Mountains, deserts, beaches, cosmopolitan cities that never sleep, and, of course, Hollywood. That’s California, a huge state packed with places you’d never dream of visiting. The options are endless, and all worth exploring.
Come along to find out more about the best places to visit in California! Find out what’s worth your time—you might just be amazed by what this state has to offer.
Photo by Andrii Ganzevych on Unsplash
San Francisco: Golden Gate Bridge
The Golden Gate Bridge spans the Golden Gate Strait, connecting San Francisco to Marin County. It is situated approximately 4.5 miles from downtown at the northern tip of the San Francisco Peninsula. It opened to traffic in 1937 as the world’s tallest suspension bridge . It was also painted in ‘International Orange’ because orange helps brighten the structure in fog.
Best Time to Visit Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco: The weather is fine from September to November, so this is probably the best time to visit. Visit from mid-morning to afternoon since there can be some fog, mainly in the morning.
What to Do and See: Needless to say that there are great views over the ocean and bay as you walk across the bridge, making it one of the best places to visit in California. Also, go to Battery Spencer or the Welcome Center for more amazing views. Another highlight is that the Welcome Center features exhibits that detail the bridge’s history and construction.
The bridge is open all year round, with separate walking and cycling paths. There is only a toll one way, southbound for cars, but pedestrians and cyclists go free.
Photo by Maarten van den Heuvel on Unsplash
Los Angeles: Hollywood Sign
The iconic Hollywood Sign crowns Mount Lee, part of the Hollywood Hills in Griffith Park, providing a view over Los Angeles to downtown and even out to the Pacific. It was constructed in 1923 and created one word, “Hollywoodland,” to promote the real estate area.
It later became a mark of the film industry, shortened only to “Hollywood” in 1949. Since that time, the sign has become an international symbol of the entertainment industry and American movie culture. As one of the best places to visit in California, the Hollywood Sign attracts visitors from around the world, offering a glimpse into the glamour of the entertainment industry.
Best Time to Visit the Hollywood Sign in Los Angeles: Spring or fall is the best time to visit to have tolerably cool weather with clearer skies. The best light is early morning to late afternoon, which also avoids midday heat.
What to Do and See: Hike to the Hollywood sign’s viewpoints is free. However, parking near Griffith Park may cost extra. Hike Brush Canyon, Griffith Observatory, or Mt. Hollywood Trails for upfront views. The sign itself is off-limits but can be clearly seen from many spots.
Photo by Mauro Lima on Unsplash
Yosemite: El Capitan
El Capitan rises in Yosemite Valley within Yosemite National Park of California’s Sierra Nevada mountains. This granite wall rises at the west end of the valley and is visible from many places in the park.
El Capitan or “Tutokanula” has deep spiritual meaning for the Native American tribal group called Ahwahneechee. It wasn’t until the 1950s that climbing took off in this area. Alex Honnold’s 2017 free solo climb without ropes made world history and sent this location to the top for climbers, making it one of the best places to visit in California for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
Best Time to Visit El Capitan in Yosemite: Best months to visit are from May through October, though Yosemite Valley is open all year. The entrance fee is $20–$35 per vehicle for a 7-day pass.
Free entrance is available on designated fee-free days for everyone. Special passes are available for U.S. military, veterans, Gold Star families, seniors, individuals with disabilities, 4th graders, and volunteers. Note that this park does not accept cash.
What to Do and See: Key viewing spots include El Capitan Meadow for climbers and Tunnel View for probably the most famous views with Half Dome and Bridalveil Fall nearby.
Photo by Christian Joudrey on Unsplash
Sacramento: State Capitol
The building of the California State Capitol is in downtown Sacramento, exactly at 1315 10th Street. It’s nestled by the Sacramento River and wrapped around by Capitol Park around which you can take an evening stroll.
The Capitol has been open for business since 1874 and works as the center of California’s government. In fact, it doubles as a working government building and a museum unto itself at the same time, with traces of history in every corner.
Best Time to Visit the State Capitol in Sacramento: It’s open all year, but spring and fall are recommended. The place is open during the weekdays, free of charge, and closes on weekends.There are free tours that take place every Sunday.
What to Do and See: Inside, it has the huge dome of the rotunda. Moreover, the old rooms of the Capitol Museum have the Governor’s office and exhibits. In Capitol Park, there are gardens, memorials, and many trees, including the World Peace Rose Garden.
Photo by Josh Hild on Unsplash
Santa Monica: Pier
Santa Monica Pier may be found at the end of Colorado Avenue as it intersects with Ocean Avenue. It sits on Santa Monica State Beach with views overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Built in 1909, it was the first concrete pier on the West Coast. It’s been a top place for fishing and fun in California ever since, making it one of the best places to visit in California. It has also been featured in many films and TV shows like Forrest Gump, Iron Man, and The Simpsons.
Best Time to Visit the Santa Monica Pier: Open year-round, but the best times to visit the pier are during spring and fall: March through May and September through November. Summer is quite busy, especially on weekends.
How to get to Santa Monica Pier:
- By Car: Drive via I-10 West or Pacific Coast Highway.
- By Train: Take the Metro Expo Line to Downtown Santa Monica Station.
- By Bus: Use Big Blue Bus or Metro services.
- By Foot: Walk from nearby landmarks.
- By Bike: Use the Marvin Braude Bike Trail.
What to Do and See: A Ferris wheel, roller coaster, and carnival games are featured in the Pacific Park sitting on the pier. You will see an aquarium at the Santa Monica Pier, an older carousel, and various top spots for fishing. Enjoy food, shops, and street artists.
Photo by Andrew Gwizdowski on Unsplash
Napa: Wine Country
Napa Valley is located in Northern California, about 50 miles north of San Francisco. The towns are Napa, Yountville, St. Helena, and Calistoga, each with wineries and prime views.
Napa Valley’s winemaking history started in the early 1800s. The famous Judgement of Paris in 1976 propelled Napa to fame after its wines outscored France’s finest in a blind tasting. Since then, Napa has been considered as one of the world’s premier wine regions.
Best Time to Visit Napa Valley: The best times to visit are spring (March to May), and fall (September to November). Spring brings new growth while fall is the harvest season.
With over 400 wineries in its bounds, Napa boasts Cabernet, Merlot, and Zinfandel wines among those to taste. When attending Napa Valley wine tasting, dress comfortably, stay hydrated, and be mindful of overconsumption. You can take notes on wines you try and ask questions about the winemaking process. Tasting fees vary, so ask beforehand. Although there aren’t any free tastings, budget-friendly options and fee waivers exist.
What to Do and See: Food is also on the center stage with great restaurants complementary to wine pairing. In addition, visitors can take hot air balloon rides and see the great view.
Lake Tahoe: Emerald Bay
Emerald Bay is situated on the west shore of Lake Tahoe, 12 miles south of Tahoe City and 4 miles north of South Lake Tahoe. Literally, Emerald Bay is one of the best places to visit in California for the great views it offers and its crystal-clear waters.
Local Native American tribes viewed the bay as a sacred location. In 1929, Lora Knight built Vikingsholm-a Scandinavian-style house, now a museum. Since 1969, Emerald Bay has been acclaimed as a National Natural Landmark for its extraordinary landscape.
Best Time to Visit Emerald Bay: The area of Emerald Bay offers access all year round. However, summer is the best season for going because of the warm weather, ideal for hiking and boating.
Emerald Bay State Park requires a parking fee, and some areas are only accessible by hiking. Be sure to bring snacks and stay hydrated to avoid lightheadedness from the high altitude.
Visit the official site for more information.
What to Do and See: Note that to reach Vikingsholm, visitors need to take a steep, one-mile hike with a 400-foot drop. This trail is not suitable for visitors with mobility issues, and there are no rides available.
Key locations include Vikingsholm Castle, Eagle Falls, and the Vikingsholm Trail. The bay is made up of crystal clear waters. Which are perfect for kayaking, and it has a fabulous to-witness view of Fannette Island.
Photo by Philippe Gauthier on Unsplash
Malibu: Zuma Beach
Zuma Beach runs along Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu, about 6 miles from Malibu Pier. Besides that, it is one of the best beaches in Malibu. For many years now, it has been a favorite destination for surfers and beachgoers alike. Unlike most busy places such as Venice Beach, Zuma Beach offers something easier to handle quietness.
Zuma Beach used to be a home for Chumash Native Americans before the European settlers entered the continent to this date. Additionally, it is also part of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area.
What to Do and See: Zuma Beach stretches well over a mile, with much room for sunbathing and games. It’s clean with family-friendly surroundings-lifeguards during the summer month. In winter and spring, visitors can often spot whales offshore.
Photo by Gurong Shen on Unsplash
Anaheim: Disneyland
Disneyland is located in Anaheim, California, about 30 miles southeast of Los Angeles, directly off Interstate 5. It first opened on July 17, 1955, as the first Disneyland park in the world. It was an idea that Walt Disney had, he wanted to create a place where families could experience Disney characters and stories up close.
Since Disneyland opened, the park area has been extended to include other places of interest such as Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and Cars Land.
To enter Disneyland or Disney California Adventure, you need a valid ticket, reservation, and ID. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during busy times.
Best Time to Visit Disneyland: If you want to avoid the crowds, visit during off-peak months, especially in mid-January through February or September through November.
What to Do and See: Be sure to enjoy Disneyland’s best rides such as Space Mountain, Pirates of the Caribbean, and It’s a Small World. You can also meet Disney characters, watch parades, and enjoy shows and fireworks. These activities are perfect for all ages.
Photo by Steve DiMatteo on Unsplash
FAQs and Travel Tips for Visiting California’s Best Places
Traveling to California is a mixed adventure with vast coastlines, deserts, cities, and mountains. Here are some key travel tips you should know before visiting the best places in California:
- Timing Makes the Difference
- Visit During the High Season (June-August) means crowded attractions and beaches, higher prices, and fully booked facilities.
- Visit During Shoulder Season (April-May, September-October): This time is best to explore wine country and national parks because of the mild temperature and smaller crowd.
- Visit During Low Season (November-March): Cooler and rainy in north California, mild in the south. Best for winter sports in Lake Tahoe and similar places.
2. Visit One Region At A Time
California is huge - pretty impossible to visit it all in a short trip. It’s best to recall one region at a time: North: San Francisco and Napa Valley, Central Coast: Big Sur and Carmel, South: Los Angeles and San Diego, and National Parks: Yosemite and Sequoia.
3. Secure Your Entries for National Parks
For those popular parks, such as Yosemite, reservations will be required during summer and holidays; plan ahead for camping and day passes.
4. Avoid Traffic
Traffic on freeways, especially in LA, is congested a lot. It is wise to avoid rush spots, and at the same time, find rideshare in highly busy cities such as San Francisco.
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