Things To Do
in California
California is a vast, sun-drenched state that stretches from the Pacific coastline to the Sierra Nevada mountains. It is a melting pot of cultures, landscapes, and ideas, home to towering redwoods, expansive deserts, and world-class cities. The coast offers iconic drives along the Pacific, while inland regions boast wine country, tech hubs, and farm-to-table cuisine.
Expect a dynamic blend of creativity, nature, and sunshine year-round.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a leisurely stroll through the historic streets of Old Town San Diego, immersing yourself in the rich cultural heritage of California. Stop by the Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, where you can explore preserved buildings and exhibits showcasing the area's early Mexican and American history. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a local cafe, savoring traditional Mexican dishes like chilaquiles or huevos rancheros.
After lunch, head to the San Diego Maritime Museum to explore the collection of historic ships and learn about the maritime history of the region. Take a scenic walk along the waterfront, enjoying views of the harbor and possibly spotting some sea lions basking in the sun. As the afternoon progresses, visit the Cabrillo National Monument for stunning panoramic views of San Diego and the Pacific Ocean.
As the sun sets, make your way to a local taco shop for a delicious dinner, indulging in authentic fish tacos or carne asada. After dinner, enjoy a vibrant evening at the Gaslamp Quarter, where you can experience live music, art galleries, and the bustling nightlife. Wind down your day with a nightcap at one of the rooftop bars, soaking in the sparkling city lights.
Start your day with a trip to the iconic Huntington Beach, known for its golden sands and surf culture. Rent a surfboard or take a surfing lesson from experienced instructors, embracing the thrill of riding the waves. Enjoy a refreshing breakfast at a beachside cafe, indulging in fresh fruit and smoothies to fuel your day.
Spend the afternoon paddleboarding or kayaking in the picturesque waters of Newport Beach, exploring scenic coves and perhaps spotting dolphins. Alternatively, relax on the beach with a good book, enjoying the sun and the sound of the waves crashing. Don’t miss the chance to stroll along the Newport Pier for breathtaking views of the coastline.
As the day comes to a close, treat yourself to a sunset dinner at a beachfront restaurant, savoring fresh seafood while watching the sun dip below the horizon. Afterward, take a leisurely walk along the beach, feeling the cool sand beneath your feet and listening to the gentle waves. End your night with a bonfire on the beach, roasting marshmallows and sharing stories under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| 🏠One-bedroom apartment in city center | $2,000-3,500 per month |
| 🚆Public transit ride (local) | $2-5 per ride |
| 🎬Movie ticket | $12-18 |
| 🛍️Grocery bill per week | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Diverse landscapes and cities
- World-class hiking, beaches, and wine regions
- Strong infrastructure and film/creative industries
- High costs in major hubs
- Heavy traffic in urban centers and long drives between regions
Places to Visit in California
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic suspension bridge with sweeping views of the Bay and a dramatic skyline, ideal at golden hour.
Rugged cliffs, turquoise waters, and dramatic sunsets along one of the country’s most photographed coastal roads.
Valley walls, waterfalls, and granite monoliths like El Capitan; best at sunrise or sunset.
Otherworldly dunes and starry night skies in a desert landscape.
Crystal-clear alpine lake with reflections of surrounding peaks.
Distinctive rock formations and starlit skies perfect for night photography.
Food in California
California Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A sushi roll popular on the West Coast, often featuring crab, avocado, and cucumber; widely available in sushi bars across the state.
Must-Try!
Coastal favorite with grilled fish, slaw, and citrus, popular from Santa Barbara to San Diego.
San Diego staple with carne asada, fries, cheese, and salsa; widely found in taquerias.
A staple breakfast or brunch item at cafes throughout the state, showcasing the region's avocados.
San Francisco’s iconic tangy bread, offered in bakeries and restaurants throughout the Bay Area.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A hub of local producers, artisanal foods, and farmers’ market stalls along the Embarcadero.
A historic food hall with diverse stalls offering tacos, ramen, global bites, and fresh produce.
A vibrant weekly market featuring fresh produce, prepared foods, and local specialties.
A cluster of stalls and small eateries offering Japanese snacks and street bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
California is casual and tolerant; dress up for fine dining or events, but casual wear is widely acceptable in most places.
Show respect for diverse communities; be mindful of local environmental policies and outdoor etiquette.
Safety
Tipping in California
Ensure a smooth experience
15-20% in restaurants; tip restaurant staff, hotel maids, taxi drivers, and bartenders based on service quality.
Credit cards are widely accepted; cash is useful in markets and small vendors; contactless payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Pleasant temperatures and wildflower blooms; expect some rain in early spring; crowds still moderate in popular parks.
Warm to hot days, especially inland; coastal areas stay mild; plan early mornings and late afternoons; beaches and parks are busy.
Comfortable temperatures, harvest season in wine country, fewer crowds; gorgeous fall colors in mountainous areas.
Mild along the coast, snow in the mountains; alpine towns see ski season; pack layers and check road conditions.
California at Night
Hiking in California
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Iconic alpine hike with cascading waterfalls and granite scenery.
Ancient towering redwoods and lush forest trails.
Desert rock formations perfect for day hikes and photography.
Spectacular lake views with alpine terrain and pine forests.
Airports
How to reach California by plane.
Major international hub serving Southern California; easy access to city centers via rideshare, public transit, or dedicated buses.
Primary Bay Area gateway with extensive domestic and international connections; good transit links to the city via BART and regional trains.
Coastal gateway for Southern California; quick access to downtown and beach neighborhoods.
Smaller, convenient Orange County airport; easy access to coastal and inland destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
California is home to large Hispanic/Latino, Asian American, White, Black, and Indigenous communities, with vibrant immigrant populations contributing to culture, cuisine, and business.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Iconic coastline with waves suitable for all levels; famous surf towns along the coast.
Strong college and professional scene; NBA teams in several cities.
NFL teams in multiple cities; college football culture is vibrant throughout the state.
MLB games in major cities; outdoor summer culture with tailgating and ballpark food.
Popular in coastal towns with public courts and summer tournaments.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting California.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
California menus often offer abundant vegetarian options; look for market-driven and plant-based dishes; request substitutions and check for egg or dairy.