California stands out as a great option for road trip and beach enthusiasts alike. It offers some incredibly scenic spots in the United States.
As one of the country’s biggest states, visitors exploring the Golden State have near-endless opportunities for adventure and romantic getaways.
Whether you’re seeking towering trees, stunning coastlines, picturesque valleys, or historic highways, California has a memorable spot waiting for you. Let’s explore 13 must-see destinations.
1: Redwood National Park
Established in 1968, Redwood National Park is a phenomenal destination for nature lovers. Stretching about 50 miles long, the park is home to some truly majestic trees.
Here, you can witness towering specimens that reach over 300 feet tall, including the iconic California redwood and the impressive Douglas-fir.
Exploring this ancient forest provides a sense of awe and tranquility, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to connect with nature on a grand scale. It’s a place where the sheer size of the natural world leaves a lasting impression.
2: Laguna Beach
Laguna Beach is a captivating coastal city in California known for its stunning shoreline. It boasts seven miles of beautiful coves and beaches where visitors can enjoy the classic California coast.
Activities abound, from strolling along the city’s boardwalk and surfing its majestic waters to exploring an intriguing underwater park.
For those who prefer land adventures, the area caters to hiking enthusiasts with 7,000 acres featuring over 40 trails.
This combination of beach city charm and extensive outdoor recreation makes Laguna Beach a versatile getaway spot.
3: South Lake Tahoe
Nestled in southern California, South Lake Tahoe is renowned for its extravagant ski resorts and incredibly clear waters.
The city is beautifully situated within the majestic Sierra Nevada mountains, providing a stunning backdrop for various activities. While it’s a prime spot for winter sports, South Lake Tahoe also offers a lively nightlife.
Although visitors arrive throughout the year to enjoy its unique blend of mountain and lake attractions, the optimal time to travel there is from March to May. This period likely offers pleasant weather for exploring its natural beauty.
4: Napa Valley
Napa Valley holds international fame, notorious for its vineyards. This picturesque region is home to over 400 wineries, making it a premier destination for wine lovers.
The landscape is characterized by picturesque rolling hills, which contribute to its romantic atmosphere. For visitors seeking a calm and relaxing experience, Napa Valley offers various romantic stays.
It is the quintessential destination for a calm weekend getaway, providing a serene environment to unwind and indulge in fine wines and beautiful scenery.
5: California’s Death Valley
California’s Death Valley is a place defined by its hot temperatures, making it well-known across the globe. It is widely regarded as one of the driest regions in North America, particularly during the fall and spring seasons.
Despite its extreme conditions, Death Valley is a fascinating destination. Visitors can typically see what the destination has to offer within an average of four days.
Its unique landscape attracts significant interest, with the National Park receiving over a million visitors in 2021. It offers a stark, unforgettable desert experience.
6: Big Sur
Stretching along 90 miles of California’s Central Coast, Big Sur is a region celebrated for its beauty and character.
It possesses a rich artistic history, drawing inspiration from its dramatic scenery. The coastline features luminescent blue waters that capture the eye. This area is an ideal spot to drive through when exploring California’s diverse coastline.
Beyond its scenic roads and artistic heritage, Big Sur is also significant for its wildlife, serving as home to many endangered species, including some of North America’s largest birds.
7: Rancho Palos Verdes
Rancho Palos Verdes is recognized as one of the best places to live in California. This city is situated within Los Angeles County, offering proximity to urban amenities while maintaining a distinct coastal feel.
The peninsula itself is highlighted as a great place to drive around, primarily due to the stunning views it provides.
Drivers and passengers can take in breathtaking sights of the Pacific Ocean, rolling grasslands, and picturesque hills. It offers a luxurious and visually rewarding driving experience with expansive coastal vistas.
8: Highway 49
Highway 49 is a significant route stretching approximately 326 miles long. Driving the entirety of this highway in one direction takes over six hours, making it a substantial journey.
The route is dotted with delightful stops that add historical and cultural interest to the drive. One notable feature is the California State Mining and Mineral Museum, where visitors can explore numerous exhibits.
These exhibits showcase a variety of fascinating items, including fossils, gems, and minerals, offering a glimpse into the state’s rich geological past.
9: Rodeo Drive
For a touch of glamour on a California scenic drive, passing through the famous Rodeo Drive is a must. This renowned street is approximately two miles long and is a major attraction, drawing many visitors daily.
As you travel along Rodeo Drive, you can gaze out the window to see vibrant restaurants and exquisite accommodations.
It is known as one of the world’s most upscale destinations, synonymous with luxury shopping and high-end living. It offers a peek into the opulent side of California life.
10: Fresno Blossom Trail
The Fresno County Blossom Trail provides a gorgeous and aromatic experience. Spanning 62 miles, this trail is a beautiful spot for visitors, particularly when the flora is in bloom.
It showcases a wide variety of plants, notably stunning almond and plum blossoms. The visual display of colorful blooms makes for a memorable trip.
The best time to visit the trail is from February to September, allowing ample time to catch the blossoms at their peak and enjoy the scenic agricultural landscape.
11: Route 66
Popularly and affectionately known as the Mother Road, Route 66 is an iconic part of American history and culture.
This historic route stretches an impressive 2,448 miles. It is steeped in rich history, recalling the early days of cross-country travel.
Along its length, Route 66 comprises 100 sites that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
These sites include a diverse range of landmarks such as museums, bridges, and classic restaurants. Driving a portion of Route 66 is a journey through the past.
12: California State Route 158
California State Route 158 is a beautiful alternative route often found off Highway 395. It is sometimes referred to as the June Lake Loop, indicating its path around scenic June Lake.
Travelers frequently select this route specifically for its peaceful road trip atmosphere. The scenery along Route 158 is particularly appealing, featuring picturesque mountains and stunning lakes that provide numerous photo opportunities.
Additionally, the area offers extensive hiking trails, making it perfect for those who want to combine a scenic drive with outdoor exploration.
13: Mount Shasta Scenic Byway
The Mount Shasta Scenic Byway is defined by its impressive mountainous landscape. A central feature of this byway is Mount Shasta, a majestic peak that stands over 14,000 feet tall.
The sheer size of Mount Shasta is remarkable, with its peak visible from over 100 miles away. This makes it a dominant presence on the horizon.
Travelers planning a visit to this scenic byway should aim for June or July for the best weather, ensuring optimal conditions for enjoying the stunning mountain views and surrounding nature.
Alicia Richards