For a good reason, California is among the top-rated tourist destinations in the United States. The state offers a wide range of attractions, activities, and destinations that cater to all interests, whether you’re a beach bum, nature lover, or city slicker. California has everything from the towering redwood forests of the north to the sun-drenched beaches of the south.
7 Great Things to do in California
In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at the 7 best things to do in California. Whether you’re a first time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this guide will help you plan an unforgettable trip to the Golden State.
Explore the Great Outdoors
California’s natural beauty is a treasure trove for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The state’s diverse landscape offers an array of outdoor activities, from mountain climbing to beachcombing. The Golden State is home to some of the many spectacular national parks in the country, and Yosemite National Park is a must-visit for any nature enthusiast. Located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Yosemite is home to awe-inspiring natural wonders such as Half Dome, El Capitan, and Yosemite Falls. The park also offers over 800 miles of hiking trails, ranging from effortless nature walks to challenging backcountry treks.
If you’re seeking a coastal adventure, Big Sur is the place to be. This rugged stretch of coastline between Carmel and San Simeon offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and a starting point to some of the amazing things to do in California. It is home to towering redwood forests, secluded beaches, and pristine hiking trails. The famous Pacific Coast Highway winds through Big Sur, offering scenic coastline views and the Santa Lucia Mountains.
For a more laid-back outdoor experience, head to Lake Tahoe, a stunning alpine lake that straddles the California-Nevada border. With crystal-clear waters surrounded by snow-capped mountains, Lake Tahoe is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts, offering kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming. The lake is also known for its world-class skiing and snowboarding during the winter months.
Other outdoor things to do in California include exploring the Joshua Tree National Park, home to unique desert landscapes and stunning rock formations, or hiking in the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, offering scenic views of Los Angeles skyline and the Pacific Ocean. Whether you prefer the rugged wilderness or serene lakeside vistas, California’s natural beauty is sure to inspire and delight.
In conclusion, California is a nature lover’s dream destination. With its iconic national parks, stunning coastline, and picturesque lakes, there are endless opportunities to explore the great outdoors. Whether you’re looking for a challenging hike, a leisurely paddle, or a scenic drive, California’s natural beauty has something for everyone.
Visit World-Famous Cities
California is not only known for its natural beauty but also for its vibrant and exciting cities that offer visitors a wide range of attractions and experiences. San Francisco is a unique city, famous for its iconic landmarks like Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island. Visitors can take a ferry to the infamous former prison or stroll through Golden Gate Park to see the Japanese Tea Garden and the de Young Museum. San Francisco is also known for its world-renowned culinary scene, with some of the country’s best seafood and sourdough bread.
On the other hand, Los Angeles is the world’s entertainment capital, with endless opportunities to spot celebrities and visit famous movie studios. The Hollywood Walk of Fame is a popular tourist destination where visitors can take photos with the stars on the sidewalk. Universal Studios Hollywood is another must-visit attraction, with thrilling rides and shows based on popular movies and TV shows. The Getty Center, situated in the hills above Los Angeles, is a world-renowned art museum offering breathtaking city views.
San Diego is the perfect destination for a beach vacation, with some of the most beautiful beaches in the state, including Coronado Beach and La Jolla Cove. The city is also home to world-class museums, such as the famous San Diego Museum of Art and the USS Midway Museum, a retired aircraft carrier turned museum. The San Diego Zoo and the Safari Park are popular attractions known for their extensive animal collections and conservation efforts.
Other cities worth visiting in California include Sacramento, the state’s capital, known for its historic Old Sacramento district, and the California State Capitol Museum. Monterey is a charming coastal town famous for its Cannery Row and Monterey Bay Aquarium. And Santa Barbara, a picturesque coastal city known for its Spanish architecture and stunning beaches.
California’s cities offer visitors diverse experiences and attractions, from cultural institutions and landmarks to beaches and world-renowned museums. Each city has its unique character and vibe, making California a must-visit destination for city lovers.
Hit the Beach
California is home to some wonderful and diverse beaches. From the lively beaches of Los Angeles to the tranquil shores of Big Sur, there is a beach for every type of traveler.
Santa Monica Beach, located in the heart of Los Angeles, is one of the most iconic beaches in California. This expansive beach offers various activities, from surfing and swimming to volleyball and basketball. Nearby, visitors can stroll along the Santa Monica Pier, which features an amusement park, aquarium, and plenty of dining options.
Just south of Santa Monica lies Venice Beach, known for its bohemian vibe and eclectic mix of street performers, artists, and musicians. The Venice Beach Boardwalk is famous for people-watching and soaking up the vibrant atmosphere. The beach itself is also great for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing.
La Jolla Cove, located just north of San Diego, is a picturesque beach with crystal-clear waters and stunning coastline views. This family-friendly beach is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. There are plenty of nearby restaurants and cafes to grab a bite.
For those looking for a more secluded experience, Pfeiffer Beach in Big Sur is a must-visit destination. This hidden gem is known for its towering rock formations and stunning sunsets, making it a popular spot for photographers and nature lovers. Visitors can explore the tide pools, dip in the ocean, or relax on the sand and enjoy the breathtaking views.
In conclusion, touring the beaches is among the best thing to do in California, offering something for every type of traveler, whether looking for a lively beach scene or a secluded stretch of sand. Santa Monica Beach, Venice Beach, La Jolla Cove, and Pfeiffer Beach are just a few beautiful beaches waiting to be explored in California.
Visit the National Parks
California houses some of the most breathtaking national parks in the country, offering endless opportunities for outdoor adventure and exploration. Some of the famous national parks in California include:
Yosemite National Park: Situated in the mountains of Sierra Nevada, Yosemite National Park is best known for its cascading waterfalls, towering granite cliffs, and giant sequoia trees.
Joshua Tree National Park: Located in the Mojave Desert, Joshua Tree National Park is best known for its otherworldly landscapes, with massive boulder formations and twisted Joshua trees.
Redwood National and State Parks: Located along the northern coast of California, Redwood National, and State Parks are home to some of the tallest trees in the world, with massive redwoods towering over 300 feet tall.
In addition to these top national parks, California boasts several other natural wonders that attract visitors from around the world. For instance, Death Valley National Park, located east of the state, is known for its extreme desert climate, unique geological formations, and vibrant wildflowers. Sequoia National Park is another popular destination, offering visitors the chance to explore giant sequoia groves and hike through the stunning Sierra Nevada mountains.
California’s Channel Islands National Park is a must-visit destination for those interested in coastal beauty. This park comprises five remote islands off the coast of Southern California, offering visitors the chance to explore stunning beaches, rugged cliffs, and unique wildlife, including seals, sea lions, and bald eagles.
Another national park worth exploring is Lassen Volcanic National Park in Northern California. This park features a range of volcanic landscapes, including lava fields, mud pots, hot springs, scenic hiking trails, and stunning views of the mountains surrounding it.
California’s national parks offer something for everyone, from breathtaking landscapes and unique geological formations to diverse wildlife and outdoor recreation opportunities. Whether a seasoned adventurer or just looking to enjoy natural beauty, California’s national parks will surely leave you awe-inspired.
Explore Palm Springs
Among other things to do in California include visiting the Palm Springs, located in the Coachella Valley of Southern California. It is a popular vacation destination for its warm weather, stunning scenery, and recreational activities. The San Jacinto Mountains surround the city, which provides a picturesque backdrop for outdoor activities such as hiking, rock climbing, and mountain biking. Trails such as the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway and the Indian Canyons offer visitors the opportunity to explore the region’s stunning natural beauty.
Golf enthusiasts will find a wealth of options in Palm Springs, with more than 100 golf courses in the area. Many of these courses have been designed by renowned architects and offer challenging play amidst the desert landscape. The PGA Tour’s Desert Classic is also held annually in the area, attracting some of the top golfers in the world.
Palm Springs is also famous for its mid-century modern architecture, seen throughout the city in homes, hotels, and buildings. The city’s iconic architecture includes flat roofs, clean lines, and extensive glass use, allowing for an indoor-outdoor lifestyle that takes advantage of the region’s sunny weather. Visitors can take tours of famous mid-century homes, such as the Kaufmann House and the Elvis Honeymoon Hideaway, or explore the Palm Springs Art Museum‘s extensive modern and contemporary art and design collection.
Palm Springs has a wide range of spas, hot springs, and wellness centers for those looking to relax. Visitors can indulge in various treatments and therapies, including mineral baths, massages, and acupuncture. The city also has a fantastic nightlife scene, with multiple bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues catering to every taste.
Overall, Palm Springs is a desert oasis that offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure, architectural history, and relaxation. Whether you’re seeking a golf getaway, a wellness retreat, or just a chance to soak up some sunshine, Palm Springs is a must-visit destination.
Indulge in California Cuisine
Among other things to do in California is indulging in the renowned farm-to-table cuisine, a culinary movement emphasizing fresh, locally sourced ingredients to create delicious, bold flavors. Many restaurants across the state are committed to sourcing ingredients from nearby farms and purveyors, resulting in dishes that are not only delicious but also sustainable and environmentally friendly.
San Francisco is a foodie’s paradise, with a thriving culinary scene that offers everything from high-end fine dining to casual street food. The city’s historic Fisherman’s Wharf is famous for its seafood, including the iconic sourdough bread bowl filled with clam chowder. San Francisco is also known for its Mission-style burritos, oversized burritos filled with rice, beans, meat, and toppings.
Los Angeles’s diverse food scene reflects the city’s multicultural population. Visitors can find everything from Korean barbecue to vegan cuisine to gourmet burgers. The city is also known for its food trucks, which offer an affordable and tasty way to try various dishes. Some popular food truck dishes include tacos, grilled cheese sandwiches, and Korean-inspired dishes like bulgogi and kimchi.
San Diego is another foodie hotspot focusing on fresh seafood and Mexican-inspired cuisine. Visitors can indulge in the city’s famous fish tacos, typically made with grilled or battered fish, cabbage, and a spicy sauce. San Diego is also known for its craft breweries offering a wide range of locally brewed beers.
In addition to its restaurants and food scene, California is home to numerous farmers’ markets, where visitors can find seasonal produce and artisanal products. The state’s wine country, located primarily in the Napa and Sonoma valleys, is also a must-visit destination for wine lovers. Visitors can take tours of the vineyards and wineries, sample wines, and learn about the winemaking process.
In conclusion, California’s farm-to-table cuisine reflects the state’s commitment to sustainability, local sourcing, and bold flavors. With a diverse range of restaurants, food trucks, farmers’ markets, and wineries, there’s something for every food lover in California.
Explore California’s Wine Country
California is known worldwide for its exceptional wine regions, with Napa Valley and Sonoma County at the forefront of its wine industry. Among the popular things to do in California are exploring these regions’ hundreds of wineries and vineyards, producing a wide range of varietals and vintages that wine lovers around the world enjoy. Visitors can take local wineries and vineyard tours, learn about winemaking, and sample some of the state’s finest wines.
Wine tasting in California’s wine country is an experience like no other. Many wineries offer tastings and tours, allowing visitors to learn about the history of the winery and the unique qualities of each wine. In addition to traditional wine tastings, visitors can enjoy food and wine pairings, barrel tastings, and private tours.
On top of the wine tasting, there are many other things to do in California’s wine regions. Visitors can take hot air balloon rides over the vineyards, enjoy spa treatments and massages, and dine at some of the state’s finest restaurants, which often emphasize farm-to-table cuisine. Additionally, many wineries host special events, such as concerts and food festivals, throughout the year.
California also has a thriving craft beer scene for those who aren’t wine drinkers. From San Diego’s famous West Coast IPAs to the breweries of Northern California, there are plenty of opportunities to taste unique and delicious beers. Many breweries also offer on-site tours, tastings, and food trucks or restaurants.
In conclusion, California’s wine regions offer a unique and unforgettable experience for wine lovers and non-drinkers alike. From the world-renowned Napa Valley and Sonoma County wineries to the state’s craft beer scene, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re on the look for a romantic getaway, a fun weekend with friends, or a relaxing vacation, California’s wine regions are a must-visit destination.
Conclusion
From the vibrant cities to the natural wonders, California offers travelers diverse experiences. You can immerse yourself in the state’s unique culture and stunning landscapes by visiting these top places in California. So pack your bags and prepare for an unforgettable Golden State adventure.
Watch this beautiful video by Hungry Passport showcasing some of the amazing things to do in California.
