When I was young, going to California was a dream. It seems so exotic and far from our home in Pennsylvania. My family kept talking about moving to California with relatives who lived there. Then when I was 12 we drove for the first time and it was everything I dreamed of and more. California is a state of beautiful nature, cosmopolitan cities and spectacular coastline. There is a lot to do in California and you should not miss this state during your trip across America. California is perhaps the most diverse and versatile state in America. So you can enjoy yourself here for weeks. But what are the most beautiful places in California, and what are the most important places in California? And what to do in California? Here’s everything you need to know about California. With its rugged coastline, beautiful natural parks and cosmopolitan cities, California is undoubtedly the most beautiful state in America and one of most people’s favorite states. Here are some of the best California tips that tell you about the most beautiful places to visit in California and answer the question, what to do in California?
California tips. What to do in California?
Below are the top attractions in California.
Visit San Francisco
You visit America mainly for the nature, but in California you will also find several world-class cities that should not be missed.
In San Francisco, you’ll find several landmarks, including the Golden Gate Bridge and Lombard Street. Pier 39 is also not to be missed. The best part here is Alcatraz. Once America’s highest security prison, this island prison is now the place to go. You learn about prison life and it’s very interesting. Highly recommended.
Also, I would recommend Chinatown. The residents of Chinatown manage to preserve their rich culture, resulting in a permanent presence and a great place to shop and eat. Chinatown in San Francisco is a must-see.
Travel along Highway 1
One of the most beautiful drives in California has to be on Highway 1. Driving along the coast on Highway 1, you can stop regularly to take beautiful pictures of this beautiful, rugged coast. You’ll also find beautiful cities like Santa Barbara that are also worth a stop. Driving Highway 1 is a must in California and is truly one of the best California tips.
Celebrities in Los Angeles
After your trip down Highway 1, it’s nice to stop in Los Angeles. Los Angeles is definitely not one of the highlights of California, but it is definitely a place you should check out. Go to Hollywood, see the Hollywood Sign and the Walk of Fame and maybe spot some celebrities. Santa Monica is also nice to visit and from there you can walk along the beach or bike to Venice Beach.
Also, as a family you can go to some of the amusement parks around Los Angeles. The original Disneyland as well as Universal Studios and more.
Take at least 3 days and explore Yosemite.
Admire the wildlife of Yosemite National Park
One of the most beautiful places in California is also one of the most beautiful places in America. Yosemite National Park is truly a feast for the eyes and a great destination for every nature lover. You will enjoy beautiful scenery, spectacular waterfalls and go hiking. Allow at least two days for the park. Drive to Glacier Point for a day and spend at least 1 full day in Yosemite Valley.
We love Yosemite, and along with the Grand Canyon in Arizona, Yellowstone is a national park. Plan early if you want to camp or stay in the park, as rooms and sites fill up quickly.
Relax in Lake Tahoe
Another beautiful piece of nature is beautiful Lake Tahoe in California. Many people miss this lake on their travels and that’s a shame. It is certainly one of the most beautiful lakes ever. The water is clear and very blue and you are surrounded by snowy mountain peaks and coniferous forests. Perfect combination, right?
Lake Tahoe is a popular winter sports destination in the winter and a popular place to relax in the sun in the summer. You can walk along the lake shore, but you can also walk to waterfalls and other beautiful lakes. The most beautiful part of Lake Tahoe can be found at Sand Harbor State Park.
Drive through Death Valley National Park
I have been to Death Valley National Park 30 times and it never ceases to impress and amaze. It is extremely hot, mountainous, and the natural environment is truly unique. From dry sands to colorful rocks, sand dunes and beautiful scenery. you will find all this in Death Valley. Death Valley is one of the hottest places in the world, so be careful if you plan on hiking or biking.
A visit to Death Valley is definitely one of the things to do in California and one of the top California tips.
Visit Surprising Kings Canyon National Park
An underrated park in many ways, but one of California’s most beautiful is Kings Canyon National Park. This national park is missed by many or only visited for a shorter time in conjunction with Sequoia, but it is really worth it. The natural environment of the park is really beautiful. Along the scenic route, the views are breathtaking and you will find more beautiful waterfalls. Canyon of the Kings is without a doubt one of the most beautiful places in California and one of the best tips in California.
Look for the world’s largest tree in Sequoia National Park
Right next to Kings Canyon you will find another national park, Sequoia National Park. This beautiful park is famous for the huge Sequoia trees that you encounter. Here you will even find the world’s largest tree. Not in height, but in mass, very impressive. But besides huge trees and spectacular forests, Sequoia has more to offer. From here you also have many places that offer great views of the mountains.
Our Final Word
California is still a dream. Larger than most countries, you can explore California in your lifetime. These were just the areas we explored, but there are many more. Wine Country to the north and San Diego to the south offer more on the way to extend your trip. In our opinion, traveling through the US and not going to California is a mistake. Let us know your thoughts.