Best Places to Visit in California

There are so many fun places to visit in California! Having explored California's diverse corners, I’ve found that The Golden State offers an ideal balance of natural beauty, cultural richness, amazing beaches, and endless opportunities for adventure or relaxation. Here are the places and activities I recommend from my recent four week road trip, and I hope you’ll love them too.

Best Places to Visit on the Southern California Coast

I love visiting this region for an unbeatable mix of sun, scenery, and culture.

1. Dana Point

This is one of the most relaxed and romantic seaside towns I’ve explored, and I think it’s one of the absolute best places to visit in Orange County (just 1.5-hour drive south from LA!).

We decided to spend four days at 2-star Dana Point Marina Inn (around $114/night).

We started our day at Dana Point Harbor, looking at sailboats and watching the marina wake up. We spent spent time wandering through the harbor shops and stopped for espressos and croissants at Coffee Importers right in the harbor.

My favorite part of the morning was walking along the Bluff Top Trail at the Dana Point Headlands, with sweeping views of the Pacific.

Afterwards, one hidden highlight was Doheny State Beach, where we kicked off our shoes for a while. We had a simple beach walk and the most peaceful moments of our day trip here.

I loved going on a dolphin-watching cruise in the afternoon, where we sat side by side on the open deck, feeling the ocean breeze and spotting dolphins and whales in the ocean.

Dinner al fresco at Wind & Sea Restaurant serving fresh-caught seafood was incredible.

As night fell, the harbor lights shimmered across the water, and the entire town felt dreamy, exactly the kind of place that makes you wish weekends lasted longer.

What I loved best:

Watching the sunset from the cliffs above the harbor was my personal highlight.

2. Carlsbad

This is one of those effortlessly charming beach towns that feels polished yet laid-back so it quickly became one of my favorite low-key coastal getaways when we were based in California.

When we first arrived, strolling through Carlsbad Village, we loved the relaxed energy, with palm-lined streets, and ocean breezes.

One of our favorite experiences was joining Carlsbad Food Tours, which turned out to be the perfect introduction to the town. Sampling our way through local restaurants, cafés, and dessert spots gave us a real sense of Carlsbad’s culinary personality. I thought it was such a fun, social way to discover lots of places we never would have found on our own.

Afterwards, we wandered into small boutiques and local art shops, and admired handmade jewelry inspired by the ocean.

Then we stopped at Vinaka Cafe, a cozy coffee shop in the village, sipping lattes and sharing flaky pastries.

Before heading to the beach, we popped into a local market to grab snacks and fresh fruit, perfect for a beach picnic. Just a short walk brought us to Carlsbad State Beach, where we strolled along the sand, and had a fun family picnic with Chris and our son.

A few months later we returned to Carlsbad just for the Flower Fields (you have to time it early to mid-May!), where rows of blooms stretched toward the horizon and made the whole afternoon feel almost surreal.

What I loved best:

Dinner in Carlsbad Village capped off the day beautifully and was my favorite highlight.

Best Places to Visit on the Central Coast & Wine Country

This is a region defined by natural beauty, relaxed charm, and world-class vineyards.

3. San Luis Obispo

Ready for a culture-rich California getaway? San Luis Obispo is a standout! I found that this laid-back Central Coast gem made the perfect early summer getaway with my husband and son. The weather was warm, and I especially loved the farmers’ market which was bursting with fresh produce and flowers!

We drove just under 40 minutes south from Paso Robles and spent two easy days at the 3-star Madonna Inn, a quirky landmark hotel with over-the-top themed rooms. Mornings were perfect for hiking along the scenic Bishop Peak trail, and cycling along the Bob Jones City-to-Sea Trail. In the afternoon, we loved exploring the historic Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa.

Next day, we enjoyed cool coastal breezes driving Highway 1, discovering unusual beaches and quiet pull-offs near Avila Beach.

What I loved best:

My personal highlight were delicious cinnamon rolls and coffee one morning at The Bridge Cafe, a social enterprise restaurant. I thought dining here has an extra layer of meaning because you’re dining in a place that gives back.

I love how San Luis Obispo remains a hidden favorite despite being near major California destinations - it sits close to famous Big Sur but feels more affordable, relaxed, and refreshingly authentic, which I really appreciate.

4. Santa Barbara

I think this is one of the most naturally beautiful and effortlessly charming cities I’ve visited, and I think it’s one of the absolute best coastal romantic weekend getaways in the U.S.

We drove about 1.5 hours north from Los Angeles into "The American Riviera" and stayed at the elegant 4-star Kimpton Canary for four amazing days.

We started along East Beach, with a lovely walk by the water. My favorite early moment was strolling out onto Stearns Wharf.

Next stop, downtown Santa Barbara had an easy, romantic energy, with Spanish-style architecture, local boutiques, and sidewalk cafés where we lingered over coffee.

After coffee, I loved wandering through the Santa Barbara County Courthouse, especially the clock tower for panoramic views of the city and coastline.

In the evening, we loved our dinner at The Lark restaurant with its locally-sourced, seasonal ingredients from the Central Coast. The food is designed for sharing ("family-style") with sizable plates which were perfect for the three of us.

Next day, Mesa Burger was a big hit with my son with its handcrafted burgers, using a custom beef blend served on brioche buns.

Another favorite highlight was Convivo Restaurant and Bar at the Santa Barbara Inn right on East Cabrillo because we loved their decor with vintage wood floors, booth seating and big arched windows. Since the menu is always changing at Convivo based on the seasons, I can't tell you exactly what to oder but you can't go wrong with a mixed seafood grill.

If you are on a romantic couples getaway, you should also check out Sustainable Wine Tours which offer luxury transportation, behind-the-scenes access and specialise in tours of small-production, private vineyards and wineries.

We also loved taking a sunset sail from the harbor and the affordable trolley tour through town which let us see a lot in a short time without getting overly tired.

What I loved best:

My favorite highlight was watching a sunset on the beach, such a simple, free activity that was super memorable on vacation!

5. Solvang & Old Mission Santa Ines - 2 hours 30 minutes from LA

This whimsical Danish town is such a cool place to visit and I thought it was one of the best vacation spots in Southern California when we first moved to the West Coast. Why? First off, the half-timbered buildings and windmills make you feel like you've gone to Europe and back in time more than 100 years. In addition, it was easy to get to from Santa Barbara, just a 45-minute drive northwest.

Our first stop was Old Mission Santa Inés, one of my favorite discoveries in Southern California, a true hidden gem.

We stayed at the boutique 4-star Landsby Hotel (around $203/night) for four nights where we enjoyed its chic Scandinavian design. Quick tip: if you are planning a romantic weekend getaway at the Landsby Hotel, book a room with a jetted tub and fireplace for extra luxury.

We spent our days in Solvang cycling through the rolling countryside, sampling authentic Danish pastries at Mortensen’s bakery, browsing antique shops, and visiting the Elverhøj Museum of History & Art.

What I loved best:

Lunch at Solvang Restaurant was my personal favorite (we went twice!) because it's cozy and unique with its Danish eats like the must-try aebleskiver, a Dutch jam-filled donut.

6. Santa Ynez

I loved exploring beyond Solvang all around the Santa Ynez Valley.

The small towns scattered throughout the valley (Los Olivos, Solvang, and Santa Ynez) all felt so inviting, with charming streets, friendly tasting rooms, and sunny weather.

What I loved most was how easy it was to slow down and reconnect on our romantic getaway.

We started the morning with sipping coffee on a quiet patio. Then we headed to Art Spot in Santa Ynez, one of those delightful, soul-stirring discoveries I can’t stop recommending. It truly is an amazing local attraction if you adore local art and creative energy.

After, we enjoyed exploring the back roads near Los Olivos, where we stumbled upon small, family-run wineries.

Casual dinner at Nella Kitchen & Bar in Los Olivos (just 10 minute from our hotel!) was a standout where we had great pasta.

What I loved best:

Driving through the valley at dusk was my favorite highlight, with vineyards fading into the horizon and the air cooling just enough, I felt completely at peace.

Best Places to Visit in Greater Los Angeles

Beaches, iconic neighborhoods, and cultural landmarks ... that's Greater Los Angeles!

7. Paso Robles

Spread across sun-drenched valleys, Paso Robles feels like one of the most inviting wine regions in California. Honestly, I think it’s one of the best destinations on the Central Coast for a relaxed getaway, especially for couples celebrating an anniversary or a birthday.

From the moment we arrived, I loved the crisp, golden hills, the quiet calm in March between winter rains and summer heat, and the way the whole town seemed to exhale before wine-tasting season kicked into high gear. Days were sunny and just warm enough for vineyard tours, while the cool evenings called for cozy fireside dinners and bold local reds.

After landing at San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport (SBP), we spent five relaxed days at the the boutique Hotel Cheval just off the town square. We started in lively downtown Paso Robles and just enjoyed walking around for a while. Later, we visited Eberle Winery and Allegretto Vineyard were my favorite stops.

Next day, Chris and I relaxed at Franklin Hot Springs, visited the Estrella Warbirds Museum, and tasted great local olive oils.

What I loved best:

Dinner at Il Cortile Ristorante to celebrate our anniversary, a 2-minute walk from the hotel was my favorite highlight, offering a seasonal menu of homemade pastas, fresh seafood, and top-quality meats.

8. Things to Do in Pasadena

This place has always felt like one of California’s most underrated gems to me. From downtown Los Angeles, it was a quick 20-minute drive northeast into Pasadena and we spent a long three day weekend at the Langham Huntington, a grand 1907 estate turned luxury hotel.

We started by strolling through Old Pasadena, where historic brick buildings house cool boutiques, cafes, and lively restaurants.

We found this area especially joyful when we returned in the evening with string lights and lively streets.

Next, I thought the Norton Simon Museum was a brilliant idea for a cultural stop, offering an amazing, underrated collection near Colorado Boulevard.

After stopping for lunch at 1919 Cafe, we explored the Huntington Library and Gardens in nearby San Marino (about 10 minutes by car). Walking through the Japanese and Desert Gardens was one of the most spectacular experiences of our weekend getaway.

For architecture lovers, Pasadena is a dream, especially with iconic Craftsman homes near Orange Grove Boulevard.

I thought the Gamble House was a unique and interesting highlight, showcasing California’s most famous Arts and Crafts design.

We loved how walkable Pasadena felt, especially around South Lake Avenue with its trendy shops and cafes.

Food was another big win, with everything from casual brunch spots to romantic, upscale dining options.

Next day, we spent time hiking in Eaton Canyon, just minutes from the city, and the waterfall felt like a hidden reward.

My personal highlight was a healthy salad of organic greens on the rooftop patio at Granville for lunch.

9. Los Angeles

We absolutely love "The City of Angels" and have visited many times. To me, Los Angeles feels like one of the most diverse and endlessly fascinating places I’ve ever explored (besides NYC where Chris and I lived for a decade), and I think it’s one of the best destinations on the West Coast. We often land in LA, stay in an affordable rental for a week, and enjoy day trips and a longer road trip around Southern California from there.

Even if you’re not a huge movie or beach person, I still highly recommend visiting because of how influential LA is to entertainment, culture, and lifestyle in our country. Just be prepared for distances—Los Angeles is massive, and getting around takes more planning than you might expect.

Los Angeles has an overwhelming number of things to do both indoors and outdoors. Actually, I think the hardest part of a day trip to Los Angeles is choosing what to see. My son was thrilled by the California Science Center’s hands-on exhibits and seeing the Space Shuttle Endeavour up close, while I loved strolling through the Original Farmers Market, sampling everything from fresh tacos to handmade ice cream. Personally, the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and Griffith Observatory are both must-see. If you have extra time, Rodeo Drive and Venice Beach are also fun (and very different) stops. I think these stops give you a great mix of classic LA glamour, city views, and coastal vibes.

I think the easiest option overall if you are new to the city is an organized tour in LA. It removes the stress of navigating traffic, ensures you hit the most famous sights, and gives you insight into the history and culture of the city. I find that Star Track Tours offer a great way to cover a lot of ground in a short time.

What I loved best:

We had dinner at Emporium Thai in Westwood, and we had their delicious Yum Yum soup, and were especially impressed by their gluten-free and dairy-free options.

If you’re looking for theatre in L.A. that’s more intimate, bold, and culturally rich, Fountain Theatre is a standout.

We made a stop at the legendary Langer’s Delicatessen downtown, and biting into their famous pastrami sandwich was an absolute dream...indulgent, delicious, and unlike anything else in the city.

10. Redondo Beach

Ready for a beach-meets-harbor getaway? Check out Redondo Beach—a real standout that has the ideal mix of outdoor fun and coastal relaxation in my opinion.

From LA, I made the quick 30-minute coastal drive down to Redondo — windows down, ocean on my right, palm trees swaying overhead. I arrived just in time for the Festival of the Kite, when the sky above the pier explodes in color. Around town, the Redondo Beach Farmers Market was bursting with citrus, strawberries, and handmade soaps, while nearby Hermosa and Manhattan Beach were alive with volleyball games and local music spilling out of cafes (be sure to grab a local espresso from Java Man!).

I spent two sunny days soaking up the South Bay rhythm from our comfortable base at Sonesta Redondo Beach & Marina, biking along the scenic Marvin Braude Coastal Trail, paddleboarding in King Harbor, and strolling along the Redondo Beach Pier at sunset with a basket of crispy fish tacos. Afternoons meant lazy hours on the sand, time to relax with a book, while evenings brought live jazz, ocean breezes, and the glow of twinkling string lights over the water.

What I loved best:

One of my most memorable evenings was dinner at Dominique’s Kitchen, a tucked-away French bistro serving rich onion soup, buttery sole meunière, and a warm neighborhood welcome that made me feel right at home.

11. Camarillo

Camarillo is one of my favorite places to visit when I want sunny weather, peaceful scenery, and that relaxed Ventura County charm. I love that it’s incredibly easy to get to from LA (under an hour by car!)

We started the day with the drive up the 101, which was an amazing underrated experience with ocean breezes and mountain views. First thing, had amazing breakfast burritos at Village Cafe and then walked around Old Town Camarillo to ease into the day.

I have to say that from the moment we arrived, the vibe felt relaxed, and it already seemed like one of those cool places people don’t talk about enough, which made it feel extra special.

Next, we loved wandering through the Camarillo Premium Outlets, where I found amazing deals on favorite brands and it turned shopping into an adventure for everyone... even my son picked up some back-to-school clothes.

Later on, we drove a short distance to Point Mugu State Park near Malibu, and this was where the magic really kicked in with spectacular cliffs, quiet beaches, and trails that felt untouched. Hiking there was an exciting experience, with ocean views that looked unreal.

For lunch, we headed to Old Town Cafe back in town, one of those unique places that ends up being the absolute best meal of the trip.

In the afternoon before heading home, we explored nearby farms and open fields, which felt like such an underrated side of California that most people skip.

What I loved best:

The CAFSoCal - Commemorative Air Force So Cal Wing aviation museum was a highlight for us because it educational, and exciting all at once, with vintage planes and interactive exhibits that made my son feel like we were stepping back into history.

12. Santa Monica

What I love about visiting this beach town is that it’s easy to reach from other parts of Los Angeles and has more than enough to keep you busy for a full day. I recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and arriving earlier in the morning, especially if you want to enjoy the beach and pier before the crowds roll in.

To get to Santa Monica, I suggest taking the Metro E Line (Expo Line) to the Downtown Santa Monica station. The ride from central LA takes about 45–50 minutes and costs just a few dollars. Of course, depending on where you’re staying, driving or rideshare might make more sense—but traffic can be unpredictable. I prefer public transit in LA when possible since parking near the beach can be expensive and limited.

The Santa Monica Pier is always my first stop with its iconic Ferris wheel, carnival games, and ocean views feels like pure magic every time. I also love walking along Santa Monica's Third Street Promenade, along the beach path and lively boardwalk.

After our morning stroll, we stopped at Caffe Luxxe, which is actually part of a sleek and sophisticated coffee shop chain which serves great coffee and mouth-watering pastries!

One thing to keep in mind is that Santa Monica blends into nearby neighborhoods like Venice and Malibu, so it’s easy to wander without a plan and miss some highlights. On our first visit, we joined a guided tour to get oriented and make the most of our time.

My personal highlight was our romantic dinner at Melisse to celebrate our anniversary, a AAA Four Diamond award restaurant serving an amazing tasting-menu of classic French cuisine and contemporary presentation.

13. Catalina Island

Ready for a coastal-meets-island adventure? Check out Catalina Island, a real standout! We left the mainland by ferry first thing in the morning from Long Beach (about 1 hour ride, $42.25 one way) and docked in Avalon, the island’s only incorporated city (population around 3,700).

First, strolling along the Avalon waterfront, we admired the pastel buildings and the scenic harbor.

Shortly after, my favorite stop was Catalina Coffee & Cookie Co, where we shared flaky pastries and coffee while watching the morning boats come in...it felt like the perfect, unhurried start to the day.

Next, we wandered through local boutiques and art shops, discovering handmade jewelry and island-inspired finds.

A short trip took us to Descanso Beach, where we stretched out on loungers and went snorkeling, my favorite highlight!

In the afternoon, we explored the iconic Catalina Casino (not for gambling!) for its stunning Art Deco architecture and sweeping views that made the island’s history feel alive.

I loved that Catalina had such an effortlessly relaxed vibe—no pressure to do everything, just space to enjoy being together.

We also made time for a scenic trolley ride, catching glimpses of quiet hills and hidden beaches that felt worlds away from the mainland.

My personal highlight was dinner at Bluewater Avalon Seafood Restaurant where I ordered fish & chips and sat just above the tide, the air salted with sea and citrus.

For the night, we stayed at the 3-star Catalina Island Inn (from $87/night), steps from the harbor and with a garden courtyard that felt like an oasis.

What I loved best:

For me, Catalina Island is one of the best places to visit in California.

Next morning, we hiked on the Trans-Catalina Trail for sweeping vistas that felt a world away, a real standout.

Hi, I'm Ema. I'm the face behind VacationIdea.com. My husband, son are frequent travelers and spent 5 years on the road discovering some of the best places to visit in the USA. We base ourselves in a new place every 4 weeks weeks which has allowed us to experience each destination as a local. I love to chase unique things to do near me and revisit old favorites for a cool, fresh perspective. I'm also eager to learn from my fellow travelers to see what works for people and what doesn't. Whether you like great sunsets, hidden gems, places of mystery, famous attractions, or underrated experiences, here you'll find all of those recommendations from locals that won me over. Let's explore together! More about us.