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View of the Yosemite national park
Written by Shamanthika on July 19, 2020 Share on

10 Places to Visit in California – Explore the Golden State

Overview

California is known for shimmering sunshine, beautiful cities, endless natural reserves, best theme parks and more. Whatever you wish to do in your dream USA holiday is possible here. With many beautiful places to visit, head to this American destination soon. California is surely for nature lovers, with its gushing waterfalls, national parks and more. It is also the best choice for those who enjoy dwelling in the city and its hustle and bustle. For those who love history, there are several historical places to visit in California. And for foodies, this is the place to be. So, if you are one traveller who wants to enjoy a bit of everything, head to California. Here are the 10 places to visit in California.

10 places to visit in California

  1. Yosemite Falls in Yosemite National Park
  2. Sturtevant Falls in Big Santa Anita Canyon
  3. California’s Pacific Coast Highway
  4. Santa Cruz, California
  5. Joshua Tree National Park
  6. Pfeiffer Beach
  7. Lava Beds National Monument
  8. McWay Falls
  9. California Street Cable Car
  10. Napa Valley

1. Yosemite Falls in Yosemite National Park

Yosemite waterfall is one of the famous attractions in California. This waterfall attracts many visitors from all over the world. It is a pleasant sight to watch snowmelt water flowing down to the rocks. In the month of May and June, the waterfall is at its best. At a height of 2425 feet, watching the waterfall is indeed one of the beautiful experiences to have when in California. Above all, at Yosemite falls you can take many Intsa worthy pictures.

Yosemite falls
Image Source: Unsplash

2. Sturtevant Falls in Big Santa Anita Canyon

Located at the foothills of the Angeles National Forest, the Sturtevant falls is another famous attraction in California. The waterfall is about 50 feet high, watching from a distance is indeed a pleasant sight. The waterfall descends to an exceptionally green in colour pool. The cliff has fully grown algae and moss which makes the waterfall look unique and mesmerising.

Also Read: Fun things to do in California

3. California’s Pacific Coast Highway

One of the world’s most beautiful highways is indeed a must-visit when you are in Californa.

Highway along the Pacific coast
Image Source: Unsplash

4. Santa Cruz, California

Feel the urge to surf in California. Head to Santa Cruz. Being one of the famous spots to surf in the world, the Californian surfing experience will be unique and thrilling. The beautiful beaches and the cool breeze is a perfect choice for a leisure holiday. Since Santa Cruz is also less populated, the beaches are not crowded. You can enjoy the sea at your own pace. More than that, even as you enter Santa Cruz, the Bohemian ambience and vibe will lure you into the city.

5. Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is named after the Joshua trees which you can find in the park. Embracing the Mojave and Sonoran deserts, the park is certainly not to miss when in California. There are several trails that take you around the National Park. Other than this, the park also has natural rock formations and seasonal gardens. You can enjoy a half-day tour or stretch it to a full day to explore more at the National park.

A Joshua tree
Image Source: Unsplash

6. Pfeiffer Beach

Pfeiffer Beach is not yet another beach. It is an unusual, quiet beach in California. This beach is also very less explored by the tourists, yet, common amongst the locals. Did you know that the sand in the Pfeiffer Beach is purple in colour? Oh yes, it is. The shimmering purple sand mesmerises any visitor who comes here.

The pfeiffer rock in the sea
Image Source: Unsplash

7. Lava Beds National Monument

The Lava Beds National Monument has 25 lava beds inside it. Though it might look barren and boring, if you wish to explore inside, you will be awe-struck. The dark coloured rocks and formations inside the monument will be the best background for your Instagram pictures. So, grab your flashlight and put on your jacket, it’s time to explore the cave!

Also Read: America’s road trip destinations

8. McWay Falls

The 80 feet high McWay falls is a signature waterfall in California. It is called a tidal fall because it’s located close to the ocean. When you are at the Big Sur coast, ensure that you stop by McWay falls. You can visit McWay falls at any time of the day, but there is a bonus if you visit at the time of sunset. As the sun sets into its abode, it sends out amazing hues and the sight is so heart-warming to see!

McWay falls at the time of sunset
Image Source: Unsplash

9. California Street Cable Car

Want to go a merry ride through the city? The best option is to take a cable car. California’s most favourite thing to do is taking a ride on the street cable car. It’s a manually operated cable car system, that takes you through three lines which are currently running in the city. Majority of the people take the cable car to work in California. As a tourist, to witness more than the usual Californian scenes, hop into a cable car and enjoy!

Cable car in Californian street
Image Source: Unsplash

10. Napa Valley

People dining at the Napa valley
Image Source: Unsplash

Napa Valley is more than just a valley. When you are here, its mesmerising landscapes and beautiful sceneries will attract you inside. You can visit the Napa Valley for a day tour, or stay for a weekend, relax with your family. The experience at the valley will be unique and memorable. There are camping options available in the valley to entertain its visitors. Above all, there are also wineries and restaurants working full swing to treat your tongue. In addition to this, they also host Art walks, shopping tours amongst others. When you are at Napa, ensure that you treat yourselves with tasty food. The ingredients are directly sourced from the local farm and cooked fresh as per your liking.

Farm fresh burgers in Napa Valley
Image Source: Unsplash

Napa Valley also hosts Hot air Balloon rides. Wake up early in the morning and take a hot air balloon ride. Enjoy the cool climate and aerial views of the valley. You can also hop into the Napa Valley Wine train and experience the train journey.

Excited Already? The United States of America can never disappoint you. It’s always the right time to tour the USA. Head to the USA travel blog and read more travel stories. You can also check out Pickyourtrail website you customise your vacation to the USA. Having doubts about your next USA holiday? Download the Pickyourtrail app and get your queries answered on the go. Alternatively, you can also Whatsapp our travel experts and we are at your service!

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