California, the Golden State stretching 900 miles along the Pacific coast, delivers extraordinary geographic diversity—from the Sierra Nevada's granite peaks and Yosemite's waterfalls to Death Valley's scorching deserts and Big Sur's dramatic coastline where mountains plunge into ocean. Home to nearly 40 million people, nine national parks, world-class wine regions, iconic cities from San Francisco's Victorian hills to Los Angeles's sprawling entertainment capital, and a culture that has shaped global trends in technology, entertainment, food, and lifestyle, California offers travelers endless variety within a single state larger than many countries.Read moreRead less
Discover California
Things to Do & Experience
Explore Yosemite's granite cliffs and waterfalls, hike among the world's largest trees in Sequoia National Park, experience Death Valley's extreme desert landscapes, discover Joshua Tree's boulder-strewn scenery, and kayak sea caves at Channel Islands. From alpine meadows to scorching deserts, nine national parks showcase California's geographic diversity, offering world-class hiking, climbing, photography, and wilderness experiences across dramatically different ecosystems.
Drive the legendary Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) through Big Sur's dramatic cliffside scenery, surf at Huntington Beach and Santa Cruz, explore Monterey's aquarium and Cannery Row, discover Carmel's art galleries and beaches, and visit tide pools and sea lion colonies along rugged Northern California coastline. California's 840 miles of Pacific coast offer endless beach towns, scenic overlooks, and classic California beach culture from San Diego to Eureka.
Tour Napa Valley's world-class wineries and Michelin-starred restaurants, explore Sonoma's relaxed wine culture, discover Central Coast regions (Paso Robles, Santa Barbara), and ride the Napa Valley Wine Train through vineyard landscapes. Combine wine tasting with farm-to-table dining, spa treatments, hot air balloon rides, and stays at luxury wine country resorts, experiencing California's food and wine culture that has influenced global culinary trends for decades.
Ride San Francisco's cable cars and explore Victorian neighborhoods, tour Hollywood studios and walk the Walk of Fame in Los Angeles, discover San Diego's beaches and craft beer scene, and visit Silicon Valley's tech campuses. Each California city offers distinct character: SF's hills and progressive culture, LA's entertainment industry and sprawl, San Diego's perfect weather and laid-back vibe, plus emerging cities like Oakland and Sacramento.
Ski Lake Tahoe's world-class resorts with stunning alpine lake views, climb Half Dome and El Capitan in Yosemite, surf year-round at renowned breaks, mountain bike through redwood forests, whitewater raft Sierra Nevada rivers, and hike the John Muir Trail through High Sierra wilderness. California's geographic diversity enables year-round outdoor pursuits from desert hiking to alpine skiing, often within hours of major cities.
Experience Disneyland in Anaheim (the original Disney theme park), explore Universal Studios Hollywood with its working film studio tours, visit Six Flags Magic Mountain's extreme roller coasters, and discover Legoland in Carlsbad. California pioneered the modern theme park industry and remains home to world-class attractions, studio tours (Warner Bros, Paramount, Universal), and entertainment experiences that have shaped global popular culture.
- •California is massive—driving from San Diego to San Francisco takes 8-10 hours, LA to Yosemite 4-5 hours. Don't underestimate distances; focus on one region per trip or allow ample time for road trips.
- •Rental cars are essential outside San Francisco and central LA—public transportation is limited or nonexistent in most areas. Traffic in LA and SF Bay Area is legendarily bad; avoid rush hours (7-10 AM, 4-7 PM weekdays).
- •Coastal areas stay surprisingly cool year-round—San Francisco rarely exceeds 75°F even in summer, and mornings/evenings are often 55-60°F. Bring layers even in July and August, especially for coastal drives and San Francisco visits.
- •Summer crowds overwhelm Yosemite Valley, Disneyland, and beaches—visit national parks in spring (May-June for waterfalls) or fall (September-October for weather without crowds). Winter offers solitude but snow closes high-country roads.
- •Hotel prices are steep in San Francisco, Napa/Sonoma, coastal towns, and near theme parks—book far in advance and consider staying in suburbs or neighboring towns to save money. SF and LA downtown hotels charge $300-500+ per night.
- •Yosemite requires advance reservations for camping and Half Dome permits—popular campsites book out within minutes of becoming available (5 months ahead). Day-use reservations may be required during peak season. Plan and book early.
- •Beach water temperatures are cold even in summer (60-70°F/15-21°C)—Southern California is warmest, Northern California often requires wetsuits. Pacific currents and upwelling keep ocean cool; swimming pools are more comfortable for many visitors.
- •Wine country visits require designated drivers—tastings add up quickly, and DUI laws are strictly enforced. Consider guided tours with transportation, Uber/Lyft, or elect a sober driver. Many wineries require reservations, especially weekends.
- •California is expensive—restaurant meals, attractions, hotels, and gas all cost more than most U.S. states. Budget $150-250 per person per day minimum for moderate travel, more for San Francisco, Napa, and coastal resort areas.
- •Wildfire season runs June-November, peaking August-October—check air quality and fire conditions before visiting. Fires can close parks, highways, and create hazardous air quality hundreds of miles away. Have backup plans during fire season.
- •Tipping culture: 18-20% at restaurants (SF and LA often suggest 20-25%), $2-5 per drink at bars, $3-5 per bag for hotel porters. Service industry workers rely on tips; factor into budget.
- •National park passes: America the Beautiful annual pass ($80) covers all national parks and federal recreation sites—worthwhile if visiting 2+ parks. Senior (62+) and military discounts available.
- •San Francisco's microclimates create dramatic temperature differences—downtown may be 65°F while the Sunset District is 55°F with fog. The famous quote "the coldest winter I ever spent was a summer in San Francisco" captures the cool coastal climate.
- •Los Angeles requires understanding geography—neighborhoods are spread across 500 square miles with poor public transit. Santa Monica to Hollywood is 16 miles (1+ hour in traffic). Plan accommodation location carefully based on activities.
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