33 Fun Things to Do in California: Cities, Coast and Parks
The best things to do in California include San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz, wine tasting in Napa and Sonoma, Yosemite’s granite landscapes, and the beaches of Los Angeles and San Diego. Choose a region first: this guide’s 33 experiences span the state and suit several different trips.
Booking tip: visit wine country without driving after tastings
Staying in San Francisco? The linked Extranomical Tours day trip combines Muir Woods with selected Napa and Sonoma wineries, with transport and three tastings for eligible adults. It suits travelers who want a full guided day and prefer not to arrange a driver.
Allow about 10 hours. Muir Woods admission is extra, and lunch is included only with the relevant upgrade. Confirm the pickup point, age requirements and cancellation terms. Muir Woods is near San Francisco, not Redwood National Park in far northern California. If you want particular wineries or an unhurried stay, book winery appointments and a driver separately.
The Golden State is among the best places to visit in the USA because of the different experiences you can enjoy here. Explore Los Angeles, spend time in San Diego, or go sightseeing in San Francisco.
California at a glance
- Time: Seven to ten days for a focused regional route; two to three weeks give more room to combine regions. These are planning suggestions, not time needed to see all 33 places.
- Transport: Use city transport for compact sightseeing days; a car helps with rural parks and coast stops. Compare parking and one-way rental charges before choosing airports.
- Seasons: Coastal weather, desert heat and Sierra snow require different plans. Do not apply one “best month” to the entire state.
- Budget: Combine free walks with selected paid experiences. Include parking, taxes, transport and exclusions when comparing tickets.
- Visit lengths: Editorial estimates unless tied to a specific tour. Prices are in USD; check the selected date.
The contributor descriptions and photographs below come from earlier visits. We have retained personal observations and updated practical guidance; they do not imply a new visit to every place.
Choose the experiences that fit your trip
For a regional route, jump to the two suggested California itineraries. For current park admission rules, see the national-park fee note.
1. Napa Valley
Recommended By Theresa of Fueled By Wanderlust
Visiting wine country in Napa Valley is one of the most popular things to do in California. Sipping these world-famous wines is a fun choice for day trips, bachelorette parties, and couples’ getaways alike. Plus, there is plenty more to keep you busy in Napa Valley besides visiting wineries all day.
It’s easy to see why so many people choose to visit Napa Valley, with its miles of vineyards and stately tasting rooms. Wine country is a romantic setting for exploring California wines.
You will especially love Napa Valley if you are a red wine drinker, as excellent cabernet sauvignon is in abundance here.
However, it would be remiss to visit Napa Valley and not make it out to one of its many award-winning restaurants. One of the most famous options is the French Laundry tasting menu, but this also comes at a very high price.
Rest assured, though, that there are plenty of other really nice high-end restaurants in Napa Valley that won’t hit your wallet quite as hard. This includes places like Bottega for upscale Italian and Ad Hoc, which changes their menu daily.
Take your Napa Valley itinerary up a notch by adding a hot air balloon tour, scenic hike, or trip to the spa. That way you’ll get a little break before another full day of awesome winery stops.
Plan your visit
- Location: Napa Valley, north of San Francisco.
- Admission and extras: Tastings, meals and balloon rides are separately priced; reserve your chosen winery.
- Hours or access: Winery appointments and restaurant hours vary.
- Allow: One full day for selected wineries; two nights for a slower stay.
- Planning tip: Arrange a driver or guided tour if tasting. The balloon ride departs from Yountville, not San Francisco.
For a different view, the Napa Valley Aloft balloon option below meets in Yountville. Allow about 4.5 hours overall; the flight is roughly 40–60 minutes, depending on conditions. It is not a San Francisco pickup tour. Check standing, mobility and age restrictions, and leave room for a weather cancellation.
2. Salvation Mountain and Slab City
Recommended by Geena from Beyond the Bucketlist
I was driving through the hostile charred landscape of the Southern California desert, not too far from the Salton Sea when a multicolored mountain appeared to rise up in the distance.
Is it a mirage?
No. It’s the entrance to an unexpected off-the-grid community of artists living in one of the harshest climates in the USA. & one of the more interesting off-the-beaten-path attractions I’ve stumbled upon in California.
Salvation Mountain was the lifelong passion project of Leonard Knight who constructed the mountain from desert debris in the 1980s.
Today the interactive art installation still stands colorful & tall covered in kind religious phrases & rainbow decorations–a stark contrast to the yellow sand that surrounds it.
“Slab City“, the surrounding community, although not as impressive at first glance, is also worth a drive-through.
On my visit, there was an outdoor library complete with dust-covered National Geographic from the ’70s, an art garden, & plenty of roadside stands where members of the community sell scavenged gems & stones carefully strung into earrings & necklaces.
All in all, it remains one of my favorite desert experiences in California. Plan it as a separate drive from Palm Springs or Joshua Tree, rather than a quick nearby stop. Respect residents’ homes and ask before photographing people.
Plan your visit
- Location: Salvation Mountain near Niland, by Slab City.
- Admission and extras: Free entry; donations support upkeep.
- Hours or access: Dawn to dusk, subject to local conditions.
- Allow: 45–90 minutes at the artwork, plus the desert drive.
- Planning tip: Bring water; stay on permitted paths and respect private living areas in Slab City.
3. San Francisco’s mosaic steps
Recommended by Jyoti from Story At Every Corner
The mosaic steps of San Francisco bring art to the city’s steep hills. They are a rewarding addition to a neighborhood walk, with patterns that only come together when you look at the stairway from below.
Leave time to look closely at the tiled designs rather than treating each staircase as just another photo stop.
Once upon a time mosaic stairs were plain old steps. Then, one day some artists and neighbors got together to decorate the stairs with art.
They made paintings that they transformed into tile art, on the side of the stairs. Each step has a design. A set of steps forms a painting if viewed from the front.
The staircases form a collection of paintings tied together with a theme or flow. One could easily pass them by but if you pay attention the stairs come alive with the most beautiful art.
Three examples are the 16th Avenue Tiled Steps at Moraga Street, the nearby Hidden Garden Steps at Kirkham Street, and the Lincoln Park Steps at the western end of California Street. All are in San Francisco; Lincoln Park is not across the Golden Gate Bridge.
Locals can do a day trip to see the beautiful mosaic steps of San Francisco. Choose the staircases that fit the neighborhoods you plan to explore.
The Sunset District staircases combine well with Golden Gate Park. A walk across the Golden Gate Bridge is a separate outing, so allow for the transfer rather than assuming everything is next door.
Plan your visit
- Location: Sunset District and Lincoln Park, San Francisco.
- Admission and extras: Public stairways are free; transport or parking can cost extra.
- Hours or access: Visit in daylight and keep residents’ entrances clear.
- Allow: 30–45 minutes per staircase; longer when walking between neighborhoods.
- Planning tip: Expect steps and slopes; these are not step-free routes.
4. Bike across the Golden Gate Bridge
Recommended by Anisa from Two Traveling Texans
The Golden Gate Bridge is one of the most iconic bridges in the world and there is no better way to experience it than on a bike. While it’s a challenging ride at times, the views make it worth it.
You can rent bikes by Fisherman’s Wharf, bike across the Golden Gate Bridge to Sausalito, then enjoy a scenic ferry ride back. If you prefer, there are also organized tours. Make sure you dress appropriately for the weather.
The ride from Fisherman’s Wharf to the bridge is flat most of the way. Then it’s a steep climb up to the bridge where many people walk their bikes.
On the bridge, follow the current signs for bicycle access: the sidewalk in use changes with the day and time. Ride considerately and stop clear of passing traffic to enjoy the views of San Francisco Bay.
Once you cross the bridge, the route descends toward Sausalito. Stop and explore, maybe grab a bite to eat, before catching a ferry back.
Alternatively, extend the ride to Tiburon. Check the ferry operator, arrival terminal and bicycle capacity before committing to the longer route; not every ferry returns to Fisherman’s Wharf.
This route will take at least three to four hours round trip. Depending on how long you want to spend in Sausalito and/or Tiburon, you could take a full day.
Plan your visit
- Location: Golden Gate Bridge, with routes onward to Sausalito.
- Admission and extras: No bicycle bridge toll; rentals and ferry tickets cost extra.
- Hours or access: Bicycle-sidewalk access changes by time; follow the bridge signs.
- Allow: Half a day for a relaxed ride and ferry return.
- Planning tip: Check ferry bicycle capacity and return terminal. Allow for wind and fog.
5. Tour Alcatraz Island
Recommended by Tracey from PackThePJs
Everyone knows ‘The Island of the Pelicans’ in San Francisco Bay. Better known as Alcatraz, after the Federal penitentiary located there between 1934 and 1963, its history and subsequent books and films have made it a famous landmark and one of the cool things to do in California.
Just 1.25 miles offshore, the 22-acre island has been lots of things over the years – a lighthouse, a military fort, an arsenal, a military prison (and then Federal), a protest platform for Native Americans, and a National Historic Landmark.
A visit to Alcatraz starts with a ferry ticket. Alcatraz City Cruises is the authorized ferry operator; approved resellers can also sell packages that include a landing. Check carefully: a cruise around the island does not include a prison visit.
The audio tour is very informative and atmospheric. It describes in detail what life was like on Alcatraz for prisoners and for those who lived and worked there.
Recordings of former prisoners tell stories of their time ‘locked up’ and they point out interesting facts as you are guided through the prison.
You learn about the famous inmates – Al (Scarface) Capone, Robert Franklin Stroud (the ‘Birdman of Alcatraz’), George ‘Machine Gun’ Kelly, Ellsworth ‘Bumpy’ Johnson, Mickey Cohen, Arthur R. “Doc” Barker and Alvin ‘Creepy Karpis’ Karpavicz (longest-serving prisoner).
Of course, escape efforts are documented too. The mainland looks close, but cold water and strong currents made escape dangerous. It is inaccurate to say the crossing is impossible.
Allow roughly three hours or more for the visit including ferry travel, depending on the ticket. The cellhouse audio tour is only part of the experience: leave time for the exhibitions and outdoor areas too.
Wear sensible footwear as there is plenty of walking. Check the return timetable for your ticket and leave enough time to reach the dock before the final departure.
Contributor’s related guide: Alcatraz.
Plan your visit
- Location: Ferry departure at Pier 33, San Francisco.
- Admission and extras: Buy a landing ticket; bay cruises without landing are different products.
- Hours or access: Timed outbound departure; check return boats for your ticket.
- Allow: About three hours or more including the ferry.
- Planning tip: Book ahead and compare the authorized operator’s fare. Ask about accessible transport up the steep island slope.
6. Explore Big Sur
Recommended by Rachel & Clark from Seeking Our Someday
Big Sur is located in central California’s coastal mountains and accessed by the famous Highway 1, teetering on the edge of the Pacific Ocean between Carmel and San Simeon.
These seaside cliffs give way to expansive views, dramatic cliffs, and unpredictable fog. Driving through Big Sur is not for the faint of heart, but the natural beauty is worth every sharp turn of the narrow, two-lane Highway 1 and one of the places to see in California.
Allow a full day for a leisurely coastal drive with stops when the road is open. With hikes, waterfalls and scenic turnouts, it is easy to spend a long weekend exploring this section of California’s coast.
There are many campgrounds and a handful of inns to spend a few nights in Big Sur. It can also be accessed from the cities of Carmel and Monterey, CA.
Bixby Creek Bridge is one of Big Sur’s recognizable landmarks. Use legal pullouts only, keep entrances clear and never stop in the traffic lane for a photograph.
Julia Pfeiffer Burns, Pfeiffer Big Sur and Andrew Molera state parks are part of the region’s appeal, but access is currently restricted by fire impacts. Check each park before setting out; do not assume a familiar trail or campground is open.
At Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, McWay Falls drops into a coastal cove. The beach and waterfall area are off limits; use only viewpoints and trails that the park confirms are open.
Big Sur offers some of California’s most scenic coastal views and is a must-stop for anyone visiting the Golden State.
Plan your visit
- Location: Highway 1 coast between Carmel and San Simeon.
- Admission and extras: Driving has no attraction ticket; state-park parking and camping may cost extra.
- Hours or access: Fire impacts and road works can change access. Check Caltrans and the individual parks.
- Allow: A full day with selected stops, or several nights.
- Planning tip: Do not book a through-drive on the assumption all roads and trails are open. McWay Falls has no beach access.
Access update, October 3, 2026: The Julia Pfeiffer Burns park notice reports partial reopening, with backcountry trails east of Highway 1 closed. Other Big Sur parks have separate restrictions. Use the live Caltrans report for roads; an older park notice may describe a different road situation.
7. Disneyland Resort in Anaheim
Recommended by Nicole from AffordableFamilyTravel.com
Disneyland Park in Anaheim is where Disney’s original theme park story began. Walk down Main Street in Walt’s footsteps into a world of rides, characters and carefully designed settings.
The resort has two separate theme parks, so decide whether your trip is about Disneyland Park, Disney California Adventure Park, or both.
Disneyland Park has rides such as Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride and Snow White’s Enchanted Wish, the reimagined version of Snow White’s Scary Adventures.
The compact layout makes it easier to move between attractions, but a weekday does not guarantee short lines. Choose your priorities and check the entertainment calendar before booking.
Mickey’s Toontown within Disneyland Park gives younger visitors places to explore and meet characters. Character appearances, parades and waiting times depend on the day.
Make sure to dine at the Blue Bayou restaurant located within the Pirates of the Caribbean ride for a delicious meal and wonderful ambiance.
Disney California Adventure Park has Pixar Pier, a boardwalk-themed area with the Incredicoaster, a thrilling coaster with a loop.
Disney California Adventure Park hosts seasonal events including Lunar New Year and the Food & Wine Festival. Check event dates and any separately priced experiences rather than assuming they run year-round.
Plan your visit
- Location: Anaheim, Orange County, southeast of Los Angeles.
- Admission and extras: Dated park tickets; parking, meals and optional upgrades add to the total.
- Hours or access: A valid ticket and required park reservation must match your day and park.
- Allow: One full day per park is a useful starting point.
- Planning tip: Compare one-park and Park Hopper options. Dining reservations do not include admission.
8. Use the 49-Mile Scenic Drive to plan San Francisco stops
Recommended by Kenny from Knycx Journeying
The Scenic 49 Mile Drive is a useful starting point for exploring San Francisco’s landmarks. Treat this historic sightseeing route as inspiration for your own itinerary.
One of the reasons is possible that there aren’t a lot of signs on the streets about this drive anymore. The route, originally, is marked by blue and white signs with a seagull featured on it.
The seagull sign became a recognizable symbol of the route.
You may still spot these signs around the city, but do not rely on them for navigation. Current traffic rules and road access take priority over an old route map.
So, what about 49 Mile Drive?
The route was created in 1938 by the San Francisco Down Town Association for the Golden Gate International Exposition.
Through years of development, the scenic drive has expanded and become the best way to have a taste of selected historic sites and landmarks in the City by the Bay.
Choose stops such as the Golden Gate Bridge, Painted Ladies, Coit Tower and Lombard Street, then connect them by walking, public transportation or driving where permitted. Alcatraz needs a separate ferry booking and cannot be reached by car.
Whether you decide to complete the route or not, 49 Mile Drive is a good reference guide to explore the beautiful San Francisco – especially for first-timers.
Contributor’s related guide: Scenic 49 Mile Drive.
Plan your visit
- Location: Selected sights across San Francisco.
- Admission and extras: No route admission; individual attractions and parking cost extra.
- Hours or access: Historic route, not a guarantee that every old road segment is drivable.
- Allow: Half a day for a few stops, or spread them over a city stay.
- Planning tip: Use current navigation and traffic rules. Avoid renting a car just to follow the entire historic line.
9. Fisherman’s Wharf
Recommended by Christine from Hop Upon
Fisherman’s Wharf is a well-known waterfront neighborhood in San Francisco, with seafood stalls, shops and views across the bay.
You can’t really visit San Francisco without going to Fisherman’s Wharf especially if you want great seafood and shopping.
Pier 39 is a familiar starting point. If you are visiting Alcatraz, go to the departure point on your ticket at Pier 33; a general waterfront cruise is a different experience.
The Fisherman’s Wharf used to be a sleepy side of the city until the influx of Italian immigrant fishermen in the late 1800s.
They settled in the area and started fishing for local delicacies and crabs and from then on, the Fisherman’s Wharf became the center of operations for San Francisco’s fishing fleets.
Until now, the fishing industry is still alive in the area and it provides fresh catch to the restaurants in and outside of the Fisherman’s Wharf.
Clam chowder and fish and chips are familiar choices around the wharf. Compare menus and prices before sitting down; the original recommendation for Alioto’s is no longer a current dining option.
Aside from trying great seafood, you can also watch the sunset over the Golden Gate Bridge from one of the restaurants.
Look for sea lions at Pier 39 or check the waterfront events calendar. The Exploratorium is farther along the Embarcadero at Pier 15, so allow extra walking time if you want to combine them.
Plan your visit
- Location: Northern waterfront, San Francisco.
- Admission and extras: Walking the waterfront is free; food, museums and cruises extra.
- Hours or access: Businesses and boat departures have separate schedules.
- Allow: Two to three hours, excluding a cruise or museum.
- Planning tip: Compare menus before ordering. Pier 33 for Alcatraz is separate from Pier 39.
10. El Matador State Beach in Malibu
Recommended by Monica from This Rare Earth
When most people hear “Malibu, Ca” they picture a fancy and upscale area like Beverly Hills. You might be surprised to learn, that’s not what Malibu is all about.
Malibu is a quiet seaside part of Los Angeles County that still has a very small-town vibe, despite being so well known.
Small local restaurants and shops line the long stretch of coastline, with just a few major chains sprinkled in. It is so different from LA that you just might forget how close you are to the urban sprawl.
My favorite beach in Malibu is El Matador State Beach, hands down. A perfect trip to Malibu must include this beautiful location.
The rocky cliffs create a distinctive ocean landscape. Enjoy them from designated paths and the beach rather than climbing the bluffs. At low tide you may spot sea stars and anemones in tide pools; observe without touching.
Wear shoes with grip for the stairs and uneven beach, and check the tide before exploring. Rising water can cut off access around rocks; keep clear of unstable cliff edges and bases.
My tip is to plan around the evening light, while leaving enough time to return before the parking area closes. Leo Carrillo State Park is another nearby coastal option, subject to its own access notices.
Plan your visit
- Location: El Matador, part of Robert H. Meyer Memorial State Beach, Malibu.
- Admission and extras: Check current state-beach parking fees.
- Hours or access: Use posted access hours; beach space changes with the tide.
- Allow: One to two hours.
- Planning tip: Limited parking, steep paths and stairs. Stay off unstable cliffs and plan the return before high water.
Plan other things to do in Los Angeles
11. Eat in Los Angeles’ Koreatown
Recommended by Arabela from The Spicy Travel Girl
Experiencing the multicultural side of Los Angeles is one of the fun things to do in California.
Home to immigrants from all across the globe, the city offers an impressive variety of authentic restaurants and eateries that represent the cuisines of every part of the world. However, some of the best food in town you’ll undoubtedly find in Koreatown.
Having personally spent months in Korea sampling all the local delicacies, I have come to the firm conclusion that Koreatown LA is one of my favorite places outside Korea for Korean food.
This huge neighborhood west of downtown Los Angeles is home to an innumerable quantity of Korean businesses.
You’ll find everything your heart could desire there, from Korean grocery stores with excellent takeout food to dessert shops and teahouses, and from Korean BBQ restaurants to famous Korean bakery chains.
One of the best places to eat in Koreatown for first-time visitors is the food court in the famous Koreatown Plaza mall. Thanks to the large selection of food vendors, you can find an impressive selection of dishes all in one place.
Portions were generous on my visits, so consider sharing when ordering several dishes. Menus and portion sizes vary by restaurant.
Overall, LA’s Koreatown is the perfect place for an authentic little cultural excursion in California that can be as simple as a good, warm meal.
Plan your visit
- Location: Koreatown, west of downtown Los Angeles.
- Admission and extras: No neighborhood admission; order and pay at individual businesses.
- Hours or access: Restaurants and shops set their own hours.
- Allow: Two to three hours for a meal and neighborhood walk.
- Planning tip: Choose a few dishes to share; check parking validation before using a garage.
12. La Jolla’s coast and wildlife
Recommended by Valentina from Valentina’s Destinations
Southern California is a dream. La Jolla is one of the best places to visit in San Diego. La Jolla is known for its glamorous restaurants, million-dollar real estate, unique wildlife opportunities, and beautiful natural features.
La Jolla’s beaches are known for surfing, but conditions and difficulty vary. La Jolla Shores is a common choice for beginner lessons; ask a qualified instructor about the day’s conditions rather than assuming every beach is suitable.
La Jolla beaches are also great for snorkeling, kayaking, and relaxing. Exploring La Jolla’s sea caves by kayak is one of the most exciting adventures. There are 7 sea caves in La Jolla, and only one of them is accessible on foot.
La Jolla Underwater Park is the best place to go snorkeling or scuba diving. These waters are protected and known to house abundant marine life. You may see many different species of fish, rays or, even, sharks!
Seals and sea lions rest along La Jolla’s shores. Watch from open public areas and give them space. Point La Jolla and Boomer Beach are closed to public access year-round to protect sea lions.
Any aspiring photographer would find plenty of subjects in La Jolla. Scripps Pier is a working research pier and a favorite coastal view; enjoy it from the public shore rather than assuming you can walk onto the pier.
Plan your visit
- Location: La Jolla coast, San Diego.
- Admission and extras: Public coastal viewpoints are free; tours, equipment and some parking cost extra.
- Hours or access: Point La Jolla and Boomer Beach are closed year-round. Other access depends on conditions.
- Allow: Half a day; longer with a booked water activity.
- Planning tip: Keep away from wildlife and ask lifeguards or an operator about water conditions.
13. Death Valley National Park
Recommended by Milijana from World Travel Connector
Visiting spectacular Death Valley National Park is one of the most amazing things to do in California.
Death Valley rewards travelers who enjoy open desert landscapes and geological contrasts. Choose a handful of viewpoints rather than attempting every distant attraction in a single day.
Zabriskie Point, Dante’s View, Badwater Basin, Devil’s Golf Course, Artists Palette, the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, Ubehebe Crater and Racetrack Playa show different sides of the desert. They are spread out, and remote roads need separate planning and current condition checks.
Death Valley’s heat is a serious planning factor. Choose outdoor stops using the forecast and park guidance, not simply because they look short on a map.
Badwater Basin is the lowest point in North America. In extreme heat, enjoy appropriate roadside views from near your air-conditioned vehicle instead of setting out on exposed hikes.
Las Vegas and Harry Reid International Airport are useful gateways for a visit to Death Valley from Las Vegas. Allow for the drive to your specific park destination, not just the park boundary.
If Death Valley fits your wider Las Vegas trip, give it a dedicated day or overnight stay and check road closures before departing. Avoid building a summer itinerary around desert hiking.
Contributor’s related guide: Death Valley from Las Vegas.
Plan your visit
- Location: Eastern California, with approaches from Las Vegas or the Eastern Sierra.
- Admission and extras: National-park entrance fee; check the current vehicle fee or eligible pass.
- Hours or access: Roads can close after floods. Heat can rule out walking even when roads are open.
- Allow: One full day for selected roadside sights; longer for remote areas.
- Planning tip: Carry water and fuel. Do not rely on phone service or ordinary rental cars for remote rough roads.
Plan the Las Vegas part of your trip
14. Venice Beach and the canals
Recommended by Erin from The Gal On The Go
No trip to California is complete without seeing Venice Beach and experiencing one of the state’s most eclectic beach towns. Visiting the Venice Beach Boardwalk and canals are some of the best things to do in California.
Start your epic adventure on the Venice Beach Boardwalk by purchasing a souvenir from one of the many vendors lining the path. Here you will also find street performers doing various acts and stunts for the crowd.
Rent a bike near the boardwalk and begin to explore! Venice’s skateboarding culture is part of its character, so stop to watch riders at the skatepark right on the beach.
Next, check out the bodybuilders at Muscle Beach – the outdoor public gym off the boardwalk. A short trip inland from the beach is the famous Venice Beach Canals.
These canals were replicated to look like the canals in Italy featuring beautiful bridges and lined with incredible million-dollar homes.
Begin a canal walk near Washington Boulevard and Strongs Drive, then enjoy the bridges and palms along the public paths. Keep clear of residents’ entrances.
Six canals remain today, so allow about an hour to wander the bridges and waterside paths. End the day with a drink above Hotel Erwin if you have a reservation at its current rooftop venue, Kassi.
Plan your visit
- Location: Venice Beach and residential canals, Los Angeles.
- Admission and extras: Boardwalk and canal walks free; rentals, gym entry, parking and dining extra.
- Hours or access: Respect residential paths and posted beach rules.
- Allow: Half a day.
- Planning tip: Walk bikes where required and compare rental return times. Reserve rooftop dining separately.
15. Giant sequoias in Sequoia National Park
Recommended by James from Travel Collecting
Sequoia National Park is named after the giant sequoias that grow there. Coast redwoods grow taller, while giant sequoias are larger by trunk volume. There are many trails of different lengths and levels of difficulty among the trees.
The General Sherman Tree is the largest living tree by volume. From the main parking lot, the walk descends toward the tree and climbs back on the return; it is not a flat stroll. A separate accessible approach is available.
Another recommended walk is the Congress Loop Trail, which passes giant sequoias and the House and Senate groups. Check the park map for the full distance from your chosen parking area.
Highlights include named trees such as the President and Lincoln trees. Stay on designated routes and respect barriers around roots and hollow trees.
Another easy trail is the Big Trees Trail, around Round Meadow. This is especially lovely early in the morning and late afternoon when there is a good chance of seeing wildlife, including black bears, who come to forage in the meadow.
Also not to be missed is the Giant Forest Museum. It is a small museum but gives a fascinating insight into the sequoia trees and how they grow.
Seeing these enormous trees in real life is truly awe-inspiring. Photos do not give you a true sense of just how big they are. Visiting Sequoia National Park is not to be missed!
Contributor’s related guide: Congress Loop Trail.
Plan your visit
- Location: Giant Forest, Sequoia National Park.
- Admission and extras: Park entrance fee; non-US-resident fees may apply unless covered by an eligible pass.
- Hours or access: Snow and road restrictions can affect access; check current park alerts.
- Allow: One full day for selected Giant Forest walks.
- Planning tip: Allow for winding roads and uphill walking. Use the park’s designated accessible approaches where needed.
Check the official Congress Trail distance and accessible approach
16. The Huntington gardens and art
Recommended by Daniel from Urban Abroad
When looking for the best things to do in California, Huntington Gardens should definitely be somewhere near the top of your list.
Located in San Marino this attraction is home to some of the most well maintained garden landscapes you’ll like to see on your entire trip. Not only does it offer a wonderful day out, but it also gives you a chance to see how the wonderful gardens change with the seasons.
The gardens appear well-groomed and depending on what time of year you go you can find related activities and show such as the Chinese new year, for example.
While doing some research here for starting an urban garden in my own neighborhood, I found lots of inspiration and new plant species and the Japanese gardens were by far my favorite. There is also a mansion on-site with an extensive European art collection inside plus a research library with rare historical materials. General admission does not mean unrestricted access to those research collections.
The staff was really helpful when it came to asking questions related to certain areas of the gardens and navigating the site in general. You can choose to explore the gardens solo or join one of the group tours with a guide.
All in all, Huntington Gardens makes a superior spot for anyone looking to get a peek into what life was like for the ultra-rich back in the 20th century.
If you enjoy gardens and do not mind walking, allow several hours. Online reservations are encouraged; check exhibition closures before booking, especially if the library galleries are your main reason for visiting.
Plan your visit
- Location: The Huntington, San Marino, near Pasadena.
- Admission and extras: Paid admission; check date-specific tickets and separate event costs.
- Hours or access: Check the calendar and closures: library exhibition halls are currently closed for construction.
- Allow: Three to five hours.
- Planning tip: Reserve online, especially for Free Day. General tickets do not grant research-library access.
17. California’s coastal redwoods
Recommended by Erika from Erika’s Travels
The giant redwoods of northern California are a nature-lover’s dream. Their sheer size has made them one of California’s most beloved tourist attractions and a top place to visit along the Pacific Coast Highway.
The far northern Redwood National and State Parks are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. They are a separate destination from the redwood groves near San Francisco.
The UNESCO site includes the Redwood National Park and three California state parks, Del Norte Coast, Prairie Creek, and Jedediah Smith.
Redwood National and State Parks protect forests along California’s far northern coast. Coast redwoods are among the tallest trees on Earth; walking beneath them gives a sense of scale that photographs rarely capture.
Their thick bark helps mature redwoods withstand some fires, but the trees and surrounding forest are not immune to wildfire.
Coastal moisture, including fog, is important to these forests. Their setting is different from the inland giant-sequoia groves farther south.
Though California’s redwoods are scattered across a number of parks and protected wilderness areas, travelers with time constraints may want to focus on visiting the area’s highlight attractions.
Particular points of interest when visiting the Redwoods National and State Parks include Howland Hill Road in Jedediah Smith, the Newton P. Drury Scenic Byway in Prairie Creek, and the Lady Bird Johnson Grove in Redwood National Park.
Plan your visit
- Location: Redwood National and State Parks on the far North Coast.
- Admission and extras: Most areas have no entrance fee; some state-park day-use areas and camping charge separately.
- Hours or access: Check Tall Trees and seasonal Fern Canyon/Gold Bluffs Beach permit requirements.
- Allow: Two or three days for several groves; this is not a quick San Francisco side trip.
- Planning tip: Match reservations to your route; narrow scenic roads may not suit large vehicles.
18. Channel Islands National Park
Recommended by Megan from Megan & Aram
One of the best things to do in California is to head to Ventura or Oxnard and take a boat out to Channel Islands National Park. This natural beauty is made up of five islands with unique biodiversity and landscapes.
The terrain ranges from Torrey pine woodland to open scrub. Choose your island first, then check the permitted trails, boat schedule and camping arrangements; access is not identical across all five islands.
The wildlife is a major reason to go, from island foxes on some islands to whales in the surrounding waters. Species and sightings vary with the island and season, so avoid booking on the promise of a guaranteed encounter.
Alongside whales in the surrounding waters, the islands are also home to many species of sea lions and seals and you can see them in a variety of spots along the coasts.
Wildlife boat trips and guided sea-kayaking excursions offer different ways to experience the coast. A whale-watching cruise does not necessarily include landing on an island.
For kayaking or snorkeling, book an operator suited to your experience and check sea conditions. Winter can be quieter, but rough seas can disrupt boats at any time of year. Allow flexibility and carry the food and water needed for your island.
Visiting the Channel Islands in California is definitely one of the best things to do in the Golden State.
Contributor’s related guide: visit Channel Islands National Park.
Plan your visit
- Location: Offshore islands; book the correct mainland departure harbor.
- Admission and extras: No park entrance fee; boat transport, camping and guided activities cost extra.
- Hours or access: Island Packers schedules, island closures and sea conditions determine access.
- Allow: A full day for one island, or a separately planned camping trip.
- Planning tip: Book the boat before building the day around it. Bring required food and water and know the return departure.
19. Mission District murals in San Francisco
Recommended by Chrysoula from Travel Passionate
The Mission District in San Francisco is home to a long-established street-art and mural scene, with color-popping designs gracing buildings, alleyways, and doors all over the area.
The street art here covers all kinds of different topics, from race and human rights to gentrification and the climate crisis, and is ever-changing to reflect the times.
Murals have a long history in San Francisco, including Diego Rivera’s work in the 1930s. In the Mission, community murals and changing street art reflect the neighborhood’s own stories.
Some of the best pieces of work can be found just off 24th Street, on Lilac Street Alley, Cypress Street Alley, Lucky Street, Clarion Alley, and Balmy Alley.
Certain areas are known for having more ephemeral tags and sketches while others feature long-standing murals that were perhaps commissioned or created by collaborating artists.
While you can wander around the streets of Mission yourself to admire the street art, I’d highly recommend taking a tour so that you can learn more about the history of the area and the legal/illegal graffiti scene from someone who has lived and worked here for years.
You could honestly spend hours walking around the street art scene here, so try to aim for a bright, sunny day to ensure you have the best weather for walking and photographing the sites.
Plan your visit
- Location: Mission District, San Francisco.
- Admission and extras: Self-guided mural walks free; guided tours charged separately.
- Hours or access: Outdoor murals change; respect homes and working businesses.
- Allow: Two to three hours with food stops.
- Planning tip: Choose a local mural tour for context rather than judging the art only as photo backgrounds.
20. Hollywood Sign viewpoints and hikes
Recommended by Sophie from We Dream of Travel
Originally built in 1923, the Hollywood sign has become synonymous with Los Angeles, and no Los Angeles bucket list is complete without a hike to see the iconic sign!
The Hollywood sign is located in Griffith Park, along with the Griffith Observatory and Greek Theatre. Exploring the park is a great way to spend a day in LA.
Several official routes offer different views of the sign. Use the Hollywood Sign’s current hiking directions; trailheads, access rules and difficulty vary, and the letters themselves are fenced off.
Some routes are steep and exposed, so choose by distance, elevation and your group’s ability. Carry water and avoid hiking in dangerous heat; an early start is not a guarantee of safe conditions.
Another advantage of hiking early is avoiding the crowds. If you prefer, there are also tour companies that offer guided hikes to the Hollywood sign.
If you prefer a viewpoint to a hike, consider the view from Griffith Observatory or Lake Hollywood Park. Neither requires getting close to the letters, and transport and parking need their own planning.
Plan your visit
- Location: Griffith Park, Los Angeles.
- Admission and extras: Public trails free; transport, parking and guided hikes may cost extra.
- Hours or access: Use official trailheads and daytime access rules; obey closures.
- Allow: Two to four hours depending on route, plus travel.
- Planning tip: Select by actual difficulty. Do not approach the fenced letters or use residential shortcuts.
21. Universal Studios Hollywood
Recommended by Holly from Globeblogging
Solo travelers might not automatically think of Universal Studios in Los Angeles as a must-visit on their LA Itinerary, but it caters to the small kids and big kids alike!
Movie fans and theme-park lovers have plenty to choose from. Selected rides offer single-rider lines to fill available seats, but they are not available everywhere and do not guarantee a short wait.
Many of the rides combine motion with screen-based effects with screens flashing the experience before you as the seat wobbles, vibrates, and moves with you in it.
It’s a blending done so effectively the rides come with motion sickness warnings and it is hard not to feel like you are flying on a broomstick with Harry Potter. Be sure to try the delicious Butterbeer at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and check out the store if you’re a fan of the movies.
The Studio Tour travels through parts of the working studio and themed sets. Its route can change with production and operations, so do not plan around seeing a particular car or filming location.
Jaws and King Kong 360 remain features promoted for the Studio Tour. The old Fast & Furious finale should not be treated as a current inclusion.
Check the daily show schedule for stunt performances and other entertainment. The former Animal Actors show is not a current attraction.
The Universal Studios app contains maps and real-time queue information so is a great tool for maximizing your time to fit in everything.
Plan your visit
- Location: Universal Studios Hollywood, Universal City.
- Admission and extras: Dated admission; parking, food and Express/VIP upgrades separately priced.
- Hours or access: Daily opening hours and attraction availability vary.
- Allow: One full day.
- Planning tip: Compare the total ticket price and actual upgrade inclusions. Studio Tour routes and single-rider service can change.
22. Yosemite National Park
Recommended by Constance from The Adventures of Panda Bear
Yosemite National Park is worth a dedicated stay if you can spare the time. A day trip from San Francisco is possible, but involves a long day on the road with limited time in the park.
East of San Francisco in the Sierra Nevada, Yosemite has waterfalls, granite rock formations and scenic hikes. Plan your drive to the specific park entrance and valley destination, allowing for traffic and seasonal road closures.
Some of Yosemite’s best-known waterfalls are in Yosemite Valley, including Bridalveil Fall. Use the current park map for the approach and accessible facilities rather than assuming an old trail description still applies.
Throughout the Yosemite Valley, you’ll be treated to amazing views of the rock formations everywhere. You can even see them from the grassy meadows!
Mirror Lake is a great place to catch the granite mountains and their beautiful reflections on the lake when seasonal water levels allow.
The Mist Trail is a popular but demanding hike. Climbing Half Dome is a separate, much longer undertaking with its own permit requirements; you do not need to climb it to enjoy the valley.
Choose a Mist Trail turnaround suited to your ability, with Vernal Fall or Nevada Fall as possible goals when the route is open. Wet steps, winter closures and changing conditions matter more than checking off both waterfalls.
Yosemite National Park is definitely one of the best things to do in California.
Plan your visit
- Location: Yosemite National Park, Sierra Nevada.
- Admission and extras: Entrance fee and applicable nonresident fee or eligible pass; camping and lodging extra.
- Hours or access: No timed entrance reservation required for 2026; other reservations and permits remain separate.
- Allow: Two or three days for a first valley-focused visit.
- Planning tip: Book lodging early and check your entrance route. No entrance reservation does not mean guaranteed parking.
23. Santa Monica Pier and Beach
Recommended by Kanupriyaa from My Lost Camel
When you think about California, the sun-drenched beaches with the gorgeous ocean and lots of hustle bustle is the typical picture that comes to mind.
Santa Monica Pier at the edge of Los Angeles is the quintessential California pier with local seafood restaurants, lots of rides, and filled with artists selling you their wares.
The Pier is an iconic destination that is popular with both tourists and locals alike. The boardwalk hosts the oceanfront Pacific Park with rides and games to entertain you all day long including the Pacific Wheel that is lit up in different colors every night.
The Heal the Bay Aquarium beneath the pier focuses on local marine life and is a separate paid visit from the beach and pier.
Restaurants around the pier give you places to pause with an ocean view. Compare menus, prices and waiting times before choosing a table.
The Santa Monica Beach is just a few steps down from the pier with soft warm sand for a beach break. The best way to experience Santa Monica Pier is to spend the day on the beach and make your way to the pier once the lights come on in the evening for some food and fun.
Santa Monica beach and pier is one of the best things to do in California with all the activities it offers and its adjacency to the oceanfront town center that comes alive at night.
Plan your visit
- Location: Santa Monica Pier and adjoining beach, west of Los Angeles.
- Admission and extras: Walking the pier and beach free; rides, aquarium, food and parking extra.
- Hours or access: Individual attractions have separate schedules.
- Allow: Half a day or an evening.
- Planning tip: Choose rides before buying a package; check whether a wristband fits your plans.
24. Joshua Tree National Park
Recommended by Nicole from American SW Obsessed
Joshua Tree National Park is located in southeastern California near Palm Springs where the Mojave and Colorado deserts meet. The park is named after the Joshua Trees found here which are a type of yucca plant that is native to the Mojave Desert.
One of the best things to do in Joshua Tree National Park is to go hiking. One of my favorite hikes is to Skull Rock. This hike is only 1.7 miles round trip but you can see the fascinating rock that looks like a skull.
Skull Rock is a distinctive photo subject. Wildflowers may appear in season, but blooms depend on rainfall and conditions; even a relatively short walk needs a heat check.
Ryan Mountain Trail offers a more demanding climb. The National Park Service rates it strenuous and advises against attempting it in heat, particularly during summer.
The route is about 3 miles round trip with roughly 1,050 feet of elevation gain. Allow around 1.5–2.5 hours in appropriate conditions, plus breaks, rather than treating that as a target pace.
Bring water and sun protection; there is no shade on the trail. If hiking toward evening, plan the return before dark or carry the navigation and lighting required for the conditions.
There are some amazing places to stay near Joshua Tree and this area is known for its star-gazing thanks to its dark skies, though moonlight, clouds and nearby development affect the view.
Plan your visit
- Location: Joshua Tree National Park, Southern California desert.
- Admission and extras: Park entrance fee or eligible pass; campsites extra.
- Hours or access: Heat, storms and route closures affect hiking suitability.
- Allow: One or two days for selected viewpoints and walks.
- Planning tip: Ryan Mountain is strenuous and unsuitable in heat. Carry water; do not count on trail water sources.
25. San Diego’s beaches
One of the best things to enjoy in San Diego is the gorgeous beaches you can enjoy around the city.
You can visit a variety of popular beaches covering the gamut of wild and rugged, fun boardwalk venues with biking promenades and thrill rides or wide expansive beaches to explore.
Coronado beach fronting the iconic hotels is a perfect spot to find your area to lounge or how about the beach boardwalk area at Mission Beach with fun rides, biking promenades, and a gorgeous beach to enjoy.
For more solitary and quiet places to enjoy, check out the gorgeous cliffs and coves at Sunset Cliffs or Scripps beach or the rugged cliffs and beach at Torrey Pines.
Sunset along the coast and beach areas of San Diego are really spectacular to enjoy at the end of the day.
There’s so much to see and do in San Diego. When you are done exploring all the wonderful beaches in the city, check out the top places to visit in San Diego for more inspiration and details to visit many of the fantastic attractions, historic sites, and unique places around the city.
Plan your visit
- Location: Coronado, Mission Beach, Sunset Cliffs and Torrey Pines area.
- Admission and extras: Public beach access generally free; parking, state-reserve access and rentals may cost extra.
- Hours or access: Check lifeguard flags, tides and posted cliff or trail closures.
- Allow: Half a day at one beach; avoid rushing between all of them.
- Planning tip: Choose a beach by activity. Stay back from cliffs and use designated access paths.
Find more things to do in San Diego
26. Skyline to the Palm Springs tram: an expert route
Recommended by Jordan from Inspired by Maps
Hiking the Skyline route to the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway’s Mountain Station is an undertaking for highly experienced hikers. It is hot, hard and grueling; the views do not make it an appropriate casual holiday hike.
The point-to-point route climbs from the Palm Springs desert floor toward Long Valley and the tram station. It is distinct from continuing to the summit of Mount San Jacinto on the full Cactus to Clouds route.
As you might imagine achieving this temperature differential, the hike is relatively vertical. As such, the hike is challenging and strongly suggested for experienced explorers only, but in the positive column, there are fantastic views, beautiful wildflowers, and an excellent workout.
Do not follow the old March-to-September recommendation. Desert heat, high-country snow and current closures determine whether an attempt is appropriate; check with the park and abandon plans when conditions are unsuitable.
Snow and ice can change the route into a different technical undertaking. Do not treat heavy snowfall as merely an inconvenience or slower walking.
Preparation needs to cover navigation, sufficient water, weather changes and a realistic turnaround plan. Equipment alone does not make snow, ice or extreme heat manageable. There is no water supply on the lower ascent.
The Palm Springs tramway is a possible descent only when it is operating and you meet its ticket and last-car rules. Confirm this before setting out; do not attempt the route relying on a closed tramway.
On our original trip, we started at 7 a.m. and reached the top at 4 p.m., with many rests. That is a report of one past visit, not a recommended start time or a reliable duration for another group.
Long stretches of the lower route are exposed. For most visitors, the tramway followed by an appropriate short walk near Mountain Station is the better choice when operating.
Contributor’s related guide: the Palm Springs tramway.
Plan your visit
- Location: Palm Springs desert floor to Long Valley/Mountain Station.
- Admission and extras: Check wilderness permits and tram descent ticket arrangements separately.
- Hours or access: Expert route only, subject to heat, snow and closures. The tram is currently closed for maintenance.
- Allow: An all-day expert undertaking; historical trip times are not planning guarantees.
- Planning tip: Do not rely on a tram descent during closure. Most visitors should choose the tram and a suitable short walk instead.
Check the tramway’s closure and reopening notice before making any descent plan
27. Point Reyes National Seashore
Recommended by Sarah from Travels of Sarah Fay
Point Reyes National Seashore is a gem, located about an hour and a half north of San Francisco.
The peninsula has expansive beaches, rocky headlands and opportunities to watch wildlife, including tule elk. Give Point Reyes its own day rather than assuming a full Muir Woods visit and every peninsula stop will fit together.
Also, don’t forget to stop at the Cypress Tree Tunnel. This beautiful country road is highly recognizable from the many Instagram posts; however, it truly is a nice stop on the road trip towards the Point Reyes Lighthouse.
Late-day light can be attractive at the tunnel, but check the gate and access hours before making a sunset plan.
Alamere Falls is a separate, demanding coastal hike, not a roadside stop. The park’s recommended route is at least 13 miles round trip, with tide-sensitive beach access; avoid the unofficial cliff shortcut.
Finally, if you happen to be at Point Reyes during the Gray Whale migration from January through April it is just nice to take a nice hike to the beach to watch them pass by.
Sculptured Beach is another coastal walking option. Check the starting point, full return distance and tide conditions with the park before setting out.
Plan your visit
- Location: Point Reyes National Seashore, Marin County.
- Admission and extras: No general park entrance fee; camping and some permits separate.
- Hours or access: Check road, lighthouse and trail notices plus tides.
- Allow: A full day for selected coastal stops.
- Planning tip: Alamere Falls requires its own long-hike plan. Do not combine every peninsula stop in a rushed day.
Read the official Alamere Falls route and tide guidance
28. San Diego Zoo
Recommended by Maria from San Diego Explorer
The San Diego Zoo combines animal habitats with a large garden-like setting in Balboa Park. Allow a substantial part of the day rather than treating it as a short city stop.
As a San Diego local, it is one of the highlights I recommend when friends and family from out of town come to visit.
The San Diego Zoo is inside Balboa Park. General visitor parking is now paid, so include that in the cost of a visit rather than relying on the original free-parking advice.
Compare the zoo’s dated tickets and current eligibility-based offers with any reseller price. There is no universal 10% discount for every student, senior, military traveler or AAA member.
After you enter, I recommend you do the bus tour first. That way, you get to see a large portion of the park, get a good overview of what there is to see and do, and then you can decide in which areas you want to spend most of your time.
You’ll also learn about the best times to visit which animals, feeding times, etc. Also, the San Diego Zoo is huge and especially if you are visiting with kids, you’ll be happy for every mile you don’t have to walk.
The Skyfari aerial tram adds views over the zoo and Balboa Park when operating. Check the day’s ride notices and accessibility guidance.
When you visit San Diego, definitely put the San Diego Zoo on your itinerary.
Contributor’s related guide: San Diego Zoo.
Plan your visit
- Location: Balboa Park, San Diego.
- Admission and extras: Dated zoo ticket; standard car parking $16 per day, oversized parking $44, with eligible membership exceptions.
- Hours or access: Check the zoo’s calendar and daily ride notices.
- Allow: Most of a day.
- Planning tip: Compare admission inclusions and discounts. Public transport can avoid the parking charge.
29. Mount Whitney: a permitted mountain challenge
Recommended by Jenny from Limitless Hiker
Mt. Whitney is the highest point in the contiguous United States, above 14,000 feet. The main Mount Whitney Trail from Whitney Portal is about 22 miles round trip with more than 6,000 feet of climbing, making it a serious mountain objective.
Training, planning and acclimatization are essential, but fitness alone does not remove the risks of altitude, storms, snow and exhaustion.
The mountain can glow pink at sunrise. Reaching a high viewpoint at that hour also means navigating in darkness, so do not choose an overnight start just for a photograph.
Many hikers target summer or early fall, but the snowpack and forecast matter more than the month. Snow and ice can linger into the usual hiking season.
Do not assume the route is nontechnical in summer. If conditions exceed your snow-travel skills and equipment, choose another hike or turn around.
The best way to hike Mt. Whitney is to break it up into a 2 or 3-day backpacking trip. It can be done as a long day hike, but breaking it up gives you more time to acclimate and makes the hike overall more enjoyable.
Permits are required for day hiking and backpacking Mt. Whitney. The permit system first runs a lottery early in the season.
After the lottery, the remaining permits go on sale through recreation.gov. If you don’t get permits in the early season, keep checking! Cancellations may appear, but availability is never guaranteed.
Plan your visit
- Location: Mount Whitney Trail from Whitney Portal, near Lone Pine.
- Admission and extras: Day-use or overnight permit required for the relevant route; fees shown at Recreation.gov.
- Hours or access: Lottery/quota and current snow, weather and trail rules apply.
- Allow: A very long expert hiking day or a permitted multi-day trip.
- Planning tip: Acclimatize, carry required waste/food-storage equipment and set turnaround limits. This is not a casual sightseeing hike.
30. Explore Lake Tahoe
Recommended by Sierra from Free to Travel Mama
Exploring Lake Tahoe, a crystal blue alpine lake nestled in the basin of the Sierra Nevada mountains is one of California’s best things to do in any season. Its deep blue water, evergreen forests, and snow-capped mountains offer beautiful vistas from any point around the lake.
Hiking and biking depend on the snow and weather, especially in spring. The paved East Shore Trail runs about 3 miles from Incline Village to Sand Harbor on the Nevada side of Lake Tahoe; check gradients and access for your group.
Hidden Beach is a possible detour, but its access is different from the paved trail. Take care on the descent and remember that the lake remains cold even on warm days.
Fall weather brings leaf-peeping opportunities on your hikes as the aspens turn golden. If you love to chase waterfalls, then Spring is your best bet as the snow runoff causes gushing waterfalls that are quite a sight to see.
Sand Harbor, Meeks Bay and Zephyr Cove offer different beach settings. Sand Harbor is in Nevada and has seasonal morning vehicle reservations; arriving early alone does not replace a reservation.
Winter turns the lakeside villages into winter wonderlands with plenty of opportunities for snowshoeing the hiking trails, skiing at one of the many mountaintop resorts, or just relaxing in an adorable cabin with a hot chocolate. No matter when you visit Lake Tahoe to explore, the options for sightseeing and adventure are plentiful!
Contributor’s related guide: many beaches.
Plan your visit
- Location: Lake Tahoe spans California and Nevada; East Shore Trail and Sand Harbor are in Nevada.
- Admission and extras: Beach parking and activities vary; Sand Harbor has entry and reservation fees.
- Hours or access: Sand Harbor morning vehicle reservations apply May 15–September 30, before 10:30 a.m.; later entry depends on capacity.
- Allow: Two or three days for one part of the lake.
- Planning tip: Check mountain roads and cold-water conditions. Do not treat the entire shoreline as one walkable area.
31. Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
Recommended by Carol Perehudoff
Bring your camera if you ride the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway – the cliffside views are dramatic, and a trip on the tramway is one of the most popular activities in Palm Springs.
If you have been lying by the pool at one of the Palm Springs resorts, bring a sweater. The mountains can be much cooler than the valley; the often-quoted difference is around 30°F, not 30°C, and varies with the weather.
That’s what happens when you climb to an elevation of more than 8,500 feet.
While the rugged wilderness of the mountains at the top is expansive, the trip on the tramway is literally as much about the journey as it is about the destination.
The rotating tram car turns slowly during the roughly 10-minute, 2.5-mile journey, opening up different views of Palm Springs and the Coachella Valley below.
At the top, there is a lot to do. At the Mountain Station, you can grab a bit to eat, check out the observation decks, and visit the modest-sized natural history museum.
For more on the tramway’s construction and history, check the films at Mountain Station. Afterward, choose a walk suited to the weather and your ability, and check whether it requires a wilderness permit.
Contributor’s related guide: Palm Springs resorts.
Plan your visit
- Location: Palm Springs Aerial Tramway to Mountain Station.
- Admission and extras: Round-trip tram ticket; parking and food separately priced.
- Hours or access: Closed for annual maintenance September 8–October 4, 2026; reopening tentatively October 5. Confirm before traveling.
- Allow: Two to four hours after reopening, longer for planned hikes.
- Planning tip: Bring layers; the station is at about 8,500 feet. Check last descent and wilderness permit needs.
32. Parasailing at Catalina Island
Recommended by Ossama
Would you like some intense adventure or perhaps a memorable experience? Of course, the answer is yes, so let me introduce you to Catalina Island.
Santa Catalina Island lies offshore from Southern California, with Avalon as the base for many visitors arriving by passenger ferry.
The town gives you somewhere to eat, walk along the waterfront and spend time before or after your boat activity.
Parasailing lifts you above the water under a canopy while a boat tows you along. Departures depend on wind, visibility and other operating conditions.
The height can feel intense, so choose it only if you are comfortable with the activity and meet the operator’s age, weight and health requirements. Professional supervision does not make it risk-free.
One of the beauties of parasailing is that you get the most amazing views of the island from above the bay. That can put things into perspective as to how intriguing nature is and how much beauty life holds.
We can both agree that the sweetest moments are the ones shared; this is why you should parasail with a friend so you both get to laugh and scream together while the cool winds kiss your skin.
This is one of the most beautiful things to do in California and it will leave you smiling sheepishly whenever you think back to it.
Plan your visit
- Location: Avalon, Santa Catalina Island.
- Admission and extras: Parasailing is separate from the mainland ferry; observer places may also cost extra.
- Hours or access: Weather-dependent departures; operator age, weight and health restrictions apply.
- Allow: Up to about an hour on the boat with roughly 7–8 minutes flying for the linked operator; allow a full island day.
- Planning tip: Book ferry and activity times with a buffer. Check cancellation rules if one service is disrupted.
33. Sonoma wine country, redwoods and coast
Recommended by Allison of California Crossroads
Sonoma County combines wine tasting with redwood walks and time on the coast. Tasting prices vary, so compare specific wineries rather than assuming every visit costs less than Napa.
In a way, Sonoma is California in miniature. You have the redwoods of Armstrong Woods near Guerneville, where you can take an epic hike through these beautiful otherworldly giants.
You have the coast of Jenner, where you can see the Russian River emptying out into the Pacific Ocean beautifully. And you have wineries literally everywhere you look, though my favorites are centered around Sebastopol, Healdsburg, and Sonoma.
A few wineries I have enjoyed include Iron Horse Vineyards near Sebastopol for sparkling wines and Hanzell outside Sonoma, known for Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. The original SIMI tasting-room recommendation is no longer current: the winery says its tasting room has closed.
In terms of beaches, you should visit Goat Rock Beach in Jenner, right next to where the Russian River empties into the Pacific, as well as the beaches of Gualala and Bodega Bay.
For redwoods, you should check out Armstrong Woods, but also don’t miss a drive down Bohemian Highway and stop off in Occidental to do a zipline through the redwoods with Sonoma Zipline Adventures.
Riverfront Regional Park near Windsor is also another great spot for redwood hikes.
Redwoods, beaches, and wine: it doesn’t get any more California than this!
Contributor’s related guide: Sonoma County.
Plan your visit
- Location: Sonoma County, north of San Francisco.
- Admission and extras: Winery tastings, transport, parks and ziplining have separate costs.
- Hours or access: Tastings often need appointments; check each venue.
- Allow: Two or three days for wine country, redwoods and coast.
- Planning tip: A combined Napa/Sonoma tour covers selected stops, not all the coastal places in this entry. Never drive after tasting.
For a full day from San Francisco, the tour below combines selected Napa and Sonoma wineries with Muir Woods. It does not visit Armstrong Woods or the Sonoma coast. Wine tasting is for guests aged 21 or older with suitable ID; check the specific language and pickup option.
How to plan a California trip
Choose your main region before booking flights. San Francisco works for a city stay with wine country; Los Angeles and San Diego fit a Southern California route. Yosemite, Sequoia, Tahoe and the far northern redwoods require their own travel time. A map pin can look close while the actual drive follows slow mountain or coastal roads.
Where to base yourself
For San Francisco sightseeing, compare a city hotel’s transport links and parking charges before collecting a rental car. Napa or Yountville suits a wine-focused stay; Sonoma County works better when you want its coast and redwoods as well. For Los Angeles, choose near your main activities: a beach base can mean a long drive to inland attractions. Anaheim is more practical for consecutive Disneyland days than commuting across LA.
For national parks, check the actual entrance and road route from your accommodation. A cheaper room far from the correct entrance can cost hours each day. Compare cancellation conditions before booking around a seasonal road or uncertain reopening.
Best time to visit California
There is no single best season for all these experiences. For a trip combining cities and the coast, spring or fall is our starting suggestion, with layers for coastal fog and wind. Sierra routes need snow and road checks; desert trips need heat checks. Summer school holidays can suit a family schedule without being a suitable time for exposed desert hikes.
National-park fees and reservations
Check residency rules before buying a park pass
In 2026, Yosemite and Sequoia & Kings Canyon charge an additional $100 per non-US resident aged 16 or older unless covered by an eligible pass, on top of standard admission. The nonresident America the Beautiful annual pass costs $250; the resident version costs $80. Check coverage for your group and route before buying.
A park pass is not a camping booking, trail permit or theme-park ticket. Yosemite does not require a timed entrance reservation for 2026, but accommodation and certain activities still need separate arrangements. Check the rules for your travel year before relying on this exception.
Two realistic California itineraries
These are alternative starting points for roughly seven to ten days. Allow arrival and departure time, and add rest days rather than trying to combine every stop. Big Sur, Tahoe, the North Coast and the desert need extra days or substitutions.
Option 1: San Francisco, wine country and Yosemite
- Days 1–3: San Francisco. Put Alcatraz on one day, the Golden Gate bicycle ride on another, and choose neighborhood walks for the remaining time.
- Days 4–5: Napa or Sonoma. Pick one base, reserve a small number of tastings and arrange transport. A day tour from San Francisco is an alternative to this overnight stay.
- Day 6: Transfer toward Yosemite with time for stops and the park entrance. Avoid scheduling a major hike on the driving day.
- Days 7–8: Yosemite Valley, choosing walks around ability and conditions. Add another travel day for the return to your departure airport.
Option 2: Los Angeles, Anaheim and San Diego
- Days 1–3: Los Angeles. Group Santa Monica and Venice together; choose a separate day for Universal Studios or Griffith Park and the Hollywood Sign.
- Days 4–5: Anaheim if Disney is a priority. Choose one park per day, or use one of these days for a slower LA stay instead.
- Days 6–8: Travel to San Diego, then give La Jolla and the zoo separate substantial visits. Choose a single beach for a relaxed half day.
- Extra days: Add Palm Springs and Joshua Tree only when weather and access fit, with separate nights. Catalina or Channel Islands is another full-day alternative, not an extra stop on a packed driving day.
What to book first and where to save
Start with scarce or dated arrangements: park lodging and permits, Alcatraz, island boats, winery appointments and theme-park days. Then fit free walks around them. Compare the complete price, transport, meeting point, language, cancellation deadline and exclusions. Do not buy separate tickets for services already covered by a package.
The two GetYourGuide options in this guide solve different needs: the balloon ride starts in Napa Valley, while the wine-country tour starts in San Francisco. Choose by your actual overnight base. If booking for a group, check that the same date and option work for every traveler before paying.
California travel FAQs
How many days do you need in California?
Seven to ten days works for a focused region, such as San Francisco with wine country or Los Angeles with San Diego. Two to three weeks allows more regions with travel days. Even then, this list is a set of choices rather than a route to complete in full.
What are the best free things to do in California?
Consider San Francisco’s mosaic steps and Mission murals, the Venice canals, Santa Monica’s beach and pier, and open public coastal viewpoints in San Diego. Food, rentals, paid attractions and parking can still cost extra. Free entry does not remove access restrictions or make ocean and cliff conditions safe.
Do you need a car to visit California?
Not for every day. City sightseeing can use public transport, walking and booked transfers, while rural parks and coastal stops are easier with a car. Compare airport pickup, hotel parking and one-way charges. Arrange a driver for winery visits and a reliable return plan for remote trailheads.
Is Yosemite a day trip from San Francisco?
It is possible, but driving takes a large share of the day. An overnight stay gives more time for the valley and avoids a rushed return after hiking. Check the exact entrance, road conditions and traffic rather than relying on a short city-to-park estimate.
Do you need a reservation for California’s national parks?
It depends on the park and activity. Yosemite has no timed entrance reservation requirement for 2026, but camping, lodging and some hikes need separate bookings or permits. Redwood has permits for selected areas, and Mount Whitney requires the correct hiking permit. Recheck the rules for your actual travel year.
Should you visit Napa or Sonoma?
Choose Napa for a focused winery and dining stay or a Napa balloon ride. Sonoma suits a broader mix of wineries, redwoods and coastal stops, though those places are spread out. Compare individual tasting fees instead of assuming one region is always cheaper. Both require a plan for transport after tasting.
Are the Napa balloon ride and San Francisco wine tour the same trip?
No. The balloon product meets in Yountville and does not include travel from San Francisco. The linked winery excursion is a separate full-day tour from San Francisco with selected wineries and Muir Woods. Book only the product that matches your base and check the chosen option’s inclusions.
Can you drive Highway 1 through Big Sur?
Access can change with fires, landslides and road works. Check the live Caltrans report immediately before traveling and read separate notices for each park or trail. Do not assume an open road means every attraction is open, or use an older closure notice as a current through-route map.
Visitor information reviewed October 3, 2026. Check prices, closures, reservations and your booking conditions again before travel.
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Pauline has a bachelor’s degree in Tourism and is a professional content writer. She specializes in writing about travel and food. Pauline spent most of her career life in Dubai and is a Travel Expert for the United States and Costa Rica.
