Diversity, exquisite natural beauty, and a perfect mix of sunshine, warmth, and cool ocean breezes. These are some things that make California a fantastic holiday location.
Add Hollywood, Disneyland, renowned wines, and delicious cuisine, and you have an unmissable destination. Here are our top things to do in California to help you plan your itinerary.
San Francisco Bay Cruise
Taking a boat tour is a great way to see the spectacular Golden Gate Bridge. You can get up close and view it from different angles while enjoying the beautiful views of San Francisco Bay.
We chose a one-hour boat cruise that took us past the sea lions at Pier 39 and along the San Francisco waterfront before heading out for a closer look at the Bridge and Alcatraz. There is plenty of space on the boat and comfortable seating areas inside and out. The tour offers insight into the fascinating city, bridge, and prison history.
Monterey Bay Whale Watching
Although you can see whales throughout the year, the best time to go whale watching in Monterey Bay is mid-June to mid-August.
There are several whale-watching companies in the area offering guided tours. We recommend choosing a tour with a marine biologist. They provide fascinating insights and information about the whales.
The Bay is home to various whale species, including humpback whales, blue whales, gray whales, orcas, dolphins, sea otters, and other marine life.
Alcatraz Island
Alcatraz is a popular tourist destination so you must book well in advance. But trust us, it’s worth it.
The island is home to the historic Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary, which operated from 1934 to 1963 and housed some of the country's most notorious criminals.
You can book day or night tours. The day tours typically include a self-guided prison tour. In contrast, the night tours include ranger-led tours and presentations, which we found very informative.
Alcatraz is only accessible by boat, so you need to take a ferry to the island. Alcatraz is a national park, so visitors must stay on designated pathways and respect the island's wildlife.
USS Midway Museum
USS Midway is a retired aircraft carrier of the U.S. Navy. It was named after the Battle of Midway, a significant naval battle of World War II. Located in San Diego, the aircraft carrier is now a museum open to the public.
Visitors can explore the ship's flight, hangar, and living quarters. The flight deck is one of the most impressive parts of the ship, and you can view a variety of aircraft related to the ship's history on display.
Remember that the USS Midway is a large ship with multiple levels and many stairs, so wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking and climbing.
Yosemite National Park
The lush meadows, ancient sequoia groves, towering granite cliffs, and cascading waterfalls, make the park in California's Sierra Nevada Mountains a nature lover's paradise.
The park is open year-round. Spring is the best time to see waterfalls and wildflowers. Summer is the busiest time and great for camping. Fall is the perfect time to see spectacular foliage, and winter is an excellent time for snowshoeing and seeing frozen waterfalls.
Universal Studios Hollywood
Universal Studios is one of the most popular attractions in the Los Angeles area. The theme park and movie studio offers various attractions, shows, and tours based on popular movies and TV shows.
Rides like the Jurassic World ride are hugely popular, and we understand why. This thrilling water ride takes you on a journey through the world of Jurassic Park and features animatronic dinosaurs.
Death Valley
Death Valley straddles the California-Nevada border. It is the hottest and driest place in North America, with temperatures reaching over 130°F (54.5°C).
Death Valley is a designated Dark Sky Park with some of the country's darkest skies. If you’re looking for a breathtaking stargazing experience, this is it. Plan your trip during a new moon for optimal stargazing conditions.
The best time to visit the park is in the cooler months, from October to April. There are plenty of activities to enjoy in Death valley, such as hiking and camping, which may not be feasible in the hot summer months.
Immerse Yourself In Gold
Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline-filled outdoor adventure, trips to sites of historical importance, or fine dining, California can serve up what you need.
Aptly nicknamed “The Golden State,” California offers diverse and unique attractions that draw people worldwide. Book your trip now to the Golden West to experience its sunny weather, golden hills, and the glitz of Hollywood.
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