California is a massive state with so much to do. There’s its famous cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego. For nature, you’ll fine nine national parks (the most in any state), more than half of the Pacific Crest Trail, plus so much more. It’s not possible to see everything, but with proper planning (and multiple trips), you can see a lot of this state.
So far, my visits to California have focused on its national parks. Every single one has been great, but I know that I still have barely scratched the surface of what this state has to offer.
Death Valley | Joshua Tree | Kings Canyon | Sequoia | Yosemite | Itineraries | Top Experiences | When to Visit | Extend Your Travels
Death Valley National Park
Joshua Tree National Park
Kings Canyon National Park
Sequoia National Park
Yosemite National Park
Itineraries
Top Experiences
It would be impossible to list everything to do in California, but here’s where many first time visitors to the state focus their time.
California’s National Parks: California has nine national parks. Channel Islands is off the coast of southern California and features human history, snorkeling, and of course hiking. Death Valley is home to the lowest point in the United States and has recorded some of the hottest temperatures. Joshua Tree is famous for its trees but also is a fantastic spot for rock climbing. Kings Canyon has the deepest canyon in the United States. Pinnacles has hiking, but don’t forget to look for the condors. Redwood is home to the tallest trees while at Sequoia, you’ll find the largest tree in the world. Yosemite is many travelers’ favorite park because of the waterfalls, mountain views, and epic hikes.
Pacific Coast Highway: Stretching all the way from California to Washington, the Pacific Coast Highway consistently ranks as one of the best road trips in the United States. Drive up the coast for spectacular views along the way.
Pacific Crest Trail: Like the Pacific Coast Highway, the Pacific Crest Trail stretches all the way from California to Washington. Those with several months can hike the 2000+ mile trail and cross deserts, mountains, rivers, lakes, and everything in between on what is sure to be an unforgettable journey.
Los Angeles: The most populous city in the state is constantly bustling with activity. It’s home to movie studios, the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and so much more. Plus you’ll find hiking opportunities, beaches, shopping, parks, museums, and even more.
San Francisco: Home to Silicon Valley, San Francisco is a major economic hub. On your visit, you can cross the Golden Gate Bridge, visit the historic Alcatraz Prison, tour the varied neighborhoods, eat delicious food and so much more.
San Diego: Located in near the United States-Mexico border, San Diego is home to historic missions, Balboa Park, and the San Diego Zoo, which many consider to be one of the best zoos in the entire world. Plus, like many coastal cities, you’ll find excellent beaches.
When to Visit
California is a large state and the weather varies wildly. While some parts of the state experience an endless summer, other parts experience all four seasons, complete with heavy snow fall in the winter. There is no true best time to visit this state as so much will depend on what you want to do.
Extend Your Travels
California is huge and its so easy to find things to do just in that state. However, I’ll admit that my trips to California haven’t always started in California. Depending on where you’re traveling, it may be easy to loop in a stop in Nevada or Arizona.