamping Tents. All are equipped with plush bedding, heating and air conditioning, and a fire pit with a grill grate. The luxury options come with private bathrooms and kitchenettes, while the "primitive" experience means you'll have to venture over to the bathhouses.

An exhaustive list of resort amenities includes a lounge with coffee, games and books; a zero-entry swimming pool, splash pad and hot tub; outdoor spa services; a dog park (yes, the resort is pet-friendly); a playground; a community garden; sports courts; and food truck service. Don't forget to explore Great Smoky Mountains National Park , just minutes from the resort. Recent guests say Little Arrow Outdoor Resort is especially fun for families and groups.

Address: 118 Stables Drive, Townsend, TN 37882

Asheville Glamping: Asheville, North Carolina

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Asheville Glamping stands out for the variety of accommodation options it offers across three sites near Asheville, North Carolina . In addition to traditional glamping tents, travelers can rent a treehouse or choose from a variety of domes, including options with indoor slides and space for up to eight guests – perfect for families.

Amenities vary by accommodation category. If you select the Safari Tent (which sleeps up to five guests with an additional cot), you'll enjoy a queen-sized bed and a futon; an outdoor propane grill, fire pit and picnic table; air conditioning; and a shared bathhouse with toilets and showers. Pets are welcome at Asheville Glamping, and you'll find plenty of local outdoor adventures to enjoy with your furry family members.

Read: The Top Hikes in Asheville, North Carolina

El Cosmico: Marfa, Texas

Nick Simonite | Courtesy of El Cosmico

If you're looking for a dog-friendly glampground with whimsy, consider the stylish El Cosmico in the small desert city of Marfa, Texas. One of the best glamping resorts in Texas , El Cosmico offers a variety of unique accommodations including solar-powered Jupe Tents, designed by a team from SpaceX and Tesla. In the future, it will offer the world's first 3D-printed hotel accommodations.

Travelers also have the option to stay in a vintage trailer, yurt or the Cosmic Kasita, a limited-edition bunkhouse. With the exception of some of the trailers and the Cosmic Kasita, most accommodations don't have private indoor bathrooms, so you'll use a communal bathhouse. El Cosmico also offers a communal outdoor kitchen and dining area, bike rentals, a provisions store, a hammock grove, an outdoor stage, and wood-fired Dutch hot tubs.

Address: 802 S. Highland Ave., Marfa, TX 79843

Collective Retreats: Multiple Locations

Courtesy of Collective Retreats

Did you know you can go glamping in New York City ? Collective Retreats, which has a location on Governors Island, also operates two other glamping resorts – in Texas Hill Country and near Vail, Colorado – with several others in the works.

Accommodations in every location are pretty cushy, with luxurious linens, panoramic views, electricity and upscale toiletries. Some tent types, such as the Outlook Shelter exclusive to the Governors Island resort in New York, feature an en suite bathroom, while others require you to use a shared bathhouse.

Collective Retreats offers an array of activities across its locations, whether you want to get a massage in New York, go wine tasting in Texas Hill Country or ride a horse in Colorado. You can also enjoy the on-site dining experiences, with globally inspired cuisine.

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Dunton River Camp: Dolores, Colorado

Courtesy of Dunton River Camp

Situated on 500 acres in the Colorado Rockies, this former cattle ranch is surrounded by verdant meadows and forests radiating a sense of adventure. Dunton River Camp is not only stunning but also intimate: It has just eight safari tents on-site. Each tent, sitting on a 640-square-foot wooden platform, comes equipped with luxe amenities including a king-sized bed, a gas stove, complimentary Wi-Fi access, two mountain bikes, a private bathroom with a 6-foot soaker tub and shower, and a towel warmer.

Guests can choose between glamping sites with views of the Dolores River or the mountains. Nightly rates, based on two guests, include all meals and beverages (including nonalcoholic and alcoholic drinks at the resort's lounge, Barbara's Bar), making this an all-inclusive resort.

Keep in mind that Dunton River Camp is only open in summer, from June to October. You can find Dunton River Camp in southwestern Colorado , about 190 miles south of Grand Junction.

Address: 50014 Road 38, Dolores, CO 81323

Capitol Reef Resort: Torrey, Utah

Courtesy of Capitol Reef Resort

Capitol Reef Resort is among several places in the U.S. where glamping takes the form of a Conestoga wagon. The resort's Conestoga wagons can sleep up to six guests thanks to two twin bunk beds accompanying the king bed. They feature lighting, Wi-Fi, air conditioning and beautiful rustic furnishings. Additionally, guests have access to detached private bathrooms located a short distance away.

The resort also gives lodgers the option to stay in conical glamping tents, which sleep two adults and come with much of the same amenities as the wagons – plus flat-screen TVs. Both glamping options are available seasonally, typically from late May through September.

Capitol Reef Resort also offers on-site dining and an outdoor pool and hot tub with views of Utah's red rock cliffs. Previous guests say it's a convenient place to stay if you plan to explore Capitol Reef National Park, one of the lesser-known treasures in Utah .

Address: 2600 Utah state Route 24, Torrey, UT 84775

Sinya on Lone Man Creek: Wimberley, Texas

Courtesy of Sinya on Lone Man Creek

Experience the beauty – and the award-winning wineries – of Texas Hill Country at Sinya on Lone Man Creek, a property inspired by a trip to Tanzania and named after a baby elephant in Kenya. This glamping retreat is situated atop a ridge, making you feel as if you're in a treehouse overlooking the beautiful surrounding greenery and Lone Man Creek. The creek's name aptly sets the scene for this exclusive experience, since the property consists of only one tent – but it can accommodate two guests, so there's no need to be truly "lone" if you don't wish to be.

This singular tent is decked out in beautiful country-style furnishings and outfitted with a king-sized bed (not to mention goose-down pillows), a Nespresso coffee maker, a sofa, a kitchenette and a bathroom, which features a claw-foot tub, bathrobes and Turkish towels. Venture outside and you'll find the resort has five furnished outdoor spaces for lounging, including a deck with a hot tub and shower. Recent guests, many of whom visited with a romantic partner, appreciate the seclusion of this glamping resort.

Address: 428 Deer Lake Estates, Wimberley, TX 78676

Read: The Top Romantic Getaways in Texas

The Ranch at Rock Creek: Philipsburg, Montana

Courtesy of The Ranch at Rock Creek

This five-star dude ranch in western Montana, frequently lauded for providing one-of-a-kind travel experiences, also specializes in glamping. Like the rest of its property and offerings, The Ranch at Rock Creek takes its glamping to the next level.

Glamping accommodations start at nearly 800 square feet and are part-tent, part-cabin. With 10 such dwellings in four different styles – some of which are open year-round – options for amenities vary. Inside these "canvas cabins," you'll typically find spacious bedrooms, additional living areas, gas stoves, attached bathrooms, and outdoor spaces such as porches or decks. Guests can also sleep in a Conestoga wagon with a king bed and twin bunks.

What's more, glamping accommodations qualify for the resort's all-inclusive rate, which covers farm-to-table meals, drinks, transportation on the ranch and airport transfers, as well as resort activities like horseback riding and archery. Peak season at this property spans late May to early September, but the property is open year-round. The Ranch at Rock Creek exceeds expectations, according to previous guests.

Address: 79 Carriage House Lane, Philipsburg, MT 59858

Borealis Basecamp: Fairbanks, Alaska

Courtesy of Borealis Basecamp

If you've ever dreamed of sleeping beneath the northern lights in Alaska , it's time to plan a stay at Borealis Basecamp. Located less than 30 miles north of Fairbanks , Borealis Basecamp unfurls across 100 acres and offers igloos and cubes in lieu of tents, further elevating the one-of-a-kind experience.

These igloos feature cozy beds, Wi-Fi access, private bathrooms with showers and hairdryers, free toiletries, and skylights so guests can fall asleep admiring the aurora borealis when visible. The cube accommodations feature most of the same amenities, but instead of skylights, guests enjoy floor-to-ceiling windows and "treehouse" beds with viewing windows just for kids, plus an en suite bathroom. Not surprisingly, recent guests say staying at Borealis Basecamp was one of the most unique experiences they've ever had.

Address: 2640 Himalaya Road, Fairbanks, AK 99712

Little Raccoon Key: Jekyll Island, Georgia

Courtesy of Little Raccoon Key

Little Raccoon Key – a small, uninhabited island accessible by a short boat ride from Georgia 's Jekyll Island – stands out from most other glamping destinations in the U.S. for one reason: There's just one campsite available. Not only will you have the entire reef island to yourself, but you'll be pampered by staff from start to finish. In addition to your private-island accommodations and the short boat tour there that often passes dolphins, you can request chef-prepared meals, pre-arrival grocery delivery and a lesson on oyster reefs around the island at no extra cost.

Your campsite features most necessities, such as a luxury canvas tent, a memory foam mattress, a gas grill, a stove, a kettle, other cooking supplies, and an outdoor shower and toilet. You can also take advantage of the Adirondack chairs, board games and books. While Little Raccoon Key provides a cooler for ice, it's recommended to bring your own so you can store several days' worth of food, since there's no refrigerator. You also won't find running water or air conditioning at this solar-powered island camp, but you'll be provided with a battery-powered fan. Note that Little Raccoon Key requires a two-night minimum stay.

Address: 1 Harbor Road, Suite No. 1, Jekyll Island, GA 31527

Firelight Camps: Ithaca, New York

Sean Stalteri | Courtesy of Firelight Camps

Experience the natural beauty of upstate New York with a stay at Firelight Camps. This glamping site enjoys a scenic location in a wooded area that's not only minutes away from local state parks including Buttermilk Falls but also less than 4 miles south of Ithaca's popular Collegetown neighborhood, making this particular destination easier to reach than most.

Canvas drapes the natural wood beams of the tents, which come with either one king bed or two queens. Tents also feature hardwood floors, a private tented balcony complete with rocking chairs, lanterns with USB ports, and a writers desk and chair. Upgraded tents come with electricity, though it's important to note that none have private bathrooms; instead, there's a shared bathhouse with eco-friendly products.

Guests can also expect to enjoy artisanal spirits at the on-site bar as well as delicious (and complimentary) breakfast each morning, thanks to co-founder Emma Frisch, who was a top finalist on season 10 of "Food Network Star" and has her own cookbook. Previous guests praise the resort staff's hospitality.

Address: 1150 Danby Road, Ithaca, NY 14850

Read: The Top Romantic Getaways in New York State

Sandy Pines Campground: Kennebunkport, Maine

Douglas Merriam | Courtesy of Sandy Pines Campground

Kennebunkport is known for its beaches and quaint downtown area, which often leaves the nearby green spaces overlooked by visitors. But Sandy Pines Campground offers travelers the chance to experience these underrated landscapes in Kennebunkport without sacrificing proximity to the water. Guests can choose from a variety of unique accommodation options, including Airstreams, Conestoga wagons, cottages, huts and traditional glamping tents.

The tents for couples are decorated to the nines – some with chandeliers – and outfitted with a king-sized bed, a seating area, a private deck, a mini-fridge, lighting, air conditioning and a small heater, and bath amenities. The family tent options have similar features but come with either a daybed in the main tent or a separate smaller tent with twin beds.

Guests can take advantage of glampground amenities such as bathhouses, a saltwater pool, the General Store and Snack Bar, laundry facilities, bike and water sports equipment rentals, and lots of activities for kids. Speaking of younger guests, previous visitors say Sandy Pines Campground is especially ideal for families.

Address: 277 Mills Road, Kennebunkport, ME 04046

Mendocino Grove: Mendocino, California

Find a serene glamping experience in one of California's most breathtaking small towns . Mendocino Grove sits within a forest bluff adjacent to the town, affording spectacular views of the camp's towering trees and the coast.

Most glamping tents sleep two guests, but some sleep up to four or six. You'll also find some options that are dog-friendly. Beds vary in size and come with down comforters and wool blankets; the adult beds also feature heated mattress pads. All tents come equipped with fire pits, picnic tables and limited electricity for powering lamps (which have USB ports) as well as other approved devices including CPAP machines. Private decks with leather butterfly chairs complete the glamping accommodations.

Other on-site amenities include two shared bathhouses with organic products (plus a dog wash), hammocks, a bocce ball court and yoga. Enjoy complimentary coffee, tea and cocoa at The Meadow Commons, which also offers Wi-Fi and lends out books and games.

Address: 9601 California state Route 1, Mendocino, CA 95460

Huttopia: Multiple Locations

Courtesy of Huttopia

What started as a small campsite in the French Alps in 1999 has since expanded to more than 60 locations across three continents, including five U.S. sites in California, upstate New York, southern Maine and New Hampshire's White Mountains. Huttopia's goal is to provide travelers with comforts that go above traditional camping but aren't so comfortable that you'll stay in your tent rather than explore the beautiful surroundings of its properties.

All tents and cabins offer plush beds and electricity, while some have private bathrooms, kitchenettes or kitchens, and decks. Shared bathhouses are available to guests who don't have private toilets and showers. The company's newest U.S. location, Huttopia Wine Country, opened in 2023 in partnership with Northern California's Six Sigma Ranch and Winery. Overlooking the region's rolling vineyard hills, it features a swimming pool as well as French camping cuisine – from espresso to crepes to brick-oven pizza – at its on-site Café-Bistro.

AutoCamp: Multiple Locations

Matt Kisiday | Courtesy of AutoCamp

If your idea of glamping is spending the night in an RV – but you don't have the budget or patience to buy one – it's time to explore AutoCamp. This glamping resort company specializes in Airstream accommodations, with six locations (and counting) ranging from national parks to beaches. Airstream amenities vary slightly by location, but you can expect plush beds (including dog beds upon request), spa-inspired bathrooms, heating and air conditioning, basic cookware, and fire pits with grills.

Families love the BaseCamp Mini Suites – an Airstream with an adjacent tent for kids – available seasonally at select resorts; another unique lodging option at some sites is the BaseCamp Suite, which is part-Airstream, part-tent. All locations offer traditional standalone glamping tents as well as accessible accommodation options.

Like the accommodations, some of the on-site programming varies by resort. For instance, AutoCamp Yosemite and AutoCamp Zion (the newest property) have pools, while the Cape Cod location has a playground. But all of AutoCamp's outposts are dog-friendly and offer complimentary cruiser bikes (first come, first served), Wi-Fi and coffee; they also promise on-site stores for provisions, including wine and beer, and an experience you won't soon forget.

Lakedale: San Juan Island, Washington

Courtesy of Lakedale

Off the coast of Washington state, Lakedale offers year-round glamping on San Juan Island, a picturesque place that can only be accessed by ferry or floatplane. Here, year-round glamping accommodations consist of yurts. Each comes with a king bed, full-sized sleeper sofa, an en suite bathroom, a wet bar, a fridge, a flat-screen TV, a skylight, seating indoors and outside, and private decks with hot tubs.

In the summer months, travelers also have the option to glamp in a canvas cabin or cottage, ideal for families with space for up to six guests. Complimentary on-site activities at Lakedale include lawn games, bike rentals and water sports on the resort's three spring-water lakes.

Address: 4313 Roche Harbor Road, Friday Harbor, San Juan Island, WA 98250

Read: The Best Weekend Getaways From Seattle

The Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls: Logan, Ohio

Courtesy of The Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls

Surrounded by the lush forests of Hocking Hills State Park in Ohio, the Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls is one of the most romantic getaways in Ohio . Choose from fully equipped cabins and cottages (some of which are pet-friendly) as well as yurts and geodomes. Each insulated yurt has a king bed or two twin beds, a full bathroom, a kitchenette that includes a gas log stove and microwave, a wood deck, and rocking chairs. The geodomes, outfitted with one king bed, have similar amenities to the yurts, plus a dining table and sofa.

All guests have access to a full-service spa and a restaurant, lauded by guests for its food (which includes complimentary breakfast); both are located in 1840s-style log cabins. Of course, you'll also find outdoor activities galore, from hiking to stargazing at nearby John Glenn Astronomy Park, named for the first American astronaut to orbit the Earth.

Address: 21190 Ohio state Route 374, Logan, OH 43138

The Vintages Trailer Resort: Dayton, Oregon

Courtesy of The Vintages Trailer Resort

The Vintages Trailer Resort offers 36 trailers in a variety of styles, nine of which welcome dogs and all of which make the perfect home base for those exploring Oregon's Willamette Valley, otherwise known as Oregon wine country. Trailer styles and designs vary, but all offer comfortable beds, bathrooms – or at the very least toilets – air conditioning and heating, and kitchenettes or outdoor grills. Separate shower facilities are also available. Pro tip: Book the 1956 Spartan Royal Mansion trailer in the warmer months to stargaze from an open-air soaker tub.

The on-site amenities at The Vintages Trailer Resort are almost as good as the trailers themselves – think: a seasonal swimming pool, fire pits, a general store and complimentary cruiser bikes for enjoying Dayton, the gateway to several local vineyards. Even better is the staff, whom previous guests praise in their glowing reviews of the resort.

Address: 16205 SE Kreder Road, Dayton, OR 97114

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The Lyrids meteor shower is peaking. Here's how to enjoy it with a bright moon

Huo Jingnan

A Leonid fireball is shown during the storm of 1966 in the sky above Wrightwood, Calif. NASA/Getty Images hide caption

A Leonid fireball is shown during the storm of 1966 in the sky above Wrightwood, Calif.

Stargazers can get ready to watch one of the oldest-known meteor showers soon — they'll just need to find some darkness from a nearly full moon.

The Lyrids meteor shower is active until April 29 and is predicted to peak overnight from Sunday into Monday, according to the American Meteor Society. It's best viewed in the Northern Hemisphere, the group says.

Views throughout the night will change as Lyra, the constellation from which the shower radiates and gets its name, moves through the sky. Lyra hangs high at dawn so that will be a better time to view, the AMS says .

The nearly full moon over the weekend will make it more difficult to see the meteor shower, but viewers can still see some, and it always helps to make the sky you're looking at as dark as possible. Astronomy website EarthSky advises avoiding city lights as you would in most stargazes, but it also suggests finding a place where the moon can be blocked from view, like in the shadows of a mountain or under trees.

A rare fireball flew over Maine. Now there's a $25K reward for pieces of space rock

Meteor watchers should prepare to stay warm and lie back. NASA recommends lying with your feet facing east, and allow 30 minutes for your eyes to adjust to the darkness. Photography fans will need slower shutter speed, higher ISO and the stability of a tripod to capture the shooting stars.

While we are unlikely to see bright trains from the Lyrids' travel through the Earth's atmosphere, we can watch out for bright flashes called fireballs, according to NASA.

Fireballs are brighter than the planet Venus. NASA has set up over a dozen cameras across the country to record them. The agency says the data helps them better understand objects floating in space near the Earth and is important for spacecraft designers.

Never seen an exploding star? This year, you'll have your chance

The first recorded sighting of the Lyrids came from Chinese people over 2,700 years ago. Meteor showers happen when the Earth passes through the trail of dust and debris that comets and asteroids leave behind when they come around the sun. The Lyrids come from the trail of comet C/1861 G1 Thatcher , which was discovered by amateur astronomer A.E. Thatcher in 1861.

While the Earth passes through the comet's trail every year, it takes over 400 years for Comet Thatcher to orbit the sun. The last time it reached its closest point to the sun was in the year it was discovered.

The next meteor shower for the Earth is the Eta Aquariids that is better viewed from the southern tropics in early May, according to the AMS. The next one people in North America can see well is the Alpha Capricornids at the end of July. The moon will be darker then.

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Music | Megan Thee Stallion adds Bay Area concert to…

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Music | nfl draft: 49ers make two trades en route to defensive back green, offensive lineman puni, music | megan thee stallion adds bay area concert to her hot girl summer tour, megan thee stallion is coming to chase center.

Megan Thee Stallion is heading for San Francisco.

The Grammy-winning hip-hop star has added a Chase Center date on June 23 to her worldwide Hot Girl Summer Tour.

Tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. April 26, megantheestallion.com .

The Hot Girl Summer Tour has been a hot ticket thus far, reportedly selling more a quarter million tickets to date and posting sold-out shows at arenas in Chicago, Detroit, New York, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Memphis, Atlanta, Raleigh, Tampa, New Orleans, Dallas, Austin, Houston, Phoenix and Los Angeles.

Grammy-nominated artist GloRilla, known for such hits as “Tomorrow 2 (feat Cardi B),” “FNF” and “Yeah Glo!,” is serving as the special guest at all of the tour stops in the United States.

The San Francisco is the last show in the tour’s U.S. run, which begins May 14 in Minneapolis. Megan Thee Stallion will then cross the Atlantic and begin the international leg of the tour in Glasgow, Scotland on July 4.

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