8 Must-Visit Destinations in California
By GR Aug 14
California, my home state growing up, is a state full of diverse landscapes and endless adventures. From sunny beaches to towering redwoods, it offers something for everyone.
As I consider my next vacation, I wanted to revisit some of my favorite places to visit in this beautiful state. Embarking on a travel west coast road trip is an unforgettable adventure. I did this with my friend and former roommate after graduating from business school.
We started in San Diego and drove our way to Napa. Below, I retrace my steps while updating lodging recommendations. The natural wonders and sites have not changed.
1. San Diego – The Perfect Blend of Fun and Sun
No Southern California vacation is complete without a visit to San Diego. Known for its beautiful beaches, parks, and warm climate, San Diego is one of the best places to go in California. Balboa Park is a must-see, with its museums, gardens, and the famous San Diego Zoo. The historic Gaslamp Quarter offers vibrant nightlife and dining options.
The Gaslamp Quarter, downtown, has been completely redone and offers a fun stay with many restaurants, bars, and lounges. Plus, it’s very close to many attractions including the zoo, wild animal park and Tijuana, Mexico.
The Carte Hotel San Diego Downtown, Curio Collection by Hilton features a rooftop terrace and puts you within a 10-minute walk of Waterfront Park.
A little further up the coast I highly recommend staying in La Jolla Beach and Tennis Club. They offer a private beach where you can enjoy the shade from a beach umbrella or relax in a sun lounger, plus you'll be within a 10-minute walk of La Jolla Beach. This coastal area is perfect for kayaking, snorkeling, and enjoying the scenic views. Also try to visit Coronado Island for beautiful beaches and the historic Hotel del Coronado.
2. Los Angeles – The City of Angels
Next, drive up Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) to Los Angeles. This city mixes glamor and beach hippie lifestyle. Begin at Griffith Observatory for a view of the city and the Hollywood Sign.
Time and budget permitting go to Beverly Hills for a little shopping trip. We covered some places to stay and go out in our earlier article on Los Angeles. Be sure to check it out.
Next, we visit Venice Beach Boardwalk. Here, you’ll find street performers, vendors, and bodybuilders. Don’t miss Abbot Kinney Boulevard for unique shops and dining.
There are so many great places to stay depending on your taste, budget and area of interest. To be centrally located and on the beach, I like the following great options:
Venice V Hotel offers a fantastic location, putting you just a 1-minute walk from Venice Beach and Venice Beach Boardwalk. This Art Deco hotel is also within a short drive of Santa Monica Beach and Santa Monica Pier. The helpful staff and beach location get great marks from fellow travelers.
Then, head to Santa Monica Pier. This famous spot has an amusement park, aquarium, arcade, and food stalls. Enjoy the beach and the stunning sunset views that span from Marina del Rey just south of Venice to Malibu.
Malibu Beach Inn puts you just a 5-minute drive from Pepperdine University. You can visit the spa to indulge in facials or aromatherapy, and Californian cuisine is served at Carbon Beach Club, which is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Other highlights at this boutique hotel include a fitness center and a bar/lounge.
3. Santa Barbara – The American Riviera
Drive up the Pacific Coast Highway to Santa Barbara. This city has Mediterranean-style buildings, vineyards, and beautiful beaches. It’s a hidden gem in California and one of the best 4-day getaways in California.
Visit the Santa Barbara Mission, a historic site. Walk down State Street with its boutique shops and cafes. Santa Barbara has many great spas to indulge yourself and escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday city life.
Pamper yourself a little while not breaking the bank at Hotel Milo. Hotel Milo puts you in a great location, within just a 10-minute walk of Stearns Wharf and Santa Barbara Harbor.
Or splurge a little more and stay at the Santa Barbara Inn, an iconic landmark building with great history.
Wine lovers should explore the Urban Wine Trail for local Santa Barbara wines. Then, venture up to Solvang on your way up North to San Luis Obispo and Pismo Beach..
Nestled in the heart of California’s Santa Ynez Valley, Solvang offers a wine lover’s paradise with its charming vineyards that blend rustic charm and sophisticated elegance. Imagine spending an afternoon sipping award-winning Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, surrounded by rolling hills and the quaint, Danish-inspired architecture of the town.
Many of the vineyards here offer intimate, curated tasting experiences, perfect for those who appreciate a personalized touch. Whether you’re strolling through lush vineyards or enjoying a gourmet picnic with a view, Solvang’s wine country offers the perfect blend of indulgence and relaxation, catering to those who seek quality and refinement in every glass.
In Solvang you’ll find many adorable BnB’s, as well as smaller charming Inns like the Winston.
4. Monterey and Big Sur – Nature’s Masterpieces
Next, visit Monterey. See the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium. Drive along 17-Mile Drive, stopping at Pebble Beach and Lone Cypress. This area is great for nature lovers, spa enthusiasts and golfers.
Stay at the Old Monterey Inn puts you just a 5-minute drive from Monterey Bay and Monterey Bay Aquarium. This upscale bed & breakfast is also just a 5-minute drive from 17-Mile Drive and Fisherman's Wharf.
Renowned for its stunning coastal views and world-class golf courses, Pebble Beach offers a luxurious retreat where relaxation meets natural beauty. The iconic 17-Mile Drive is a must-do, providing breathtaking vistas of the Pacific Ocean and the dramatic coastline.
For a truly relaxing and enjoyable stay, consider booking a room at La Playa Hotel in Carmel, where elegance and comfort converge.
With its luxurious accommodations, fine dining, and spa services, it's the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring or golfing, offering a refined yet serene experience that perfectly suits the tastes of our audience.
Then, go to Big Sur. Here, cliffs meet the Pacific Ocean. Visit McWay Falls and Bixby Creek Bridge. Big Sur is a hidden gem in California with breathtaking views. Big Sur captivates with its rugged cliffs, towering redwoods, and panoramic ocean views, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both adventure and tranquility.
For a stay that embodies the area's natural beauty while offering comfort and relaxation, Post Ranch Inn is a top choice. Perched high above the coastline, this luxury resort offers stunning ocean views, infinity pools, and a sense of seclusion that’s perfect for unwinding. The unique, eco-friendly architecture blends seamlessly with the surroundings, providing a peaceful retreat where you can reconnect with nature without sacrificing luxury.
5. Yosemite National Park – A Natural Wonder
Yosemite National Park is a great place for outdoor lovers to vacation in California. With its towering waterfalls, giant sequoias, and stunning cliffs, Yosemite offers countless opportunities for hiking, camping, and photography. It’s one of the cool places to visit on the West Coast.
In Yosemite Valley, you can see famous landmarks like El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Fall. Don’t miss the opportunity to hike the Mist Trail to Vernal Fall for breathtaking views. Yosemite is a hidden gem in California that offers a peaceful escape from city life.
Stay at the Rush Creek Lodge at Yosemite. Rush Creek Lodge at Yosemite offers a great location, putting you within a 15-minute walk of Yosemite National Park. Guests can visit the spa to indulge in deep-tissue massages, facials, or body scrubs, and local cuisine.
5. Lake Tahoe – Year-Round Adventure
Lake Tahoe is a fantastic destination for those looking for both summer and winter activities. In the summer, enjoy boating, fishing, and hiking. In the winter, hit the slopes at one of the many ski resorts. Lake Tahoe is one of the best family vacation spots in California.
For accommodations, Black Bear Lodge is a great choice. It has cozy cabins and a beautiful view of the lake. This place is perfect for families and friends. Black Bear Lodge puts you just a 5-minute drive from Heavenly Ski Resort and Casino at Harrah's Lake Tahoe. Guests looking to stay active can check out the nearby hiking/biking trails, downhill skiing, and snowboarding.
7. Napa Valley – A Wine Lover’s Paradise
For wine enthusiasts, Napa Valley is the best place to vacation in California. Known for its world-class wineries and picturesque vineyards, Napa Valley offers wine tours, tastings, and gourmet dining. It’s an ideal spot for a relaxing getaway.
For a truly local feel stay at the Randolph Inn located at the City-center inn within easy reach of Napa Valley Wine Train.
For a more traditional hotel stay, look no further than the Archer Hotel. This hotel keeps the charm of the region and adds all the amenities you’d expect from a larger hotel.
8. Horseback Riding and Hot Air Balloon Rides in Napa Valley
Riding horses in Napa Valley is a peaceful way to see the beautiful vineyards and hills in the area. While riding, you'll see pretty trails, vineyards, wineries, and the lovely California countryside with wide views.
Guided horseback tours offer a relaxing getaway and a fun adventure for both experienced riders and beginners. Participants can enjoy the beautiful scenery during the ride.
Napa Valley Trail Rides and Wine Country Trail Rides are great places to rent horses and go on unforgettable journeys. It's a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration, making your visit to this renowned wine region even more special.
For an aerial perspective of Napa Valley, a hot air balloon ride is a must. Napa Valley Balloons offers hot air balloon rides with beautiful views of vineyards and landscapes at sunrise. Visiting wineries like Castello di Amorosa and Robert Mondavi Winery adds to the experience. Castello di Amorosa is a castle winery. Robert Mondavi Winery is known for its tasty wines and beautiful scenery. Napa Valley has fancy spas and hot air balloon rides, providing special activities in this pretty area of California. Traveling around California is easy.
Driving is the best way to travel in California. Rent a car for convenience. If you don't want to drive, you can take the Amtrak Pacific Surfliner train. It travels between San Diego, Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo. For city travel, use Uber or Lyft.
California offers many experiences, from bustling cities to serene nature. Whether you're looking for the best places to go in California with friends, planning a family vacation, or searching for cheap places to visit, California has it all. It's one of the most affordable US destinations with activities for all budgets.
Exploring these destinations shows why California is one of the best places to vacation in the US. With affordable options and unique attractions, the Golden State is a dream destination for adventure and beauty.
