Index

Of all the places I've been, none can compete with Southern California. Once you set foot in the Golden State, you'll see why it's one of the most beloved tourist spots in the world.

Whether you come for winter surfing, summer festivals or spring stargazing, Southern California is a dream destination 365 days a year.

summer in southern california

Months: June to September

Southern California is at its peak in the summer. The weather is perfect with nighttime lows near the coast in the mid 60's and daytime highs in the mid 80's. The festival season is in full swing and you can find a celebration for everything under the sun.

Indulge your seedy side at the BBQ & Beer Festival in Santa Clarita, then get your heart racing at the ever-exciting Six Flags Magic Mountain in Los Angeles. Want to experience So Cal's local culture? get to San Diego Festival of the Arts in mid-June.

Of course, one of my favorite things to do in Southern California in the summer is relax on the beach?? I absolutely adore the super chic Laguna Beach, the chilly El Matador, the world famous Venice Beach and the ultra-fun Santa Monica Pier.

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autumn in southern california

Months: October and November

One of the things I love most about Southern California is that you can travel the world without leaving the city limits. Want to party for Oktoberfest? Places like the Standard Biergarten, the Steingarten LA, the Verdugo or any of the countless German bars in Los Angeles can compete with the biggest parties in Germany.

Another great thing to do in Southern California in the fall is to check out the numerous food festivals. Two of my top picks are the California Lemon Festival in Goleta in October and the Taste of Downtown in San Diego in early September.

If you're in California for Halloween, you're in for a treat!

Whether you want a family-friendly festival or a heart-stopping haunted ride, there are countless options from San Diego to Los Angeles. If you're ready for a truly hair-raising experience, check out the Queen Mary Dark Harbor.

winter in southern california

Months: December to February

California has the best weather in the United States, so don't let winter get in the way of your visit. Much of Southern California has temperatures that range from the mid-50s to the mid-70s. While it's not bikini weather, it's generally very mild and great for exploring.

While northern California may have some amazing skiing, the south is a surfing paradise. For starters, go to Manhattan Beach or Malibu Beach?? If you have a little experience, check out La Jolla Shores or Rincon. For the real pros, you'll be blown away by the waves at Trestles and Blacks Beach San Diego.

Before heading inland, be sure to watch the whales too! More than 25,000 California gray whales surround San Diego's shores from mid-December to mid-March.

Of course, you can't go to Southern California without indulging in your Hollywood dreams. Film festival season kicks off with the Palm Springs International Film Festival in January. It's an indoor favorite and a must-see for any movie buff.

spring in southern california

Months: March to May

Spring is definitely one of the best times to visit Southern California. Tourists haven't taken over yet and prices are still lower than you'll see during the summer season.

Culture lovers should attend Smithsonian's Museum Day Live, which takes place in Los Angeles in mid-March and offers free admission to numerous museums.

Festival season starts early here with Coachella and Stagecoach Country Music Festival taking place in upstate LA in April. Less famous, but just as amazing, is the Rooftop Cinema festival. Held throughout the month of April, the festival screens classic films from the rooftops of Hollywood.

do not miss the Cinco de Mayo at Fiesta Old Town also! This three-day celebration in San Diego is such a colorful and incredible experience.

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