8 Unique Experiences You Can Only Enjoy in California

Home to both the highest and lowest points in the contiguous United States, California boasts more parks than any other state, nearly 900 miles of stunning coastline, renowned vineyards, and Disneyland. The endless possibilities of California make the CA STAR program invaluable for exploring both iconic attractions and hidden treasures. Travel advisors can leverage this resource—Visit California’s flagship educational program for industry professionals—to secure the best access and support when planning immersive and sustainable journeys across the Golden State.

The program includes an online training module that advisors can complete to enhance their understanding of California and earn the California STAR certification. Additionally, it features a content hub filled with resources that unlock as advisors progress. For instance, at Level 1, advisors gain access to a rich media unit they can share with clients to highlight destination features and assist in closing bookings. With the CA STAR program, travel advisors can discover California’s most unique and lesser-known experiences, such as an American buffalo sMytouri on Catalina Island and an afternoon of wine tasting in Temecula Valley. Here’s a glimpse of some of the hidden gems you can explore through CA STAR.

Discover a volcanic paradise

Lassen Volcanic National Park is home to steaming fumaroles (gas and vapor vents), acres of bubbling mud pots, meadows filled with summer wildflowers, and sparkling mountain lakes. It features the world’s largest plug dome volcano, along with three other volcano types: shield, composite, and cinder cone. Experience the geothermal wonders while hiking the aptly named Devil’s Kitchen and Bumpass Hell Trails, which lead to the park’s most significant hydrothermal zones.

Uncover a hidden wine region

While Napa and Sonoma are well-known for their wineries, don’t overlook Temecula Valley, recognized as a Wine Enthusiast Top 10 Wine Destination. This area is home to over 50 wineries producing all the popular California varietals, including Chardonnay, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Grenache, as well as unique varietals that flourish in its warm climate, like Sangiovese and Tempranillo.

Retreat to an isolated island

Visiting Catalina Island feels like stepping into the Amalfi Coast. Just a one-hour high-speed ferry ride from Southern California, this enchanting destination offers a wealth of outdoor activities, dining options, and charming experiences, all easily navigable on foot. Covering 76 square miles, the island invites you to spot American bison—descendants of a small herd left by a film crew in the 1920s—on a biofuel Hummer tour. Dive into the ocean with lively sea lions among the vibrant kelp forests or zipline across Descanso Canyon for breathtaking Pacific views.

Indulge in a perfect beach day

As the oldest beach resort on the West Coast, Capitola Village is brimming with charm, featuring colorful galleries, cozy cafes, and stunning ocean vistas. This Mediterranean-inspired beach town in Monterey Bay is perfect for catching waves, fishing, or spending a leisurely afternoon exploring its family-owned shops. Look for unique souvenirs like abalone shell jewelry, surfwear, and handcrafted pottery.

Explore a natural marvel

Dubbed the “eighth wonder of the world” by President Teddy Roosevelt, Burney Falls is not only one of California's most breathtaking waterfalls but also a standout in all of North America. Situated 60 miles northeast of Redding in McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park, this stunning 129-foot waterfall pours out an impressive 100 million gallons of water daily. For the most spectacular views, plan your visit during the spring months, from early April to October, when snowmelt enhances its flow.

Relive your childhood at a purpose-driven theme park

While California boasts numerous theme parks, not all offer educational experiences alongside fun. Gilroy Gardens focuses on agricultural and environmental themes, inviting children to explore the wonders of nature through over 40 rides and attractions, carnival games, vibrant gardens, and more than 10,000 trees. Be sure to check out the famous “circus trees,” massive living sculptures that were carefully grafted nearly a century ago by a skilled arborist.

Seek out sea glass

Renowned for its smooth, frosted glass pieces, Fort Bragg’s Glass Beach is the prime spot in the state for hunting colorful maritime gems. Once a trash dump in the mid-1900s, the relentless waves have transformed discarded bottles and glass into the stunning pebbles found today. While it's illegal to take any sea glass from Glass Beach, visitors can enjoy the thrill of searching and capturing photos. The rugged coast, with its myriad tide pools, coves, and rocky formations, has also become a favorite for photographers.

Test your limits in a canyoneering paradise

Nestled in the Sequoia National Forest, the Seven Teacups is renowned as one of California's premier Class C canyons. Its name comes from the seven round pools interconnected by cascading waterfalls, and it’s best explored during the summer or fall when the water levels are lower.

Join the CA STAR program now to deepen your understanding of the Golden State and begin your journey toward becoming a certified CA STAR!