top 5 cities to visit in california

Search Please fill out this field.
Manage Your Subscription
Give a Gift Subscription
Newsletters
Sweepstakes
Destinations

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.

Adrian Rudd/Travel + Leisure

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

JenniferPhotographyImaging/Getty Images

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

Adrian Rudd/Travel + Leisure

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.

dszc/Getty Images

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

Cody Rasmussen/Getty Images

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.

Chris Demonbreun Photography/Getty Images

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

Peter Stark/Getty Images

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

rebeccakellyw/Getty Images

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.

Tetra Images/Getty Images

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

Matthew Micah Wright/Getty Images

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

Cindy Robinson/Getty Images

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.

Kelly Griffin/Travel + Liesure

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.

DianeBentleyRaymond/Getty Images

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

Reinier Snijders/EyeEm/Getty Images

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

Alessandro Lai/Getty Images

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

ikon/Getty Images

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

lfreytag/Getty Images

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

Carmen MartÃnez TorrÃ³n/Getty Images

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 .

Tobiah Lui/Travel + Leisure

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

kanonsky/Getty Images

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.

stellalevi/Getty Images

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.

All Articles
Los Angeles
Santa Barbara
San Francisco
Santa Monica
National Parks
Theme Parks

24 Best Cities to Visit in California

Pristine landscapes, gorgeous beaches, towering buildings, tons of palm trees, and a prime coastal location, California is a destination you can go back to again and again for a different and unique experience every time.

Whether you’re planning the perfect California road trip , or you’re looking for the perfect weekend away, you’ll find some really great spots in our list of the best cities to visit in California.

California is the third-largest state in North America and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the U.S.. From the glitz and glam of Los Angeles to the many varied wine regions , the Golden State has something for every kind of traveler; whether you love beaches, wineries, or high-end shopping.

Unsure which cities to add to your vacation itinerary? We’ll take you on a journey to highlight the various exciting cities to visit in California.

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

» You might also like 50 Essentials for Your California Packing List and 15 California Travel Tips.

Table of Contents

Best Time to Visit

One of California’s key attractions is the near idyllic weather throughout the year. The best months to visit this state, however, are from April to May (Spring) and September to October (Fall).

Both these options offer good temperatures and fewer crowds to ensure you visit at an appropriate time without flocks of eager tourists. From the wildflower season in spring to grape harvest in the fall, California will be sure to be an exceptional visit in any season.

Need to rent a car? We recommend checking out Discover Cars to find the best deals from all the top rental agencies in one place. It’s our go-to for booking car rentals.

Best Cities in California to Explore

This state has been classified as The Golden State since 1968 due to its various gold-associated qualities. This includes the gold rush in 1848 and the honey-dripped sunsets over the coast. A masterful compilation of mixing the past with the present, the following cities will offer a kaleidoscope of the best things to do in California.

1. Los Angeles

Aptly dubbed the ‘City of Angels’, this cultural haven is one of the coolest cities in California and is bespeckled with scenes to explore. From sipping artisanal cocktails on rooftop bars to designer window shopping in Rodeo Drive, LA is the perfect city to visit if you love the finer things in life.

Make your way to the Hollywood Hills for a day of epic stargazing (or should we say celebrity sightings?). If you’re looking for the full Tinseltown experience, including famous movie locations and celebrity homes, embark on a Hollywood open-bus tour for a star-studded excursion.

Everywhere you look there is something to do in Los Angeles. If you are looking to beat the heat and get indoors check out these free museums . There are plenty of easy hikes and some that are a bit more strenuous. Looking for those famous LA views? Here are 12 scenic viewpoints and places to to take the perfect shot of the Hollywood Sign to feast your eyes on.

Among the glam lies the carefree bohemian lifestyle of Venice Beach — the best spot to visit to experience a lively atmosphere. Fully delving into the cowabunga spirit, this region is a superb place for travelers looking to catch some waves and relax on some fine beaches.

» Try this tour: Full-Day Iconic Sights of LA, Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Beaches and More

2. San Francisco

Whether you know the city from its old-fashioned cable cars or hilly façade, one thing’s for sure – San Francisco is a top contender for the best city in California. From ‘Little Italy’ in North Beach to the tech mecca of Silicon Valley, San Francisco is a must-see city due to its wide selection of diverse regions to experience.

The neighborhood of North Beach is a popular spot to visit. From the satisfying crack of crab legs from nearby restaurants and bakeries , to the serene views of swaying boats, the salt-tinted air of this space is simply mesmerizing.

One of the city’s most iconic sights includes the magnificent Art Deco creation of the Golden Gate Bridge. This suspension bridge is much more than a structure to get from point A to point B – it represents the very spirit of this thriving city. Embark on a Golden Gate Bay Cruise to capture its beauty on the water. Check out the San Francisco CityPASS for admission to top attractions.

» Try this tour: The One Day in San Francisco Tour with Alcatraz

3. San Diego

In 1769 a small Spanish colony became the first European settlement in California. It is often referred to as the birthplace of this great state. One of the most beautiful cities in California, the urban playground of San Diego is the perfect destination for travelers looking for a beach vacation with a twist.

Make your way through the intricate tapestry of San Diego’s neighborhoods and delve into a wide array of nooks and crannies to explore. If you’re looking for the best things to see in California, Balboa Park is embellished with Spanish Colonial Revival architecture and has up to 17 museums to explore.

If you’re a beer lover, San Diego is definitely the place to be. With over 150 breweries in the county, San Diego is considered by many to be the craft beer capital of the world. It’s also a foodie town and a great place to experience a food tour .

Balboa Park has various famous attractions in the vicinity to experience and enjoy. A San Diego Zoo tour is a great experience for travelers who love animals. This walk on the wild side endeavor includes an interactive excursion with some of the cutest critters in the world.

For outdoor fun, visit one of the 31 beaches and over 70 miles of beachfront San Diego has to offer. There are some unique and diverse hikes in San Diego for those set on getting outdoors and enjoying the fair weather. And, if you love to wander, there are 7 National Parks near San Diego .

» Try this tour: Skip the Line: USS Midway Museum Admission Ticket in San Diego

4. Long Beach

With the soft sparkle of the ocean and golden beaches as far as the eye can see, Long Beach will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a beachside postcard. Long Beach is at the top of the list of the best city to visit in California. These sandy shores are lined with stylish boutiques and various top-notch brunch spots to shop and sip your day away in style.

One of the main attractions of this city is the Aquarium of the Pacific , situated in Rainbow Harbor. With over a hundred exhibits to discover the secrets of the deep, this activity provides an educational adventure for ocean-loving travelers.

» Try this tour: Swan Boat Rental at Rainbow Lagoon

5. Sacramento

Known as the capital of California, no journey to The Golden State is complete without a visit to this cultural gem. This unique city exports produce from over 1.5 million acres of farmland to various cities all over the US.

With farm-to-table goodies and organic produce, Sacramento has an abundance of culinary treats to experience. From farmer’s markets to top-tier restaurants, this city is sure to make any culinary connoisseur swoon.

One of the top attractions in the city is the California State Railroad Museum . This activity is an excellent choice for travelers wanting to learn about the transcontinental railroad and the thought-provoking history that surrounds it.

A sanctuary among the industrialized metropolises, Napa is a slice of paradise that is the perfect addition to your travels if you need some TLC. Famous for its unparalleled wineries, located in the bountiful hills of Napa Valley, this city has it all. You will find it easy to visit this beautiful area with 4 airports within 80 miles.

Napa has a riveting riverside promenade peppered with quaint eateries and shops to explore. Make your way to the Oxbow Public Market to taste the very essence of the region. From exquisite oysters to homemade cheese, you’re in for an epic gastronomic experience.

Incorporating the charm of country life with a dash of chicness, Napa has endless possibilities to experience the perfect California vacation. If you’re looking for a place to stay, the Marriott Napa Valley Hotel has excellent proximity to the famous Napa Valley vineyards.

While you’re in Napa, you really have to pop over to its neighbor, Sonoma , which is just 20 miles to the west and has some of the area’s most laid back wineries. Both regions are known for their award-winning wines, stunning scenery, and endless opportunities for wine tastings and vineyard tours, making it difficult to choose which one to visit. Compare the differences here .

» Try this tour: Small-Group Wine-Tasting Tour through Napa Valley

You can’t talk about Napa without mentioning Sonoma too. It’s one of the other big wine areas in California that you must visit. Located just to the west of Napa, it covers an entire region, not just the city of Sonoma.

In fact, there are a number of great cities in this region that are all worth visiting, like Healdsburg , Santa Rosa and Geyserville. Sonoma is a historic city known for its art galleries and the colonial-era Sonoma Plaza. Surrounding this plaza are significant 19th-century adobe buildings including Mission San Francisco Solano and the Sonoma Barracks

There are so many wineries in this region that you could spend weeks discovering it all. One of the fun ways you can explore a cluster of wineries is on a bike tour through the vineyards. We love Kendall Jackson, J Vintners, Rodney Strong, and Gundlach Bundschu.

Want to bring some wine home with you? Check out these 3 shipping options when visiting Napa Valley and Sonoma.

Try this tour: Sonoma Wine Rides — Sonoma County Wine Tasting Tours

8. Palm Springs

A popular pick for individuals in their senior years, Palm Springs is much more than a prime retirement location. Located among the tumbleweeds of the Sonoran Desert, this city is a great choice if you’re looking to add something unique to your travel itinerary.

Great news, there is a local airport that is just minutes from downtown Palm Springs.

Palm Springs is a beautiful desert oasis that offers fun and relaxation for everyone. From hiking and biking to golfing and swimming, there are plenty of activities to enjoy in this sunny city. And with 300+ days of sunshine a year, it’s an outdoor-lovers paradise. The possibilities are endless for things to do around the Palm Springs area.

From the healing properties of hot springs to the lavish landscapes of various green golf courses, this resort city is the epitome of relaxation. Among the rocky formations of an Indian Canyons hike, you’ll find the largest grove of California palms in the world.

» Try this tour: San Andreas Fault Jeep Tour from Palm Desert

9. Santa Barbara

Located among the striking Santa Ynez Mountains, Santa Barbara is a coastal wonderland like no other. With deep turquoise waters dipped in a small-town feel, this city is a top choice for travelers seeking to enjoy adventures with some beautiful backdrops, luxury hotels , and amazing wine to go with it.

Whether you prefer sipping fine wine while the sun sets on the shimmering bay, hiking in some of the most picturesque country, or you’re looking to sail the seas for some whale watching, you’re in for a treat.

Ready to embark on an island adventure? Santa Barbara is situated close to Channel Islands National Park. This network of five islands is filled to the brim with outdoor activities, such as kayaking and scuba diving.

If you’re planning a trip for the future and want to know what is the best time to visit Santa Barbara , book a food or wine tour , we have the information you need to make the most of your trip.

» Try this tour: Downtown Santa Barbara Food Tour

10. Santa Cruz

Spotting the picturesque view of the Walton Lighthouse from a distance, you know you’ve made it to the blissful serenity of Santa Cruz. From gnarly waves to surf, to the sprightly vibe of the downtown area, this seaside city is a must for sun-seeking travelers.

With a summer vacation feel almost all year round, you’ll have a blast at some of the best beaches California has to offer. Cowell Beach is known as a surfer’s paradise and is the ultimate spot for beginners to learn the basics.

This coastal city has a laid-back vibe and there’s no shortage of fun things to do . One of the main attractions to visit is the Santa Cruz Boardwalk. Crafty caricatures, fun arcades, and the chime of children laughing, this is the place to be to feel your cheeks ache from smiling. This excursion provides fun for the whole family and who can resist a funnel cake or two?

If your idea of fun is enjoying an afternoon of beer or wine tasting, then you are going to love Santa Cruz. There is such an amazing vibe surrounding both. We especially loved the westside. The breweries here focus on creating unique small-batch quality beers in many different styles.

The Santa Cruz Mountains AVA is home to over 70 wineries and is known for its rugged terrain, redwood forests, and cool coastal climate. It is the ideal location for growing high-quality grapes, including Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Zinfandel.

» Try this tour: Beginner Surf Lesson in Santa Cruz

Serving as a living example of the quaint side of the American dream, filled with ever-green fruit orchards and a booming art scene, Fresno is the place to be. This agricultural dominant city is the perfect escape for travelers in need of a break from the bright lights of big cities.

Located in the San Joaquin Valley, this city provides ample opportunity to get back in touch with nature. The Woodward Park is a superb place for nature-lovers, which includes five-mile walking trails to sensational flora finds in the Shinzen Japanese Garden .

If you’re looking for unique places to visit in California, the Forestiere Underground Gardens will offer a memorable experience. These gardens are underground tunnels that were excavated and carved by a single man over a period of 40 years.

12. Monterey

Monterey is one of the oldest city in California, having been founded in 1770. It’s one of the most gorgeous seaside towns you’ll ever visit. In my opinion, the best way to visit Monterey is by car. Just driving through the Monterey Peninsula, with all of its beautiful scenery and old Spanish architecture, can be an experience of a lifetime.

The beaches are amazing with their rugged beauty, the rocky outcroppings, the high dunes, and cliffsides that jut out dramatically into the ocean. It’s scenery you won’t find anywhere else and it’s unique, even to other California beaches .

There are so many other great things to experience in Monterey , like:

Discover Old Fisherman’s Wharf with its great restaurants, seafood, unique shops, and whale watching.
Visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium with over 200 award-winning galleries and exhibits and approximately 550 different species of marine life.
Play golf at Pebble Beach Golf Links which has repeatedly been ranked the No. 1 Public Course in America.
Take one of the numerous whale watching boat cruises to see Grey and Killer whales, dolphins, turtles, porpoises, sea lions and more.
Take the incredibly scenic 17-mile drive past Pebble Beach
Go wine tasting in nearby Carmel by the Sea , one of the cutest little towns you’ll ever visit.

» Try this tour: 3-Hour Electric Bike Tour Along 17 Mile Drive of Coastal Monterey

13. Pasadena

No matter what you are looking for in a vacation, you can find it in or near Pasadena. This is due in large part to its location, which is just to the north of Los Angeles. The downtown area is known for its Victorian and art deco buildings.

The city itself has over four hundred restaurants that serve almost any type of food that you can imagine, dozens of art galleries and antique shops, fine museums like the Huntington Library and the Norton Simon Museum of Art.

Visit the campus of CalTech, go to one of California’s largest swap meets at the Rose Bowl, or go for a hike in the Santa Anita Canyon, or just sit in an outdoor restaurant in Pasadena’s famous “Old Town” and people watch.

» Try this tour: Official Hollywood Sign Hike: Walk to the Hollywood Sign

14. Pismo Beach

Pismo Beach is situated on the central coast of California just about midway between Los Angeles and San Francisco . There are no large attractions, theme parks or crowds of people, just twenty three miles of beautiful sandy, uncrowded beaches and sand dunes surrounded by golf courses, wooded areas and small towns.

If you’re considering taking a trip to Pismo Beach, you can find all kinds of fun things to do. Lie on one of San Luis Counties many white sand beaches and soaking up the sun.

Go whale watching for gray, humpback and killer whales. View dolphins, sea otters, sea lions, pelicans and seagulls. See huge colonies of giant elephant seals up close and personal, dig your own clams for lunch or dinner, visit one of the most spectacular Monarch Butterfly Groves in the country, spend a leisurely day fishing off the 1200 foot pier.

» While you are there, try your hand at surfing with these Pismo Beach, California, Surf Lessons .

Just south of Monterey lies the beach city of Carmel, also known as Carmel-By-the-Sea. Although the city has a population of less than 4,000 people it has over 90 art galleries, numerous antique shops, 14 churches, more than 50 hotels, resorts and inns, 2 golf courses, several restaurants and outdoor cafes, over a dozen wineries and tasting rooms, and numerous souvenir and boutique shops.

Carmel is on the Monterey Peninsula and is surrounded by beautiful towns and sights like Monterey, Big Sur , Pebble Beach, Point Lobos, and Pacific Grove, 17 Mile Drive, and some of the world’s best golf courses.

Carmel really feels like a getaway from everything. The town is very charming and small, very walkable, and there are plenty of things to do for a weekend getaway.

If you have time, you really should make the 25 minute drive out to the Carmel Valley. The Carmel Valley is one of the best regions to go for wine tasting in California, especially if you’re looking for family-owned, boutique wineries with a welcoming, country feel to them. If it’s foggy in Carmel more often then not you can find the sun in the Carmel Valley.

» Try this tour: Guided 2-Hour Walking Tour in Carmel by the Sea

16. Newport Beach

Newport Beach, home to Newport Harbor and Balboa Island, is fifty miles from Los Angeles, fourteen miles from Disneyland in Anaheim and thirty miles from Catalina Island . It’s a great place to get away from it all but still have it all. It is a small, affluent city full of fun things to do and surrounded by major attractions.

Spend some time at the clean sandy beaches, cruise the large smooth water harbor while viewing the large yachts and multi million dollar homes, charter a sport fishing boat, rent a sail boat, take a ride in a gondola, visit the many gift shops, art galleries and sidewalk cafes on Balboa Island.

Visit the boardwalk shops and restaurants at Newport Pier, visit or take a swim at Pirates Cove, which is best known for the filming of Gilligans Island, go hiking, horseback riding, scuba diving or surfing at Crystal Cove State Park or catch a ride to Catalina Island.

» Try this tour: Whale-Watching Cruise from Newport Beach

17. Santa Monica

The beach city of Santa Monica has an average year round temperature of about 68 degrees F, good air quality, 245 acres of state beach, amazing hiking , over 3,800 hotel rooms, numerous restaurants and abundant shopping. It’s not only a destination for millions of Southern California day-trippers, it is also a popular destination for vacationers from all over the United States and the world for its abundance of things to do .

The city is also home to the Santa Monica Pier, where you can fish day and night, watch the waves, view the wonders of the undersea world at the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium, dance under the stars to music from big name bands and musicians (summers, Thursday nights only), ride the Ferris wheel, ride a carousel horse or a roller coaster, dine in an ocean view restaurant, entertain yourself at an arcade, watch street performers, jugglers and rollerbladers, and shop for souvenirs.

It’s truly a gorgeous city and when you stay there, you’ll definitely understand the appeal of living in California with it’s gorgeous beaches and perfect weather.

18. Ventura

You might not have heard of Ventura before. Its not one of the regulars on the California travel list. Originally called San Buenaventura, this small city has been overlooked for a long time, and that’s probably just how the locals prefer it. But it’s changed quite a bit over the years and is now a destination not to miss.

Located halfway between Santa Monica and Santa Barbara, Ventura is one of the last remaining untouched beaches. There are very few resorts here, and the beach – which is almost always uncrowded – still very much belongs to the locals. If you’re looking for a quiet, peaceful and uncrowded place to hang out on the beach, this is definitely where you should go.

The Main Street has gone to pedestrian only and the number of great restaurants , and shops that line the street are ever increasing. There are also 11 craft breweries in Ventura , which is perfect for a beer crawl. Check out all of the fun things to do in this unexpected gem of a destination.

19. Solvang

I love the small city of Solvang , not just because it’s one of the cutest towns in California, but because it’s also an epicenter for wine in the Santa Ynez Valley. It’s known for its Danish-style architecture, with windmills and wooden beamed storefronts that feel like you’ve slipped into another place, though it’s just 45 minutes north of Santa Barbara .

Aside from wine tasting , there are many great art galleries, restaurants, and shopping venues to explore. Mom-and-pop restaurants and local cafes line the streets between the shops, as do a number of tasting rooms featuring Rhone, Burgundian and Bordeaux-style wines.

During September, you can take part in the town’s popular event, Danish Days. It’s a unique event that includes Viking-age re-enactments, Danish food specialties, beer and wine gardens, and parade of Danish costumes and horse-drawn wagons.

20. Paso Robles

Another of the great wine regions in California can be found in and around Paso Robles. Paso Robles is located approximately halfway between the cities of Los Angeles and San Francisco, making it a popular stopping off point for road trippers or for weekend warriors from each of those cities.

The city is known for its thermal hot springs, its abundance of wineries, its production of olive oil, almond orchards, and for playing host to the California Mid-State Fair.

I personally love to visit for the wine tasting. When you get out on Vineyard Drive, which wraps around the countryside to the west of the city, and you start seeing all the winery signs as you drive along, it’s hard not to get excited. Definitely hit up Daou and Adelaida Vineyards , two of my all-time favorites.

» Try this tour: Paso Robles Wine Adventure with pickup from Paso Robles, CA

Located west of Los Angeles on the coast of southern California, the name Malibu brings to mind beaches, bikinis, and beer – and maybe movie stars too. Boasting an astounding 21 miles of coastline along the Pacific Ocean, it’s one of the most popular beachside towns in America.

One of the geographic highlights of this area is that most of the Malibu beaches facing south – offering a touch of paradise for those who love the sun. As long as you walk below the high tide line, you can walk the beaches in front of many of the homes belonging to the rich and famous. You never know who you might bump into on the beach.

Although Malibu isn’t a place to find attractions and theme parks, it is a place where you can enjoy some of the finest coastal views that the world offers, and the area is not without a few highlights – including the Malibu Pier which was damaged by storm, but has now been restored, and the Sierra Retreat with it’s beautiful gardens.

» Try this tour: Small-Group Malibu Wine Hike

22. Venice Beach

Venice Beach is like no other place on earth, with street vendors hawking their wares, beautiful waves crashing on the golden beaches, and artist’s easels as far as the eye can see. Originally built at the very beginning of the 20th century, Venice Beach has gone through a lot of changes and growth in the last century.

The beauty of the area has meant that many artists have moved to the Venice Beach area. Aside from the paintings on easels there are also murals on almost every building, and even the lifeguard towers for the beach have been decorated. Everywhere you look you’ll see evidence of an artistic community.

It has a long, colorful history that is still be changed and added to today— visit Venice and see history in the making for yourself.

23. La Jolla

Attracting tourists from all over the world, La Jolla’s community is one that combines trends with traditional class. Located 12 miles north from downtown San Diego, this highly prosperous community offers seven miles of coastline at an elevation of 110 feet.

The lucky 38,000 plus who live in this heavenly seaside town live among Mediterranean style architecture with a unique flair. From the crashing waves along the shore to the high rise buildings in the business district, you can expect everything in La Jolla to be first rate quality.

Even though this area is rather small, the district is full of trendy establishments. You can visit jewelry stores, art galleries, souvenir shops, and fashionable boutiques.

La Jolla offers some of the most impressive shore lines in Southern California, with remarkable caves, cliffs, beaches, and sunsets. When visiting, you’ll want to walk along the waterfront and see the sea lions . Just to the east of the Cove, you can find La Jolla’s famous Seven Sea Caves.

»Try these tours:

La Jolla Sea Caves Kayak Tour
Cali Dreaming Electric Bike Tour of La Jolla and Pacific Beach

24. San Jose

Situated in the very south of the San Francisco Bay, San Jose is a beacon of technology, innovation and modern culture. With a population larger than that of neighboring San Francisco, San Jose is the epicenter of Silicon Valley’s booming tech and dot-com business.

San Jose is the ideal starting point from which to explore the many beautiful regions of the southern peninsula and Pacific Coast. Flying into San Jose is also an excellent alternative for accessing the wonderful southern San Francisco Bay Area, including the beaches of Half Moon Bay , the wilderness of Año Nuevo State Reserve, and the halls of Stanford University.

Downtown San Jose is bustling with exquisite fine dining, jumpin’ jazz clubs and some excellent boutique designer shopping. San Jose’s Center for Performing Arts invites you to indulge your senses with highly acclaimed shows ranging from ballet and symphony to opera and theater.

While in downtown make sure to catch the one-of-a-kind Tech Museum of Innovation, featuring an IMAX theater, exceptional cutting-edge exhibits and hands-on activities to engage the children.

Final Thoughts on the Exciting Cities to Visit in California

The hair-raising, earth-shaking, titillating rise of excitement in your stomach is sparked by things that make life worth living. From the tranquil landscapes of Fresno to the hustle and bustle of San Francisco, the excitement of life lies in unexplored cities.

What are you waiting for? Live to the melodic tune of life today by booking your next flight to visit the amazing cities of California.

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

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

You might also like:

20 Best Places To Visit In California (2024 Guide)

Last Updated: February 4, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

1. Los Angeles

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read next: 25 Best Things To Do In Northern California

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

Love Travel?

We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe at any time.

20 Best Places to Visit in California

By Becky Griswold · Last updated on May 4, 2024

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

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

Map of California

20. Santa Cruz

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

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

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

19. Sonoma Valley

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

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

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

18. Santa Monica

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

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

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

17. Palm Springs

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

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

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

16. Joshua Tree National Park

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

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

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

15. Laguna Beach

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

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

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

14. Anaheim-Disneyland

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

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

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

13. Carmel-by-the-Sea

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

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

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

12. Channel Islands

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

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

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

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

11. Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks

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

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

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

10. Redwood National Park

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

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

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

9. Santa Barbara

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

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

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

8. Napa Valley

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

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

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

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

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

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

6. Lake Tahoe

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

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

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

5. San Diego

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

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

4. Death Valley

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

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

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

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

3. Los Angeles

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

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

2. Yosemite National Park

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

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

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

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

1. San Francisco

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

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

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

California Travel Video

Share this post:.

10 Most Beautiful National Parks in California

10 Top Tourist Attractions in California

10 Best Beaches in California

15 Best Cities to Visit in California

12 Most Beautiful Lakes in California

12 Most Charming Small Towns in California

11 Most Amazing Hotels in California

10 Most Beautiful Regions in California

12 Best Things to do in Sacramento, CA

12 Best Things to do in San Jose, California

Reader interactions.

October 7, 2016 at 6:34 am

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

September 8, 2016 at 4:18 am

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

May 11, 2016 at 12:28 pm

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

April 9, 2016 at 10:31 pm

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

February 6, 2016 at 9:39 pm

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

June 28, 2015 at 5:10 am

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

16 Best Cities in California

Written By: ThePlanetD Team

United States

Updated On: February 8, 2024

The sunny skies of California have long attracted those in the U.S. and travelers around the world. It’s a state where modern cities mix with iconic national parks and famous coasts.

The incredible Highway 1 connects many of the best cities in California. It takes you on a journey through the old-world charm of San Francisco, down the Pacific Coast to the chilled-out city of San Diego . Along the way, the highway guides you through the star-swept city of Los Angeles and passes several quaint seaside towns.

Table of Contents

Top Cities in California

After visiting California multiple times it is difficult to put these cities in any particular order. We love the laid-back feel of places like Monterey but we also love the beautiful and interesting Spanish influences on display in Santa Barbara and San Diego. There is a reason California is one of our favorite places to visit in the United States . So, without any further adieu here are our choices for the best cities in California.

The best California cities showcase both their modern sensibilities but also its distinct history. Uncover a world of Spanish architecture that combines effortlessly with California’s unrivaled scenery.

1. Los Angeles

The city of Angels, where people come from far and wide to seek fame and fortune under the warm western sky. It’s a city that blends new-world charm and modern skyscrapers with California’s cool and beach bum culture.

Los Angeles is the biggest of the California cities on our list. In fact, it’s the second-biggest metropolis in the US, based on population. It’s home to around 3.8 million people who combine to make L.A. a must-stop on your travels.

Travelers will find an endless list of things to do, from chasing celebrities through Hollywood and Beverly Hills to high-end shopping on Rodeo Drive. Add in the nearby beaches , epic food truck scene, plenty of live sport and entertainment, and your itinerary will fill up quickly.

2. San Francisco

As you venture out of Los Angeles, it can often feel like a sprawling suburbia. You won’t have that sensation in San Francisco. Its rolling hills simply won’t let you. Across the 50-square mile city, there are 40 tumbling hills, some so steep they become their own attractions. But they’re just one piece to explaining how beautiful the Golden State City is.

The city juts out into San Francisco Bay where you’ll find rows of early Victorian-era homes. They were first constructed with a nod to the homes in London Row and, combined with the skyscrapers, have created a splendid skyline. But it’s the local parks that lead to the water and the iconic Golden Gate Bridge that really showcase the city’s splendor.

From the Presidio of San Francisco, wander across the famous bridge for views of Alcatraz, San Pablo Bay, and the Pacific.

San Diego has a high cost of living with a huge tech industry attracting young professionals.

Plan your San Francisco Vacation with these Resources :

16 Great Hikes in San Francisco, California
Where to Stay in San Francisco – A Guide To The Best Neighborhoods
72 Hours in San Francisco – A Local’s Guide to the City
The Ultimate San Francisco Photography Guide

3. San Diego

San Diego is the younger brother that’s now all grown up. Once in the shadow of the two aforementioned cities, San Diego has stepped into the light. It’s slowly changed the once-solid tourist path that linked Los Angeles, San Francisco, Las Vegas, and the national parks.

With beautiful weather year-round, San Diego is able to show off its diverse personality without taking a breather. Its compact downtown area is teeming with exciting bars, a happening live music scene, and the charming Gaslamp Quarter. Plus, their Taco Tuesdays are the best in the state.

Heading out of the inner-city, you’ll have an embarrassment of local riches to choose from. Don’t miss visiting Balboa Park a giant park that houses the San Diego Zoo, several museums and of course, beautiful gardens. There are world class beaches along the coastline from Coronado, Mission, Pacific, and Ocean Beaches. The latter is home to the best post-surf burgers on the planet at Hodads. It is also an excellent place for whale watching as whales migrate through to Mexico.

4. Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is tucked away on the Pacific Coast, ninety minutes north of Los Angeles. Known as the Queen of Missions , it just might be the most beautiful city in California.

The picturesque city was flatted after a major earthquake in 1925. It was painstakingly rebuilt with Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, heavily influenced by the city’s most iconic landmark, the Mission Santa Barbara.

Its Spanish connection is visible throughout the state, but perhaps no more than in Santa Barbara. The mission was first built in 1820 and has been a part of local life ever since. Mission-style architecture can be found throughout town, including throughout the palm-lined downtown streets.

Santa Barbara is an easy city to explore on foot, with each attraction seemingly no further than a brief stroll away. With its location on the West Coast, visitors will also find miles of elegant beaches to complement the gorgeous city.

5. Palm Springs

Many of the best cities in California can be found along the coast. After all, when you picture the Golden State, the mind drifts to endless beaches and west-facing sunsets. But Palm Springs is not like any of the other cities.

In the center of Southern California, Palm Springs was once the playground for the rich and famous. But over the years it’s become the perfect winter escape for the average person and retirees. Visitors will discover a town that effortlessly blends fashion and art with nature and healing hot springs.

It’s a city that promises to surprise you as you can easily spend the day at a resort pool party before checking out one of the many high-end local galleries and museums. To stretch your legs, embark on captivating hikes, or simply take the Aerial Tramway to epic mountaintop views.

6. San Jose

best day trips from san francisco san jose

Many people may connect San Francisco with the tech industry and Silicon Valley. However, San Jose is the heart of the world’s tech capital.

San Jose is at the southern end of the Bay Area and connects the local community to an abundance of nearby outdoor adventures. A few minutes from town and you’ll find yourself in Castle Rock State Park. After getting about on foot, freshen up and explore the local vineyard scene, which is a quiet rival to the famous Napa Valley .

Back in San Jose, check out the Historic Downtown District with old Italianate and Spanish architecture. Admire the beguiling facades before experiencing the eclectic international food scene. With dinner done, stick around for San Jose’s burgeoning nightlife. Read more: 25 Things to do in San Jose, California

7. Monterey

Once the capital of Spanish California, Monterey is now a historic seaside city. It grew to become the center of the cannery industry, best described in Joseph Steinbeck’s novel, Cannery Row. Today, the row has been revitalized to become the center of Monterey’s mouthwatering dining scene along the city’s beautiful waterfront.

Monterey is a wonderful destination for families and the Monterey Bay Aquarium is one of the best in the world for conservation. You’ll find a wide range of activities to pursue, from the outdoors and beaches to fascinating museums and the beloved aquarium.

Cannery Row, the Old Fisherman’s Wharf, and 17-Mile Drive c ombine to make the scenic city incredibly romantic. You and your partner can spend the day kayaking around the bay before returning to the waterfront for golden hour with Monterey’s twinkling lights splashing against the Pacific.

Discover the Monterey Area:

20 Great Things to Do in Monterey, California
Things to do in Carmel by the Sea, California

8. Sacramento

Northeast of San Francisco is Sacramento, the capital of California. You may not have the beautiful west coast beaches. But what you will discover is a city teeming with history and culture.

The city is placed at the confluence of the Sacramento and American rivers. The latter stemming from nearby lakes and the Sierras. They combine to offer visitors some fun outdoor adventures, including kayaking and rafting. While a day at the lake, is the perfect way to relax and escape the bustling downtown.

Speaking of, Sacramento’s inner city is packed with museums and renowned art galleries. But not to be missed is Old Sacramento, with several captivating buildings from the mid-1800s. Come for the sights and stay for the vibrant food scene.

9. San Luis Obispo

With a local population of under 50,000, San Luis Obispo may be small, but it remains one of the best cities in California. So come and discover why it’s known as the happiest city in America.

It’s a place where residents are as welcoming as the eternal blue sky. The charming, leafy downtown streets are a pleasure to explore on foot. They lead you along rows of old Spanish architecture from the 19th century now home to modern restaurants. None better than those on Higuera Street, which traverses San Luis Obispo’s beautiful waterfront.

Each weekend, you’ll come across local markets that bring everyone together. While you’re less than 30 minutes from the coast to one side and the mountains on the other.

10. Long Beach

Long Beach is one of the most famous cities in the state. Here, residents get to enjoy the big city life while having all the benefits of a small beach town. No wonder it’s called the beach with benefits.

Thanks to its proximity to Los Angeles, it’s easy to get to Long Beach. But don’t worry about hiring a car as you can use the city’s Passport bus service for a free way to get to the best local attractions. These include nature centers, Japanese gardens, multiple art museums, and the iconic ocean liner, Queen Mary.

This is all complemented by the fabulous waterfront and seemingly endless balmy weather. Go for a swim or sunbathe before checking out the happening nightlife. Read more about the 24 Of The Best Beaches in California

11. Oakland

Best Day Trips From San Francisco Oakland

On the other side of San Francisco Bay is Oakland. The city has followed a similar path to New York’s Brooklyn and is the perfect complement to the high-brow city of San Francisco.

Hip and up-and-coming, it’s a city with a genuine soul. Something you can sense as you wander around the city teeming with repurposed districts now packed with boutiques, restaurants, and artisanal wares.

Oakland has always been a melting pot. Its history plays out in its dining scene, where you’ll find authentic dishes from a range of international cuisine. But as the city rises into a modern metropolis, its festival and events calendar continues to fill up. Visitors will find an exciting range of street fairs and community festivals that showcase the local culture.

Oakland and San Fran are gateways to one of the US’ top wine regions. Napa is the chief city within the Napa Valley region, home to renowned vineyards that are equally pleasant on the eyes.

Napa’s downtown has seen a resurgence over the last decade as more people move out of the major cities. Split by the beautiful Napa River, enjoy the local food scene, public markets, or even take a romantic gondola ride down the river.

Of course, the main attraction is the wineries. The Napa Valley has over 300 spread throughout Sonoma County. Take the Napa Valley Wine Train to experience the best local wines and gourmet food. All within a century-old railcar.

Originally founded as a seaport in the 1850s, the well-preserved town of Eureka remains much as it was. Its Old Town is now on the National Register of Historic Places with rows of 19th-century buildings. Here you’ll discover opulent Victorian mansions once home to rich lumber merchants. Some have even been transformed into adorable bed and breakfasts.

Wander along the historic streets admiring the exquisite facades now harboring cafes, galleries, and restaurants. From there, head to the Waterfront and explore the seaside boardwalk.

Eureka is a brief trip from the Oregon border in Northern California. This places the city in redwood country with beautiful forests enveloping the city to the east. While the quaint northern beaches are just a short walk away.

14. Palo Alto

Between San Fran and San Jose, Palo Alto is an innovative city home to one of California’s leading universities. Palo Alto is a mix of old and new. It’s home to historic buildings that have stood the test of time while being at the center of the modern world.

Some of these historic buildings are home to must-see attractions such as the Cantor Arts Center and the Museum of American Heritage. While exploring the Stanford University campus will give you a great example of Palo Alto’s split personality.

The tree-lined downtown streets lead to over 30 public parks, none better than Rinconada Park. The city’s pleasant year-round weather means there’s no bad time to enjoy a picnic. From there, enjoy the great dining scene fueled by local students before exploring the Baylands Nature Preserve.

Home to the fifth largest population in California, Fresno is the gateway to some of the state’s best national parks. But the city itself is well worth a visit. It’s a family-friendly destination with plenty of attractions to keep young and old entertained.

Located in the San Joaquin Valley, Fresno features a number of wonderful parks to enjoy, including Roeding and Woodward parks. The former is home to the city’s Chaffee Zoo and features a sprawling lake within its 90 acres. Woodward Park is on the San Joaquin River and is home to the annual Shakespeare Festival.

It is also a great place to explore the outdoors being situated near the Sierra National Forest, Yosemite National Park Sequoia, and Kings Canyon.

You’ll find live sporting events, including regular baseball and basketball, in town. But the real action lies east where you’ll find Yosemite and the Sierra National Forest. Read more: Where to Stay in Yosemite

16. Healdsburg

Healdsburg is another city within Sonoma County that should be on your radar. The rolling hills and glistening lakes lead you to the charming town, a popular weekend destination for those in San Francisco.

Because of this, you’ll find plenty of elegant bed and breakfasts. Plus cozy cafes and cute bakeries all within the heart of wine country. Healdsburg is bucolic but far from a sleepy small town. Just steps away from award-winning wineries, Healdsburg shares Napa Valley’s love of great wine and mouthwatering food.

Food and drink aside, you’ll find plenty of adventure on the local trails that take you into deep valleys and preserves. You can also paddle down the Russian River jumping between nearby beaches as you go.

17. Anaheim

Best day trips from paris Disneyland Paris

Anaheim is one of the best cities in California and is probably one of the most famous cities being home to the world-famous Disneyland Resort, which attracts millions of visitors each year. Disneyland is not just a major theme park it also brings significant economic benefits to the city.

Anaheim is home to two major sports teams: the Anaheim Ducks (NHL) and the Los Angeles Angels (MLB). These teams have a strong fan base and bring excitement to the city.

Anaheim is located in Orange County and is close to other popular destinations like Huntington Beach, Newport Beach, and the city of Los Angeles. This makes it a great base for exploring Southern California.

All of these factors contribute to making Anaheim a popular and attractive destination for both residents and visitors.

18. Santa Rosa

Santa Rosa, located in the heart of California’s Wine Country and is surrounded by hundreds of vineyards and wineries, offering ample opportunities for wine tasting and tours. The city is close to famous wine regions like Sonoma Valley and Napa Valley.

It is also near the near the Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve, where visitors can see some of the tallest trees in the world. A very cool fact is that Santa Rosa is home to the Charles M. Schulz Museum, dedicated to the creator of the “Peanuts” comic strip, who lived and worked in the area.

19. La Jolla

La Jolla located in Southern California, is often considered one of the best cities to visit in the state due to its stunning coastline, vibrant cultural scene, and variety of attractions. It boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in California, such as La Jolla Cove, Windansea Beach, and Black’s Beach. These beaches are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, and surfing.

The La Jolla Cove area is home to a variety of marine life, including sea lions, seals, and a multitude of fish species, which can be observed while snorkeling or diving. In addition to its beaches, La Jolla is close to Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, which offers excellent hiking and bird-watching opportunities.

It is also home to one of the most famous golf courses in the world, the Torrey Pines Golf Course, which has hosted numerous PGA Tour events.

When is the best time to visit California?

California’s exceptional weather makes it a true year-round destination. The two major factors that will determine what time is best are your goals and your budget.

If your dream is to spend your days on the sand at Long Beach, then late spring, summer, and fall will be perfect. Although it doesn’t get cold in the winter, the Pacific Ocean is famously chilly in California. But if you’re looking to go on a road trip and tick of all the cities on this list, visit in the shoulder seasons to avoid large summer crowds.

To save money, visiting in the winter and early spring will help you avoid expensive room rates. This may limit your beach days, but you’ll still have pleasant sunny days and fantastic hiking conditions.

What are the largest cities in California by population?

The largest city by population is Los Angeles. By some margin too, it has more than twice the number of people than second place, San Diego.

You may be surprised to hear that San Francisco is not higher up. However, the popular city is broken into several sections, including Oakland.

What city in California should I visit first?

Los Angeles can polarize a lot of travelers. Some love the glitz and glamor of the famous city, but others find it’s too easy to fall into the tourist traps.

If you’re flying into California, then L.A. is likely to be your first destination. Put it at the top of the itinerary, giving you plenty of time to amend your plans if you love or loathe it.

What is the most beautiful city in California?

So many cities in this state feature Spanish Revival architecture and the beautiful Pacific Ocean. Two things I’m admittedly biased towards. These qualities help make places like Monterrey and Santa Barbara so beautiful.

Monterrey has its own unique qualities such as Cannery Row and the amazing 17-Mile Drive, which helps put it at the top of the list of beautiful California cities.

What are the most popular cities to visit in California?

For sheer popularity, you can’t pass Los Angeles. The world-famous city is only behind New York as the top U.S. destination. The battle for second place after New York goes to San Francisco. It’s an exciting city to explore, punctuated by the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz.

Plan your Next California Holiday with these Resources

12 Interesting and Cool Facts About California
7 Epic Places to Visit in Northern California
Things to do in San Mateo, California
The Ultimate California Road Trip Itinerary
Top 10 Best Places to Camp in California

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.

About ThePlanetD Team

Guest writers for The Planet D offer insider tips and information on destinations that they are experts in. We can't be everywhere at once, and it is important to have the highest level of travel information from local writers and experienced travelers.

Join thousands of others who get our monthly updates!

1 thought on “16 Best Cities in California”

Very helpful in planning our family reunion. Please include in future editions of this review the “best Museums “, “best gardens”. “best walking tours” and the like, in California. Thank you.

United Arab Emirates
Switzerland
The Netherlands
Puerto Rico
United States
New Zealand
➨ Choose from World Map
Budget Travel
Family Travel
Getting Around
Visas & Passports
Work with Us

Browsing Category

Czech Republic
Saint Martin
Uncategorized

North America

The 5 Best Cities to Visit in California (Ranked)

California is one of the United States’ most visited states, which make sense given the fact that it is absolutely massive. Given then the size of California, many visitors are left with no idea of how to even begin planning a California trip.

Well, first and foremost, if it is your first time visiting and you want to see a lot of the state. I highly recommend going for a road trip along the Pacific Coastal Highway . You won’t regret it.

Also, while reading this post, you might wonder “Why do all of the California cities have Catholic names?” You can read the answer to that one here . This post will lay out my picks of the best cities to visit in California in order to give you a little head start while planning your trip.

You can check out our five minute video of roadtripping the whole coast of California where we visited almost all of these cities.

5. Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is easily the smallest city on this list, but that doesn’t take away from its might! This little city is located just a few hours north of Los Angeles along the Pacific coast, and there is so much to do here. It is a charming little city in comparison to places like L.A. and San Francisco, but it is very unique and filled with trendy places to visit.

Santa Barbara doesn’t deserve a trip of its own, in my opinion, as it is small and in many ways a boujee college town. Still, it is one of the coolest cities to visit in California, and it is filled with great shopping, adorable boutiques, fantastic restaurants, and has a great harbor. Of everywhere on this list, I think Santa Barbara is the most peaceful, tranquil city.

4. Sacramento

Sacramento is a city that many people neglect. People tend to think of California’s cities that are along the coats, and Sacramento is simply not that – it is several hours inland. You need to keep in mind that California is absolutely massive, and Northern, Central, and Southern California are all very different places.

Sacramento is even more unique, being out halfway to the Nevada border and not really in the middle of anything. Its central location within the state makes a ton of sense, as this is California’s capital city, after all!

From most of the major cities on this list, Sacramento would seem to be out of the way. This is a wrong way to look at things though, as really Sacramento is one of the best springboards in the state for several of California’s coolest things to do. Lake Tahoe , the biggest alpine lake in the world, is just a couple of hours to the east.

Napa Valley , one of the best wine-growing regions in the world, is just a couple of hours to the northwest. Yosemite National Park, one of the most esteemed and gorgeous parks in the country, is only a few hours to the southeast. This might sound far, but in a state like California, a few hours is nothing! For a city that acts as a great base for day trips, it’s hard to beat Sacramento.

3. San Francisco

If you want to go to a massive city that doesn’t quite have the noise and party level of Los Angeles, San Francisco is your obvious best bet. This Northern California city has been known over the years for many things, from rock bands to abandoned prisons to being part of the Silicon Valley boom. San Francisco has a ton of really awesome things to do, and a visit here is sure to be a busy one filled with a lot of great pictures.

Visitors flock to places like the Fisherman’s Wharf and the Golden Gate Bridge, which are both fantastic places. There is also Alcatraz, the previously-used high-security prison on an island out in the bay. On top of that, San Francisco is just a stone’s throw away from California’s two most premier wine areas – Napa Valley and Sonoma Valley.

Both make for a fantastic day out of the city. If you’re visiting San Francisco, be sure to pack for the weather, as even a trip in mid-July can be met with wet weather in the 40’s or 50’s.

2. Los Angeles

Los Angeles is the second-biggest city in the United States and is one of the most visited cities in the whole country. This bustling, massive city has literally everything any visitor could want. From a laundry list of sports teams, to popular tourist destinations like Hollywood, to ritzy areas like Beverly Hills, Los Angeles is a place that you could spend an entire week exploring and still have more to see.

One of the most popular parts about Los Angeles is its uniqueness. L.A. has always been a very open minded city, and as one of the main cultural cities in the United States there is a ton of freedom of expression exercised here. From really unique fashion to simply people keeping up on the hottest trends, L.A. might be the one city in the country that stays on the “up and up” the most.

1. San Diego

For me, putting San Diego at the top of this list was an easy call. While all of the other cities on this list are verifiably great in their own way, San Diego is the full package. It comes with most of the advantages of the other cities on this list, with the added bonus of removing some of the drawbacks. San Diego is a visitor’s dream, filled with great food, cafes, craft beer for days, a navigable grid, and really unique things to do and see.

The U.S.S. Midway Navy ship/museum is docked here, which is usually regarded as one of the best things to do in San Diego. There’s also sea lions in La Jolla, tons to do in Balboa Park, a beautiful downtown, and a really unique historic quarter as well.

On top of that, you can hop down to Tijuana for a day with ease, as long as you have a passport! When it comes down to it, San Diego is the best city to visit in California and it isn’t even close. Be sure to read my San Diego Travel Guide for everything to know about visiting San Diego .

Thanks for reading my post on the top 5 best cities to visit in California. Hopefully this list helps you plan the best places to visit on your next trip to this massive American state. If you have any questions about visiting California at all, don’t hesitate to reach out by commenting below – we’ve got you covered.

Hi, I'm Greg. I'm an avid traveler who has traveled to over 50 countries all around the world with my wife and kids. I've lived in Italy, Mexico, China, and the United States, and I dream of moving abroad again in the future. With this blog, I provide my audience with detailed destination guides to my favorite places and pro-tips to make travel as stress-free as possible.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Meet The Author - Greg

How Much Does a Trip to Egypt Cost: Budget Breakdown

March 10, 2024

Best Time to Visit the India Gate in Delhi [2024]

March 1, 2024

white ceramic mug surrounded by used tissues on white table beside black eyeglasses

Flying with a Sinus Infection: Tips to Avoid Pain

February 20, 2024

mother and father with baby strapped to chest on a hike in the rocky mountains under clear blue sky

11 Best Things to Do in Breckenridge Besides Skiing

February 12, 2024

swimsuit model in white and blue bikini on Mexico beach with clear blue water

10 Best Beaches in Mexico for Families (We Lived Here)

February 3, 2024

Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

The best things in life are free.

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

Love the mag?

Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox. Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news, events, offers and partner promotions.

Los Angeles

Get us in your inbox

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

The 15 best places to visit in California

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

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

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

An email you’ll actually love

Best places to visit in California

1. Yosemite

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

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

Discover the best things to do in Yosemite

2. Napa Valley

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

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

Discover the best things to do in Napa

3. Big Sur

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

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

4. Lake Tahoe

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

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

Discover the best things to do in South Lake Tahoe

5. Palm Springs

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

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

Discover the best things to do in Palm Springs

6. Healdsburg

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

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

7. Santa Barbara

What is it? A seaside gem in Central California.

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

Discover the best things to do in Santa Barbara

8. Mendocino

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

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

9. San Diego

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

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

Discover the best things to do in San Diego

10. Los Angeles

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

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

Discover the best things to do in Los Angeles

11. San Francisco

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

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

Discover the best things to do in San Francisco

12. Orange County

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

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

Discover the best things to do in Orange County

13. Santa Cruz

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

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

Discover the best things to do in Santa Cruz

14. Sea Ranch

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

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

15. Catalina Island

What is it? Southern California without the freeways.

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

Discover the best things to do on Catalina Island

Explore more of California

The 9 best National Parks in California

Things to do

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

The 15 best California State Parks

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

[image] [title]

Discover Time Out original video

Press office
Investor relations
Work for Time Out
Editorial guidelines
Privacy notice
Do not sell my information
Cookie policy
Accessibility statement
Terms of use
Copyright agent
Modern slavery statement
Manage cookies
Advertising
Time Out Market

17 Best Places to Visit in California

Written by Lisa Alexander Updated Apr 13, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

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

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

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

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

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

1. The San Francisco Bay Area

2. los angeles, santa monica, and pasadena, 3. san diego: sunshine, beaches, and spanish architecture, 4. yosemite national park: a unesco world heritage site, 5. lake tahoe: hiking, mountain biking, and skiing, 6. seaside towns and nature sites of marin county, 7. gold country in the sierra nevada foothills, 8. rural sonoma county, napa valley, and calistoga, 9. mendocino coastline, 10. big sur and hearst castle, 11. santa barbara: sandy beaches and a charming downtown, 12. palm springs, 13. santa cruz, monterey, and carmel, 14. san luis obispo and the central coast, 15. anaheim, 16. the redwood forests of humboldt county, 17. mammoth lakes: hiking, fishing, and skiing, map of places to visit in california.

Golden Gate Bridge and the San Francisco skyline

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Try a guided walking tour of Berkeley's foodie highlights or delve into the authentic cuisine of Oakland at popular local restaurants.

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

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

San Francisco with Kids: Top Things to Do
Top-Rated Day Trips from San Francisco

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Free Things to Do in Los Angeles, CA
Top-Rated Day Trips from Los Angeles

View of downtown San Diego from Coronado Island

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Yosemite National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The 9 Best Cities to Visit in California

FIRST POSTED: 29th April 2022 | LAST UPDATED: 5th September 2022
8 minute read

Home to some of the most beautiful cities in the USA, it is no wonder that so many of us are left California dreaming of a trip to America’s iconic Golden State. From San Francisco to Santa Barbara, the state is full of buzzing pockets of paradise that deliver the excitement of city life alongside the tranquillity of idyllic mountains and valleys.

Boasting 420 beaches, California is bursting with opportunities for riding the waves, exploring the waters and – of course – relaxing on the shoreline. With its stunning cities nestled in the most beautiful natural settings while also delivering exquisite art, music, culture and nightlife scenes, it comes as no surprise that California is one of the most popular states in the U.S.

You are also guaranteed to experience a sense of deja vu in this iconic state, with many of its cities featured in some of the biggest blockbuster movies. So, if you are planning to visit this spectacular American state but are not sure where to begin, check out this list of the 9 best cities to visit in California.

1. San Francisco

Of course, the star-studded city of San Francisco comes out on top of my list of recommendations! Nestled on and amongst hills that trickle down to the Pacific Ocean, San Francisco is not only one of the best coastal cities in California but easily one of the most picturesque and beautiful in the whole of North America.

While visiting the area, do not miss out on paying a visit to the famous Golden Gate Bridge; the tallest and longest suspension bridge in the entire world.

You grab a quick break from the lively buzz of San Fran’s centre by heading down to its shores and relaxing on pristine sand or exploring the gorgeous waters of the Pacific Ocean. Also a big name in the culinary department, the city is also known for making the best sourdough , being home to Anchor Steam Beer (America’s first craft beer company) and top of the line restaurants of every cuisine.

Ideal for those craving a cultural city break with all of the delights of a seaside getaway, there is something for everyone in this stylish city.

2. Los Angeles

The glamorous media metropolis of Los Angeles is easily one of the best cities to visit in California. Located towards the south of the state, the thriving streets of L.A’s cityscape are adorned with the dramatic backdrop of the snow-capped Santa Monica Mountains, the San Gabriels and the Verdugos.

Truly offering the best of both worlds, Los Angeles delivers glamorous city life alongside rolling hills and va lleys that make perfect places to escape for a regenerative hike across beautiful landscapes. As if this isn’t enough to have you booking your next flight to LAX, the city is also home to flawless sandy beaches with stunning turquoise waters.

Home to the famous Venice Beach, the sought-after shores of Santa Monica and countless other stunning spots, you will be spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing places to surf, sunbathe and swim in Los Angeles. On the other hand, if you fancy taking in some of the cultural sites in the city, you could hit up one of its many art galleries, theatres and museums.

3. San Diego

Perched on the southern end of California by the Pacific Ocean near the Mexican border, is the glorious city of San Diego. Recognised as the state’s second-largest city and the eighth largest in the USA, this amazing part of the world is also known for its iconic palm trees and flawless white-sand shorelines.

Easily one of the best cities to vacation in California, San Diego boasts 70 miles of stunning coastline with heavenly cobalt blue waters where you can embrace the city’s chilled-out vibe by trying your hand at becoming a California surfer. Alternatively, you can stick to the comfort of the sand and unwind by taking in some rays or walking along the beach.

However, the attraction of San Diego does not stop at its shoreline the city is also rich in historic sites to see, including its charming Old Town where you will find the Whaley House and Casa de Estudillo.

Nicknamed America’s finest city, a trip to San Diego would not be complete without a visit to the famous Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcala; a beautiful church built in 1769 by Spanish priests which sheds a fascinating light on the city’s Catholic roots.

4. Sacramento

Definitely one of the best affordable cities in California, Sacramento is the capital of the state and a real cultural hub. Brimming with 28 museums and a plethora of galleries to explore, this is the place to go if you are looking for a stimulating trip. Make sure you stop by the Crocker Art Museum , which is recognised as the oldest art museum to the west of the Mississippi River.

A foodie’s paradise, Sacramento is bustling with farmers’ markets that serve up tasty, fresh and organic produce, as well as boasting plenty of fashionable restaurants and a thriving craft beer scene. Popular amongst the artsy-hipster types, there are also lots of trendy bars and nightclubs to hit up in the twilight hours where you can dance the night away while sipping on elegant cocktails.

During your trip, don’t miss out on paying a visit to the incredible Old Sacramento State Historic Park where you will find some amazing Gold Rush-era architecture, cobbled streets and even some traditional horse-drawn carriages – how quaint!

Nestled towards the southern tip of the Napa Valley Region, the city of Napa attracts many of society’s high flyers, from the Kardashians to Oprah. Its popularity comes as no surprise considering that it offers top-quality cuisine, fine art and, of course, exquisite wine curated from grapes of the beautiful surrounding vineyards. In my opinion, this alone is enough to make Napa worthy of being called one of the best cities to visit in Northern California.

And while we’re on the subject, there are over 300 hundred wineries in the area, offering you plenty of choices when it comes to selecting a tour and sampling some of the delicious local grape juice. Many budding wine connoisseurs also decide to pay a visit to the nearby city of Sonoma while in the area, as it is also full of amazing wineries. If you are thinking of doing so too, be sure to check out my guide on wine tasting in Sonoma, California.

The perfect place to relax and recuperate, Napa is brimming with opportunities to get involved in therapeutic activities such as horse riding, cruising along the water and hiking across stunning settings. For those craving a bit of adventure, you can also catch a hot air balloon ride across the incredible landscapes and vineyards in the area.

6. Palm Springs

A slice of paradise hidden away in the Southern Californian desert, Palm Springs is a gorgeous city that was once a prime spot for Hollywood stars in the 1950s. Nowadays, this remarkable place takes more of a laid back approach and is very popular amongst more senior holiday goers looking to chill out in the sun.

Palm Springs is surrounded by the magnificent landscapes of Coachella Valley, making it an ideal location for those looking to pull on their walking boots and go on a hiking adventure. There is lots to discover in the beautiful scenery around the city including hot springs where you can stop off to rejuvenate and refresh.

As the hub of Coachella Valley, some of the world’s most famous celebrities flock to Palm Springs every year en route to see some of the hottest acts in the music industry at the Coachella Music Festival.

Palm Springs holds a very unique charm – there is nowhere else quite like it! Delivering a taste of classic American elegance alongside tropical paradise, Palm Springs is definitely one of those places in California that is not to be missed out on.

7. Santa Cruz

The chilled-out atmosphere of Santa Cruz makes it an excellent place to visit, attracting many artistic characters looking for a laidback way of life. Although it might not be the first place that comes to mind when you are thinking of somewhere to hit the waves, it is actually one of the best beach cities in California.

Santa Cruz is home to some of America’s most well-renowned shorelines including the iconic Cowell Beach, which is known for being a prime surfing spot. After working up an appetite by the sea, you can venture to one of the city’s fabulous eateries and grab a bite, with every cuisine you can imagine up for grabs.

During your stay, make sure you take a stroll down the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk; a buzzing amusement park by the water that is sure to entertain adults and children alike. Along with lots of exciting rides, there are also lots of places to grab a snack and some treats.

Tucked in the San Joaquin Valley, Fresno is a relaxing oasis where you can go to take some time out and unwind in nature; easily one of the best cities in California for a vacation. Due to its location, there are plenty of hiking opportunities in the area including the landscapes of Woodward Park; the biggest in Fresno Country.

The grounds boast five miles of trails, playgrounds, dog-friendly areas where you can let your pooch run free and a stunning Shinzen Japanese Garden. With so much to see, it is worth setting aside a full day to explore all that the park has to offer.

Conveniently located in some of the most beautiful places in California , including Yosemite National Park and Sequoia National Park, Fresno makes the perfect base for those planning to explore these famous natural wonders. If you are looking to take a walk on California’s wild side of California, it is definitely worth taking a trip to these parks where you will find miles of unspoilt landscapes with spectacular waterfalls, deep valleys and, of course, giant sequoia trees.

9. Santa Barbara

Lastly, we have the picturesque Santa Barbara; a gorgeous coastal city beautifully wedged between the San Ynez Mountains and the Pacific Ocean that makes an ideal vacation spot for both beach-lovers and thrill-seeking hikers.

With just two hours in the car taking you from Los Angeles to Santa Barbara, this city is very popular amongst those from the bright lights looking for a tranquil getaway. You can relax and totally disconnect from day-to-day life on its waters by renting a paddleboard, going kayaking, swimming and even whale watching.

Santa Barbara also has lots to offer in the history department, with its iconic Spanish Colonial buildings a sight to see in themselves and plenty of fascinating museums to explore in the city centre. Attracting many wine enthusiasts, the area is also home to a generous supply of tasting rooms and wineries where you can stop off for a glass (or two) of delicious grape juice during your adventures in the city.

If you are something of a budding sommelier, be sure to check out our guide on the best time for California wine tours .

Final Thoughts…

California is full of magical cities, each with its own unique quirks and charm that make visiting this part of the world such a special experience. The Golden State is bursting with amazing sights to see, from flawless white sand beaches with crystal clear waters, top-notch cuisine and wine, an iconic party scene and incredible natural scenes that you will be dying to get out and explore.

I hope you enjoyed reading this guide on the 9 Best Cities in California. You can check out more of my recommendations for this state in my California Travel Guide here .

Travel Tips

The 9 Most Beautiful Places in California

FIRST POSTED: 1st April 2022 | LAST UPDATED: 20th June 2022

California: When to Visit

When is Strawberry Season in California?

FIRST POSTED: 6th June 2022 | LAST UPDATED: 5th September 2022

Input your search keywords and press Enter.

20 Best Places to Visit in California

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

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

Your Ultimate California Guide!

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

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

1. Yosemite National Park

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

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

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

2. Joshua Tree National Park

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

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

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

Helpful Guides: The Dreamiest Airbnb in Joshua Tree

3. Humboldt Redwoods State Park

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

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

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

4. San Francisco

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

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

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

5. Lake Tahoe

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

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

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

Sequoia. 20 Best Places to Visit in California

6. Sequoia National Park

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

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

7. Muir Woods

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

Helpful Guides: NPS Site for Muir Woods

Channel Islands, 20 Best Places to Visit in California

8. Channel Islands National Park

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

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

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

10. Palm Springs

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

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

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

11. Napa Valley and Sonoma Valley

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

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

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

Santa Cruz 20 Best Places to Visit in California

12. Santa Cruz

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

Death Valley, 20 Best Places to Visit in California

13. Death Valley

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

14. Carmel-by-the-Sea

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

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

15. Mendocino

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

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

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

16. Redwoods National and State Parks

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

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

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

17. Mount Shasta

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

Mammoth. 20 Best Places to Visit in California

18. Mammoth Lakes Area

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

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

San Diego. 20 Best Places to Visit in California

19. San Diego

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

20. Laguna Beach

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

Save this post for later on Pinterest:

PS — Are You Booking a Trip Soon? Use My Booking Checklist!

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

1. Book Your Flights

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

2. Book Your Accommodations

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

3. Book Your Tours & Experiences

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

4. Book Your Car

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

5. Don’t Forget Airport Lounge Access

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

6. Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

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

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

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

Xx, Jessica

The Ultimate Weekend Guide to Placerville, California

Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Visiting Coronado Island

13 Hip Boutique Hotels in Santa Barbara, California (2024)

Write a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Cayman Islands
Dominican Republic
Puerto Rico
South Dakota
Washington DC
Czech Republic
Netherlands
Switzerland
French Polynesia
Travel Tips
Family Travel
Accommodations
Packing Lists
Photography Tips
Northern California Guide
San Francisco
Lightroom Presets
Rent Our Home For Photoshoots
California Map

Type above and press Enter to search. Press Esc to cancel.

50 Most Beautiful Places To Visit In California In Your Lifetime

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: July 1, 2019 - Last updated: October 16, 2023

Some of the most beautiful places in the US are definitely located in California!

Apart from Orange County , Santa Cruz , and San Jose , California has no shortage of incredible locations, and as such, it can be hard to figure out where to go.

With a myriad of different places to feast your eyes on, you will have no shortage of breathtaking sights to visit in California.

To help you out, here are the 50 most beautiful places in California to visit in your lifetime.

Table of Contents

1. Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is one of the top must-see places in all of America, not just California!

Located in the Sierra Nevada mountains, it boasts a wide range of attractions, including five cascading 1,000-foot waterfalls, imposing sequoia trees, and 13 spacious campgrounds.

Visitors can enjoy such gorgeous, scenic locations as Glacier Point, which overlooks Half Dome, High Sierra, Tenaya Canyon, and even the Vernal and Nevada Falls in the distance.

There’s also the famous Valley View, which can be found within the Yosemite Valley, home to the Cathedral Rocks, El Capitan, Merced River, and more.

2. Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is a little coastal town that provides Mediterranean-esque vibes, relaxation, and plenty of lovely beach locations for those looking for some fun in the sun.

Butterfly Beach, located in this spot, is easily one of the best places to visit in California, and it is a go-to destination for many celebrities!

Apart from the appealing beaches, you can also stroll around and take in the sight of rustic villas, engaging hiking trails, and fascinating markets and shops in State Street.

There’s a lot to enjoy and explore, and when you’re done, you can watch the stunning sunset!

Planning a trip to Santa Barbara? Check out the best things to do in Santa Barbara !

3. Santa Catalina

Santa Catalina

Santa Catalina is the perfect destination for a weekend trip in California.

Visitors can access the island via one of three ports and a short ferry ride, and then they’ll be basking in great warm weather with lots of activities to take part in!

You can take a romantic walk down to Lover’s Point, explore in a rented golf cart, enjoy a jeep tour, have a blast with multiple different water activities like diving, kayaking, and parasailing, and even go hiking!

Plus, there’s lots of delicious food to try out while you’re there.

4. Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe is known for arguably being the most stunning body of water in all of California.

Located in the mountains of Sierra Nevada, this freshwater Alpine lake is extraordinarily clear, and there are plenty of trails to hike around the area to see the lake in all its glory.

Lake Tahoe is breathtaking no matter which part of it you’re in, but noticeably great areas to visit are Emerald Bay.

It’s an astonishing inlet with flawlessly blue waters and plenty of amenities for tourists, and Sand Harbor, which makes for an impeccable beach experience surrounded by nature.

5. Pacific Coast Highway

Highway 1 on the pacific coast, California

Pacific Coast Highway

The Pacific Coast Highway may “just” be a road to help you get from some parts of California to the others, but there’s a reason it’s so well-known for its road trip value.

The scenery you see along the way through this Star Memorial Highway is nothing short of remarkable!

As you drive down this highway, you’ll see so many great locations to stop if you so choose, making it perfect for a thorough road trip of California.

Sure, thinking of a road as a gorgeous location to take a trip to isn’t the most conventional, but you’ll find that many people consider it among their top destinations.

6. Napa Valley

Napa Valley

Napa Valley consists of rolling hills, old architecture, and, of course, the beautiful vineyards that stretch as far as the eye can see.

There are more than 400 wineries in the region, which was once home to Patwin Native Americans, with its vineyard cultivation beginning sometime in the 18th century.

If you like, you can ride a hot air balloon to view the amazing tourist spots from above or take a trip to downtown Napa to enjoy a mix of modern luxury and old-fashioned whimsy.

It’s no surprise that this is a must-stop spot along your journey through California!

7. Mono Lake

Mono Lake is ancient, yet just as enticing as ever.

It is a saline body of water that doesn’t hold any fish due to its salt content, but alkali flies and brine shrimp enjoy the habitat significantly.

The entire location looks otherworldly thanks to numerous tufa rock formations, making it easy to see why this is one of the most awesome locations in California for a trip!

You can explore the region with a walking tour, a kayak tour, and other similar expeditions.

It’s located on one of the Sierra Mountain’s slopes and isn’t that far from Yosemite, so it’s a great stop along your travels.

8. Redwood National and State Parks

Redwood State park, California (wildlife scenic)

Redwood National and State Parks

The Redwood National and State Parks are extraordinarily delightful places, made up of a wide variety of different parks which all line up along the coast of Northern California.

Visitors can take their pick of which one to stop at, or even visit them all one by one!

Within these parks, you’ll find towering redwood trees arching 300 feet into the sky, remnants of the ancient Jurassic Period and an intimidating sight to behold.

There’s a park that caters to the interests of everyone, so you’re sure to find one that gives you the experience you’re seeking!

9. Death Valley

Death Valley

Sure, Death Valley is a bit of a downer of a name, but there’s a reason this is one of the most sought-after tourist attractions in California.

Its landscape holds nothing back in providing an entrancing and stunning appearance, with rolling hills illuminated under the burning sun in the hottest place in the country.

There are a large number of unique and interesting spots in Death Valley.

The most famed is Zabriskie point, which allows you to overlook Badwater Basin (the lowest point in the whole nation) while keeping your eyes on the rising Panamint mountains that loom up ahead.

There’s also the Mesquite Sand Dunes, which provide fascinating geological terrain to explore.

10. Laguna Beach

Laguna Beach

Laguna Beach is an absolutely breathtaking location.

This small town is the quintessential California experience, packed with splendid beaches of all kinds, ranging from large to small and from quiet to populated.

Crescent Bay and Main Beach are some of the most renowned for their beauty.

But it’s not just beaches that visitors can enjoy in this region!

Head to Crystal Cove State Park for a more untamed glimpse of the shore, or visit Heisler Park to spot exquisite wildflowers, trees, and other forms of flora.

If you’re going to this state, you just can’t miss this location!

11. Burney Falls

Burney Falls

Burney Falls is a beautiful 129-foot waterfall that releases a lot of water out into the equally lovely Lake Britton – a whopping 100 million gallons on a daily basis, in fact!

Underground springs provide extra water, so these falls never cease in their rush.

Dive in for a cool swim, or just enjoy the mist wafting off the massive cascade!

Once you’re done checking out Burney Falls, you can go sightseeing around the McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park, which is the place these falls call their home.

Go camping, hiking, and even fishing, and take all the photos that you like of this paradise in California.

12. Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest

Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest

The Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest houses outstandingly old flora – some of the oldest in the world, not just in California!

The USDA states that some of these bristlecone pines are more than 4,000 years of age.

Among these phenomenal wonders of nature, you’ll also find the Patriarch Tree, the largest of all trees of its kind on the planet.

Enjoy a picnic, a hike, or just a little excursion surrounded by some of the best flora you’ll ever see.

13. Glory Hole

This amusingly named location may have a fun, odd sound to it, but it’s an incredibly beautiful spot that you just have to see.

It is a part of Lake Berryessa, a reservoir located in Napa County, where it formed due to the Monticello Dam’s construction.

The recent drought in California has caused some issues, but you can still easily see this alien-looking spillway that drains downwards in a majestic and terrifying whirlpool to the deep, dark depths of the water.

Make sure you keep your distance and just admire it from afar!

14. Cypress Tree Tunnel

Cypress Tree Tunnel

The Cypress Tree Tunnel is one of those cool places you just can’t miss.

Located in Point Reyes, this “tunnel” consists entirely of Monterey cypress trees which arch overhead, forming an ethereal and whimsical bit of scenery that looks like it came out of a children’s fairy tale, not from California!

The branches on these trees lock into each other, creating the perfect shady walkway that is full of photo opportunities.

Visitors will have the most enjoyable time in the late afternoon, which is when the lighting is at its most aesthetically pleasing.

15. Ojai Valley

Ojai Valley

Ojai is a beautiful little town that is laid-back, relaxed, and rustic – perfect for a calmer California vacation.

It houses quaint shops, inns, hotels, and vineyards, and there’s a farmer’s market as well as fresh, interesting foods to try out.

Go hiking through the valley to see all there is to see or ride a bike west to go towards the beach, where you can enjoy a serene day of sun and surf.

Don’t forget to watch the sunset, glowing pink as it illuminates the mountains!

16. Bowling Ball Beach

Bowling Ball Beach

Bowling Ball Beach is one of those standout points of interest in California that is unlike anything you’ve ever seen before.

Located on Schooner Gulch State Beach, this nice stretch of coast is completely naturally filled with spherical rocks, made from sandstone after years and years of erosion.

You can see the full majesty of these “balls” during low tide, and you only need a short walk to get there.

To exercise caution, though, as erosion continues and may cause some cliff areas to be unstable.

17. Salton Sea

The Salton Sea is definitely one of the best places to visit in California.

This saline lake lies inland at the Sonoran desert, a result of burst dams from more than 100 years ago.

This lake lies 235 feet underneath sea level and is the largest lake in the whole state.

This location gives off a melancholic vibe due in part to its ghost town, which formed around the lake and was once considered the new Palm Springs .

Today, it is largely abandoned, and you can explore houses left to rot, a fascinating and funny museum, and the lake itself.

18. Big Sur

We can’t mention beautiful places in California without mentioning the Big Sur, a favorite coastal spot among visitors.

It stretches across 90 miles and houses a number of delightful sights, including jagged hills, the iconic cobalt McWay Falls, and the highly photogenic Bixby Creek Bridge, which is among the biggest, tallest of its kind in the world.

There is also, of course, Pfeiffer Beach, which is full of purple sand left behind by garnet erosion, mixing in with white and black grains for a spectacular sight.

It may be less popular than other beaches in the area, but it’s still an incredible find.

19. Dana Point Harbor

Dana Point Harbor

Dana Point Harbor is one of those tourist attractions that just seems to have everything.

It’s an amazing place to get delicious, fresh seafood while enjoying the stunning beaches.

You can go whale watching, fishing, or shopping, and there are plenty of great dining options, too.

It may not be as action-packed as some other locations, but this is one of the most relaxing and peaceful things to do in California .

It’s perfect for those looking for a little respite from the hustle and bustle of city life!

20. Big Bear Lake

Big Bear Lake

Big Bear Lake is located in the San Bernardino Mountains, and it showcases a one-of-a-kind side of California: one involving its greenery, nature, and all things down to earth.

Even its attached town is worthy of the trip, providing visitors with calm relaxation and a happy atmosphere.

This spot also offers some of the best camping opportunities in California, if you’re feeling up to it!

If not, just enjoy the beautiful sight of the turquoise waves lapping against the shore.

It’s not a trip that you’ll soon forget!

21. Rainbow Falls

Rainbow Falls

Rainbow Falls in undisputedly one of the most beautiful places in California.

Located in Madera County, this waterfall rushes down from its 101-foot height.

It earned its name because, at the right time, a rainbow can be seen emerging from its mist.

To guarantee that you’ll see it, head over at midday when the sun is at its highest.

It’s about a 3-mile round hiking trip to get to this stunning location, and on the way, you can go sightseeing.

Enjoy the park wildlife, peek at the lower falls, and watch the rush of the San Joaquin River.

22. Fern Canyon

Fern Canyon

Fern Canyon is endlessly iconic, making it one of the best canyons in California.

Its walls scale upwards 50 feet, coated in lush green ferns. The aesthetic of the scenery will provide a feeling of leaping back in the past to when dinosaurs roamed the planet!

In fact, multiple dinosaur documentaries have been filmed here, and some Jurassic Park scenes, too.

Some of these ferns truly are ancient, and visitors will be treated to seven different kinds, some of which are more than 300 million years old.

This short and easy but highly rewarding trail is designated an International Biosphere Reserve and is a real feast for the eyes!

23. Los Angeles County Museum of Art

Los Angeles County Museum of Art

It may stand out a little on this list, but you’ll be missing out if you don’t visit the Los Angeles County Museum of Art while you’re looking for what to see in California!

It boasts numerous fun displays, including prolific and extensive collections of art from a wide variety of cultures.

Of course, there’s also Urban Light – an art installation in the museum that holds the restorations of an impressive 202 antique street lamps made from cast iron.

It’s a very Instagrammable location, and it’s a magical sight to behold!

Address: 5905 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036, USA

Visiting Los Angeles soon? Check out some of the best things to do in LA !

24. Griffith Park

Griffith Park

If you’re looking for cities to stop by in California, Los Angeles may just top your list thanks to the beautiful Griffith Park .

Founded in 1896, it spans 4,300 acres and is a favorite of visitors, with plenty of activities to engage in.

This park is the second largest of its kind in the state of California, and it’s not just all greenery.

It holds a zoo, botanical gardens, a theatre, a museum, and the ever-popular Griffith observatory, which gives you a breathtaking view of the state, all the way up to the iconic Hollywood sign.

Address: 4730 Crystal Springs Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90027, USA

25. Lava Beds National Monument

Lava Beds National Monument

The Lava Beds National Monument consists of over 700 caves, 25 of which have tubes made entirely out of lava.

You can crawl through them and gaze in awe at this otherworldly location, which is definitely among the must-see places in California.

Visitors can find out how these lava tubes formed at an information center.

While you’re there, you can go looking for different bats or check out Mushpot Cave, which is the only one in the entire site that is illuminated for an even more whimsical experience.

Address: 1 Indian Well Hqts, Tulelake, CA 96134, USA

26. Huntington Gardens

Huntington Gardens

The Huntington Gardens were once owned by Henry Huntington, who was a wealthy railroad magnate.

These days, this 120-acre expanse of land is one of the best places to see in California, attracting all sorts of people looking for a fun excursion.

There are countless landscaped spots throughout these gardens, inspired by different regions.

If you’re more interested in history, you can head to the Huntington Library, where American and European art, manuscripts, and books of surprising rarity all wait for perusal.

Address: 1151 Oxford Rd, San Marino, CA 91108, USA

27. Hearst Castle

Hearst Castle

Hearst Castle is an elegant, graceful, and opulent attraction which is one of the nicest places of interest in California.

It was built by William Randolph Hearst, who set to work building the regal building after receiving his father’s land inheritance.

The castle has 165 rooms, and it is set on a 127-acre space of land.

Within it, you can find pools, walkways, gardens, terraces, fountains, and plenty of areas in the complex to explore.

Hearst’s collection of antiquities is truly a fascinating sight to behold, and if you visit, you’ll be able to marvel at artifacts from a variety of cultures.

Address: 750 Hearst Castle Rd, San Simeon, CA 93452, USA

28. Cabrillo National Monument

Cabrillo National Monument

The Cabrillo National Monument is one of those beautiful places in California that you just can’t miss.

Named after Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo, it boasts gorgeous tide pools that can be viewed from the location.

You can also take a short walk to the brilliant Point Cabrillo Light Station.

Meanwhile, a hidden sea cave lurks, closed to the public due to potentially hazardous conditions, somewhere nearby.

Many people still choose to make it one of their destinations, though, heading over during the low tide and enjoying the secluded spot.

We’re not saying you should do the same, but it’s a fascinating concept to think about!

Address: 1800 Cabrillo Memorial Dr, San Diego, CA 92106, USA

Traveling to San Diego soon? Check out our list of things to do in San Diego !

29. The Flower Fields

The Flower Fields

If you love flowers, The Flower Fields located in Carlsbad is among the tourist attractions in California that you just have to visit!

Spanning 50 acres, these rolling fields contain dazzling flowers known as Giant Tecolote Ranunculus flowers, which come out in full vibrant force in spring.

The optimal time to come here is between early March to early May, and this is when the ranch opens up to the public, too.

Wander through the dazzling fields of breathtaking flowers.

You can even have lunch here on one of the numerous picnic tables available, and if you can’t bring your own food, there are plenty of light refreshments sold.

Address: 5704 Paseo Del Norte, Carlsbad, CA 92008, USA

30. Muir Woods National Monument

Muir Woods National Monument

The Muir Woods National Monument is home to the most beautiful redwood trees in California.

These gargantuan wonders of nature tower overhead in awe-inspiring glory, seeming to stretch on forever in their quest to touch the sky above.

Redwood trees are believed to be the tallest on the planet, and they’re not just impressive in height – their width spans outwards, often reaching diameters wider than that of a car.

Trek down through the numerous trails and take in all the wooded wonder of lush, emerald greenery surrounding you – a true paradise in California.

Address: 1 Muir Woods Rd, Mill Valley, CA 94941, USA

31. Sturtevant Falls

Sturtevant Falls

Sturtevant Falls is an incredible spot for sightseeing.

Located in the Angeles National Forest, in Big Santa Anita Canyon, this waterfall measures fifty feet in height, and the cliff that it spills generously out of is coated in untamed algae and moss.

When you look into the water, you’ll see hues and tones of various colors playing against the ripples.

This location looks just like the backdrop from a postcard, and that’s plenty of reason to check it out!

32. Gray Whale Cove State Beach

Gray Whale Cove State Beach

Gray Whale Cove State Beach is one of the best beaches you’ll find in this state, making it a surefire hit among the top places to visit in California.

It is packed with rugged land that is perfect for hiking through, with plenty of trails to follow and explore.

Nearby, visitors can also check out the Pillar Point State Marine Conservation Area as well as the Montara State Marine Reserve.

There’s lots of wildlife to see and over 40 miles of trails to trek through if you’re feeling up to it!

Address: Half Moon Bay, CA 94019, USA

33. Glass Beach

Glass Beach

Glass Beach is a fun and unique location in California.

Unlike most beaches, it isn’t coated in sand – instead, along its shores lie hundreds and hundreds of little bits of glass.

This glass comes from all sorts of items, whether ceramics, bottles, or other artifacts, and they washed in from garbage cliffs left by early settlers.

Visitors can enjoy treasure hunting across this delightful shore, which offers just as much rest and relaxation as any other beach, with a little extra pizazz and a special twist.

Do note that rules on whether you can take home a piece of glass differ, so read up before you go!

34. Natural Bridges

Natural Bridges

The Natural Bridges are one of the most fascinating points of interest in California.

Technically, these structures are called “karsts”, and they are created due to water erosion that slowly carves shapes out of soluble bedrock.

Located in the remnants of Coyote Creek, this staggering and astounding formation is so purposeful and imposing that it’s hard to believe it all happened naturally!

You can explore the area with waterproof clothing; bathing suits are preferred with how wet it’s going to get.

35. Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve

Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve

The official flower of California is the poppy, so it would be a crime not to join visitors in flocking to the impeccably beautiful Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve in the Mojave Desert.

In wildflower season, poppies grow in full force, typically in bright orange tones that you can see from a distance away!

The optimal time to head to this treasure in California is between March and May, which is when all the flowers bloom.

It’s such a huge location that even during its most popular times, you won’t feel like it’s too crowded to move.

Address: 15101 Lancaster Rd, Lancaster, CA 93536, USA

36. Bumpass Hell

Bumpass Hell

Bumpass Hell is a geothermal location in Lassen Volcanic National Park, a quieter and less frequented park in California.

It is packed with geysers, mud pots of boiling liquid, steam vents, and an uncommonly stained geography making it phenomenal to behold.

Sure, the sulfur can cause a bit of a stink in the area, but it’s still a nice little place to explore just for its scenery, history, and peculiar value.

You can find this unbelievable spot in the Sierra Nevada mountain range.

Be sure to stop by the Big Boiler, which is a fumarole that is among the hottest on the planet!

37. Encinitas Meditation Gardens

Encinitas Meditation Gardens / Wonderlane / flickr

Want a holiday away from the bustling crowds?

The Encinitas Meditation Gardens is one of the best places to visit in California for a slice of scenic gorgeousness without overpopulation.

Subtly colorful flora and ponds full of koi fish await you here, where they provide ultimate serenity.

Encinitas itself, meanwhile, is a little coastal town that has delicious açai bowls and plenty of down-to-earth opportunities to explore.

It is a breath of fresh air away from the hectic chaos of many other popular locales.

Address: 215 W K St, Encinitas, CA 92024, USA

38. Alamere Falls

Alamere Falls

Not only is Alamere Falls one of those beautiful spots you need to see once in your lifetime, but it’s also a pretty rare natural occurrence: a tidefall.

Essentially, its rushing water flows straight into the ocean – a unique sight you won’t see often in places across the country, let alone in California!

It’s a long hike to the waterfall’s base, but it’s very worth the 10-mile round trip.

While you’re at it, you can view the Pacific Ocean from cliff tops and even stop by Bass Lake to enjoy a little rope swing action.

39. Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is among the most loved tourist spots in the state, and it’s easily one of the most beautiful places in California.

According to legend, the trees that populate the area, called Joshua trees, were given a Biblical name by Mormons who traveled through the area.

If you’re a rock climber, you’ll love tackling this very rough and tricky terrain to get to the more than 5000-foot-tall Keys View.

If not, you can enjoy the sight of the incredible trees with their thick, rugged trunks or head over to the Cholla Cactus Garden for more desert plants.

40. Sonoma Valley

Sonoma Valley

Napa Valley can get overcrowded with tourists.

Sonoma Valley is a great alternative within California that provides all the wonders of wine country with half the crowd and on a lower budget.

The vineyards are stunning and stupendous, and along the sides of the valley, you’ll find beautiful coastline.

Sure, it’s not as popular as Napa Valley, but Sonoma Valley is still one of the marvelous places to see in California.

It doesn’t matter if you like wine or not – the vineyards are lovely enough!

41. Thousand Island Lake

Thousand Island Lake

Thousand Island Lake is famous for being a little difficult to get to, but it’s very rewarding if you make it there!

Sitting just beneath Banner Peak in the range of Sierra Nevada, this alpine Lake lies in wait in the Ansel Adams Wilderness.

The lake is full of multiple small little islands and feels delightful to take a dip in!

The journey to this California lake is just as beautiful as the lake itself.

You’ll see mountain peaks covered in snow, waterfalls cascading in glimmering streams, and transparently clear lakes full of refreshing cool water.

42. The Giant Rock

The Giant Rock

The Giant Rock sounds a little dull, but you’ll find that it’s one of the best spots in the Mojave Desert.

It spans across 5,800 square feet and is a completely free standing rock that is the biggest the earth has to offer.

It’s extremely tall, too – around seven stories in height!

If you’re looking for where to visit in California, this surprisingly all-natural sight is definitely worth the trip.

You’ll be amazed that something so massive can naturally exist, and how it came to stand alone like that is astonishing, too!

43. Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is packed with the well-known sequoia trees, one of which is the largest single stem tree on earth, not just in California!

It is known as the General Sherman and it can be found in the park’s Giant Forest area.

While you’re in the park, have fun by taking in the gorgeous scenery.

View Mount Whitney’s 14,505-foot peak, walk along hiking trails, and take in the sight of unique flora and fauna.

44. Golden Gate Bridge

Golden Gate Bridge

Not many of the most tourist-worthy spots in California are in cities, but the Golden Gate Bridge stands out due to its stellar, astounding splendor and grandeur.

Over 40 million cars drive across it annually, so there’s really no excuse not to be a visitor to this marvel of modern engineering.

Around the bridge, stunning natural water laps beneath. There are lots to do in the area – you can head to Sausalito by ferry for a quick day trip, or ride a bike around Fisherman’s Wharf.

Don’t forget your camera – the Golden Gate Bridge is the most photographed bridge in the world!

45. Alcatraz Island

Alcatraz Island

It’s odd to think of Alcatraz Island as a place to go in California, but it’s a once-in-a-lifetime type of activity that you’re sure to remember.

Located just off the shore of San Francisco by 1.25 miles, this island holds the infamous Alcatraz military prison, federal prison, and fortification.

While, here you can explore the island on a guided tour and see the dated architecture, hear old legends, and view gardens and remodeled buildings.

It’s an unusual slice of California that makes for a great stop on your journey.

Planning a trip to San Francisco soon? Make sure to check out our list of things to do in San Francisco !

46. Mossbrae Falls

Mossbrae Falls

Mossbrae Falls earns its downpour from a spring, and it empties its bowels into the Sacramento River.

Its canyon walls are, as its name suggests, coated in thick moss, which creates an otherworldly sort of appeal.

Located just beneath Shasta Springs, this waterfall is easily one of the most gorgeous points of interest in California if you’re into waterfalls and a spot of fun.

It looks like it came out of some old storybook!

Traveling to Sacramento soon? You’ll definitely love our list detailing the best things to do in Sacramento !

Bishop is one of those destinations that is perfect for nature-lovers.

This small town offers access to the 14,246-foot White Mountain Peak, which is a great excursion for passionate hikers who love working up a real sweat for picturesque, breathtaking, rewarding views!

Sure, it may not be the most popular location, but Bishop is still one of the best places to go in California.

You can visit their cultural center, museum, or city park.

There’s also the Sad Boulders, an area for hiking and bouldering, which is open to the public for all your climbing needs!

48. Monterey Beach

Monterey Beach

Monterey Beach is among the most beautiful ones along the coastline of Pacific Coast Highway in California.

Known also as Carmel-By-The-Sea, it provides wondrous views of tidepools, white sand, and teal waters – everything you need for the quintessential beach vacation.

Visitors to this beach can go surfing, whale watching, or wildflower hunting, and they can visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium to see some great marine wildlife up close!

If you go during the summer, your chances of spotting whales breaching the surface of the water are surprisingly high, so plan accordingly.

Planning a trip to Monterey soon? Be sure to check out our list of things to do in Monterey !

49. Nit Wit Ridge

Nit Wit Ridge / Damian Gadal / flickr

The Nit Wit Ridge has a bit of a funny name, but it’s a tourist attraction for a reason.

It is a large, rustic castle that is perched over the top of a hill. It is a folk-art-type structure built on 2.5 acres of land.

The very second you visit its large expanse, you’ll wonder how such places can exist in California at all!

Feel free to explore the palace and its open rooms.

You’ll be surprised by the dissonance between the old and the new – some ancient aspects linger, mingling with more modern innovations.

It’s truly an experience you have to have at least once in your life.

Address: 881 Hillcrest Dr, Cambria, CA 93428, USA

50. Painted Canyon

Painted Canyon

The Painted Canyons are relatively easy to hike through, so it’s perfect for beginners, or just those who want a more laidback excursion in California.

Visitors to these canyons need to climb ladders to get to where they need to go on this dessert excursion.

The walls of these canyons do, in fact, appear painted – stripes of red, green, pink, gray, and brown are streaked across the walls, pass through crevices and enjoy the surprisingly cool walk through this spot in the Mecca Hills.

It’s a great go-to location for anyone visiting California!

Address: Painted Canyon Rd, Mecca, CA 92254, USA

Start Planning Your Trip To California

The Golden State is definitely one of the best places to visit in the world as it is full of beautiful attractions to feast your senses upon.

The next time you plan a trip to visit this enchanting state, make sure you make the time to stop at some of these places to go in California!

Protect Your Trip »

Which hawaiian island is the best to visit our 2024 ranking.

Though it can be easy to assume the six most visited Hawaiian Islands offer similar experiences, they are more diverse than you can imagine. From Waimea Canyon to Waikiki Beach, Hawaii’s wealth of natural beauty (think: cerulean waters, verdant vegetation and stunning white sand beaches ) is just waiting to be explored. To help you decide which Hawaiian Island is ideal for your next vacation, U.S. News took into account sights, expert opinion and reader input to determine the best Hawaiian Islands to visit. Vote for your favorite island below to have a say in next year's list.

Kaua'i

Hawaii - the big island, honolulu - oahu.

Though it's perhaps most famous for the fabulous coastlines of Ka'anapali Beach and Wailea Beach, Maui is a great option for both couples and families looking for variety in their vacation. Away from the sand, you can drive the Road to Hana, enjoy a bird's-eye view during a helicopter tour , see one of the world's largest dormant volcanoes at Haleakala National Park and get up close to marine wildlife while snorkeling in Honolua Bay or around Molokini. Then, for an experience you won’t forget, relax on the volcanic coastline of Wai'anapanapa State Park, where jet-black sands meet vibrant sapphire waters.

With a more easygoing environment than other islands like Oahu and the Big Island, the Garden Isle lets its wild, natural beauty speak for itself and is perfect for an adventurous getaway. The main attractions here are Koke'e State Park and Waimea Canyon, otherwise known as the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific." But you also won’t want to miss Kaua'i’s breathtaking Wailua Falls or dreamy Po'ipu Beach. And if a challenging hike is what you’re after, it doesn’t get more scenic than the Kalalau Trail along the rugged Napali Coast. Just remember to pack galoshes and a rain jacket – Kaua'i is one of Hawaii's rainiest islands.

The island of Hawaii's bevy of one-of-a-kind attractions and family-friendly activities makes it ideal for travelers who prefer a jam-packed itinerary. Not only does the Big Island offer white and black sand beaches , including the famous Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, it is also home to lush rainforests and two active volcanoes at Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. History buffs will love visiting Pu'ukohola Heiau National Historic Site (home to one of Hawaii's largest restored temples) and Kealakekua Bay (where British explorer James Cook first arrived in 1779). Or, head to Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park to see petroglyphs, ancient Hawaiian fishponds and green sea turtles.

The least-developed island on this list, Moloka'i was made for those who don’t mind going off the beaten path. With lush rainforests, miles of beautiful beaches and some of the tallest sea cliffs in the world, Moloka'i is a great place to reconnect with nature, whether you’re staying overnight at one of Moloka'i’s quiet oceanfront cottages – there is only one hotel on the island – or visiting on a day trip from one of the other Hawaiian Islands. Top activities here include soaking up some sun on secluded Papohaku Beach, snorkeling Moloka'i's 28-mile reef or joining a guided cultural hike through Halawa Valley.

Dubbed The Gathering Place, Oahu is home to plenty of famous sites and a great jumping-off point for first-time visitors to the Hawaiian Islands. On the South Shore, you'll find Waikiki Beach, Hanauma Bay, Pearl Harbor National Memorial and Le'ahi (Diamond Head) State Monument, all in or near the capital city of Honolulu. Meanwhile, the North Shore is home to a more laid-back vibe, as well as the renowned waves at Waimea Bay and Sunset Beach, which host major surfing competitions every year. After exploring along the coast, head inland to the tranquil Byodo-In Temple, a replica of a Buddhist temple in Uji, Japan.

For a secluded, nature-centric escape, set your sights on Lana'i. Centrally located between Maui and Moloka'i, this remote hideaway makes a great home base for inter-island travel. Travelers can take a four-wheel-drive vehicle to spots like Kaiolohia (Shipwreck Beach) and Kaunolu Village, a prehistoric fishing village that was once frequented by King Kamehameha I, or spend their days sunbathing on Polihua Beach. In winter, head to Hulopo'e Bay for terrific whale-watching opportunities. Then, make your way to Keahiakawelo (Garden of the Gods), an enchanting rock garden that was once part of a native dryland forest, for a breathtaking Lana'i sunset.

You May Be Interested In

Best Islands in the World for 2024

Best U.S. Beaches for 2024

Best Places to Visit in the USA for 2023

Best Beaches in the World for 2024

Best California Beaches for 2024

Best Honeymoon Destinations for 2024

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 28 Best Water Parks in the U.S. for 2024

Holly Johnson|Timothy J. Forster May 8, 2024

The 18 Best Napa Valley Wineries to Visit in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Sharael Kolberg April 23, 2024

The 25 Best Beaches on the East Coast for 2024

Timothy J. Forster|Sharael Kolberg April 19, 2024

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

Best Places to Live in the U.S. in 2024-2025

For the 2024-2025 Best Places to Live rankings, we selected 150 major cities to find the best places to live. To make the top of the list, a place had to have good value, be a desirable place to live, have a strong job market and a high quality of life. For more information on how we rank, read the Best Places to Live methodology.

Colorado Springs, CO

Greenville, sc, charlotte, nc, raleigh, nc, huntsville, al, buying or selling a home.

We analyze millions of real estate transactions to compare agents near you.

# 1 in Best Places to Live

# 2 in Best Places to Live

# 3 in Best Places to Live

# 4 in Best Places to Live

# 5 in Best Places to Live

# 6 in Best Places to Live

# 7 in Best Places to Live

Virginia Beach, VA

# 8 in Best Places to Live

# 9 in Best Places to Live

Boulder, CO

# 10 in Best Places to Live

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.

DISCOVER CALIFORNIA

RECOMMENDED BUSINESSES

11 Incredible Places for Whale Watching in California

Take a trip to these top whale-watching destinations to spot everything from orcas and blue whales to humpbacks and gray whales.

January 19, 2024

Each year, thousands of gray whales embark on a grand 6,000-mile journey from Alaska to Mexico—and you can have front-row seats to a part of it, either on their way to Mexico or back. The gray whales aren’t alone on these travels, either. Whale watching in California also entails sightings of humpbacks, dolphins, blue whales, orcas, and other exciting sea creatures migrating south. So, grab your binoculars and get ready for an incredible road trip ; whale-watching season in California is officially right around the corner.

When is whale-watching season in California?

You’ll experience cool sightings of marine life anytime you decide to visit the destinations on this list. But for an almost guaranteed sighting of whales, you should know the optimal times to go.

Whale watching season in Southern California is optimal from January through April if you’re interested in seeing gray whales, humpback whales, dolphins, and sea lions. If you’d rather see blue and finback whales, head to the SoCal coast from May to September.

Whale-watching season in Northern California also differs for different species. If you want to see gray whales and orcas, plan your trip between December and May. Humpbacks are more commonly seen from May through November. Your best chances of seeing blue whales are between July and October.

Another cool way to spot these magnificent creatures is to participate in California whale-watching festivals that take place every year. The Monterey Whalefest and the Dana Point Festival of Whales are a few of the state's most popular annual whale-watching events.

Where to go whale watching in Northern California

1. point lobos state national reserve.

Everyone knows that whale watching in Monterey is as good as it gets—and Point Lobos State National Reserve is further proof as to why. Often visited for whale watching in California , this can’t-miss state park boasts breathtaking beauty, fascinating wildlife, great hiking trails, and a team of friendly and knowledgeable volunteers who help you have the best experience possible.

2. Moss Landing

Also in Monterey County, Moss Landing is another top spot for whale watching in California. During peak season, close to 7,000 whales swim by the waters of Monterey Bay, attracting year-round whale-watching cruises. These tours are led by experienced captains who are delighted to introduce visitors to the fascinating and beautiful creatures who call the California waters home.

Moss Landing whale-watching tours also entail sightings of harbor seals, sea lions, dolphins, elephant seals, and other cool sea creatures. Sea Goddess Whale Watch and Blue Ocean Whale Watch are two awesome companies organizing tours that’ll definitely make your whale-watching trip a memorable experience.

3. Half Moon Bay

Whale watching in Half Moon Bay is another great experience if you don’t want to leave the shore. This NorCal destination is packed with beautiful trails, panoramic views, and great recreational activities for those looking for a quick escape from the city. Plan your next getaway to Half Moon Bay on a calm day, so you can get a glimpse of the whales from the waters as clearly as possible. Once you get there, head to Pigeon Point Light Station State Historic Park for prime viewing seats to the migration. Don’t forget to take your camera with you—you’ll snap some truly awesome pics.

If you’d like to get up closer to the whales, Oceanic Society provides awesome half-day tours from January through April that’ll do just that. You’ll also be supporting ocean conservation by taking part in this trip, as Oceanic Society is a nonprofit that aims to build a healthier environment for these magnificent sea creatures.

Does your business rank among the best in California?

Recomended businesses

Show me california.com recommended businesses near.

Learn more about our selection criteria and vetting process.

4. Salt Point State Park

Salt Point State Park overlooks the Salt Point State Marine Conservation Area —a superb spot for whale watching in California. With a network of hiking trails running parallel to the Pacific Ocean and panoramic views around every turn, it’s harder not to spot whales while traveling here during the right season. A great trail to check out for whale watching is the three-mile Salt Point Trail, an easy hike with rewarding vistas.

Looking to take your whale watching trip up a notch? Turn your half-day adventure in Sonoma into a weekend getaway, and reserve a campsite in advance to stay overnight at one of the park’s campgrounds. No need to thank us later.

5. Bodega Bay

While gray whales are most easily seen in late winter and spring on their way north, they can be seen year-round along the Sonoma Coast. Plan a getaway to Bodega Bay and take your hiking shoes with you —this is going to be an active adventure. The 1.7-mile Bodega Head Trail, which borders the edge of the peninsula, offers top-notch views of Sonoma Coast’s rugged beauty.

After getting your desired dose of whale watching in Northern California, you can take advantage of the 360-degree views and sit down for a picnic near the water, taking in the beautiful NorCal sunset while listening to the relaxing sounds of the crashing waves.

6. West Cliff Drive

If you’re keener on making whale watching in California a quick drive-by activity, then this is the spot for you. West Cliff Drive is a picturesque route that parallels the Santa Cruz coast. Park your car, and walk or bike along this short trail to see gray whales and dolphins swimming by without having to get out on the water. This is also a great spot to go tide pooling, watch surfers (or surf yourself), and spend a relaxing day by the beach in Northern California.

If you have a bit of extra time to spare, you won’t regret stopping by the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum , in the Mark Abbott Memorial Lighthouse nearby. The museum is a great place to learn about the history of surfing and how it came to California from Hawaii.

Top spots for whale watching in Southern California

7. channel islands.

Experience whale watching in Southern California at its finest by heading to the scenic Channel Islands . Sign up for a whale-watching cruise that takes you from Ventura to the string of islands, and it’s almost guaranteed that you’ll have an eventful ride. Out of the 7 8 species of whales, dolphins, and porpoises in the world, 29 have been spotted in the waters near the Channel Islands, and you too can be witness to them when you visit from December through April.

Channel Islands Whale Watching and Island Packers are two companies that organize great whale-watching trips in and around the Channel Islands area. After wrapping up whale watching in Ventura, take advantage of the land of sea, sand, and surf by exploring the offshore areas of this sunny SoCal destination.

8. Cabrillo National Monument

We are in the midst of the perfect time to go gray whale watching in San Diego. Head to the western overlooks of Cabrillo National Monument, and you’ll witness incredible panoramas from the park’s Whale Overlook and Old Point Loma Lighthouse —some of the best viewing spots along the San Diego coastline. If you’ve forgotten your handy binoculars at home, the visitor center has a limited number that you can borrow during whale-watching season.

After your spectacular whale-watching trip, head to downtown San Diego for a much-deserved shopping and eating break, then end your day at the breathtaking Balboa Park .

9. Dana Point

W hale watching in Dana Point is more than spectacular—it’s world-class. The coastal town is home to one of the greatest concentrations of dolphins and blue whales in the world. By booking a whale-watching cruise from Dana Point Harbor, you’ll be able to see gray whales and other amazing sea creatures in their natural habitat just minutes away from shore.

Embark on your journey with Ocean Institute or Captain Dave’s , and be prepared to ooh and ahh your way throughout the day as you get an up-close look at the traveling whales.

10. Long Beach

For warmer-weather whale watching in California, go to Long Beach in October, which is an optimal time to see migrating whales and other marine life. W hale watching in Long Beach exposes you to majestic sights of Pacific gray whales, fin whales, humpback whales, orcas, blue whales, and more.

Book your trip with Harbor Breeze Cruises , a company that’s been organizing whale-watching tours for decades, and you’ll have a grand time. The three-hour tours run daily from Rainbow Harbor and include tour guides on board, so you can have a fun, educational, and memorable whale-watching experience in SoCal.

11. Newport Beach

Are you visiting SoCal and looking for an oceanic adventure of a lifetime? Whether by land or sea, whale watching in Newport Beach is one of the top activities you can do on your trip. View giant blue whales during the summer and fall and gray whales in the winter and spring. Whenever you visit, make sure you have a camera on hand—you’ll want to snap a lot of pics.

There are numerous companies organizing whale-watching trips in Southern California from Newport Beach. Newport Landing Whale Watching and Davey’s Locker are both very well rated and organize guided daily trips almost year-round.

Need help with a home improvement project? Get a free quote today!

Enter your zip code.

13 Hidden Gems in San Diego to Add to Your Itinerary

Inspiration delivered straight to your inbox.

Awesome thank you for subscribing to our newsletter..

When you provide your email address, you are agreeing to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy , and you are giving your consent to receive email communications from California.com regarding updates, happenings, special offers, and promotions from our partners.

11 Swimming Holes in Southern California Everyone Should Visit

RELATED CITIES

Discover More

9 of the Most Fun Things to Do Around UC San Diego

Whether you’re enrolled or just visiting, there are plenty of fun things to do around UC San Diego.

The 5 Best Northern California Wildlife Hiking Trails

Northern California Wildlife is something every outdoor enthusiast should check out, here are the best hiking trails for it.

9 San Jose Landmarks to Look Out For

With a rich past just waiting to be explored, these nine San Jose Landmarks will intrigue all the visitors to the area.

7 Best Bakeries in Los Angeles

Explore the best bakeries in Los Angeles and treat your tastebuds to some top-of-the-line pastries.

8 places that locals go for a vacation in the USA

Jun 4, 2024 • 13 min read

From the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina to summer in Seattle, Lonely Planet staffers share some of their favorite US destinations © JillLang / Getty Images

The US is vast, so big that choosing between coast or mountains, islands or quaint small towns can get downright overwhelming.

But there are some places that we keep going back to year after year, season after season. These places just hit right. The food, the fun, the beauty all combine to make these vacations fill our cups and remind us what makes living in this weird and wild country so engaging. We polled our staff and these are the places in the US that they just can't get enough of.

Looking for more inspiration? Here are the top places to visit in USA

Low light of Cashiers Lake at Cashiers City, North Carolina

1. Cashiers, NC

Ann Douglas Lott, Associate Editor

My family has been vacationing in Cashiers, North Carolina , for almost 20 years. My aunt and uncle loved it so much that they eventually retired there, so it has become an annual ritual to visit them.

Cashiers is one of the closest access points to the Blue Ridge Mountains for those of us below the range, a teensy bit north of the Georgia border. By far, the best part of this lush mountainous region is that it's SO pleasant in the summer. It gets warm, but I'm never sweating, which is rare in the South. The main town is simply adorable and worth exploring, about a 20-minute drive from the equally cute town of Highlands.

There are also endless outdoor activities. Climb mountain trails (I love Whiteside Mountain), hike to cascading waterfalls like Silver Run Falls, and relax on peaceful lakes. My perfect itinerary involves the smoked trout dip and fried chicken salad sandwich from Cornucopia , a drink on Canyon Kitchen 's grassy lawn with a mountain view, and vintage shopping at Victoria’s Closet . Grab your morning coffee from Buck's Coffee Cafe in Cashiers' town center and enjoy it on the front porch, or take it to go, sipping away as you walk through the 13-acre Village Green.

For a high-end stay, head to High Hampton Resort or Old Edward Inn in nearby Highlands. For a more affordable getaway, opt for Skyline Lodge near Highlands – it’s very Frank Lloyd Wright-esque.

Looking for hiking trails in North Carolina? Here's our pick of the best

A beautiful sunset over hills that stretch into the misty distance as the light fades

2. Ojai, California

Annie Greenberg, Senior Director of Creative

The California valley town of Ojai is a little bohemian idyll about an hour and a half from Los Angeles. I love to spend a night or weekend up there whenever I’m on the West Coast, and I even got married in a secret botanical garden there. Despite its closeness to LA, Ojai transports you to a different world. Leave behind bumper-to-bumper traffic and city life for the mountains, wine, and a dash of country flair.

The area is made up of primarily local businesses that keep Ojai’s signature style alive, and around every corner, expect to find unique threads and trinkets to be loved for years. A California perk is that regardless of when you go, expect beauty all year round. Dine at local spots like the Duchess , Pinyon Pizza , and Full Moon Izakaya . Have a lazy afternoon or evening trying flights of beer at Topa Topa Brewery .

I tend to spend as much of my time outside as possible, picking pixie tangerines in a sprawling orange grove, wandering the local farmers markets and sampling the fresh produce, or tasting wine at one of the many local vineyards. Lace up your boots for a day of hiking in the rolling hills and round off this perfect trip with a stay at the Capri , a mid-century motel renovated to perfection, or the Ojai Valley Inn , the area’s most luxurious lodging with pools and a spa to boot.

Planning a trip to California? Here are the things you should know before you go

3. Warren Dunes State Park, Sawyer, Michigan

Erin Leczycki, Photo Editor

I grew up going to Warren Dunes State Park , and spent every summer on its beach, which is one of the best beaches on Michigan 's west coast, with massive sand dunes that offer captivating views of Lake Michigan. There are 6 miles of winding trails that span the beach and woods and – an extra perk for those of age – Warren Dunes is near some of Southwest Michigan's best wineries.

Hit the beach, first and foremost. Try your hand at sandboarding, rent kayaks or paddle boards. Once you have gotten your fill of the water, hit the trails. They are great all year around, but especially in the fall. The colors are beautiful and the warm sand, unlike in summer, is perfect for going barefoot without burning your feet.

For wine lovers, take a tour of Round Barn or Tabor Hill , and if you prefer hops, stop into Greenbush or Silver Harbor , two of the area's most popular breweries. Keep up the momentum with a visit to the local orchards or blueberry farms where you can pick your own.

There are several local restaurants that sling great bites. Mikey’s Drive-in serves casual fare, for classic bar food head to Lake Street Eats and a taste top-notch falafel at Cafe Gulistan . Take a break from the sun with a visit to the Beach Bucket or Oink’s Dutch for a scoop of ice cream.

The area is a popular camping spot, so rent a cabin, load up the RV, set up a tent, and enjoy some of Michigan’s finest! If you prefer something slightly more upscale, the Lakeside Inn is a quaint and fun alternative.

Looking for other beaches in Michigan? Here's our pick of the best

The skyline of a low-rise city with an orange glow in the sky from sunset

4. Santa Fe, NM

Emily Dubin, Senior Book Designer

My family roots are in the Santa Fe area, so we would regularly visit there from Denver , where I grew up. It's close enough to drive, but it feels a world away from Colorado , or really anywhere in the US, with the culture of a big city — world-class art, incredible restaurants, centuries of history — packed into the accessibility and charm of a small town.

The ubiquitous adobe architecture and Native culture give Santa Fe a distinctive feel, and there are plenty of great activities. Hike Pecos National Monument, looking out for ancient pottery shards still littering the ground. Pay a visit to the International Folk Art Museum , wander the shops near the Plaza and check out the art galleries on Canyon Road. The Railyard Farmers Market , held on Saturdays, is especially excellent during chile season in the fall. For an immersive art experience, including potential sensory overload, Santa Fe is home to the original Meow Wolf . If you're there for the holidays, the annual Christmas Eve farolito (paper lantern) walk, in the Historic East Side neighborhood, is magical.

Santa Fe knows food, too. La Choza serves authentic New Mexican fare, go to Izanami for Japanese with the beautifully zen surroundings of Ten Thousand Waves resort and spa, and taste the best chile relleno at Palacio Cafe . For an inventive breakfast or lunch visit Modern General , also with a well-curated store, and don't miss tasting the spiced hot chocolate at specialist chocolate company Kakawa Cafe .

Santa Fe is a fairly compact, small city, so staying anywhere near the Plaza ensures walkability. La Fonda is full of historic charm, while the Inn on the Alameda is a bit removed for a quieter stay. Away from downtown, El Rey is a restored '50s motor inn with a fun ambiance and a great bar.

Traveling without your own wheels? Here are the best places to go car-free in the US

A sandy pathway leads down to a beach with a blue umbrella

5. Highway 30A, FL

The beach towns along Hwy 30A are a top destination for Southerners (I don't know anyone in Alabama who hasn't gone here). I grew up on fall trips to Inlet Beach at the far eastern end of the highway when it's still warm enough to be on the beach, but the crowds aren't unbearable. It's grown so much in so little time, but it's still such a special little pocket of Florida , with one dreamy beach town after another, each wildly different from the one before it.

The true beauty of this place is how you can seamlessly travel between towns (by bike is a must) and experience all of their different vibes, from the dreamy Dutch-inspired lanes of Rosemary Beach to the peaceful, laid-back stretch of Grayton Beach. It's so special how you can get anyone here without a car. Some towns like Alys and Watercolor also have nature trails at the back that are fun to explore on two wheels.

No matter where you land on 30A, you have to go to the Red Bar . It's been around forever and has a relaxed beach shack vibe. Other great places to eat include Bud and Alley's beachside rooftop for seafood lunch in Seaside, Old Florida Fish House for a sunset dinner, and Blue Mountain Beach Creamery or the Donut Hole for a sweet treat. The white-sand beaches on the Gulf of Mexico are so stunning to lay on, swim, play volleyball, or even paddleboard.

First time along Hwy 30A? Here's all the info you need to plan your trip

A moose drinking from a waterway as the sun reflects of mountains in the distance

6. Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Deepa Lakshmin, Director of Social Media

I've been to Jackson Hole three times (once in summer, twice in winter) over long weekends with friends. I also learned to ski there as an adult, but Jackson Hole is a special kind of ski town where you don't have to actually ski or snowboard to have a great time.

In the summer, drive out to the Tetons and kayak at Jenny Lake. In the winter, keep an eye out for moose. Wander the charming town square, then dance your heart out at Million Dollar Cowboy Bar . If you own cowboy boots, this is the place to wear them.

Fresh off the slopes, head to the Mangy Moose walking distance from the mountain for live music, classic bar bites, and all your après needs, plus there's no need to change out of your gear. For a nice dinner out, try Glorietta Trattoria or Snake River Grill . For takeout, pick up Liberty Burger or sandwiches from Cowboy Coffee . Teton Tiger has an odd mix of Asian fusion cuisine – personally, I don't trust any menu with both chicken tikka masala and ramen – but its cocktails and atmosphere are fun.

If you are feeling the urge to learn how to navigate the slopes, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort has a $50 beginner pass you can buy in person only, so I practiced in the easier areas for a few days before upgrading to the more expensive full-mountain lift pass. Who wants to pay for runs they can't even go down? (Yet!)

If you're going with a big group, rent a house for the full experience. We most recently stayed at Spring Creek Ranch , which had an outdoor hot tub (score!) and was walking distance from Aman Resorts' Amangani – out of our budget but lovely for drinks and a spectacular view of the Tetons.

Two young children run along a path in a park on a sunny day with the rusty hulk of old gas works in front of them

Chamidae Ford, Associate Writer

I grew up in Western Washington and went to college in Seattle , so the city has a special place in my heart. But I am not exaggerating when I say summer in Seattle is heaven on earth. Every summer, I try to make a trip back to soak up the sun and enjoy the city. It's the perfect temperature, we don’t have East Coast bugs or humidity, and you’re rarely more than 15 minutes from a body of water you can swim in. What more can you ask for?

Have a picnic at Gas Works Park and watch the sunset across Lake Union. Grab your friends and head to Golden Gardens Beach for a bonfire and cold plunges in the Puget Sound. Personally, I love to get Ezells famous fried chicken (Oprah-approved) and head to Madison beach. You can expect to jump off diving boards and listen to thumping dance music on most sunny days. On Sundays, stop by the Freemont Sunday Market for street food, loads of vintage shopping and handmade trinkets. Grab bikes and cruise along the Burke-Gilman , a 27-mile trail that winds throughout the city.

We are eating good in Seattle, and each neighborhood has a few life-changing gems. Head to Mighty-o for some of the best vegan donuts around. Milk Drunk has a mouthwatering chicken sandwich, Pink Door is every Seattilites favorite Italian food, and brunch at Joli is always a treat.

Since I am from the area, I tend to stay with friends, but Seattle has some fabulous hotels. There's the quirky Graduate Hotel in the University District, or Lotte Hotel in Downtown, which is stunning and keeps you close to the tourist attractions like Pike Place Market . The Mediterranean Inn in Queen Anne has beautiful views, and you get a feel for how locals experience the city in its cozy neighborhoods.

Wondering where to go in Seattle? Explore one neighborhood at a time

Palm trees line a beach. A solo surfer stands in the water looking out to sea

8. Maui, Hawaii

Brekke Fletcher, Senior Director of Content

When I was a wee babe growing up in Los Angeles, our most frequent island escape was Maui . We went so many times I lost count. The magic of this place is in my bones for life.

When the wildfires devastated Lahaina last year, the loss and grief was overwhelming. It was impossible to take in. It still is. Now that some time has passed, I’m ready to return, and when I do my plan is to recreate at least some of my most cherished memories.

When in Northwest Maui, we love to start our day by walking from our condo in Napili to the Honolua Store in the Kapalua resort , where I also go to play tennis. Afterwards we make our way back to Napili via the Kapalua Coastal Trail . The beach at Napili Bay is one of the best on the island, and it’s essential to rent gear at Snorkel Bob’s to take in all the beauty and wonder under the sea. You’re also pretty much guaranteed to see giant Green sea turtles – but please keep your distance and do not touch.

If we don’t cook out (we stock up on provisions at Napili Market), our evening outing might be sushi at Sansei or a sundowner at Merriman’s . Or we’ll wander around Kaanapali and end up at Leilani’s . Breakfast is always (and most deliciously) at the Gazebo . Order yourself some pog (pineapple, orange and guava juice) and just try to finish the heaping stack of macadamia nut pancakes! I also cannot resist the breakfast burrito.

From there, we might make our way to Paia for some shopping, grab a burger at the Stopwatch in Makawao, or if we’re feeling like going big, we’ll have a daytime feast at Mama’s Fish House , choosing from the listing of the day’s fresh catches while savoring the best freshly-baked bread on the island. I also have to have at least one Mai Tai (makes me miss my late father so much just contemplating this, I’m weeping).

And finally, if we’re feeling super adventurous, we’ll wake up at 3am to watch the sunrise at Haleakalā then bike down the volcano, all before breakfast. Or we’ll drive the road to Hana and stop along the way to take photos and maybe climb down to the black sand beach. I cannot wait to get back.

Explore related stories

A hiker takes in a view of Crested Butte and the nearby mountains from a trail winding through wildflower fields

Tips & Advice

Jun 3, 2024 • 11 min read

Don’t tell winter, but summer is my favorite season in Colorado.

May 28, 2024 • 9 min read

May 16, 2024 • 12 min read

Camping next to Lake Wenatchee in the North Cascade Mountains, Washington State

May 6, 2024 • 7 min read

May 3, 2024 • 12 min read

Banff National Park: Bow Valley Parkway Johnston Canyon

Apr 19, 2024 • 10 min read

Apr 18, 2024 • 11 min read

Apr 16, 2024 • 8 min read

Apr 15, 2024 • 10 min read

Apr 14, 2024 • 6 min read

IMAGES

13 Best Cities in California to Visit
27 Best Places to Visit in California (2023) Fun & Unique!
16 Best Cities in California
Top 5 Cities To Visit In California
19 Best Cities to Visit in California (Bucket List Post!)
15 Best Cities to Visit in California (+Map)

VIDEO

2 Southern California cities ranked 'Best Places to Live in the U.S.' by Money
Man Gets EVERYTHING STOLEN In Oakland, CA #theft #oakland #crime #bayarea #sanfrancisco
Top 5 Most Visited Cities In The World 🌎
Part 1
Top 5 Dangerous Cities in the Middle East!!
Top 5 Cities to Travel :A Feast for the Eyes

COMMENTS

Best Places to Visit in California for 2023
From popular cities like San Diego and San Francisco to nature escapes in Mammoth Lakes and Sequoia National Park, see which California spots made the list.
16 Best Cities in California
California is a diverse and exciting state with many amazing cities to explore. Find out which ones offer the best attractions, culture, nature, and more.
23 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in California
These are the best places to visit in California — mountains, beaches, and small towns included.
15 Best Cities to Visit in California (+Map)
5. Sacramento. The capital of the state, Sacramento is set at the point where two rivers join, and is much more affordable than many of the other big cities in California. A sprawling place, interspersed among the modern buildings you can find trendy boutiques, farmer's markets and more.
10 best places to visit in California
4. Highway 1. Best region for road tripping, ocean views and couples. Though in southern California it's known by its more famous name, the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), northern Californians have a more succinct label for the 400-mile stretch from San Francisco to Crescent City: Hwy 1.
24 Best Cities to Visit in California
When you're planning the perfect California itinerary, keep in mind these best cities to visit in California, the best the state has to offer.
20 Best Places To Visit In California (2024 Guide)
Looking for the best places to visit in California? Find out our 20 favorite and must-visit destinations in the Golden State! California is truly one of the most diverse states in the USA. With major cities, small towns, snow-capped mountains, ancient redwood trees, alpine lakes, idyllic beaches, sand dunes, rolling hills, and so much more, there are some awe-inspiring places in the Golden State.
The 18 Best Cities in California (By a Local)
The 18 Best Cities in California (By a Local) People often stay in Los Angeles, San Francisco, or San Diego when they visit the West Coast, but there are many other great cities in California to explore. The state of California is so diverse — the landscapes vary greatly from north to south, east to west.
20 Best Places to Visit in California (+Map)
It's home to sweeping landscapes, vineyards, and a collection of cities that are as famous as the state itself: think San Francisco, Los Angeles, and San Diego. Packed full of culture and good food, the best places to visit in California are fascinating to explore. Map of California ©
23 Places to Visit in California That You Can't Miss
Other incredible Places in California You Shouldn't Miss. 18. Napa Valley. Napa Valley is one of the best places to visit in California. Picture-perfect vineyards dotting golden hills, quaint boutique hotels, soothing spas you can unwind in with a glass of wine in hand, and farm-to-table restaurants lining the streets.
10 Best Cities to Visit in California
Sacramento is California's state capital, but there are more than just government offices in this north-central California city with plenty of things to do for all visitors. It has gotten to be known as one of the state's top art cities, with museums, architecture, and galleries to satisfy any art lover.
16 Best Cities in California
California has some beautiful cities. From San Francisco to San Diego these are the best cities in California to visit on your next vacation.
The 16 Best Places to Visit in California in 2024 (Our Picks)
California is a state that millions of people around the world dream of visiting or living in, with good reason. From bustling modern cities and the center of the film industry to stunning natural wonders, this state has something to offer everyone. The 16 Best Places to Visit in California. Every year, over 250 million tourists visit ...
17 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in California
California is one of the top vacation destinations in the United States, both for Americans and international travelers. Vibrant cities, beaches, amusement parks, and natural wonders like nowhere else on Earth make California an intriguing land of possibilities for travel.
The 5 Best Cities to Visit in California (Ranked)
From San Diego to Los Angeles, discover the best cities to visit in California, bursting with stunning views and history.
15 Best Places to Visit in California Right Now
The best places to visit in California include stunning wonders like Yosemite along with cities like LA and San Francisco.
17 Best Places to Visit in California
Sonoma County is one of the best places to visit in Northern California for scenic hikes in the rolling hills and along the coast. To explore the picturesque sun-drenched countryside of Sonoma County, head to Trione-Annadel State Park where you can go hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding along the park's network of trails. Trione ...
The 9 Best Cities to Visit in California
So, if you are planning to visit this spectacular American state but are not sure where to begin, check out this list of the 9 best cities to visit in California. 1. San Francisco. Of course, the star-studded city of San Francisco comes out on top of my list of recommendations! Nestled on and amongst hills that trickle down to the Pacific Ocean ...
20 Best Places to Visit in California
The best places to visit in California: 1. San Francisco, 2. Yosemite National Park. 3. Big Sur, 4. Lake Tahoe, and more places to discover.
26 Top Things to Do in California
Let this guide assist you in your California vacation planning, whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned pro. From the north to the south and everything in between, these are the top things to ...
THE 30 BEST Places to Visit in California (UPDATED 2024)
Places to visit in California. Top Things to Do in California, United States. Places to Visit in California. Explore popular experiences. ... Top Attractions in California. See all. These rankings are informed by traveller reviews—we consider the quality, quantity, recency, ...
50 Most Beautiful Places To Visit In California In Your Lifetime
Explore the 50 most beautiful places in California, from stunning coastlines to majestic mountains. Find out where to go and what to see in this amazing state.
Which Hawaiian Island is the Best to Visit? Our 2024 Ranking
We rank the 6 Which Hawaiian Island is the Best to Visit? Our 2024 Ranking. See which places our readers like the best, and vote for your favorites.
150 Best Places to Live in the U.S. in 2024-2025
For the 2024-2025 Best Places to Live rankings, we selected 150 major cities to find the best places to live. To make the top of the list, a place had to have good value, be a desirable place to live, have a strong job market and a high quality of life.
10 Best Destinations In California For Your Summer Vacation
5 Santa Barbara. Pixabay. A sidewalk in Santa Barbara, California. 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 ...
THE 15 BEST Things to Do in California (Updated 2024)
Things to Do in California, United States: See Tripadvisor's 9,499,105 traveler reviews and photos of California tourist attractions. Find what to do today or anytime in June. We have reviews of the best places to see in California. Visit top-rated & must-see attractions.
11 Incredible Places for Whale Watching in California
Take a trip to these top whale-watching destinations to spot everything from orcas and blue whales to humpbacks and gray whales.
8 places that locals go for a vacation in the USA
Here are the top places to visit in USA. 1. Cashiers, NC. Ann Douglas Lott, Associate Editor. My family has been vacationing in Cashiers, North Carolina, for almost 20 years. My aunt and uncle loved it so much that they eventually retired there, so it has become an annual ritual to visit them.

23 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in California

Palm Springs

Joshua Tree

Santa Monica Pier

Mammoth Lakes

Santa Barbara

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

Yosemite National Park

Channel Islands

San Francisco

Death Valley

Big Bear Lake

Santa Catalina Island

Redwood National Park

Laguna Beach

Related Articles

24 Best Cities to Visit in California

Best Time to Visit

Best Cities in California to Explore

1. Los Angeles

2. San Francisco

3. San Diego

4. Long Beach

5. Sacramento

8. Palm Springs

9. Santa Barbara

10. Santa Cruz

12. Monterey

13. Pasadena

14. Pismo Beach

16. Newport Beach

17. Santa Monica

18. Ventura

19. Solvang

20. Paso Robles

22. Venice Beach

23. La Jolla

24. San Jose

Final Thoughts on the Exciting Cities to Visit in California

You might also like:

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

20 Best Places To Visit In California (2024 Guide)

1. Los Angeles

Alesha and Jarryd

Related Posts

20 Best Places to Visit in California

Map of California

20. Santa Cruz

19. Sonoma Valley

18. Santa Monica

17. Palm Springs

16. Joshua Tree National Park

15. Laguna Beach

14. Anaheim-Disneyland

13. Carmel-by-the-Sea

12. Channel Islands

11. Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks

10. Redwood National Park

9. Santa Barbara

8. Napa Valley

6. Lake Tahoe

5. San Diego

4. Death Valley

3. Los Angeles

2. Yosemite National Park

1. San Francisco

California Travel Video

10 Most Beautiful National Parks in California

10 Top Tourist Attractions in California

10 Best Beaches in California

15 Best Cities to Visit in California

12 Most Beautiful Lakes in California

12 Most Charming Small Towns in California

11 Most Amazing Hotels in California

10 Most Beautiful Regions in California

12 Best Things to do in Sacramento, CA

12 Best Things to do in San Jose, California

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

16 Best Cities in California

Top Cities in California