Explore California
California is one of the most diverse travel destinations in the world. From golden beaches to towering mountains, bustling cities to quiet deserts, there is something for every visitor. Whether you’re planning your first trip or looking for new places to explore, our guide will help you discover California’s must-see attractions and hidden gems. When planning your California Holiday or Vacation, please be sure to come back to this site: CaliforniaTravelGuide.us.
National Parks
California is home to some of the most famous national parks in the United States. Each park offers its own unique landscapes and outdoor adventures.
- Yosemite National Park – Iconic granite cliffs, waterfalls, and hiking trails.
- Sequoia National Park – Home of the giant sequoia trees, including the General Sherman Tree.
- Kings Canyon National Park – Deep canyons, rugged mountains, and alpine wilderness.
- Channel Islands National Park – Remote islands with unique wildlife and rugged coastlines.
- Death Valley National Park – The hottest, driest, and lowest national park, with otherworldly landscapes.
- Joshua Tree National Park – Famous for Joshua trees, rock climbing, and stargazing.
- Lassen Volcanic National Park – Active geothermal features and volcanic peaks.
- Pinnacles National Park – Striking rock spires, caves, and a refuge for California condors.
- Redwood National and State Parks – Towering coast redwoods and scenic coastal drives.
Plan your trip: You can make campground and wilderness permit reservations at
Recreation.gov.
California State Parks
California boasts a diverse array of state parks, offering everything from coastal beaches to towering redwoods. Here are some notable parks you might consider visiting:
- Big Basin Redwoods State Park – California's oldest state park, featuring ancient redwood forests and scenic hiking trails.
- Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park – Home to some of the tallest trees in the world, offering serene forest hikes and river access.
- Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park – Known for its dramatic coastal cliffs, redwood forests, and the iconic McWay Falls.
- Crystal Cove State Park – Features pristine beaches, tide pools, and a historic district with vintage cottages.
- Anza-Borrego Desert State Park – California's largest state park, offering desert landscapes, wildflower blooms, and starry night skies.
- Malibu Creek State Park – A popular spot for hiking, picnicking, and birdwatching, with a rich film history.
- Mount Tamalpais State Park – Offers panoramic views of the Bay Area, with extensive hiking and biking trails.
- Lake Tahoe State Park – Features alpine lakes, dense forests, and opportunities for boating and fishing.
- Morro Bay State Park – Known for its estuary, birdwatching, and the iconic Morro Rock.
- Salt Point State Park – Offers rugged coastline, tide pools, and forested trails.
For campground reservations at California State Parks, visit ReserveCalifornia.com. Many campgrounds fill up six months in advance, so it's advisable to book early.
California Cities
California’s cities offer a mix of culture, entertainment, and history. Some of the top cities to visit include:
- San Francisco – Famous for the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and its vibrant neighborhoods.
- Los Angeles – The entertainment capital of the world with Hollywood, beaches, and theme parks.
- San Diego – Known for its perfect weather, zoo, and coastal lifestyle.
- Sacramento – The state capital, rich in Gold Rush history.
Top Theme Parks in California
California is home to a diverse array of theme parks, offering everything from thrilling roller coasters to immersive movie experiences. Here are some of the most popular parks you might consider visiting:
- Disneyland Resort – The iconic park in Anaheim featuring Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park. Celebrating its 70th anniversary in 2025, Disneyland continues to enchant visitors with classic attractions and new experiences.
- Universal Studios Hollywood – A working film studio and theme park in Universal City, offering attractions like The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and the Jurassic World ride. Despite its small size, it attracts nearly 10 million visitors annually.
- Six Flags Magic Mountain – Located in Valencia, this park boasts 19 roller coasters, holding the world record for most coasters in an amusement park. It's known as the "Thrill Capital of the World."
- LEGOLAND California Resort – Situated in Carlsbad, this family-friendly park features over 60 rides, an aquarium, and a water park, all themed around the beloved LEGO bricks.
- SEA LIFE Aquarium – Located adjacent to LEGOLAND, this aquarium offers up-close encounters with marine life, including sharks, rays, and sea turtles.
- Knott’s Berry Farm – In Buena Park, this park combines thrilling rides with a rich history, including the famous Mrs. Knott’s Chicken Dinner Restaurant. It's the oldest theme park in California.
- California’s Great America – Located in Santa Clara, this park offers a variety of rides and attractions, including the South Bay Shores water park.
- Six Flags Discovery Kingdom – In Vallejo, this park combines animal exhibits with thrill rides, offering a unique experience for visitors.
- Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk – A classic seaside amusement park featuring the historic Giant Dipper wooden coaster and a variety of carnival-style games and rides.
Top Marathons in California (2025)
California offers a diverse array of marathons, from scenic coastal routes to challenging trail races. Here are some notable marathons you might consider:
- Big Sur International Marathon – April 27, 2025
Experience breathtaking views along the Pacific Coast Highway, with a challenging course that includes the iconic Bixby Creek Bridge.
- The San Francisco Marathon – July 27, 2025
Run through the heart of San Francisco, crossing the Golden Gate Bridge and offering stunning city and bay views.
- Napa Valley Marathon – March 2, 2025
Enjoy a scenic course through California's wine country, starting in Calistoga and finishing in downtown Napa.
- California International Marathon (CIM) – December 7, 2025
Known as the #1 Boston Qualifier, this point-to-point race starts in Folsom and ends at the California State Capitol in Sacramento.
- Long Beach Marathon – October 5, 2025
Offers a flat and fast course along the Pacific coastline, ideal for setting personal records.
- Lake Tahoe Marathon – October 17–19, 2025
Run along the scenic shores of Lake Tahoe, with options for full marathon, half marathon, and relay events.
- Humboldt Redwoods Marathon – October 12, 2025
Experience the majestic redwoods with a marathon that winds through Humboldt Redwoods State Park.
- Two Cities Marathon – November 2, 2025
Run between the cities of Clovis and Fresno, featuring a flat and fast course.
- Los Angeles Marathon – March 15, 2025
Run through downtown Los Angeles, past iconic landmarks like Dodger Stadium and the USC campus.
- Modesto Marathon – April 20, 2025
A scenic Central Valley marathon with options for full and half marathons.
- San Diego Marathon – May 31, 2026
Run along the scenic San Diego coastline, including beautiful beaches, downtown, and Balboa Park.
For a comprehensive list of marathons and other running events in California, visit RaceCenter.
Major and Secondary Airports in California with Class B and Class C Airspace
California hosts several major and secondary airports with Class B and Class C airspace, facilitating high-density air traffic operations.
Travel tips: Check each airport's website for flight schedules, parking information, and traveler services.
Top Beaches and Beach Towns in California
California is famous for its stunning coastline, surf spots, and charming beach towns. Here are some top destinations for sun, sand, and surf:
- Santa Monica – Iconic beach city near Los Angeles with a historic pier, sandy beaches, and vibrant shopping and dining.
- Laguna Beach – Known for its art galleries, tide pools, and scenic coves along the Orange County coast.
- La Jolla – Upscale beach community in San Diego with sea caves, snorkeling, and seal viewing.
- Malibu – Famous for surf breaks, celebrity homes, and beautiful coastal views.
- Venice Beach – Eclectic boardwalk with street performers, Muscle Beach, and a lively beach scene in Los Angeles.
- Carmel-by-the-Sea – Quaint coastal town with white sand beaches and charming European-style streets.
- Santa Cruz – Home to classic boardwalk attractions, surfing culture, and scenic coastal trails.
- Capitola – Colorful beach town with a quaint village feel, ideal for families and casual beachgoers.
- Monterey – Famous for Cannery Row, Monterey Bay Aquarium, and nearby scenic beaches like Carmel Beach and Asilomar State Beach.
- Pacifica – Northern California beach town with excellent surfing, coastal hiking, and scenic cliffs.
Tip: Check local beach rules for parking, tides, and safety advisories before visiting.
Hidden or Lesser-Known Beaches in California
California has many beautiful beaches that are less crowded but equally stunning. Here are some hidden gems along the coast:
- Pismo Beach – A Central Coast favorite with wide sandy shores, iconic pier, and nearby Oceano Dunes Off-Road Recreation Area. Some would argue that Pismo Beach belongs on the list of Top Beaches in California.
- Morro Bay – Quiet coastal town with a scenic bay, Morro Rock, and excellent kayaking and birdwatching.
- Avila Beach – Small, charming beach town with a protected harbor, boardwalk, and hot springs nearby.
- Cambria – Scenic town with rugged coastline, Moonstone Beach, and tide pools.
- Half Moon Bay – Coastal town south of San Francisco with long beaches, pumpkin patches, and surfing spots.
- Manhattan Beach – Less crowded areas along this South Bay beach offer surfing and ocean views.
- Point Reyes National Seashore – Northern California coastline with secluded beaches, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing.
- Cayucos – Small Central Coast town with an old-fashioned pier and quiet beach ideal for strolling.
- Montaña de Oro State Park – Dramatic cliffs, tide pools, and scenic coastal hiking trails near San Luis Obispo.
- Manresa State Beach – South of Santa Cruz, north of Monterey, often less crowded than nearby beaches.
Tip: Many hidden beaches have limited parking or seasonal closures, so check local information before visiting.
Major Music Festivals in California (2025)
Experience world-class music festivals across California in 2025:
- Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival – April 2025, Indio, CA. Iconic festival featuring top artists.
- BottleRock Napa Valley – May 2025, Napa, CA. A fusion of music, food, and wine.
- California Roots Music and Art Festival – May 2025, Monterey, CA. Celebrating reggae and roots music.
- Aftershock Festival – October 2–5, 2025, Sacramento, CA. West Coast's largest rock & metal festival.
- Newport Beach Jazz Festival – June 2025, Newport Beach, CA. A weekend of smooth jazz and ocean breezes.
Note: Dates and lineups are subject to change. Check official festival websites for the latest information.
Major Film Festivals in California (2025)
California hosts several prestigious film festivals showcasing global cinema:
Tip: For submission deadlines and ticket information, visit the official festival websites.
Top Off-Roading Destinations in California
California offers diverse terrains for off-roading enthusiasts, from sand dunes to rugged mountain trails. Here are some top spots:
- Dusy-Ershim Trail – A challenging 33.48-mile trail in the Sierra National Forest, known for its rock gardens and alpine lake.
- John Bull Trail – A legendary 4x4 trail in the San Bernardino Mountains, offering technical rock crawling.
- Cleghorn OHV Trail – Located in the San Bernardino National Forest, this trail features scenic views and moderate difficulty.
- Imperial Sand Dunes (Glamis) – A vast 40-mile stretch of sand dunes in Southern California, popular for dune buggies and sand rails.
- Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area – A coastal dune system on California’s Central Coast, popular for 4-wheelers, ATVs, and off-road fun.
- Death Valley Trails – Remote desert trails offering solitude and unique geological features.
Tip: Always check trail conditions and obtain necessary permits before heading out.
Top Ski Resorts in California
California's mountains offer world-class skiing and snowboarding experiences. Here are some top resorts:
- Mammoth Mountain – The largest ski resort in California, offering diverse terrain and abundant snowfall.
- Heavenly Mountain Resort – Located on the California-Nevada border, known for its stunning lake views and extensive runs.
- Bear Mountain – A popular resort in Southern California, renowned for its terrain parks and snowboarding culture.
- Snow Valley Mountain Resort – Offers a variety of runs and is known for its family-friendly atmosphere.
- Sugar Bowl Resort – A historic resort in the Sierra Nevada, offering classic alpine skiing experiences.
- China Peak Ski Resort – Located in the Sierra National Forest, offering great mid-sized terrain for skiing and snowboarding.
Tip: Check resort websites for current snow conditions and lift ticket information before planning your visit.
Top Mountain Biking Trails in California
California's diverse landscapes provide some of the best mountain biking experiences. Here are notable trails:
- Third Divide Trail – A technical descent in the Downieville area, offering challenging terrain and scenic views.
- Flow Trail – Located in Soquel Demonstration Forest, this trail is known for its smooth, flowing singletrack.
- Las Posadas – A wooded singletrack in Napa Valley, featuring varied terrain and beautiful vistas.
- Moore Creek Park – Offers a mix of singletrack and doubletrack trails with water crossings and forested paths.
- Mt. Tamalpais Trails – A network of trails with ocean views and diverse ecosystems, including redwood groves.
- Fresno County Trails – Includes popular trails like Shaver Lake and Huntington Lake for varied mountain biking experiences in the Sierra Nevada foothills.
- Skyline Open Space Preserve – Located in the Santa Cruz Mountains / Silicon Valley, offering scenic singletrack trails with sweeping views of the Bay Area.
Tip: Check trail conditions and prepare for varying difficulty levels.
Top Hiking Trails in California
California boasts some of the most scenic and challenging hikes in the country. Here are some must-visit trails:
- Half Dome Trail – A strenuous 14-16 mile hike in Yosemite National Park, culminating in panoramic views from the summit.
- Whiskeytown Falls Trail – A 3-mile hike near Redding, leading to a picturesque waterfall.
- Eldorado Trail – A historic trail in the Sierra foothills, offering a glimpse into California's Gold Rush era.
- Steep Ravine Trail – A coastal trail in Marin County, featuring redwood forests and ocean views.
- Kelso Dunes Trail – A unique desert hike in the Mojave National Preserve, leading to the tallest sand dunes in California.
- Montana de Oro State Park Trails – Coastal hikes near San Luis Obispo with cliffs, beaches, and rolling hills.
- Golden Gate Park – Urban hiking and walking trails in San Francisco’s iconic park.
- Marin Headlands Trails – Scenic coastal and hilltop trails with views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Pacific Ocean.
- Desolation Wilderness Trails – Rugged Sierra Nevada trails near Lake Tahoe, offering alpine lakes and granite peaks.
- Mt. Whitney Trail – The highest peak in the contiguous U.S., located in the Eastern Sierra.
- Clouds Rest Trail – A strenuous hike in Yosemite National Park with panoramic views of the valley and surrounding peaks.
- Alta Peak Trail – A high-altitude trail in Sequoia National Park, offering scenic vistas and solitude.
Tip: Always carry sufficient water, especially on desert and alpine hikes, and check trail conditions before embarking.
Top Rock Climbing Destinations in California
California offers world-class rock climbing, from granite walls to sandstone cliffs. Here are some top destinations:
Tip: Always use proper climbing gear and check park regulations before climbing.
All 21 California Missions
California's 21 historic missions, founded between 1769 and 1823, stretch from San Diego to Sonoma, offering a glimpse into the state's rich Spanish colonial history. Below is a list of these missions:
Tip: Many missions offer guided tours, museums, and cultural events. Check their websites for visiting hours and special programs.
Top Museums in California
California is home to a wide range of museums covering art, history, science, and culture:
Tip: Check museum websites for hours, ticketing, and special exhibitions.
Aquariums in California
California’s aquariums highlight the state’s diverse marine life, from kelp forests to coastal ecosystems:
Tip: Many aquariums offer special behind-the-scenes tours and educational programs for kids.
Zoos and Wildlife Sancturaries Open to Public in California
California’s zoos are home to animals from around the world and are leaders in wildlife conservation:
- San Diego Zoo – One of the most famous zoos in the world, with over 12,000 animals and pioneering conservation work.
- San Diego Zoo Safari Park (Escondido) – Large wildlife preserve offering safari experiences and free-roaming animals.
- Los Angeles Zoo – Located in Griffith Park, featuring animals from around the globe and botanical gardens.
- San Francisco Zoo – Family-friendly zoo with more than 2,000 animals on the Pacific coast.
- Fresno Chaffee Zoo – Known for African Adventure and Sea Lion Cove exhibits.
- Santa Barbara Zoo – Smaller zoo with ocean views and over 500 animals.
- Sacramento Zoo – Focused on animal care, education, and conservation.
- Oakland Zoo – Features California Trail exhibit with native wildlife and conservation focus.
- Project Survival Cat Haven (Fresno County) – A wildlife sanctuary dedicated to education and conservation of endangered wild cats. Visitors on the guided ¼-mile trail may encounter species such as African lions, cheetahs, mountain lions (cougars), clouded leopards, jaguars, Pallas cats, servals, caracals, and lynx.
Tip: Many zoos offer membership programs with free admission and special events.
Travel Tips
Here are some tips to make your California visit even better:
- Plan ahead if visiting popular parks like Yosemite during summer—permits and reservations may be required.
- Consider renting a car for maximum flexibility, especially when visiting rural or coastal areas.
- California’s climate varies greatly—pack layers for coastal regions and light clothing for deserts.
- Don’t miss seasonal highlights like spring wildflowers or winter snow in the Sierra Nevada.