California is one of the best travel destinations in the United States. It might be famous for its glitzy resorts and celebrity sightings, but there’s so much more to the state than its polished, brochure-ready surface.
For example, did you know that it’s also home to some of the most historic landmarks on the west coast? Were you aware that it’s a melting pot for cultures all over the world?
It also has a stunning range of geographical diversity; it’s filled with mountains, rivers, volcanoes, deserts, forests, and wetlands. There’s a reason why California is one of the top travel destinations for tourists. Here are some of them:
- Hollywood Sign
Visiting the Hollywood sign is one of the best things to do in California. Jutting proudly over the cliffs of Hollywood Hills, it’s the single most iconic landmark in cinematic history, and visitors come from all around the world to snap a selfie with its famous white letters.
You will have a few options when it comes to reaching the sign. If you are outdoorsy, you can hike a trail through the woods that will lead you to a good vantage point. If you prefer your fun to be a little more air-conditioned, you can hop in an elevator in an observation tower near the cliffs. There are strict rules for visiting the sign, so don’t expect to get too close.
Just appreciate the opportunity to take vacation photos with such an amazing monument. If you’re wondering what to do in California, you can’t go wrong with the Hollywood sign!
- Big Sur
With the mountains on one side and the ocean on the other, Big Sur is one of the most breathtaking destinations in California.
It’s a scenic drive that will ruin you from all other scenic drives. The views will range from gentle hills to dramatic waves pounding against the cliffs.
You’ll see bridges, crags, canyons, lighthouses, and waterfalls. The route itself is 90 miles long, but if you want to extend your sightseeing, you can venture into a number of nearby parks, forests, beaches, and campgrounds to keep the fun going.
There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy at these destinations, too. Take a hike along the Pine Ridge Trail; splash around at Pfeiffer Beach; search for nephrite jade crystals at Jade Cove.
- Venice Beach Boardwalk
Known for its vibrant, colorful atmosphere, the Venice Beach Boardwalk is one of the main attractions of California.
There’s always a crowd, and they’re always full of energy. Jugglers weave around face painters and street musicians; fortune-tellers call out to tourists while food truck owners entice them with sights and smells. Bodybuilders flex. Skateboarders do tricks. Vendors hawk their t-shirts and key chains. It’s easy to get overwhelmed at the Venice Beach Boardwalk, but it’s a good kind of overwhelming.
There’s a lot of fun stuff to do, so it’s just a matter of deciding what interests you the most. If you’re looking for places of interest in California, the party never stops at the Venice Beach Boardwalk. There’s a reason why it sees millions of visitors per year.