With its cliff-lined beaches, redwood forests and sunny climate, California is a popular destination for keen travelers. However, with so many attractions and picturesque views to soak up, it can be difficult to know where to begin.
California is the largest state in the U.S. by population, ranging from the northern coastal regions to the mountains of the harsh southern desert. The landscape of the so-called golden state is vast and varied, so it can be difficult to pinpoint the best areas for travel.
To help you plan your trip, here are five dreamy destinations to add to your California bucket list.
San Francisco
Located on the tip of Peninsula, San Francisco is perhaps Northern California’s most thriving city. The destination is best known for its Golden Gate Bridge, one of the greatest tourist attractions California has to offer. Explorers should also visit San Francisco’s Chinatown, which is known to be the largest outside of Asia. History can also visit the Fisherman’s Wharf and the infamous prison on Alcatraz Island.
Palm Springs
If you’re jetting off to Southern California, this city in the Sonoran Desert is a must-see. Best known for its hot springs, midcentury and modern architecture and popular shopping district along Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs is never short of entertainment for tourists. The surrounding Coachella Valley provides ample opportunities for hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails, while the city brings a touch of Hollywood glamour. Famously, Frank Sinatra, Bob Hope and Lucille Ball built homes here, which you can now visit and even rent! Sufficed to say, this sun-drenched oasis has something for everyone. Check out the Mr Hudson Explores website for Palm Springs travel guides.
Los Angeles
Otherwise known as The City of Angels partly due to its Spanish translation, Los Angeles is the cultural hub of Southern California. Not only it is home to the iconic Hollywood sign and several large entertainment studios, but L.A. also boasts a Mediterranean climate, with residents enjoying sun almost all year round. This sprawling metropolis is surrounded by mountains and boasts an incredible skyline view. Beach lovers should check out Venice Beach, while movie buffs can take a stroll down Hollywood Boulevard and. There are so many things to do in Los Angeles that you’ll be spoilt for choice.
San Diego
With its beautiful sun-soaked beaches and numerous visitor attractions, San Diego is one of the most popular tourist destinations in California. The large coastal city is located just north of the Mexico border, yet it has a friendly small town atmosphere unlike many other cities in California. The city’s stunning coastline offers incredible views, while the sunny climate invites visitors to lounge on the beaches of La Jolla all year round.
Yosemite National Park
Last but certainly not least, Yosemite National Park (located in California’s Sierra Nevada mountains) is an iconic attraction with a stunning landscape of ancient sequoia trees and granite cliffs. Whether you’re a hiker, a photographer or merely a keen adventurer, this famous park is certainly worth a visit.
