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 coffee and snacks 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—and it quickly became one of my favorite low-key coastal getaways.

Strolling through Carlsbad Village, we loved the relaxed energy, with palm-lined streets, colorful storefronts, and ocean breezes that made it impossible to rush. Every block invited us to slow down and explore together.

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—fresh, creative, and community-driven. It was such a fun, social way to discover places we never would have found on our own.

Earlier in the day, we stopped at a cozy coffee shop in the village, sipping lattes and sharing flaky pastries while watching surfers head toward the beach—an ideal California morning.

We wandered into small boutiques and local art shops, laughing as we tried on beachy hats and admired handmade jewelry inspired by the ocean.

A short walk brought us to Carlsbad State Beach, where we strolled along the sand, shoes in hand, letting the waves and sunshine set an easygoing pace for the afternoon.

Later, we explored the Flower Fields (you have to time it early to mid-May), where rows of vibrant blooms stretched toward the horizon and made the whole afternoon feel almost surreal.

We also popped into a local market to grab snacks and fresh fruit, which made for a perfect beach picnic as the day wound down.

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 but breezy, the rolling hills and vineyards were lush and green, the farmers’ markets were bursting with fresh produce and flowers!

We love how this vibrant town near Morro Bay and Pismo Beach delivers a joyful mix of beaches, mountains, and small-town magic.

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

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.

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 where dining has an extra layer of meaning because you’re dining in a place that gives back.

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, where palm trees, soft sand, and rolling waves created the perfect setting for a long, unhurried walk by the water.

My favorite early moment was strolling out onto Stearns Wharf, where the ocean stretched endlessly in every direction and the salty breeze instantly slowed everything down.

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

I loved wandering through the Santa Barbara County Courthouse, especially climbing the clock tower for panoramic views of the city, coastline, and red-tiled rooftops—it was unexpectedly stunning.

One night, we loved The Lark restaurant's locally-sourced, seasonal ingredients from the Central Coast region and the food designed for sharing ("family-style") with sizable plates meant for the table.

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.

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.

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 think it's one of the best vacation spots in Southern California. 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. From Santa Barbara, it was just a 45-minute drive northwest into Solvang on our road trip, but if you are driving from LA, it's 2 hours and 30 minutes, depending on traffic.

First stop was Old Mission Santa Inés in Solvang, one of my favorite discoveries in Southern California, a true hidden gem that feels both historic and magical. Nestled right in the heart of the Santa Ynez Valley, this mission has an incredible backdrop of rolling hills, vineyards, and distant mountains, making it one of the most spectacular and underrated places to visit.

We stayed at the boutique 4-star Landsby Hotel for two 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.

I spent my days 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. Paso Robles

Spread across sun-drenched valleys, Paso Robles feels like one of the most inviting wine regions in California, and I think it’s one of the best destinations on the Central Coast for a relaxed getaway. From the moment I 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 where I felt wrapped in warmth and comfort in a way that completely won me over. The atmosphere was refined yet relaxed, which made it the perfect backdrop for exploring local vineyards and lively Paso Robles downtown. Eberle Winery and Allegretto Vineyard were my favorite stops.

What I loved best:

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

7. Santa Ynez

I loved visiting the Santa Ynez Valley when we first moved to the West Coast, usually arriving by car from Los Angeles (just about 2 hours depending on traffic).

The small towns scattered throughout the valley—like Los Olivos, Solvang, and Santa Ynez—felt warm and inviting, with sun-washed streets, friendly tasting rooms, and a slower pace.

What I loved most was how easy it was to slow down and reconnect. Mornings were spent wandering through vineyards or sipping coffee on quiet patios, while afternoons often turned into unhurried wine tastings where time seemed to disappear.

One of my favorite moments was exploring the back roads near Los Olivos, where we stumbled upon small, family-run wineries that felt intimate and unpretentious—just good wine, open skies, and meaningful conversation.

Near Solvang, we enjoyed cozy bakeries and outdoor cafés that made it easy to sit, talk, and people-watch without any rush. It felt like the kind of place designed for couples to relax into the moment.

We treated ourselves to a couples’ spa experience at a nearby resort, which turned out to be the perfect way to unwind after days spent exploring—quiet, restorative, and deeply calming.

Evenings were especially memorable, with candlelit dinners featuring local ingredients, crisp Santa Barbara County wines, and sunsets that painted the hills in soft shades of pink and gold.

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

What I loved best:

Art Spot in Santa Ynez is one of those delightful, soul-stirring discoveries I can’t stop recommending, especially if you adore local art and creative energy.

Best Places to Visit in Greater Los Angeles

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

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 the night at the Langham Huntington, a grand 1907 estate turned luxury hotel.

We instantly loved how Pasadena blended classic elegance with a vibrant, youthful energy that made every walk feel exciting.

One of my favorite experiences was strolling Old Pasadena, where historic brick buildings house cool boutiques, cafes, and lively restaurants.

We found this area especially joyful in the evenings, when string lights glow and the streets feel alive.

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

I was genuinely surprised by how affordable and relaxed the museum felt compared to larger LA institutions.

We also explored the Huntington Library and Gardens in nearby San Marino, and honestly, it felt like pure magic.

Walking through the Japanese and Desert Gardens was one of the most peaceful and 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.

We spent time hiking Eaton Canyon, just minutes from the city, and the waterfall felt like a hidden reward.

That mix of nature and culture is what makes Pasadena such an underrated California gem.

I also appreciated how close Pasadena is to LA hotspots while still feeling calm and family-friendly.

We found the Rose Bowl area especially scenic, perfect for a laid-back afternoon picnic.

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

9. Los Angeles

We absolutely love Los Angeles and have visited many times. To me, Los Angeles feels like one of the most diverse and endlessly fascinating places I’ve ever explored, and I think it’s one of the best destinations on the West Coast. We often land in LA and do 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 the United States. 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. From beaches and hiking trails to museums and iconic neighborhoods, there’s something for everyone.

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 the Original Farmers Market, sampling everything from fresh tacos to handmade ice cream. Personally, and the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Griffith Observatory. They give you a great mix of classic LA glamour, city views, and coastal vibes. If you have extra time, Rodeo Drive and Venice Beach are also fun (and very different) stops.

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 strong choice.

Star Track Tours offer a way to cover a lot of ground in a short time.

While it is technically possible to drive into LA from nearby cities, I don’t recommend driving within Los Angeles unless you’re very comfortable with traffic. Congestion is unpredictable and parking can be expensive and frustrating. If you do rent a car, leave early, plan your route carefully, and expect delays—especially during rush hour.

Public transportation exists, but it’s not always the most efficient way to see a lot in one day. Buses and metro lines can take a long time, and rideshares add up quickly, which means you’ll likely have to skip a few highlights.

For that reason, I think the easiest option overall 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.

What I loved best:

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 five 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!)

After the drive up the 101, which was an amazing underrated experience with ocean breezes and mountain views, we grabbed coffee first and walked around Old Town Camarillo to ease into the day.

From the moment I 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 found a small local spot back in town, one of those unusual and unique places that ends up being the absolute best meal of the trip.

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

As evening rolled in, we checked into our hotel and slowed things down, enjoying the peaceful surroundings that made Camarillo feel like a dream escape.

Dinner was casual, and we ended the night talking about how this most underrated destination delivered such an exceptional experience.

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 Santa Monica 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 one way. 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.

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.

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.

In the afternoon, we explored the iconic Catalina Casino, not for gambling but 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.

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

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.