California is one of the most exciting vacation destinations in the world – from beaches to mountains, deserts and national parks, it literally has it all. And what does that mean? That you won't be going to just one place. Get ready for your California travel guide.
You can plan an unforgettable trip to California!
what to do in california
It would be unfair to present a single list of 'things to do in California' – what I love is just that, the variety of things to enjoy here.
Wine tasting? Beautiful beaches? The desert? Busy cities? Laid back beach towns? But maybe you like skiing? Or visit some of the USA's most iconic national parks?
If that sounds too active, California also goes hand-in-hand with wellness – from all kinds of yoga and pilates, to the latest shade of green juice (“That's 'So LA'), you can find more than that just you in the Golden State.
Great shopping (and this isn't just Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills) also counts as a California activity. And anything else you'd like.
Below are some ideas of the best things to do in California.
California National Parks
California is blessed with some of the most stunning scenery in all of America. In fact, this beautiful piece of paradise is recognized as the state with the most national parks in the entire US.
yosemite national park
Main attractions of the park:
- Yosemite Falls – a stunning 2,425-foot waterfall that is sure to take your breath away.
- El Captain – this is one of the park’s monolithic granite peaks that stands at a fantastic height and is a fascinating sight to behold.
- half dome – an iconic rock formation known for its steep cliff face and rounded sides. A hike to the top of Half Dome will reward you with jaw-dropping panoramic views of the Sierra Nevada, but keep in mind this hike is not for the faint of heart!
Death Valley National Park
Try not to be too intimidated by the name, as Death Valley National Park is one of California's most extraordinary and enchanting national parks.
Redwood National and State Park
A truly captivating place to vacation in the Golden State, the redwoods that fill the landscape are virtually eternal, no doubt outliving us all by more than a thousand years.
Sequoia National Park and Kings Canyon
Set in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, prepare to be surrounded by massive redwoods, the tallest tree in the world.
However, the redwoods are not the only natural celebrities of the park, as it is also home to the highest mountain in the world: the 4,419 meters Mount Whitney, and the largest tree in the world: The General Sherman Tree.
Lassen Volcanic National Park
Situated just north of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Lassen Volcanic National Park is easily one of the best national parks in California as it simply offers so much to do and explore! The site is home to a multitude of incredible hydrothermal areas, as well as the largest volcanic dome in the world.
At 3,188 meters, the imposing view of Lassen Peak it really is something you could never forget. It is also one of only two volcanoes to have erupted in the continental US in the 20th century.
Joshua Tree National Park
The park is blessed with a remarkable array of unique rock formations that could only be rivaled by the Pinnacles themselves!
The rocks are huge and attract climbers who come from far away, unable to resist the urge to climb its huge boulders.
California winery tours
Whatever your reason for visiting California, there's one thing you should never miss. The wine!
California wine country is internationally recognized as a leading wine region. It grows over 100 grape varieties, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Merlot, Syrah, Sauvignon blanc and Zinfandel.
California wine regions:
napa valley
Napa is only an hour away from San Francisco, but it feels like a village in Tuscany.
While in Napa, you'll encounter the greats of the American wine industry, including Diamond Creek, Opus One, Mondavi and Joseph Phelps.
mendocino
Mendocino is a spectacular mix of rocky coastline, pristine beaches, lush mountains and redwood forests.
Not only is it one of the most scenic places in all of California, it also boasts 25% of all certified organic and biodynamic grapes in the United States.
Mendocino's focus on organic viticulture has earned it the nickname "Organic wine mecca”🇧🇷 The wine region is best known for its Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
Santa Ynez
The cooler, western side of Santa Ynez grows Chardonnay, while the eastern portion grows Rhône varieties such as Syrah, Grenache Mourvèdre and Viognier.
Sonoma
Sonoma is also known as the birthplace of California's commercial wine industry. Buena Vista Winery, the state's first premium winery, was founded in Sonoma in 1857.
Visiting this wine is, in a way, a trip back to the origin of winemaking in the country.
Santa Barbara
The film Sideways, from 2004, highlighted Santa Bárbara as a viticultural center and paid special attention to its Pinot Noir wines.
It is also known for its Chardonnay and some Rhone varieties.
temecula valley
While Temecula Valley has its share of upscale wineries, most are boutique-style and family-owned.
You'll also find fascinating tourist sites around the valley, including a replica French castle and buildings inspired by Snow White's country home in Disney's 1937 animated film.
Holy Cross
As you enter the Santa Cruz Mountains, you'll discover lush vines growing among towering redwood trees on a craggy mountain path.
Pinot Noir and Chardonnay varieties grow in the coastal areas of the Santa Cruz Mountains, while Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Zinfandel are plentiful inland.
Santa Cruz winegrowers and wineries use sustainable practices such as canopy management, cover crops and erosion control. They also use renewable energy like solar and biodiesel in their production processes.
Best cities to visit in California
With 420 beaches, California is full of opportunities to ride the waves, explore the waters and – of course – relax on the coast.
With its stunning cities nestled in the most beautiful natural surroundings, while offering exquisite art, music, culture and nightlife scenes, it's no surprise that California is one of the most popular states in the US.
List of best cities:
San Francisco
The city with the famous Golden Gate Bridge🇧🇷 In addition to being the birthplace of technology such as Google, Microsoft and others.
You will also discover museums, tours at the Zoo and enjoy the beach. San Francisco is not only one of the best coastal cities in California, but also one of the most picturesque and beautiful in all of North America.
Los Angeles
Home to the famous Venice Beach, the coveted beaches of Santa Monica and countless other stunning spots, you'll be spoiled for choice when choosing where to surf, sunbathe and swim in Los Angeles.
On the other hand, if you like to experience some of the city's cultural sites, you can visit one of its many art galleries, theaters and museums.
San Diego
Recognized as the second largest city in the state and the eighth largest in the US, this amazing part of the world is also known for its iconic palm trees and pristine white sand beaches.
However, San Diego's appeal doesn't stop at its coastline, the city is also rich in historic sites to see, including its charming Old Town, where you'll find the Whaley House and Casa de Estudillo.
sacrament
Sacramento is the state capital and a true cultural hub. Filled with 28 museums and a plethora of galleries to explore, this is the place to go if you're looking for an exhilarating trip.
Nappa
The perfect place to relax and recover, Napa is full of opportunities to engage in therapeutic activities such as horseback riding, cruising along the water and hiking through stunning scenery.
For those craving a bit of adventure, you can also take a hot air balloon ride over the region's amazing landscapes and vineyards.
palm springs
Palm Springs is surrounded by the magnificent scenery of the Coachella Valley, making it an ideal location for anyone looking to strap on their hiking boots and go on a hiking adventure.
There is much to discover in the beautiful landscapes around the city, including hot springs where you can stop to rejuvenate and refresh.
Holy Cross
Santa Cruz is home to some of America's most famous coastlines, including iconic Cowell Beach, known for being a prime surfing spot.
Once you've worked up an appetite by the sea, you can venture out to one of the city's fabulous restaurants for a bite to eat, with every cuisine you can imagine.
fresno
Conveniently located to some of the most beautiful places in California, including Yosemite National Park and Sequoia National Park, Fresno is the perfect base for anyone planning to explore these famous natural wonders.
Santa Barbara
A beautiful coastal town nestled between the San Ynez Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, it is an ideal vacation spot for beach lovers and thrill-seeking hikers.
Best time to go to California
It is possible to visit California practically all year round. Ski in Lake Tahoe in January, soak up the delicious sunshine in Palm Springs in the spring, drive on Highway 1 in the summer and go to Dana Point in the fall.
As a general rule, Northern California isn't much different from the UK in the sense that the winters are colder (and even in the summer), it can rain and you'll need a coat!
Southern California, on the other hand, is milder – and you can expect to hit the beach from April to November.
Palm Springs, on the other hand, starts to get hot (in the 30sC) in February-March, will reach 40C during the summer and temperatures will start to cool down in November when their 'high season' officially begins.
what to eat in california
You won't find another US state with as many incredibly food-conscious residents as this part of the world does — and it's home to many of today's food movements.
Being quite balanced, one thing I love is how fresh the ingredients are – and farm-to-table is really a big thing in California.
They are creative with their salads, fish and meats and very proud of their proximity to Mexico, which means that Californian Mexican food is truly extraordinary.
More and more you'll see grilled fish, amazing seafood (local and from both US coasts) and obviously you'll find some really good local wine to go with your meal.
Some examples of California food:
- ramen burritos;
- tacos;
- chili dog;
- burger ramen;
- mac and cheese pizza;
- sushirrito
- dunets and much more!
Getting Around California
This is where you have to get smart and plan your trip extensively before heading out.
Are you starting in the North and ending in the South? Or vice versa? How many stops are you making? Can you avoid any back and forth?
We usually fly to and from different airports (British Airways serves San Francisco and San Jose in the north and Los Angeles and San Diego in the south. Sometimes we also use Las Vegas or Phoenix which are less than 4 hours drive from Palm Springs, for example).
You need a rented car to get around – otherwise it won't be a trip!
We've done the entire California road trip by car from one end to the other, and without a doubt it's much better than taking a plane.
What do you prefer? Knowing beautiful roads with incredible landscapes or stopping at airports and driving nearby?!
What documents do I need to enter California?
As in other American states, you must have the American visa and Passport valid.
Did you like our Guide?! We have other articles with much more tips, enjoy and read too:
California with kids: 6 tips for planning
7 things to do in Venice, California