California is a great option for road trip and beach enthusiasts alike looking for some incredibly scenic spots in the United States.
As one of the country’s biggest states, visitors looking to explore the Golden State have near-endless opportunities for adventure and romantic getaways.
Planning a drive through California can offer a diverse range of experiences, from towering forests and majestic coastlines to bustling city streets and serene desert landscapes.
While planning your trip, it’s good to note that California is notorious for having higher gas prices than the rest of the US due to environmental restrictions, high taxes, and fewer regional refineries, so be sure to budget extra money for your driving trip.
To help you plan your adventure, here are 13 road trip destinations and routes highlighted in the sources:
1. Redwood National Park
Established in 1968, this park is about 50 miles long and is described as an excellent destination for nature lovers. It is home to majestic trees over 300 feet tall, including the California redwood and Douglas-fir.
2. Laguna Beach
A captivating coastal city in California, Laguna Beach boasts seven miles of beautiful coves and beaches.
Visitors can stroll through the city’s boardwalk, surf its majestic waters, and explore an underwater park. For those who enjoy hiking, there are 7,000 acres of over 40 trails to explore.
3. South Lake Tahoe
Located in southern California, South Lake Tahoe is known for its extravagant ski resorts and clear waters.
The city is situated within the Sierra Nevada mountains and has a lively nightlife. The optimal time to travel there is considered to be from March to May.
4. Napa Valley
Notorious for its vineyards, Napa Valley is home to over 400 wineries. The area is described as picturesque with rolling hills and offers romantic stays. It’s highlighted as a perfect spot for visitors looking for a calm weekend getaway.
5. California’s Death Valley
Well-known for its hot temperatures, Death Valley is regarded as one of the driest regions in North America during the fall and spring seasons.
About four days is suggested as enough time to see what the destination has to offer. The Death Valley National Park received over a million visitors in 2021.
6. Big Sur
Stretching 90 miles in California’s Central Coast, the Big Sur region has a rich artistic history and luminescent blue waters.
This destination is presented as an ideal spot to drive through when visiting California’s coastline. It’s also home to many endangered species, including some of North America’s largest birds.
7. Rancho Palos Verdes
Mentioned as one of the best places to live in California, this city is located within Los Angeles County. The peninsula is noted as a great place to drive around, offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, grasslands, and hills.
8. Highway 49
This highway is about 326 miles long and takes over six hours to drive in one direction. It features delightful stops such as the California State Mining and Mineral Museum, where visitors can explore numerous exhibits showcasing fossils, gems, and minerals.
9. Rodeo Drive
A famous street that is two miles long and attracts many visitors daily. Driving through, you can see vibrant restaurants and exquisite accommodations. It’s described as one of the world’s most upscale destinations.
10. Fresno Blossom Trail
This trail is 62 miles long and is called a gorgeous spot for visitors. It showcases a variety of plants, such as almond and plum blossoms. The best time to visit the trail is from February to September.
11. Route 66
Popularly known as the Mother Road, this route stretches 2,448 miles and has a rich history. The California portion comprises 100 sites like museums, bridges, and restaurants that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
12. California State Route 158
Located off Highway 395, this route is sometimes regarded as the June Lake Loop. Travelers often choose this route for peaceful road trips because of its picturesque mountains, stunning lakes, and extensive hiking trails.
13. Mount Shasta Scenic Byway
This byway features many mountains, including Mount Shasta, which stands over 14,000 feet tall. The peak of Mount Shasta can be seen from over 100 miles away. The best time to visit Mount Shasta for weather is June or July.
Alicia Richards