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Last updated: May 13, 2022 • Traveling Around the World

Best Places to Visit in California

“I Was walking down the beach

At San Onofre

It was such a beautiful day

Like most days

The wind was blowin’ through my hair

Sunlight chased my cares away

And the sun dances in the morning sky… “

(California Feelin’ – The Beach Boys)

Silicon Valley, San Francisco, the City of Angels, Hollywood, Yosemite National Park, and the list goes on. These are only a few of the best places to visit in California, with landmarks everybody should see at least once in a lifetime! In the last century, California became appreciated and highly praised nationally and globally as the symbol of liberal democracy and equal opportunity America has been fighting for ages successfully.

Article Summary:

Ever since the gold rush of 1849, California stood out and drew the attention of the New World. Immediate success came to those who went West to discover the mysterious place searching for new beginnings. It became the place where hard work and a dash of good luck could bring great wealth. The “California Dream” had notoriety well before people ventured to dream the “American Dream”. The powerful belief of the California Dream came from the wealth of opportunity and the accomplishments of those who went there. Still, it also came with a rough reputation when threatened. The “Golden State,” as it got to be known, had two main themes: gold and lawlessness.

There have been aspects of the California Dream that made the state shine brighter than the others. The development of the movie industry. The incredible technological advancements from Silicon Valley, the aerospace industry, and the wine industry, while still thriving in Europe, gave those living in California all the reasons to be among the happiest people across the US. 

If you’ve ever wondered what’s so special about California and are planning to pay it a visit, we’ll give you a glimpse of what you can expect. That Mediterranean climate will mesmerize you, but you’ll need to stay hydrated throughout your trip. Start planning your itinerary and pack plenty of water.

California, a tourist paradise

golf course sunset palm spring california

California has every ingredient for a delicious holiday: deserts, beaches, mountains, skyscrapers, dreams, and tears of joy. Nonetheless, let’s look beyond the mere facade made up of visual glamour, for instance, the myths surrounding the Golden State. Instead, embark on a true & epic journey together to explore whether the best beaches & places to visit in El Dorado State are indeed worth seeing. 

If you are uncertain about which sightseeing tours to pick, which adventurous things to do in California, or the best beaches to visit, our expert realtors in California will be at your service. In the meantime, they can definitely provide you with affordable rentals and first-class quotes if you intend to prolong your stay here.

Whichever spot you decide to visit in California, we are sure you won’t regret it. There are some genuinely unbelievable places to visit throughout the state, and choosing the ones that you’ll simply drive by or stop at might not be easy. That is why, if possible, it’s best to visit California on your own time. Limiting your trip to a weekend or a week will leave you wanting more because there is always more to be seen and experienced in California.

Things to do with Family in California

A family trip can be exhausting for the parents and the children alike if the activities planned aren’t based on your family’s needs. However, the best places to visit in California will make sure to keep excitement levels high for everyone. Whether they want to see the wildest of animals, their celebrity crush, rockets, the latest technological advancements, or potential lifestyles that will make you want to talk to your realtor right away, you will find more than you’ve bargained for in California. The following cities are full of potential and promises that remind of the great California Dream. Finding your dream is easy when you see it on every corner.

Silicon Valley

view of san francisco on a sunny day

Most would think that the entertainment industry is the largest industry in California but that’s not the case,  the computer business is. Silicon Valley depicted so authentically in the TV series, is the global center for high technology, software engineering, and microchips. Did you know that Silicon Valley covers the South of the San Francisco Bay area and its population varies pending on which regions are included in the Valley? (Currently, it is between 3.5 and 4 million residents).

And since we mentioned technology, and you’re a tech-geek, you will most definitely want to visit the Computer History Museum! The venue provides tourists with artifacts from the early days of computing history to the latest top-notch innovations. Thinking that everything is carved out of microchips in Silicon Valley would be silliness. The vast area showcases many tourist-friendly attractions, such as the Edgewood Park and Natural Preserve, the San Jose Museum of Art, the Happy Hollow Park and Zoo, etc. 

A fascinating piece of trivia is that people working at a Silicon Valley-based computer company choose to work remotely and live in Sacramento, California, due to high housing market prices though it is approximately120 miles away from the Valley. As a result, Sacramento turned into one of the most promising real estate markets in the US

Suppose you wish to start a career as a software engineer. Then make sure you are always close to the ‘action’, and settle in the now trendy neighborhood! Turn to the local realtors in Sacramento CA, to get you a reasonably priced condo!

Santa Clara

aerial view main square clara

Are you a fan of donuts, roller coasters, and mind-blowingly spectacular 4th of July fireworks? Then Santa Clara will be your best place in California to visit with family by all means! The definitive source of vivid entertainment awaits your entire family at California’s Great America Theme Park. The 112-acre family-friendly venue functions as an amusement park that will sweep you off your feet with its big wild dipper and water rides. In addition, they will take you on an unforgettable journey on America’s tallest double-decker carousel.

Moreover, the city hosts the world’s most powerful computer company, namely the Intel Corporation. For this purpose, they established a state-of-the-art museum. You can experience the company’s historical operations and innovative gadgets in exhibits for every generation in a fun and interactive way. 

Once leisure and the fascinating history lesson come to an end, you can pay a visit to the Westfield Valley Fair Mall, one of the largest malls in Northern California.

If the city truly impressed you, find a real estate agent in Santa Clara County

San Francisco through the Golden Gate

golden gate bridge

Before visiting the actual city, the Golden Gate Bridge is a must-see, and not only because the illustrious American Society of Civil Engineers named it a genuine Wonder of the Modern World. With a 1.7-mile length and a 90-feet width, the legendary suspension bridge connects the Atlantic Ocean to the San Francisco Bay area. Built in the boisterous Jazz Age of the 1920s, the dimension of the Bridge stands for America’s persistence and willpower on all fronts.

There is no boredom in the Golden Gate City! Immerse yourself in the trendiest tourist destinations! Escape from Alcatraz! Then visit the Transamerica Pyramid building, pick up the pace with the world-famous cable cars, and travel to Coit Tower! Face the Chinese New Year Dragon in Chinatown, a city within the City. Besides, you can also have your destiny revealed from Fortune Cookies. Did you know that Chinatowns in the US have a fascinating history looking back more than a century and a half? 

Who wouldn’t want to get firsthand experience driving through the Bridge? Therefore, you can segue to San Francisco, a city boasting an explosion of cultural events every year. 

To experience limitless possibilities to extreme extents, we suggest you move to the City by the Bay. In doing so, the best realtors in San Francisco California, will give you a helping hand!  

Riverside

twilight view city riverside

Riverside is a town and county seat in Riverside County located approximately 50 miles from Los Angeles. The city boasts many cultural and historical landmarks not to be missed. One of the main attractions is the Mission Inn Hotel and Spa, a composite of many architectural styles. Nowadays, the Mission Inn Museum advocates the idea of preserving America’s cultural heritage with compelling exhibits. 

For art and history lovers, we recommend visiting the distinguished Fox Theater, the original cinema in which the movie “Gone with the Wind” premiered in 1939. Throughout the years, the cinema underwent significant changes. Being reconstructed several times, today, it functions as a historical & performing arts theater.

The city displays a distinctive charm surrounded by majestic landscapes. Missing the chance to see it up close and personal would be a shame! And, don’t forget; if you fall in love with the place, you can always buy a property with a Riverside real estate agent!

Los Angeles and Hollywood

hollywood sign district los angeles usa

No list would be complete without the City of Angels and the motion picture industry. Let’s face it; arguably, most tourists come to visit Los Angeles to experience Hollywood’s unique glitter and sparkle. And the city delivers big time! Countless full-day iconic sightseeing tours with itineraries covering the Warner Bros Studios, Beverly Hills, Bel Air, Los Feliz, and Malibu Beaches. Hop on the Hollywood and Celebrity Homes Bus Tour to take you to Sunset Boulevard, then to the Hollywood Walk of Fame, where they immortalized celebrities with outstanding life achievements. You are stepping on quite a historical sidewalk!

Even if you aren’t in the film industry, there are many things family- and tourist-friendly to do in La-La Land. When you visit Los Angeles, you will have access to great dining, amusement parks, and outdoor paths, from the Santa Monica Pier to the San Fernando Valley, locally known as The Valley.

The Oue Skyspace will give you a complete perspective of the city. Interactive showings and informational movies about the city will further increase the genuinely epic view and the intensity of visiting this formidable metropolis! Fun, history, art, and science go hand in hand at the Natural History Museum, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. Don’t be too surprised if you feel like you’re in Disneyland after a while, but that’s only a short 30-minute drive away in Anaheim, CA. A quick trip there will offer you some great things to do in California with kids, and they’ll get all the excitement they can handle.

Since the economy is booming in the area, virtually, it is always a good time to invest in real estate in Los Angeles. If you’re fascinated with the idea of renting an apartment or purchasing a house to explore the city’s attractions more thoroughly, ask for advice from our local  realtors in Los Angeles CA, today! 

Perhaps, you wish to live next to movie stars and have a morning coffee with them. Then contact the real estate agents in Hollywood CA to see which homes are available on the Hills! 

San Diego

downtown-san-diego-california

San Diego, CA, showcases an extraordinary range of outdoor activities set in picturesque settings, such as hiking, biking, kayaking, and surfing. Discover the city’s trendiest tourist attraction, namely Balboa Park. The park hosts museums with high attendance, along with charming gardens featuring just the most exotic flowers worldwide. Furthermore, San Diego also emphasizes the importance of historical roots in the Spanish Colonial style architecture. 

Animal lovers are invited to visit the San Diego Zoo, the centerpiece of the Balboa Park mentioned before. Children will have a blast looking, playing, and feeding exotic animals, for example, elephants, polar bears, Komodo dragons, flamingos, gorillas, mandrills, birds of paradise, giant tortoises, etc.

Simply put, the colorful array of must-see attractions is overwhelming such as Sea World, Legoland California, Mission Beach, the San Diego Convention Center, and many more. If you decide to relocate to this wondrous land, choose the local realtors in San Diego CA to purchase a home! The abundance of pastime activities will make you think about moving to the city, for sure!

Most Beautiful Places to Visit in California

While the best place in California to visit with family may have a lot to do with toys, both for the kids (Disneyland) or the adults (Silicon Valley), the most adventurous things to do in California involve nature. From canyons to beaches, treetops, and waterfalls, there are plenty of unique things to do in California to make you want to extend your trip. Some of these places are meant to be seen to be believed because no matter what an article will tell you about them, you won’t believe it until you see it. We’re talking about national parks that take your breath away, scenic views that everybody wants to wake up to, and natural splendors that seem to be taken out of the depictions of Heaven.

Yosemite National Park

yosemite national park mountains view

Imagine the most picturesque natural landscapes only the best painters can draw! And you haven’t seen anything come even close to the Yosemite National Park’s majestic scenery. Are you in search of pure and untamed wilderness where you can do soul-searching? In the shadow of giant sequoias, you can do that by all means! Do you wish to have some great things to do with family in California and have experiences that you’ll cherish for a lifetime? Or do you want to discover a sincerely romantic hideout among the many fun things to do in California for couples? Then Yosemite should be your best bet! Yosemite currently tops the ranking of the five most beautiful national parks in America

The Sierra National Forest practically embraces the Yosemite National Park. The area consists of 750,000 acres, where more than 2 million travelers come every year. Once you’re there, be sure not to miss the Half Dome, Glacier Point, and Mariposa Grove! The landscape is one-of-a-kind because the glacial Valley is carved out of granite resulting in sheer cliffs, such as the Half Dome and El Captain. Tons of waterfalls will await you, surrounded by some of the highest mountains in the Sierra Nevada.

Yosemite National Park has gained its well-deserved reputation by displaying the Tunnel View, an iconic panorama of towering Bridalveil Fall. Furthermore, the Yosemite Museum and the Ansel Adams Gallery feature reproductions of the photographer’s famous black-and-white vistas of the region. Yosemite Village has various stores, restaurants and offers accommodation at tourist-friendly lodges. 

Suppose you plan to stay for an indefinite period next to the National Park to explore its beauties fully. In that case, we highly recommend the city of Mariposa, which is only 66 miles away from Yosemite. The skilled local real estate agents in Mariposa CA, will provide you with affordable housing options in this lovely and tranquil little town.

Fern Canyon

fern canyon prairie creek

The great Steven Spielberg described Fern Canyon as “an unforgettable natural wonder” which is what made him shoot Jurassic Park 2: The Lost World there. As one of the most beautiful places to visit in California, you might be surprised to find out that there is no other place like it in the world. Actually, from a biological point of view, those ferns date back hundreds of thousands of years, and if that doesn’t hint as to why Steve Spielberg chose it for his dinosaur movie, I don’t know what will. While technically a part of Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, this North Coast gem is worth journeying to it, despite the struggle to get there. 

There are seven types of ferns that cling to the steep cliffs by Home Creek as they form a narrow gorge. All of the species of ferns are ancient, and they can trace their ancestry back to 325 million years ago. However, one of the most unique things to do in California aside from walking among the history that far exceeds humans is to come across the Pacific Giant Salamander, measuring up to one foot in length. 

Instead of trails, you’ll find small footbridges that go deep into the canyon and the beautiful canopy of ferns. These plants create incredibly looking hanging gardens from which you can find miniature waterfalls pouring down the rocky walls and a moss wallpaper that covers every inch of surface available. Still, if you’re claustrophobic, know that the walls will get taller and narrower as you go further into the canyon. Also, expect high humidity levels, not only from the ground and rocky walls but from the air, so have some waterproof clothes, boots, or river sandals.

Lake Tahoe

north lake tahoe sunset

Finding the right words to describe Lake Tahoe may leave you unsatisfied, but the lake itself is anything but unsatisfying. The sheer beauty of Lake Tahoe quickly makes it one of the most beautiful places to visit in California. Words like incredible, mind-boggling, or extraordinary will come to mind as you reach Lake Tahoe, resting close to the border between California and Nevada. This is a favorite vacation spot for many Californians, and it’s easy to understand why. The steep granite sides with the towering mountaintops come into significant contrast with the crystal-clear waters of Lake Tahoe. Its reputation as the most beautiful body of water in the country isn’t given freely, and the 2.7 million yearly visitors have plenty of reasons to return next season. 

But there’s more. Once you get past the splendor of the lake and the mountains surrounding it, you get to experience every inch of it with a dash of adventure thrown in the mix. There are miles upon miles of hiking trails, all at your disposal as long as your legs can keep up. Water sports are also plentiful, from paddling to kayaking and swimming, and you can also find cruises around this beautiful lake. Still, if you’re not a big fan of the water and want to enjoy the mountain more, but hiking is too mainstream for you, go skiing. The soaring summit reaches 10,067 feet above sea level, and you’ll have more than 4,600 acres to ski on at your pleasure. Either Palisades Tahoe or Heavenly Resort is sure to give you all the trees you want to avoid and all the snow you want to soften the fall. It doesn’t matter if you’re a skilled skier or a beginner. There are plenty of incredible runs for all ages and levels. Also, the Heavenly Resort offers daycare programs as well as ski lessons being one of the most adventurous things to do in California with kids.

Redwood National Park

redwood forest national park

The insurmountable splendor of the Redwood National Park is known worldwide. The massive and mysterious type of coastal redwood trees forms the oldest redwood groves as well as the tallest in the world. For many, it is the best place in California to visit with family as anyone, young or old, who sees these incredible giants becomes acutely aware of their limited perspective, which grows exponentially with every second spent in their shadow. As many of them are over 2,000 years old, you will feel incredibly small and insignificant while also understanding that your purpose is a part of something much bigger than you. While you can always find the tallest, oldest and biggest tree around this Sequoia forest, does it really matter which one is it? They are all incredibly old, incredibly tall, and incredibly big.

The ferns we mentioned above can also be found here because the whole ecosystem gives birth to unique types of plants. It’s no wonder that both Jurassic Park and Star Wars were filmed here. How else would the movie industry be able to create those otherworldly backgrounds if it weren’t for a place that genuinely looks like it’s from another world?

The Redwood National Park is one of the most fun things to do in California for couples giving both incredible rugged shorelines and mystical forests all in one go. Still, there’s more to the Redwood than big trees and ferns because it is, after all, located on the west coast, directly along the coast. Take a stroll to the coastline and look onto the jagged shore and those tide pool-filled beaches.

Sturtevant Falls, Big Santa Anita Canyon

sturtevant falls national forest

As one of the most fun things to do in California for couples, both the Santa Anita Canyon and the Sturtevant Falls are sure to leave some long-lasting impressions on both you and your significant other. The 50-foot waterfall is easy to get to, and till you get there, you will have quite the view. If you want some unique things to do in California, make sure not to miss this place. The turn-of-the-century Forest Service canyons, the old outdoor resort, and the campgrounds offer a great location for a wedding out in nature if you are so inclined. Getting all your guests there won’t be challenging as it is close to L.A.

The trails will provide you with some adventurous things to do in California while you’re there. Depending on how dependent you are on your car, you can add a bit of extra mileage to your hike if you want to avoid the hefty parking. The 50-foot waterfall, known as Sturtevant Falls, isn’t the only flow of water that creates beautiful scenery. Along the path, you can also find a series of concrete man-made waterfalls that came as a result of the water dams built after the 1938 floods. Now, they are almost entirely covered in moss and greenery, making it seem part of the natural splendor.

The trail isn’t wholly deserted, as you’ll see with your own eyes. Several small cabins are scattered across the trail, where the smell of campfires and other labors of love will take you back to what the old mountain resorts used to look like. You’ll struggle to find another place like this in California. Just make sure that you don’t ignite any wildfires anywhere around California.

Pacific Coast Highway

friends having fun traveling by cabrio

If you’ve ever wondered what the road that provides the best scenic view across the US is, then wonder no more. Just take your car for a ride on the Pacific Coast Highway, and you’ll understand what we mean. The highway stretches from the city of Seattle, WA, all the way to the southernmost city of California, San Diego reaching 1,650 miles down along the Pacific coast. We don’t say you should drive the whole way down from Washington state to California, but you will find some fun things to do in California for couples along the way, besides the view itself. Take a group of friends and drive down the Pacific Coast Highway. Like that, if you stop by somewhere for refreshments, you can choose a designated driver and relax completely with the sound of the ocean and the breeze in your hair.

The still wild, astounding, and open natural surroundings ask for no excuse to drive down to San Diego from Los Angeles. The drive will take approximately two and a half hours, and it’s the shortest distance along the Pacific Coast Highway. You can go all the way up to San Francisco, but add a few more hours and stops along the way. Along the Pacific Coast Highway, you will also find some of the best beach places to visit in California, so you’ll catch two birds with one stone, as they say. It’s not like you won’t find plenty of unique things to do in California along the way. Just you, your significant other, the car, the stereo is playing California Dreamin, the miles of pavements and the breathtaking scenery. What more do you need?

Unique Things to do in California

Now that we covered some of the most well-known and beautiful places to visit in California, let’s turn it up a notch. The following things to do in California, while still suggestions, are the most adventurous and unique options available across the Golden State. Here it’s where this beautiful state truly shines, and here it’s where you will also find the most unique things to do in California. So buckle up and get ready to be amazed. If you want to witness some once-in-a-lifetime views, you should take note of the following destinations as they are the most adventurous things to do in California. This state truly will not let you get bored. It’s no wonder so many people want to move there.

Glacier Point

fearless male hiker standing

After a short one-hour drive, Yosemite’s Glacier Point will make you want to take the drive at least once a week. The tremendous 7,214-foot granite precipice gives you a complete view of the Yosemite Valley with its most significant landmarks – Nevada Falls, Clouds Rest, Half Dome, and Liberty Cap. While you can hike, drive, walk, and rock-climb throughout all of Yosemite Park, Glacier Point is the go-to place for the most memorable pictures and moments. The view from the cliff is genuinely breathtaking, but you have to make sure you’re not afraid of height because it’s pretty high up. 

For some adventurous things to do in California, ditch the car at Yosemite Valley and take the unimaginable four-mile hiking trail all the way to the top. Your legs might give out by the time you get there, but there’s no need to rush. Have some water on hand, some hiking boots, some ready-to-go muscles, and snacks for the journey. Once you get to the top, you’ll find the outdoor amphitheater, a towering log cabin where you can find snacks and beverages waiting for you, and a gift shop for those less willing to climb all the way up. 

One of the most adventurous things to do in California with kids is to take the Eaft point of Sentinel Dome trails. This will ensure your children will be exhausted by the time you get home in the evening. All that energy has to run out by the time they reach Glacier Point. The Sentinel Dome goes up to 8,122 feet with a breathtaking view of Yosemite Falls as part of the 360-degree panoramic view. Note that from November to early summer, Glacier Point is snowed in. Still, snowshoeing and cross-country hiking are available options for those looking for some adventurous things to do in California.

Death Valley

racetrack playa sailing stone

Once you reach Death Valley, you can safely say you went to the driest, the hottest, and lowest national park in the US. Visitors won’t only get to experience one of the most challenging climates in the world. Still, they will also get to see the strikingly contrasting landscapes of the scorched desert, desert dunes, and towering mountains in the distance. The snow that freezes the towering peaks of the mountainous giants in the distance is embraced by the wildflower meadows and the small oases that provide a respite to anyone venturing across the Death Valley. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you wouldn’t want to miss out on.

We can not talk about Death Valley without explaining where its name comes from. The verdict is still out on that one as there might be different explanations. For one, the name could come from the inhumane temperatures of 127⁰F while the average temperatures are 108.1⁰F. To say that it’s dangerous to go for a walk in that heat will be the understatement of the century.

Another thing that will surely make you understand why here you’ll find one of the most unique things to do in California is the moving rocks. Racetrack Playa is one of the most mysterious places on earth. While there is a scientific explanation for which 700-pound rocks are moving across the dry lakebed, something about thin layers of ice and winds pushing the rocks, to me, it’s still surreal to think the 700-pound rocks can be moved, even by the wind, because they are 700-pound heavy. Look no further if you want to find some fun things to do in California with kids. Have your kids ever been sand surfing? This is their chance.

Lava Beds National Monument

lava beds national monument usa

If you’ve ever been wondering what it looks like when molten lava creates a path through the earth, then the surreal landscape sculpted at Lava Beds National Monument will satisfy your curiosity. Visitors from all over the world can explore over 700 caves through the mountain that were formed between 10,500 and 65,000 years ago. The outer edge of the lava “river” started to cool and harden, leaving unbelievable-looking tunnels behind. 

At first look, the tunnels may seem barren and deserted. Still, you can take a closer look. You will be able to see sagebrush, Western juniper, and mountain mahogany. These create a perfect habitat for mule deer, rabbits, pronghorn antelope, and various bird species, including the bald eagle. Don’t forget to bring your trusty headlamp with you, but do not head into the caves if you suffer from claustrophobia. Those tunnels can get pretty narrow, and the last thing you want is to hyperventilate in a closed underground space. While outside, in the summer, temperatures can reach 100°F, inside the caves, it’s actually cool. You could even see some ice in the middle of the winter, so dress appropriately.

Being in a decent physical shape will help if you want to venture down the rabbit hole, as it were. If you don’t exercise and are less capable of testing your body’s capabilities, you might want to sit this one out. Inside the caves, you have to walk, duck, twist, and crawl in order to get from point A to point B, then C, then D, and so on. The natural squeeze of these tunnels will provide a great workout for those that do venture into the depths of the earth.

Mono Lake

mono lake

Unlike Lake Tahoe, Mono Lake may seem to be just like any other lake, but it isn’t. Once you get close enough to it, you will realize that there’s nothing average or ordinary about it. This large body of water has a salinity level that is three times higher than the ocean. This gives you one of the most unique things to do in California. A quick swim in Mono Lake will provide you with one of your most memorable experiences as the water’s density makes you float. Just make sure that no water gets in your eyes and that you have no cuts or scrapes across your body, as that will sting quite a bit. 

The reserve at Mono Lake was created to offer visitors the opportunity to observe the spectacular “tufa towers” as well as to preserve them. These calcium-carbonate spires and knobs came as a result of how the salty alkaline water interacts with the freshwater springs in the area. These towers also protect the wetlands, the lake surface, and the large variety of birds that feed and nest in the area. 

Covering around 65 square miles, Mono Lake dates back to 1 million years ago and is one of the oldest lakes throughout North America. The unique make-up of this lake comes from the salts and minerals that get washed into the lake by the Eastern Sierra streams. The fresh water in these streams evaporates every summer, leaving all the salts and minerals behind.

Among the unique things to do in California that you can find at Mono Lake, we have to mention swimming or just mellowing in the water for a bit. Senior visitors swear that one dip in the water can make any joint or bone pains disappear. You can also enjoy some bird watching in the area, boating, hiking, and cross-country skiing in the winter. Just remember, at the Mono Lake Tufa State Natural Preserve, there are some of the rarest geological features on earth. The rare ecosystem takes care of a complex food chain of green algae, alkali flies, and brine shrimp, aside from at least 80 species of migratory birds that stop by the area every year. The ecosystem is very sensitive, and the whole purpose of the State Natural preserve is to preserve these incredible tufa formations.

Best Beach Places to Visit in California

We couldn’t write such a lengthy article about the Golden State without covering some of the best beach places to visit in California. Some of the following beaches may be famous as they offer some unique things to do in California. At the same time, others are simply beautiful places to visit in California, either way. They are breathtaking and remarkable for a quick dip.

Laguna Beach

aerial view laguna beach

Known as Southern California’s premier coastal destination, Laguna Beach is the headquarters for the artist colony of Laguna Beach. As one of Orange County’s hidden gems, Laguna Beach is located along the coast between Los Angeles and San Diego, but the city’s topography gives visitors some unique things to do in California. Along the coast of Laguna Beach, you’ll find seven miles of coves, and the beaches are great places for visitors to explore tide pools, sea caves, ocean side bluffs, and, let’s not forget about them, all the mesmerizing sandy beaches available. 

It won’t be challenging to find some beachfront accommodations in Laguna Beach, making it one of the best places in California to visit with family and friends. Besides the beach, the city boasts 20,000 acres of beautiful protected wilderness to explore with world-renowned biking trails, hikes, and breathtaking views of the area. Make sure to pack your flip-flops because Laguna Beach is ready for you.

Bowling Ball Beach

bowling ball beach twilight point

Near Point Arena, CA, you’ll find one of the most unique things to do in California. While people shouldn’t start jumping on the rocks as they are slippery, the large round rocks that look like bowling balls are hard not to notice once you get on the beach. The Bowling Ball Beach is located at the north end of Schooner Gulch State Beach, and you have to keep in mind that the tide might make them disappear from view. That, however, does not mean that they aren’t there. This place is particularly popular for photographers as the rocky scenery is an excellent opportunity for some memorable photography. 

The surfing area at Whiskey Shoals also makes the destination popular to those looking for some adventurous things to do in California. Don’t worry, though. The rocks are only near the shore. You won’t damage your board on them.

Big Sur

rocky big sur pacific coast

Located on the Pacific Coast Highway, Big Sur is an incredibly majestic patch of land bordered by the Santa Lucia Mountains and the Pacific Ocean. The area is sure to make you think twice when you see any rock formation in the water, as the astounding Keyhole Arch at Pfeiffer beach, if caught at the right time, makes it seem like a doorway to heaven is opening up from the rocks arch. When the sun sets directly behind the rock formation, a ray of light will shine through the keyhole arch and take your breath away. 

It’s impossible not to note the fabulous sandy beaches in comparison with the rugged and hard-edged rocks before it. Make sure, if you go swimming, that you pay attention to any sharp rock that might make your trip a little less exciting. You can also find plenty of hiking possibilities in the area, but bring some snacks along with you as there aren’t any vendors by the beach.

Conclusion

If we are supposed to compile a study enlisting only the not so spectacular locations in the Golden West, we assure you, the list would be pretty short. California displays so many stunning cities, beaches, and national parks that it has all the right to claim its reputation: the dreamland. In the lists above, we tried to organize these beautiful places to visit in California in such a way that you can choose which ones you want to see based on what you are looking for. Still, it won’t be easy to select three or four places to visit. That’s just California for you. You go for a week’s visit and stay for a year. It’s no wonder so many people relocate there every year.

We intended to highlight the hotshot tourist destinations and the least known yet similarly significant landmarks in California. Is there a hidden gem you discovered recently in the Grape State? The self-moving rocks of Death Valley truly stand out, but so do Mono Lake and Los Angeles. How do you even pick the ones you want to visit without missing out on the other astounding varieties of California. Please share it with us in the comment section below!

If you liked this article, please share it on your social media profiles. And come back for more revealing pieces on the world’s most famous tourist paradises!

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