The 21 Best Places to Visit in California: Top Attractions to Explore

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1 The 21 Best Places to Visit in California: Top Attractions to Explore

Last updated March 26, 2025—check back for new trends and travel data on beautiful places in California.

Disclaimer

The information provided in this blog is for general informational and travel planning purposes only. While we strive to keep the content accurate and up to date, travel conditions, prices, events, and availability may change. Always verify details such as entry fees, attraction hours, and accommodation rates through official sources before making travel arrangements. Desmo Travel is not responsible for any decisions made based on the information provided herein. Travel at your own discretion and follow all local regulations and guidelines.

Quick Answer: Top 5 Places to Visit in California in 2025

Yosemite National Park – Best for waterfalls, hiking, and natural beauty
San Diego – One of the best places in California for families
Big Sur – Stunning coastal views and road trips
Napa Valley – Wine lovers’ paradise with scenic countryside
Joshua Tree – Great for solo adventurers and stargazing, especially when visiting beautiful places like Palm Springs nearby.

Introduction: Why Travel to California in 2025?

California is one of the most visited U.S. states. It combines famous cities, national parks, beaches, deserts like the Mojave Desert, and wine country. For families, solo travelers, and couples alike, the state offers endless beautiful places to explore. With over 279 million expected visitors in 2025, it’s clear that California is still one of the best travel destinations in America.

California tourism generated $150.4 billion in 2023, according to Visit California. National parks like Yosemite drew nearly 3.9 million visitors in 2023 alone (NPS).

This guide covers:

Best California vacation spots for 2025 include beautiful places like Monterey and San Luis Obispo.
Family-friendly places in California
Solo travel spots in California
Seasonal travel advice
Hidden gems
Cost, transportation, and planning tips for a trip to San Francisco, including visiting the largest tree in the world nearby.

Best Times to Visit California Places in 2025

Winter (December – February)

Skiing in Lake Tahoe and Mammoth Mountain (lift tickets start at $100/day)
Mild weather in San Diego and Los Angeles (averaging 65–70°F) makes it ideal for visiting beautiful places year-round.
Whale watching season from December to April
Desert getaways like Joshua Tree and Death Valley are among the beautiful places to explore in the Golden State.

Spring (March – May)

Wildflowers bloom in Anza-Borrego and Antelope Valley, creating beautiful places to see.
Yosemite’s waterfalls at peak flow are among the best places to see in California.
Coachella Music Festival (April) draws global crowds
Average temps: 70–75°F in LA, 65°F in SF

Summer (June – August)

Experience beach life in Santa Monica, San Diego, and Laguna Beach along the coastline, perfect for a weekend getaway with kids and adults.
Full access to high-altitude trails in Sierra Nevada
Events: Outside Lands Music Festival (SF), San Diego Comic-Con (July)
Temps: LA hits 85°F; SF stays mild around 70°F

Fall (September – November)

Wine harvest in Napa and Sonoma is a highlight for visitors planning a trip to California, especially for those staying in the surrounding area.
Autumn colors in Eastern Sierra, Lake Tahoe
Fewer crowds and lower prices for accommodations

Why Visit These California Travel Destinations in 2025?

Los Angeles – The City of Angels

Hike Runyon Canyon for panoramic views of the LA skyline. Explore world-class museums like the Getty Center and LACMA. Stroll along Venice Beach, visit the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and catch a performance at the Hollywood Bowl. For foodies, Grand Central Market offers flavors from around the world. Universal Studios tickets start at $109.

San Francisco – The Golden Gate City

Cross the Golden Gate Bridge and visit Alcatraz Island for a taste of history in beautiful places that define California. Enjoy seafood at Fisherman’s Wharf, wander the Painted Ladies, or ride a historic cable car. Don’t miss Golden Gate Park, the Exploratorium, and a sunset at Twin Peaks. A Muni day pass costs just $5 for unlimited rides, making it easy to explore beautiful tourist attractions around the city.

San Diego – Family Beach Destination

Visit the San Diego Zoo, explore Balboa Park’s museums, or relax on Coronado Beach, all beautiful tourist attractions to see in the Golden State. Kayak in La Jolla Cove, take the kids to LEGOLAND or SeaWorld, and dine in Old Town for a taste of California’s Spanish roots. Weather is mild year-round and family attractions are abundant, catering to both kids and adults.

Yosemite National Park – Nature at Its Best

Yosemite offers granite cliffs, waterfalls, and ancient sequoias. Popular spots include Yosemite Falls, Half Dome, and Glacier Point. Take easy hikes like Mirror Lake or challenge yourself with the Mist Trail on a day trip to the beautiful places in the area. Entry is $35 per vehicle, and campsites fill quickly—book early.

Lake Tahoe – All-Season Playground

In winter, ski at Heavenly or Squaw Valley. In summer, paddleboard, kayak, or hike the Tahoe Rim Trail along the California coast. South Tahoe features vibrant nightlife and casinos, while the north offers tranquility and forest cabins. Lodging ranges from $150–$300/night.

Big Sur – Scenic Coastal Drive

Drive along Highway 1 for cliffside views of the Pacific Ocean; a trip to visiting San Francisco is not complete without it. Don’t miss Bixby Bridge, Pfeiffer Beach, and McWay Falls, especially during low tide. Stop at Nepenthe for a scenic lunch and explore the trails of Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, a protected area worth visiting. Cell service is limited, so plan ahead.

Napa Valley – Wine Country Luxury

Tour famous wineries like Castello di Amorosa and Domaine Carneros in Central California. Enjoy farm-to-table dining, vineyard views, and hot air balloon rides ($250+). For families, visit di Rosa Center for Contemporary Art or take the Napa Valley Wine Train for a relaxing ride through beautiful places.

Joshua Tree National Park – Desert Exploration

Explore Joshua Tree’s surreal rock formations, starry skies, and rugged trails, which are one of the most beautiful sights in California. Rock climb at Hidden Valley, hike to Barker Dam, and catch the Cholla Cactus Garden at sunrise. Campsites and cozy Airbnbs nearby range from $100–$250/night.

Death Valley – Extreme and Beautiful

See the lowest point in North America at Badwater Basin. Visit Zabriskie Point for sunrise and walk the Mesquite Sand Dunes. Travel in winter or early spring to avoid extreme heat in areas like the Mojave Desert. Entry is $30/vehicle; bring water and a full tank of gas.

Sequoia & Kings Canyon – Giant Trees and Trails

Home to the largest trees on Earth, including the General Sherman Tree in Sequoia National Park, a must-see among beautiful places in California. Hike through Grant Grove, marvel at Kings Canyon, or go spelunking in Crystal Cave. Entry is $35 for both parks and perfect for families and outdoor lovers alike.

Discover Offbeat California Travel Destinations

Channel Islands National Park

Accessible via ferry ($60 round-trip) from Ventura, these remote islands offer snorkeling, sea cave kayaking, and hikes with views of dolphins and seals. Don’t miss Painted Cave, one of the world’s largest sea caves, stretching over 1,200 feet.

Lassen Volcanic National Park

Located in Northern California, Lassen features steaming vents, boiling springs, and volcanic peaks. The Lassen Peak hike is 5 miles round-trip, offering stunning views of the California coastline and the largest tree in the world. Lodging is available in nearby towns like Redding. Great for geology enthusiasts and quiet escapes.

Solvang

This Danish-style town is also home to windmills, bakeries, wine tasting rooms, and unique shops, perfect for a leisurely stroll around. Visit the Hans Christian Andersen Museum and enjoy traditional pastries like aebleskiver. It’s a charming stop near Santa Barbara.

Mount Shasta Region

Spiritual travelers and nature lovers flock to this towering volcano. Hike to waterfalls, meditate in Panther Meadows, or explore Lake Siskiyou along the California coast. Burney Falls nearby is known as one of California’s most beautiful waterfalls.

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

Located east of San Diego, Anza-Borrego offers wildflower blooms, desert hikes, and fascinating metal sculptures scattered across the Borrego Springs desert. Best visited in spring along the California coast, where you can enjoy the best views of blooming flowers. Day-use pass is $10 per vehicle, a small price for access to the stunning landscapes of the Golden State.

More Top Places to Visit in California for 2025

Looking for more adventure? These cities and parks offer additional experiences for every traveler, whether you’re road tripping or flying in from out of state.

Best Places to Visit in California from Major U.S. Cities

From New York: 6–7 hour flight to LAX ($300–$500 round-trip) or 5-day drive (~2,700 miles)
From Chicago: 4.5–5 hour flight to SAN (San Diego)
From Houston: 3.5 hour flight to SAN or SFO
From Miami to the California coast, the journey offers breathtaking views.: 5.5 hour flight to LAX
From LA to Yosemite: ~5-hour drive (280 miles) to the San Bernardino National Forest for a different kind of adventure.

Practical Tips for Travelers

For Families

Disneyland tickets range from $104–$154; use CityPASS to save
Rent a car outside of major cities for flexibility
Bring snacks, refillable bottles, and stroller if traveling with toddlers

For Solo Travelers

Use social-friendly hostels or shared Airbnb homes
SF’s Muni day pass is $5—budget-friendly and efficient
Stick to well-trafficked hikes or join ranger-led groups in national parks

Budget Breakdown: Daily Costs in California

Lodging: $100–$300 per night depending on location and season
Food: $30–$50/day per person (mix of dining and groceries)
Activities: $20–$100/day depending on attractions
Transportation: Rental cars $40–$70/day; gas ~$4.50/gallon

Final Thoughts: Your Guide to the Best Places to Visit in California

Whether you’re looking for big city excitement or hidden natural wonders like hot springs, California is huge and has something for every traveler, no matter what time of year. With this updated guide, you’re ready to plan a memorable adventure across the best places to visit in California in 2025, including theme parks and hot springs.

Written by: Jamie Rivera, a California native who has explored all 9 national parks in the state and spent the past 20 years helping travelers craft unforgettable road trips and vacation itineraries.

Need help planning? Love these spots? Get your free 2025 California itinerary at beautiful places along the Central Coast. desmotravel.com or email info@desmotravel.com!

FAQ’S:

Q: What are some top attractions to visit in Northern California?

A: Northern California is packed with awesome spots! You can’t miss the iconic Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, the stunning Point Reyes National Seashore, and the beautiful Emerald Bay State Park. If you’re into history, Hearst Castle is also worth a visit.

Q: What’s a great day trip idea from San Francisco?

A: A day trip to Muir Woods is perfect for nature lovers! You can hike among the giant redwoods in national and state parks and enjoy the peaceful vibes. If you’re up for a drive, head to Point Reyes National for some amazing ocean views and marine life sightings.

Q: What are the best California beaches for a relaxing day?

A: California beaches are pretty unbeatable! Check out Morro Bay for its scenic views, or visit one of the many state beaches along the coast for some sun and surf. The Beach Boardwalk in Santa Cruz is also a fun spot if you’re looking for some amusement and beach vibes!

Q: When is the best time to plan a visit to California?

A: The best time to visit California is from March to May. The weather is usually mild, the flowers are blooming, and it’s less crowded than summer, making it the perfect time to stroll around California’s national and state parks. Perfect for exploring those top attractions!

Q: Are there any must-see spots in Death Valley National Park?

A: Absolutely! California is huge and has so much to offer, including stunning views and diverse attractions. Death Valley is like a whole other planet. Check out Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America, and the mesmerizing Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes. If you love the desert, this park is a must!

Q: What’s a fun activity to do in San Diego?

A: You can’t go wrong with a visit to Balboa Park! It’s not only home to beautiful gardens and museums, but it also has the famous San Diego Zoo, where you can also explore diverse wildlife. Perfect for a day filled with fun and learning!

Q: What are some great places to visit along the coast of California?

A: The California coast is stunning, with its beautiful beaches and protected areas! Make sure to check out the scenic Highway 1 drive, which includes places like Big Sur and San Simeon. These spots offer some of the most beautiful views you’ll ever see!

Q: How can I make the most out of one trip to California?

A: To maximize your California experience, try to combine city visits with nature trips. Spend a few days in San Francisco, then head down to visit the beaches and national parks. This way, you get the quintessential California vibe!