Top 10 Destinations to Explore in California

From majestic redwood forests shrouded in mist in northern California to the sun-drenched surf beaches of the south, the Golden State invites adventure at every turn.

Savor exquisite wines and indulge in culinary delights. Experience the thrill of active volcanoes, majestic mountains, and sprawling redwood groves. Discover the world's most famous surf spots, rugged coastlines, and dramatic cliffs. Hit the open road for unforgettable journeys from arid deserts to serene dunes. Pack your bags and venture into the untamed wilderness.

Here are the top must-visit spots in California.

1. San Francisco

Top destination for diversity, famous landmarks, and LGBTIQ+ travelers

With its groundbreaking cuisine, progressive social movements, vibrant art scene, and cutting-edge technology, San Francisco pushes the envelope of what a city can be.

This city is marked by daring decisions. The legendary Golden Gate Bridge, an engineering feat, features a color chosen despite Navy objections. Nature enthusiasts overcame developers to create Golden Gate Park. Alcatraz became a museum after being occupied by Native American activists.

Explore the most intriguing tech at the Exploratorium and draw inspiration from the expansive new-media exhibits at SFMOMA. Experience the power of poetry at San Francisco’s literary treasures, starting with City Lights Books.

You don’t have to burn the midnight oil to embrace your pride in SF. The flag-waving crowds are a delight throughout June Pride month, especially during Sunday afternoon Castro “tea dances” (a WWII term for LGBTIQ+ gatherings) and any sunny day at Dolores Park’s “Gay Beach.”

Insider tip: Be sure to indulge in some of the state’s most unique culinary offerings, from the Asian-fusion masterpieces at Benu that resemble minimalist art to the world-famous burritos at Mission District staples like Taqueria El Farolito and iconic East Bay spots like Chez Panisse.

2. Redwood National Park and Humboldt Redwoods State Park

Best region for stunning trees and family adventures

There’s no place quite like California’s sunlit groves of ancient redwoods, the tallest trees on the planet. Their shallow roots support each other as they reach astonishing heights, some having thrived since the Roman Empire. A simple walk on the soft forest floor beneath their canopies offers a fresh perspective on life.

Redwoods flourish along the coast from Big Sur all the way to the Oregon border, with impressive old-growth stands found at Redwood National Park. Be sure to take the enchanting drive through the Avenue of the Giants and explore California’s largest redwood park, Humboldt Redwoods State Park, which spans 53,000 acres, including 17,000 acres of ancient growth.

Insider tip: Treat yourself to a pizza at Brick & Fire in Eureka and unwind with a soak at the Finnish Country Sauna and Tubs in the quirky town of Arcata to ease any post-hike soreness.

3. Sonoma Wine Country

Best region for wine and culinary experiences

As Napa Valley's winemaking becomes increasingly luxurious, Sonoma County's sunlit vineyards remain set against charming ranch landscapes. Wineries are spread across the Sonoma Valley and the coastal Russian River Valley, with vibrant tasting rooms found in lively Healdsburg.

This unpretentious wine region treasures its unique terroir, allowing visitors to sample vintages directly from the barrel in rustic tin-roofed sheds while frolicking with the winemaker’s friendly dog (like at Porter Creek, among many fantastic wineries). Beyond wine tasting, you can indulge in volcanic mud baths in Calistoga or float leisurely on the river in LGBTIQ-friendly Guerneville.

Local tip: Enjoy a scenic drive down the Bohemian Hwy to Occidental, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Friday night farmers market filled with live music.

4. Highway 1

Best route for road trips, stunning ocean views, and romantic getaways

Known as the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) in Southern California, the 400-mile journey from San Francisco to Crescent City is simply referred to as Hwy 1 by locals in the north. This scenic highway hugs the coastline, connecting quaint communities while weaving through thrilling hairpin turns and peaceful stretches of picturesque countryside.

Begin your adventure on the PCH at Santa Monica, then head north through Malibu, Big Sur, Monterey Bay, and San Francisco, continuing along the scenic Sonoma Coast State Park. In Fort Bragg, don’t miss the chance to visit the famous 'glass beach' and explore its vibrant artistic community.

5. Yosemite National Park

Best destination for stunning waterfalls, outdoor adventures, and family outings

Experiencing the vastness of nature has never been this awe-inspiring. At Yosemite National Park, colossal waterfalls crash over sheer cliffs, towering granite domes rise high above, and the largest trees in the world stand proud in majestic groves of giant sequoias.

Conservationist John Muir regarded Yosemite as a grand cathedral, where the breathtaking beauty of wildflower-laden meadows and steep valleys sculpted by glaciers, avalanches, and earthquakes evokes pure awe. For the ultimate experience, visit Glacier Point under a full moon or traverse the high-altitude Tioga Rd on a clear summer day. It's no wonder that Yosemite boasts some of the finest hikes in California.

Detour: Enhance your adventure by pairing your Yosemite visit with stops at Kings Canyon National Park and Sequoia National Park for a remarkable array of stunning parks.

6. Los Angeles

Top city for spotting celebrities and film enthusiasts

Surrounded by sandy shores, winding canyons, and the Santa Monica and San Gabriel Mountains, Los Angeles is a vast city filled with unique neighborhoods, limitless entertainment choices, and outdoor activities throughout the year. Marvel at the flowing stainless steel design of the Walt Disney Concert Hall, immerse yourself in cutting-edge contemporary art at the Broad, or explore the rich history of modern music at the Grammy Museum.

Enjoy a meal at the historic yet gourmet Grand Central Market before exploring the galleries and shops in the Arts District, Olvera Street, and Chinatown.

When you’re ready for your moment in the spotlight, there's only one destination. The stars shine brightly for red-carpet premieres at classic movie theaters, and you too can seize your own Hollywood moment on the pink-starred Walk of Fame. Capture a selfie outside the renowned TCL Chinese Theatre (also known as Grauman’s) or head into Hollywood and Highland’s Babylon Court for a photo with the iconic Hollywood sign, basking in your 15 minutes of social media fame. Afterward, explore the captivating Academy Museum.

Local tip: Looking to escape LA traffic? Head to the beach! Sunny Santa Monica is a delight for even the most weary traveler. Try your hand at surfing, take in stunning views from a solar-powered Ferris wheel, discover ocean wonders at the aquarium’s tidal touch pools, or paddle in the Pacific and let your worries drift away. Join the vibrant mix of New Agers, bodybuilders, and goth punks at nearby Venice Beach, where there's a community for everyone.

7. Monterey Bay

Top spot for wildlife and family-friendly activities

Experience California's marine life up close in the charming fishing village of Monterey, where author John Steinbeck captured the vibrant local characters – and the seals are quite the characters too. Join a whale-watching cruise to navigate a national marine sanctuary or step into the bay at the aquarium to encounter golden sea dragons, elusive pink Pacific octopuses, and playful rescued otters.

Experience the genuine maritime vibe at the West Coast’s oldest continuously operating lighthouse in Pacific Grove. Travel north to the quirky Santa Cruz, pausing on the expansive stretches of sandy beach to spot gray whales, sea otters, sea lions, and seals. Enjoy some fun at the beach boardwalk, featuring its historic roller coaster, and watch surfers ride the waves at Steamer Lane.

Local tip: During winter, look for local Dungeness crab on menus – make sure to order it.

8. Death Valley National Park

Top destination for desert landscapes and spring adventures

The formidable name evokes images of Wild West ghost towns, dilapidated pioneer wagon trains, and tumbleweeds blowing past skulls on sandy dunes, yet Death Valley is teeming with life.

Spring wildflowers paint the dunes in vibrant hues, thrill-seekers race across cracked salt flats, and elusive desert wildlife thrives under the stars. Navigate through narrow canyons, speed across salt flats dotted with geological wonders, and explore volcanic craters created by a massive eruption 2100 years ago.

9. Lake Tahoe

Top destination for mountains, adventure, and skiing

Tucked away in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Lake Tahoe is the second-deepest lake in the USA and a beloved spot in California. During summer, its astonishingly clear blue waters are ideal for swimming, kayaking, and even scuba diving. At the same time, mountain bikers race down thrilling single-track trails, and hikers traverse paths that weave through lush forests.

As night falls, retreat to a charming lakefront cabin and enjoy roasting s’mores by the firepit. When winter blankets the area in snow, world-class ski resorts cater to downhill enthusiasts, snowboarders, and cross-country skiers alike. There’s always an abundance of activities in Lake Tahoe.

Detour: Make your way to Truckee for an exciting local culinary scene and some of the finest restaurants in the region.

10. Big Sur

Best region for coastline

Your journey towards bliss naturally takes you to Big Sur. Waterfalls cascade down sandy cliffs, creating rainbow-hued mists, while yurt getaways nestle at the edge of ancient redwood forests. Amidst purple-sand beaches and coves adorned with California jade, migrating whales can be spotted in the glistening Pacific.

Don’t forget to look back: hidden behind these coastal bluffs are natural hot springs and retreats favored by Beat writers, with California condors soaring above the cliffs. Embark on a scenic road trip through Big Sur to discover all its best adventures.

Local tip: Plan your visit during peak waterfall season in May or after the summer rush for the ultimate meditative experience.