Welcome to the magical world of Universal Studios Hollywood, where blockbuster movies come to life and adventures await around every corner! 

I just returned home from a super fun two days in the park, and of course now have all the Universal Studios tips to share! To be honest, I kinda forgot how much fun theme parks are (yes, even as an adult), and wanna start incorporating them more into my California adventures. I mean, SoCal is only a drive away from us anyways… 

We totally felt like kids again – wandering Hogsmeade while sipping on frozen butterbeers (my new favorite), screaming on thrill rides in the Lower Lot (don’t miss The Mummy ride!), seeing the backlot of The Good Place on the iconic Studio Tour, and of course taking photos with all our favorite characters (hi Shrek!). Oh – and collecting coins, eating themed foods at Toadstool Cafe, and riding Mario Kart at Super Mario World! Such a fun weekend down in Hollywood!

Here’s everything you need to know to have the best possible weekend at Universal Studios Hollywood!

Important Info and Universal Studio Tips

Where is Universal Studios Hollywood and How to Get There 

Hollywood, baby! Yes, for real! Universal Studios Hollywood is located in Universal City in Southern California. It’s situated in the San Fernando Valley, just north of the city of Los Angeles (so thankfully you’ll miss most of that horrid LA traffic if you’re coming from up north, haha). 

The park is nestled in the foothills of the Santa Monica Mountains, meaning tons of scenic views! You’ll see the surrounding mountains from plenty of places within the park, but we loved the views on the escalators between the Upper and Lower Lots the most (and of course took some cute pics). 

Flying: Since the park is oh so close to downtown Los Angeles, there’s plenty of nearby airports (LA is one of the most populous cities in the US after all!).

• Los Angeles International Airport (LAX): Since LAX is a major international airport, you shouldn’t have a hard time finding non-stop flights from other large airports. It’s about 25 miles southeast of the park, so not terribly far (although LAX is definitely not my preferred airport of choice in SoCal – it’s HUGE and the traffic nearby is just awful!). But it has the most nonstop flights by far… so sometimes the most convenient depending where you’re coming from. 
• Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR): The closest airport to the park, at only 6 miles away! BUR is a smaller airport primarily only serving domestic flights, so if you’re coming from further away, you’ll most likely need to connect.

• Long Beach Airport (LGB): Another of the smaller airports in SoCal, and about 35 miles south of Universal Studios Hollywood. 

• John Wayne Airport (SNA): Yes, another option, although a bit further south around 45 miles away (but perfect if you wanna visit Disneyland and Orange County as well).

Driving to Universal: If you’re coming from elsewhere in California (like us!), you can totally drive! 

Coming from the San Francisco Bay Area, we tend to prefer driving to SoCal instead of flying. Although flights are relatively cheap (usually under $200 roundtrip), we find total travel time is roughly the same driving vs. flying (considering the time getting to the airport, waiting at the gate, actual flying time, getting out of LAX, etc).

• Local Tip: If you’re driving from Northern California and aren’t planning on making any stops, take the I-5; it’s way faster than the 101! Unless you’re doing a PCH road trip – that’s a different story!

Here’s some example driving distances from the other popular spots in California (and nearby) to give you a sense of the time required:

• From Los Angeles: 20 minutes, 10 miles
• From Orange County: 1 hour, 50 miles
• From Santa Barbara: 1 ½ hours, 90 miles
• From Palm Springs: 2 hours, 120 miles
• From San Diego: 2 hours, 130 miles
• From Las Vegas (Nevada): 4 ½ hours, 275 miles
• From Yosemite National Park: 4 ½ hours, 270 miles
• From Big Sur: 5 ½ hours, 340 miles
• From San Francisco: 6 hours, 375 miles
• From Sacramento: 6 hours, 375 miles
• From Phoenix (Arizona): 6 hours, 385 miles
• From Lake Tahoe: 7 ½ hours, 435 miles

If you’re not from around here, I HIGHLY recommend combining a visit to Universal Studios Hollywood with other spots in SoCal. My favorites are Palm Springs (perfect for a winter visit), San Clemente, and Santa Barbara – plus a weekend in San Diego never hurt anyone, haha. 

→ Visiting Universal Studios Hollywood on a much longer Pacific Coast Highway road trip?! Check out all my favorite PCH stops right here!

Parking at Universal Studios Hollywood: Just remember if you’re driving you’ll need to deal with (and pay for overpriced) parking. General parking is over $30 per day, and front gate parking is upwards of $70 – kinda wild (and that’s on top of ticket prices). Because of that, we left the car at our hotel (The Garland), and took the free hotel shuttle to the park. 

BUT there’s lots of parking at Universal if that works out better for you (maybe you’ve got lots of stuff and some wiggly kids). Note that there’s no free parking at Universal Studios Hollywood with a standard ticket. Only annual Gold pass ticket holders get free parking. 

If you wanna park for $3 (yes, THREE DOLLARS for all day parking), you can park at Universal City’s Park and Ride Lot and simply take the shuttle over.

Public Transportation to Universal

• Metro: The Metro Red Line has a stop right at Universal City Station, which is within walking distance to Universal Studios Hollywood. You’ll find the Red Line from a bunch of spots throughout LA, including downtown LA and Hollywood. An easy and cost effective option if you’re staying near a metro stop!

• Bus: There’s also a few bus routes operated by the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) that service Universal City. 

Shuttle Services: Before booking any transportation, always check to see if your hotel offers shuttle services to Universal Studios (one of the best Universal Studios tips). Sometimes they’re even free… yes, all the way from downtown LA. 

And if not, if you aren’t interested in relying on public transit (I get it, especially after a long, tiring day in the park), there’s plenty of tourist shuttles (i.e. tour companies) that offer shuttle transportation to Universal Studios Hollywood. Some of these are part of package tours, but there’s also standalone transport services. We saw tons of these huge coach buses in the lot!

Rideshares: Of course there’s always Uber/Lyft to get you to/from the park! Universal has a dedicated rideshare pick up/drop off, inside the Frankenstein parking area, just FYI, which is a 2 minute walk to the park, so super, super easy and convenient! Don’t Uber from downtown LA though – it’s gonna be hella expensive! Our hotel was less than a 10 minute drive and only an $8 Uber in the early AM.

And if you’re staying at the Sheraton Universal or Hilton Universal City, you can easily walk to the park in less than 10 minutes!

When to Visit Universal Studios Hollywood 

In terms of weather, there isn’t a horrible time to visit Universal. Winters are mild (and sometimes a bit wet), while summers are typically hot and dry. It’s the crowds you gotta worry about. 

For the least crowds, you’ll wanna avoid the weeks around Spring Break (typically mid-April), all of summer vacation, and Christmas holiday season at all costs. Of course the park will be way busier on weekends vs. weekdays, but I get weekends work best for most people (including us). 

For reference, we visited the first weekend of May and didn’t find the crowds to be horrible, although we don’t have much to compare it to, haha. I will say we had Early Access one morning and were able to ride every single ride in the park with wait times less than 30 minutes. We did spend 2 days at Universal Studios Hollywood so that definitely made a difference as well (since we didn’t feel stressed to pack everything in and could wait out long lines by getting a snack or taking pics with characters).

Where to Stay Near Universal Studios Hollywood 

There’s TONS of hotels in Los Angeles – honestly so, so, so many. If you wanna get to the park for rope drop or have Early Access to Super Nintendo World, I recommend staying nearby in Universal City. 

My top pick? The Garland: Only an 8-minute drive to Universal, you really can’t beat the location. This is where we stayed and I cannot say enough good things about it! From the quirky retro touches, poolside sunset movies, a street taco cart (which I can totally vouch for), and delicious brunch at The Front Yard, we absolutely loved it. 

Plus, there’s a FREE shuttle to Universal (and back) every single day on the hour starting at 8am (we did have to Uber one morning to get to the park earlier for Early Access, just FYI).

El Royale Hotel and The Tangerine are great options as well (and less than 10 minutes away), and there’s always the Sheraton Universal and Hilton Universal City which are both located within walking distance to the park.

Universal Studios Hollywood Tips and Tricks

Even after only a few days in the park, I came away with tons of Universal Studios tips and tricks. And sometimes just a few tweaks to your Universal itinerary can really make the trip just that much better. 

My biggest piece of advice – if you wanna see and do and eat everything, DON’T WING IT. Have a plan and *follow that plan*! 

Other (just as important) Universal tips here:

Download the app: The Universal Studios Hollywood App is honestly a HUGE help. There’s an interactive map right in the app that shows your exact location in the park, estimated wait times for all rides, park hours (they change all the time), restaurant menus, and even virtual line ques. 

I was super overwhelmed at first (the park seems huge if you’ve never been), but the app was invaluable. And it’s free, so there’s no reason not to download it! 

Get early access to Super Mario World: On that note, if Super Nintendo World is super important to you (and you don’t wanna wait on crazy long lines for Mario Kart Bowser’s Challenge), early access is more than worth it. Early access gives you entry to Super Nintendo World a whole hour before the park even opens, meaning way fewer crowds and way less wait time. 

Do note that once they allow early access guests in, park staff walk all visitors straight to Super Nintendo World. You’re not allowed in other areas of the park (understandably so, and plus everything else is still closed). 

Also – don’t bother taking the stairs thinking you’ll bypass all the escalator people (you’ll see what I mean…) — park staff lead everyone and stay in front. Meaning you may as well take the escalators… it’s gonna be a long day — don’t wanna tire yourself out straight from the get go!

Arrive at the park for rope drop: If you’re not planning on getting early access, I highly recommend getting to the park early and even before actual opening hours. They’ll scan your ticket before park hours, then put everyone in a waiting hold, and then drop the rope and you’re free to go as you please! 

Make sure you prioritize heading to the popular rides first so you can get on before the huge lines start to form.

Make reservations for Toadstool Cafe: If you wanna eat at Toadstool Cafe (the themed restaurant inside Super Nintendo World), you’ll need to make a reservation. These often sell out early in the day (and can only be made the day of), so in order to get your desired time, make your reservation as soon as you visit Super Nintendo World in the AM upon park opening. 

The only way is to scan the QR code outside the restaurant – not even in the app. If you miss reservations, they sometimes do walk-ups, and make sure to check the QR code link throughout the day – sometimes reservations become available later on.

Don’t miss the studio tour: This is the bread and butter of Universal Studios Hollywood, and what really sets it apart from Universal Orlando! I mean, Universal Studios Hollywood remains a working studio (!!!) where movies, television shows, commercials, and music videos are still filmed. 

You can even catch glimpses of active production sets if you’re lucky. Plus, there’s some really cool “rides” on it too – like the King Kong 360 3-D, Fast & Furious – Supercharged, and of course you’ll get to see the Jaws replica!

Figure out your breakfast situation ahead of time: If you’re planning to rush to the rides (which you should if you don’t wanna wait on horrendous lines), you either need to eat breakfast before entering the park (or a quick one while waiting for rope drop), or wait it out until you’re satisfied with your morning. Looking back I’d bring some snacks for the AM since we didn’t end up eating until almost 1pm on our first day, whoops (not the smartest idea).

Take advantage of mobile food ordering: Perfect if the food lines are long and you’re getting hangry, haha. If you know what you want you can simply order on the app and essentially skip the line! 

Some rides offer free lockers for two hours: While most rides allow you to carry on backpacks and such, two rides (Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey and Revenge of the Mummy) provide free lockers to keep your stuff in. 

These lockers are good for up to two hours, so if the line’s short and you don’t feel like carrying around your stuff for a bit, well, you’ve got up to two hours for free (take advantage – nothing’s free at theme parks… ever)! One of my best Universal Studios tips by far.

Buy your tickets in advance: Not only will you save time (who wants to wait on yet another unnecessary line when you’ll be on lines all day, haha), but you actually save a few bucks buying on the website.

Stay hydrated: You’re in SoCal – it’ll probably be hot and sunny. There’s plenty of bathrooms located around the park, so no excuse not to drink lots of water and stay hydrated (and no, a Duff’s Beer doesn’t count, haha). 

While we’re on that note, don’t forget about the sunscreen!

Check showtimes: Since shows are only scheduled a few times each day, if you really wanna see a show (I highly recommend WaterWorld), plan it into your day. Rides run continuously during park opening hours, so you can hop on those anytime.

Take pics with characters when you see them: I was surprised that lines close to take pictures with the characters, but it makes sense since they need breaks from the costumes! Get on line early so you don’t miss out on the popular characters (namely Mario and Luigi and Shrek and Fiona). You’ll see some characters roaming around (we loved seeing Frankenstein out and about), but most are there to pose for photos. 

My favorites were the minions, Bart and Lisa, the train conductor in Hogsmeade Village (such a character), and the Jurassic Park dinosaurs – so, so epic! And OMG, you need to see Donkey – so interactive and fun! 

Other FAQs about Universal Studios Hollywood 

What is the closest airport to Universal Studios? Nope, it’s not LAX! The closest airport to Universal Studios Hollywood is actually Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR), also known as Bob Hope Airport. Being only ~6 miles northeast of the park, it’s easily the most convenient airport for visitors in terms of proximity to Universal.

Are Universal Studios Hollywood and Hollywood Studios the same thing? I was super confused about this at first too, and I’m here to report they are very much NOT the same thing! 

Universal Studios is a film studio and theme park located in Universal City, California (what this entire blog post is about!), while Hollywood Studios (officially known as Disney’s Hollywood Studios) is a theme park located at the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida. Hollywood Studios is operated by The Walt Disney Company and is inspired by Disney films and the entertainment industry.

Universal Studios Hollywood vs Universal Studios Orlando: Which one should you visit?! It’s hard to say – although they’re on opposite sides of the country so that may very well be the deciding factor, haha. 

Here’s a few key differences about them –

• Universal Studios Hollywood
  • Located in Universal City, California
  • Features Super Nintendo World, the Studio Tour, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and plenty of movie-themed attractions
  • Divided into two main areas: the Upper Lot and the Lower Lot
  • The park is smaller in size compared to Universal Studios Orlando but offers unique experiences such as the Studio Tour and is very much doable in only one day

• Universal Studios Orlando
  • Located in Orlando, Florida
  • Comprises two theme parks: Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure (with way more action and thrill rides)
  • Offers a wider range of attractions, including The Wizarding World of Harry Potter in both parks, The Simpsons Ride, and more.
  • Universal Studios Orlando is larger and is hard to see in only one day 

So basically, if you’re in California, visit Universal Studios Hollywood, and if you’re on the East Coast, visit Universal Studios Orlando, haha. BUT remember, Super Nintendo World is ONLY at Universal Studios Hollywood.

Should I get the Universal Express Pass? That depends on a few different factors. It’s more expensive (obviously), but you get to skip the regular lines at most attractions within the park. Perfect if you’re visiting on a very crowded day and really wanna maximize your time. 

You definitely don’t need the Express Pass if you’re spending two days at Universal Studios as long as you have a well-planned out few days of course (my suggested Universal Studios itinerary below!). We got Early Access to Super Nintendo World and skipped on the Express Pass.

What’s the VIP Experience? An even more exclusive and personalized visit to Universal Studios Hollywood! It’s essentially a VIP guided tour of the park that provides behind-the-scenes access, priority access to attractions, and special perks like gourmet dining. 

Not necessary for the regular visitor, but perfect if you’re a huge movie buff and really wanna learn about and gain insider info about the studio’s history, famous productions, and the movie-making process.

Can I bring food and water into the park? Yes, you’re allowed snacks, sandwiches, fruits/veggies, and other non-perishable items (no glass containers understandably). Even small coolers and picnic baskets are allowed, although they must fit within the park’s size restrictions. 

Bring a reusable water bottle to fill up at water fountains throughout the park (although it seems kinda annoying to hold all day if I’m being honest if you’re just carrying a belt bag like I did…). Note that outside alcohol (including drinks purchased in CityWalk) is not allowed in the park. 

What else to do near Universal Studios Hollywood? There’s TONS of things to do near the park – I mean LA is right there! Some popular spots are Hollywood Boulevard, the Griffith Observatory, Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood, the Santa Monica Pier, CityWalk (literally a walk away), and so much more. 

Most visitors combine their one or two days in Universal with other things in SoCal! Might as well hang around SoCal for a bit if you’re not from around there!

Should I spend 1 or 2 days in Universal Studios?

That’s entirely up to you of course! I will say that most people only spend one day at Universal, but we really enjoyed having two days at the park! 

We had tons of time to explore the park at a leisurely pace, got to ride popular rides multiple times (often with very little wait time – I see you Mario Kart, The Mummy, and Transformers), and were able to take lots of snack breaks without fear of missing attractions/shows/characters.

If you buy early access to Super Nintendo World, you can most likely see and do everything in one day. Just make sure to prioritize your must-do activities and plan your day strategically. The park isn’t huge by any means – it’s way smaller than Disneyland/California Adventure nearby and Universal Studios Florida/Islands of Adventure in Orlando. So very doable with just one day.

It really depends on how long you’ve got, and if you’re trying to hit up other Southern California hotspots on your trip. Coming from the SF Bay Area, we’ve been to SoCal dozens of times, so this trip was primarily about visiting Universal Studios Hollywood since we’d never been. 

Rides at Universal Studios Hollywood 

And now onto the good part – all the rides at Universal! I was kinda surprised that there weren’t more rides at the park (there’s only about a dozen or so), but that just meant we re-rode our favorites a bunch!

Universal Studios Hollywood is divided into two main areas: the Upper Lot and the Lower Lot. There’s a series of escalators between the two, although they take quite a while to get between (there’s four long escalators!), so I’d recommend checking off everything in one before heading to the other so you’re not bouncing between the two all day.

I’ll go over the rides in more detail, but here’s a general overview of the lots.

• The Upper Lot is where you’ll find the main entrance to Universal Studios Hollywood and where many of the family-friendly attractions are located (think Kung Fu Panda, Despicable Me Minion Mayhem, The Simpsons Ride, and Secret Life of Pets). There’s also The Wizarding World of Harry Potter (my favorite!), the Studio Tour, and The Simpsons Springfield (don’t miss the giant pink donut) over here.

• The Lower Lot is where the more adventurous and thrilling rides are, including Revenge of the Mummy, Jurassic World, and Transformers. Plus Super Nintendo World (!!!) with the crazy-popular Mario Kart ride, themed dining at Toadstool Cafe, and shopping at 1-UP Factory.

Upper Lot 

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter 

Welcome to the magical Wizarding World of Harry Potter, full of frozen butterbeers, wand and owl shops in Hogsmeade Village, cobblestoned streets leading to Hogwarts Castle, and Chocolate Frogs and Bertie Bott’s Every-Flavor Beans. 

I think we wandered through half a dozen times, and I never got over just how detailed and authentic everything was! A must visit for witches, wizards, and Muggles alike. There’s two rides here, and a third attraction which is more like a mini-show:

• Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey: We LOVED this ride and went on it 5 times during our 2 days at Universal Studios, haha. Get ready to soar through iconic Harry Potter scenes, including the Forbidden Forest, the Quidditch pitch, and the Chamber of Secrets. Definitely one of the most popular rides in the park.

• Flight of the Hippogryph: This is the park’s only outdoor rollercoaster, and you fly around Hagrid’s hut and past Hagrid’s magical creatures. Honestly, it’s not worth waiting if the lines over 20 minutes long – the ride is literally a 20 second mini roller coaster and is over in a flash (womp, womp). It definitely has great potential but was very (very) meh to us and kinda a dud.

• Ollivanders Wand Shop: A magical experience where guests can watch a wand-choosing ceremony conducted by a wandkeeper. It’s more of a mini show than an actual ride, and was cute but not a must-do in my opinion unless you’re a huge fan of HP. The lines are never very long for this, so may as well check it out. Then you can purchase your very own wand afterwards to cast spells and make magical things happen in the park (yes, really!).

Springfield

So, so colorful, and so, so fun! Especially with a giant pink donut in hand! I was floored by how meticulously themed Springfield was. The whole area really recreates the look and feel of the fictional town from The Simpsons. From the colorful buildings to the humorous signage and themed props, it really captures the charm and humor from the long-lasting TV show (with over 30 seasons, wow!).

Don’t miss classic American burgers, fries, and milkshakes at Krusty Burger, a Flaming Moe from Moe’s Tavern, oversized, pink-frosted donuts from Lard Lad Donuts (just like Homer!), and some Duff Beer from the brewery!

• The Simpsons Ride: Get read for a hilarious adventure through Krustyland, an amusement park created by Krusty the Clown. Riders board a simulator vehicle shaped like a roller coaster car and experience 3D animation, motion simulation, and special effects along the way. We thought it was super fun!

Studio Tour

One of the main attractions of Universal Studios Hollywood is the Studio Tour! So, naturally, one of my biggest tips for Universal Studios is to not miss it (especially since it’s not offered at the location in Orlando).

What is it exactly? A tram ride that takes guests behind the scenes of real working movie studios and offers a glimpse into the magic of filmmaking. One of the defining features of the park, actually!  

There’s movie sets, soundstages, and other things in the working backlot to see, where famous blockbuster movies and TV shows have been filmed over the years. Think Desperate Housewives, Jaws, Back to the Future, The Good Place (with the exact yogurt spot), Alfred Hitchcock’s “Psycho”, and so many more.

Besides all the filmmaking fun, there’s also two main “rides”/special effect demonstrations on the Studio Tour – Fast & Furious – Supercharged and King Kong 360 3-D, both of which were utterly fascinating and really cool. The Studio Tour does get busy at times (staff told us wait times can be two hours!), so if you see a short wait time, go for it!

Other rides and attractions in the Upper Lot

• The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash!: Pretend you’re a pet navigating the wild streets of NYC – the ride was cute and all but once was enough, haha.

• Despicable Me Minion Mayhem: We loved this 3D motion-simulator ride featuring Gru, his daughters, and the Minions. Real talk – I almost teared up at the end! Don’t miss the minion dance party afterwards. Safe to say we went on this multiple times.

• Kung Fu Panda: The Emperor’s Quest: A 4D theater experience with 3D glasses and special effects! Clearly it wasn’t too memorable for me because I don’t remember riding it, although I know for a fact we did!

• Super Silly Fun Land: A cute play area for kids inspired by the Despicable Me movies. There’s the Silly Swirly Fun Ride (a spinning ride), Super Silly Space Killer (a water play area), and more. 

• WaterWorld: Also in the Upper Lot you’ll find the park’s only live-action stunt show. It’s based on the 1995 film “Waterworld”, and we loved the thrilling stunts, pyrotechnics (so much fire!), and even a seaplane crash. Crazy what special effects can be performed on the water – kinda wind! 

Lower Lot 

Super Nintendo World

Walk through the life-sized green pipe (with rainbow sparkly lights of course) and you’ll find Bowser’s Castle, Princess Peach’s Castle, angry thwomps, and Mt. Beanpole. Even biting Piranha Plants, rotating coins, and ? blocks to punch. A truly immersive world and complete deja vu (that is, if you played the video games as a kid like I did!).

I could not believe just how much thought went into designing the space – we really felt like we were in Super Nintendo World! It was designed to resemble the vibrant and colorful world of Nintendo games after all – particularly the Mushroom Kingdom from the Super Mario series!

Besides the ridiculously popular ride (which sees wait times of an hour+ after 9:30am), there’s the themed Toadstool Cafe with fun desserts and lunch items, shopping at the 1 Up Shop, and of course the Power Up Band Key Challenges to collect virtual coins (you’ll wanna buy a Power-Up Band to compete in these). 

• Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge: This ride was SO fun – and even better that we had early access and didn’t have to wait on a two hour line, haha (it was more like 5 minutes for us). As soon as we got off we quickly got back on line to ride again (definitely only possible with early access!). I won’t spoil it for ya, but just know you’ll be putting on a Mario visor and special VR goggles and will be steering through different levels and versions of the Mario Kart game! Technology is wild y’all! 

Other rides and attractions in the Lower Lot

• Jurassic World: Ohhh another one we loved! It kinda felt like going on a river adventure through prehistoric landscapes complete with MASSIVE state-of-the-art animatronic dinosaurs (and super realistic). It’s the only water ride in Universal… so you may very well get a bit wet! Some people wore ponchos, but that seemed like overkill to me, haha (especially on a hot day).

• The Mummy: Easily our favorite ride in the entire park – and probably the most thrilling (which is definitely why we loved it oh so much). At first it’s very deceiving, but then BAM – you’re off! It’s actually an indoor roller coaster totally inspired by The Mummy film franchise – expect mummies, scarab beetles, and other dangers.

• Transformers: The Ride 3D: Get ready to battle between the Autobots and Decepticons (think Optimus Prime, Bumblebee, Megatron, and more)! This was another of our favorite rides in the park, and we went on multiple times during our two days at Universal! 

Food/snacks at Universal Studios Hollywood 

We were more-than pleasantly surprised with the snack situation at Universal Studios. After visiting Disneyland last year, I didn’t think Universal would be on par, but boy was I wrong. We ate SO good and there were SO many fun themed foods and drinks. That was another benefit of spending two days at Universal – we got to try almost everything we wanted (hence this very long list of foods, haha)!

• Frozen butterbeer: 10/10 (super iconic, super refreshing, and super delicious – and no, it’s not beer and is actually nonalcoholic)
• Minion cookie: 7/10 (not terrible, but not the best cookie I’ve had either)
• Minion Nutella banana pudding: 8/10 (that nutella at the bottom really kicks it up a notch)
• Classic salted pretzel: 8/10 (perfectly fluffy and salted and always theme park favorite of mine)
• ? Up box tiramisu: 7/10 (super cute decorations and tasted pretty good)
• Flaming Moe: 5/10 (get solely for the presentation – it’s just orange soda with dry ice)
• Giant pink donut: 10/10 (I’d go back to Universal just for this – thought it’d be just for show and a fun pic, but wow oh wow was that donut orgasmic)

• Cheesy mushroom garlic knots: 9/10 (SO CHEESY and yummy and great dipped in the marinara sauce, don’t miss these at Toadstool Cafe)
• Butterbeer soft ice cream: 5/10 (didn’t taste the butterbeer flavor too much, but the vanilla was yummy and the texture was perfect, haha)
• Mushroom calzone: 4/10 (photo op in my opinion)
• Krusty burger: 6/10 (fun and nostalgic space, but regular American food)
• Toadstool cafe: 6/10 – The food was more like a 8/10, but the entire place kinda lacks organization and we didn’t start eating until after 1:15pm when our reservation was at noon. Definitely dedicate at least an hour and a half for this regardless if you have a reservation.

Suggested 1 and 2 Day Universal Studios Hollywood Itinerary 

1 Day Universal Studios Hollywood Itinerary

You can totally do Universal Studios Hollywood in just one day – the park isn’t all that big honestly! BUT it will be a very rushed and hectic day if you wanna go on all the rides, and definitely expect to wait in a few lines!

• 8-9am: Early access to Mario world 
  • Ride Mario Kart
  • Make reservation for Toadstool Cafe for early lunch
  • Games and challenges
  • Character photos
• 9am-11am(ish): Other rides in Lower lot 
  • Mummy
  • Transformers 
  • Jurassic World 
• 11:15-12:45ish: Toadstool Cafe 
• 1-2:30pm: Studio Tour 
• 3pm onwards: Upper Lot rides (including Wizarding World of Harry Potter) and WaterWorld show

2 Days in Universal Studios Hollywood 

As noted earlier, we spent 2 days in Universal Studios. And because of that, we didn’t wait longer than 25 minutes for any ride since we had two mornings and were able to knock out all the busy rides in the AM. We had a super relaxing two days in the park, and loved being able to stop for photos with characters and indulge in all the themed snacks without feeling like we’d be missing out on rides.

AND were able to go on the super popular rides multiple times (including twice on Mario Kart, 5x on Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey – no, it didn’t get old, a whole bunch of times on both The Mummy and Transformers, and whatever other rides we wanted to do again).

Day 1 in Universal

Morning

• Early access to Mario World
• Other rides in Lower lot 
• Lunch at Toadstool Cafe

Afternoon 

• Spend the afternoon enjoying more attractions and shows, including The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash!, Kung Fu Panda Adventure, and hanging out in Springfield with a few Duff beers!

Night

• CityWalk

Day 2 Universal Itinerary

Morning

• Arrive at Universal Studios Hollywood for park opening.
• Start your day with popular attractions in The Upper Lot with typically long wait times, such as Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey (we went twice back to back on Day 2), Flight of the Hippograph, and The Simpsons Ride.

Afternoon and Night

• Studio Tour
• WaterWorld
• Wander around the park, taking pics with characters, going on your favorite rides AGAIN, sipping more frozen butterbeers, eating that gigantic pink donut, etc!

Hope all these Universal Studios tips and tricks help you plan the most perfect trip! Have a butterbeer (or two!) for me!

The post Universal Studios Hollywood Tips and Suggested 1 and 2 Day Itinerary appeared first on A Passion and A Passport.

Think life-size gingerbread houses, 83-foot tall Christmas trees, dancing sugar plums, and allllll the roasted chestnuts (and mulled wine) you could ever wish for. Oh, and a whole bunch of glimmering light displays with the most ornate decorations. Christmas in California sure is something else!

Growing up in NYC, a fresh powder of snow was almost guaranteed every December 25th. And after living in California for the past 7+ years, the holidays just aren’t the same. Hence why I’ve scoped out the best places to celebrate Christmas in California! 

AND GET THIS: I’m Jewish! But who doesn’t love all the holiday cheer? I mean, everyone watches the Christmas Story on repeat for 3 weeks, right?!

I’m so lucky to have Candy Cane Lane (on the SF Bay Peninsula) in the next town over from me. We love sipping Christmas bevy’s (peppermint hot cocoa, anyone?!), strolling hand in hand gawking at all the lights and Christmas decorations. It’s one of our favorite dates of the year and we look forward to it every December!

Before we get into all the things to do in California for Christmas, lemme answer a few questions first!

Can I get a white Christmas in California?

Well, my friends, that’s never guaranteed, but you can certainly do your best to plan for one! 

If you’re looking for snow in NorCal during your Christmas in California celebrations, I strongly urge you to head to Lake Tahoe, Mammoth Mountain, or Yosemite National Park. And if you’re in SoCal, your only bet will be in Big Bear!

What’s the weather like during Christmas in California?

Since California is a HUGE state (for real, it’s larger than so many countries — including Japan and Italy), the weather drastically changes depending where you are. 

Like, they’ll be palm trees decked out in lights in some parts of the state while you’ll wake up to a fresh blanket of snow in others for Christmas morning. The weather you’ll find on your Christmas vacations in California is ridiculously varied and then some.

If you’re looking for a Christmas filled with palm trees and mild weather, head on down to Southern California! Do note the coast is usually gloomy, but that’ll probably just make it feel more like Christmas!

Northern California will undoubtedly be much chillier, and there’s a MUCH greater chance of snow. Meaning, more possibilities for a white Christmas in California!

Pour a glass of mulled wine (or spiced cider) and start planning your next Christmas in California getaway! Get ready for the ultimate Holly, jolly Christmas in California! The outdoor skating rinks, Nutcracker dances, and roaring fires await!

I’ve compiled 10 California Christmas hotspots to ensure you play out all your candy cane-lickin’, eggnog-sippin’ dreams.

Now let’s get to it! Don’t be a scrooge!

Christmas in Northern California 

1. Lake Tahoe 

One of the best places to celebrate Christmas in California is in Lake Tahoe. Easily! The resorts come alive with more holiday spirit than you thought possible, and you may even see Santa hitting up the slopes! 

Whether you are spending your time driving around the lake or at one of the world-class Lake Tahoe ski resorts, you’ll experience the Christmas magic with fairy lights, carols, and if you’re lucky, a fresh sprinkling of snow. Winter wonderland snow globe, anyone?!

Make sure to check out each of the resort pages to see what specific holiday events they have running but you can expect the following:

• Santa on the Slopes: The kids will love looking out for Santa on the slopes. Santa loves skiing and can be found on the mountain from the 19th to 25th in Squaw, Homewood, and Diamond Peak. If the kids are taking a day off, holiday face painting is in the village of Heavenly. Or be rewarded by dressing up as Santa yourself with discounted lift tickets and drinks in South Lake Tahoe.

• Giant Christmas Trees: Check out the sparkling lights and holiday-themed decorations. If you’re after a unique photo opportunity then both Squaw Valley and Heavenly Village are home to two of the largest wooden chairs for Santa to sit on. At 11 ½ feet high you’ll feel just like an elf sitting up in front of the equally giant Christmas tree.

• Ice Skating: Northstar has it’s very own ice skating rink — a great day-date activity (for both couples and families with kids). Carols play over the speakers during December and when you’ve had enough you can head off the ice to watch the skaters with a warm glass of mulled wine. Afterwards, head back toward the lake to the Ritz Carlton for gingerbread house making.

• Adult-Only Fun: Finally, for the adults, the Reno Jazz Orchestra plays some holiday favorites, join a Santa themed bar crawl (super fun to dress up), and enjoy holiday banquets and buffets at most of the big hotels.

Contributed by Erin from Curiously Erin

2. San Francisco 

The Christmas season is a magical time in San Francisco, with the city becoming dressed up with festive lights and decorations. It’s hard not to get into the Christmas spirit, with all sorts of holiday happenings all around town.

There are so many ways to celebrate the Christmas season in San Francisco, from tree lightings, outdoor ice skating rinks, holiday festivals, performances, and more! If you have 3 days in San Francisco, you can definitely make it to a whole bunch of fun Christmas-y spots!

Here are some of the best places to visit during Christmas in San Francisco: 

Union Square: Union Square is sort of like the Holiday HQ of San Francisco, with tons of festive things to do and see. The festivities kick off here when the ice rink opens in early November, followed by the lighting of the 83-foot tall Christmas tree on Thanksgiving weekend. 

In addition, Union Square is home to a giant Menorah, with a lighting ceremony taking place each night of Hanukkah. Also check out the Christmas wreaths in the windows of the Macy’s location across the street (and go inside to check out the super adorable and adoptable dogs and cats in each window), and the beautiful Christmas tree inside Neiman Marcus!

Embarcadero Center: The Embarcadero Center also plays host to a number of holiday events. There is a second ice outdoor ice rink here; this one is larger, and boasts stunning views of the Bay Bridge and waterfront.

The four towering buildings of the Embarcadero Center are also dressed up in over 17,000 LED lights, one of the most iconic sights during a Christmas in California.

Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39: Sure, locals scoff at both Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39 for being way too touristy – but they are some of the best places to get into the holiday spirit! 

Both Pier 39 and Ghirardelli Square are home to beautifully decorated Christmas trees. The one at Pier 39 is illuminated by a dazzling light show, which takes place every 30 minutes in the evenings.

In addition, an annual lighted boat parade takes place at Fisherman’s Wharf. This is the oldest and largest lighted boat parade in the San Francisco Bay. Watch as boats adorned with festive lights parade from Pier 39, past Fisherman’s Wharf, to Fort Mason, the St. Francis Yacht Club, and Crissy Field.

More Festive Happenings in San Francisco: Be sure to check out the life-sized, two-story gingerbread house at the Fairmont Hotel and have afternoon tea in front of the stunning Christmas trees at the luxurious Palace Hotel. Don’t miss San Francisco Ballet’s performance of the Nutcracker – the holiday classic was first performed in America in San Francisco!

Contributed by Caroline Ikeji of Pictures & Words

3. Nevada City

Looking for a traditional Victorian Christmas? Nevada City’s your answer. It’s old-fashioned. It’s quaint. It’s beautiful. And there’s a whole lotta Christmas spirit over here. The aroma of roasted chestnuts fills the air. Lovers (and families!) trot down the street in horse-drawn carriages. It’s the epitome of a Hallmark movie.

And that it was! You know there’s lots of Christmas spirit when the Hallmark Channel selects Nevada City to film one of their holiday movies (2006’s “The Christmas Card” – go add it to your Christmas movie list).

Nevada City is a picturesque town that is rich in gold rush history. Most of the buildings were built in the 1800s and the town is surrounded by tall, lush pine trees (which make the area smell absolutely amazing). 

And plus, it’s located about an hour from Sacramento, making it an easy day trip from the Capitol City.

The entire town turns into a Christmas miracle. Go and experience it for yourself! 

• Each Christmas, the main streets, Broad Street and Commercial, are transformed to a Victorian Christmas. There’s a walking Christmas tree (yes, really), carolers in full costume, and great food to sample. 

• Promise me you won’t miss the roasted chestnuts, giant turkey legs, Louisiana meat pies, and hot mulled wine. AND dress in costume – it’s highly encouraged! 

• Looking for something unique or a handmade treasure? Find the retail stores open, along with many vendors with popup booths up and down the beautifully decorated streets. 

• The Cornish Christmas Festival in Grass Valley is just five miles away from Nevada City, so plan to head over there as well! 

Some logistics to help plan your trip: The roads are closed to traffic. Parking can be a bit difficult, so a great option is to park at the Nevada County Government Center. Put this address into your GPS: 950 Maidu Avenue, Nevada City CA 95959. There are shuttles available for a small fee to get to the event, but the return trip is free. The shuttles are wheelchair accessible.

Contributed by Cynthia Graham of Blue Bag Nomads

4. Sacramento

What’s the first thing you think of when you hear Sac? Probably not Christmas, but I’m here to change your mind!

Sacramento is a place surrounded by various recreational spots and tourist attractions (like the distant Santa Catalina Island and the nearby Eldorado Forest). The diversity of the city has earned it some interesting nicknames, includign Sactown, The Almond Capital of the World, and America’s Most Diverse City.

Although you won’t find yourself a white Christmas in Sacramento (the unique climate allows little snowfall), the season is still magical. AND there’s a 58-foot tall Christmas tree.

If you are looking to spend this Christmas in Sacramento, be sure to check out these attractions in and around the city:

• Christmas Lights Drive-Thru By The Bayside Church: Jump in the car, drive 25 minutes northwest of Sac, and turn up those favorite Christmas tunes. This annual Christmas light tour takes you down a mile of spectacular lights at the Bayside Church in Roseville, CA. I suggest taking along a fuzzy blanket to keep yourself nice and cozy! And better yet- it’s absolutely FREE! 

• Holiday in the Hills By Sutter Street Theatre: Why not see a holiday performance and tuck a little history into the show as well?! Holiday in the Hills depicts the wintery season life of residents in the Gold Rush era during the 1880s, including miners and outlaws and more. There’s lots of holiday songs, so feel free to sing along! 

• The Annual ChristKindlMarkt: This annual market is fashioned after the German Christmas markets! There’s a Nurnberg sausage dinner, Gluhwein, and traditional German baked Christmas treats (like Lebkuchen and Magenbrot). If you’re lucky, you might even catch the daily appearance of Santa Claus and the German Christkind. And better yet – the market benefits local charities!

• Theatre of Lights in Old Sacramento: Imagine 100,000 lights twinkling on the rooftops, complete with falling snowflakes and performers acting out ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas’. Yes, it’s just as remarkable as it sounds. Jack Frost and Father Christmas may even make an appearance!

There are tons of other events to enjoy like The Christmas Carol novella, The Santa Parade, and the Sacramento Zoo Holiday. Christmas in Sacramento is as diverse and colorful as the city, making it the perfect place to spend the holidays.

Contributed By Chisom Evare of Awesome Traveler

Christmas in Southern California 

5. Los Angeles

Known for its sunny weather, Los Angeles is a unique destination for celebrating Christmas. You definitely won’t find a white Christmas over here, but that doesn’t mean the holiday spirit isn’t alive and kicking! 

Whether you’re trying to escape the snow, or want to experience all the incredible things to do in Los Angeles, be sure to check out the special holiday events happening throughout the city.

Whatever you do, don’t leave the area without catching at least one of the spectacular light displays — they really are on a whole other level. Catch the Christmas light displays at various gardens and even special neighborhoods!

• Los Angeles Zoo Lights is a beautiful, nighttime light display where the highlight is a 90-foot long light tunnel that’s the perfect photoshoot spot! The music and ambiance will raise your holiday spirits. Reservations are recommended and admission costs $11-22, depending on the crowd level.

• Los Angeles Arboretum in Arcadia has a Moonlight Forest Magical Lantern Festival, filled with wildlife creature lights and even more light tunnels! Tickets cost $28 per person on weekends or $25 on weekdays.

• The Descanso Gardens in La Cañada has another beautiful light display focused on the plantlife, rather than animals. The existing plants and trees in the garden are lit up with magical lights and some are “planted” like a tulip field. Timed-entry tickets are required.

• Upper Hastings Ranch in Pasadena is a residential neighborhood, where families display extravagant Christmas lights on their homes. Each street has a theme, so it makes for a fun, free Christmas activity. Drive around to enjoy the displays.

• Another nighttime holiday drive brings you to Christmas Tree Lane in Altadena located on Santa Rosa Avenue. Large deodar trees line the street and are lit up to look like giant Christmas trees during the holidays. Sometimes you’ll even find local food trucks serving hot chocolate! My favorite!

Contributed by Alanna Koritzke from Periodic Adventures

6. Newport Beach

Christmas in California without the snow?! While you won’t find any of that in Newport Beach, you’ll still get a white (SANDY) Christmas! ?

Perfect for those looking to escape the snow, Newport Beach is practically exploding with festive things to do, see, and experience come December! 

Here are four Christmas activities in Newport Beach that simply can’t be missed: 

• Check Out a Tree Lighting Ceremony: There are several tree lighting ceremonies each year in Newport Beach during the weeks immediately following Thanksgiving. Fashion Island, Newport Dunes, Balboa Bay Club, and Balboa Island are some of the best displays around!

• Stroll Through Balboa Island on Foot: Balboa Island homes light up with some of the most elaborately festive decor every year in December. Stroll around the neighborhood, sip some hot cocoa or spiced cider, and take in the magical scenery as the area lights up around you.

• Experience the Nights of 1000 Lights: Throughout the month of December, Sherman Library & Gardens goes all out with glimmering lights and ornate decorations. People are invited to come and enjoy the decor, free photos, hot cocoa, s’mores, and more. 

• Go See the Newport Beach Boat Parade: It’d be wrong to mention Newport Beach here without talking about the Boat Parade. I mean, it has been a part of Newport’s culture for over a century! But you won’t be alone: thousands flock to Newport Harbor to watch lavish yachts and quirky boats get all decked out in one of the most unique holiday processions you’ll ever see.

You can walk along the harbor or Balboa Island and view the parade for free. You can also make a reservation at Rusty Pelican or Newport Landing Restaurant for front-row seats. But, the best way to experience the parade is by being part of it, and you can do that by booking a short harbor cruise.

Contributed by Rachel-Jean Firchau from RachelOffDuty.com

7. Solvang

The perfect place to head for a Christmas-time getaway is the replica Danish town of Solvang, located conveniently off Highway 101 midway between Los Angeles and San Francisco.  

During the rest of the year, this town’s charming authentic Danish architecture, complete with thatched roofs and windmills, makes it an equally attractive getaway.  But these special seasonal enticements make it an especially fun December destination.

• The shopping is stellar.  Gift items and goodies galore are displayed in hundreds of festively decorated specialty shops–think old-time wall clocks and hand-made chocolates. Yum!

• The annual December Julefest is oodles of fun.  A Tree-Lighting Ceremony occurs in the town park with live entertainment, caroling, and the arrival of Santa Claus.  For the Julefest Parade hundreds of participants march, trot, and stroll along streets decorated for the season.  Additionally, an elaborate family-friendly Solvang Nativity Pageant is presented on stage with music and live animals. 

• Mischievous elf-like Danish figures known as Jule Nisse await being found and turned in for a prize.  Children especially enjoy searching for them while exploring the town. 

• Seasonal food treats abound in the town’s many bakeries.  Don’t miss Morton’s popular pretzel-shaped Danish Kringle coffee cake filled with custard, marzipan (sweet almond paste), and raisins.

Sampling Danish specialties in Solvang’s restaurants is enjoyable at any time of year– aebleskivers anyone?–as is having a cuppa and some cookies and pastries at one of those thriving bakeries. Don’t miss a ride on the Honen–a replica 1800s Danish streetcar pulled by two blond Belgian draft horses.

Contributed by Carole Terwilliger Meyers from Travels with Carole

8. Disneyland 

Disneyland is one of the most popular attractions in SoCal, and by far one of the best places to celebrate Christmas in California! Psst — Universal Studios Hollywood is also super fun during the holidays, too!

The park gets a full makeover, bringing even more magic to its visitors (if that’s even possible)! There’s festive wreaths hanging from light poles and holiday music ringing throughout the lands. And oh so much holiday food!

One of my favorite aspects of Disneyland during the holidays is the fact that they’re all inclusive. Not only Christmas is celebrated during their holiday celebration, they also have activities and entertainment celebrating Hanukkah and Kwanzaa! Editor’s Note: Makes my Jewish heart happy!

If you’re planning a trip to Disneyland at Christmas, be sure you don’t miss these special holiday activities:

• Take a ride on the special holiday-themed attractions of ‘It’s A Small World’, ‘Haunted Mansion Holiday’, and the three rides in Cars Land. So much Christmas spirit!

• Delight in all the special holiday-themed foods that are found throughout the park. Each restaurant has unique dishes that are only available during the holiday season. Don’t miss: 
  • Candy Cane Beignets and Thanks-Mas Sandwich
  • special holiday churros available at specific churro carts around the two theme parks
  • At California Adventure, visit the Festival of the Holiday booths to sample holiday festival food and drinks, including some amazing cocktails and craft beers.

• Disneyland entertainment is always superb and during the holidays it doesn’t disappoint. Watch your favorite Disney characters parade down Main Street in their holiday attire during the Christmas Fantasy Parade and end your night with snow at the Believe…in Holiday Magic Fireworks show. You’ll also find other holiday entertainment concerts and dance performances throughout the parks.

And plus, if you’re planning to stay at one of the three Disneyland hotels, you’ll also find holiday décor throughout the lobbies. The Grand Californian is especially popular because of its massive Christmas tree and giant gingerbread house.

There are plenty of great places to celebrate Christmas in California, and Disneyland at Christmastime is definitely a highlight!

Contributed by Kim Tate of StuffedSuitcase.com

9. San Diego

San Diego is probably not the most typical California Christmas destination, yet there are a lot of things to do in San Diego for Christmas. It is the perfect winter destination, especially if you are looking to escape the cold and maybe even spend some time on the beach. 

December temperatures in San Diego are usually in the mid 50s to low 60s and sunny, but they are also known to reach the mid 70s – the perfect temperature to go out and explore. 

• Surfin Santa: This is a great San Diego Christmas tradition. Each December, Santa comes to San Diego, not in a sleigh, but on a surf board. It doesn’t get more SoCal than that. 

• San Diego Bay Parade of Lights: On two Sundays in December, proud boat-owners decorate their boats and participate in a floating Christmas parade along the San Diego Bay all the way to Coronado. 

• December Nights in Balboa Park: This is San Diego’s Christmas Market, with booths selling food, Glühwein and other treats. And of course all the buildings and gardens in Balboa Park are decorated beautifully for the festive season.

• Ice Skating on the Beach: The Hotel Del Coronado sets up an ice skating rink right on the beach in Coronado. If you ever wanted to go ice skating under palm trees overlooking the ocean, this is the spot to be. 

• Dr Seuss: Fun Fact: Theodore Seuss Geisel aka Dr. Seuss lived most of his life in San Diego (!!!). The Old Globe in Balboa Park – a replica of the Globe Theatre in London – puts Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas!’ on its schedule every year. 

Contributed by Maria from SanDiegoExplorer

10. Big Bear Lake 

Dreaming of a white Christmas?! Get your fleece-covered butt over to Big Bear! This resort town in the heart of the San Bernardino Mountains almost guarantees snow, but even if it’s not fresh, you can still fulfill all your snowflake dreams at the sno-parks. 

Besides all the typical winter sports (think skiing and snowboarding and sledding and snowshoeing and such), the whole town comes alive with Christmas spirit. Think log cabins, Santa on the mountain summit (for all you skiing enthusiasts), and an entire Christmas-themed village!

And plus, those snow-covered mountains will surely take anyone’s breath away. 

Since Big Bear is only 100 miles from LA, you can double the fun and spend Christmas in California in two destinations! One warm and sunny, the other frozen and snowy!

Here’s some ways to join in on the Christmas spirit at Big Bear:

• Christmas in the Village: Take a long stroll through The Village and enjoy all the twinkling lights! Santa will make his grand entrance (on the traditional Big Bear sleigh – a fire engine!) and the tree will be lit! There’s fire pits, candy, and holiday classics, too!

• Santas Hayride to the North Pole: Bear Valley Farms undergoes a complete transformation come December. This sparkling winter wonderland showcases tons of Christmas lights, elves, angels, hot cocoa, and more. 

• Wake up in a Cozy Cabin: Nothing says winter wonderland more than getting all curled up by a crackling fireplace with a mug of spiced cider or hot chocolate. Just don’t forget to overload on the marshmallows! And if you’re lucky, you’ll find a cabin complete with an outdoor hot tub – extra magical if it’s snowing!

So there ya have it, 10 spots to celebrate Christmas in California! Where are you headed this year for the holidays?! Any favorite Christmas movies?

Looking for more California content? Explore my other California guides here!

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The post Christmas in California: 10 Places to Get Festive for the Holidays appeared first on A Passion and A Passport.

Close your eyes and picture California. I’m guessing you’re envisioning surfing on the southern sunny beaches, the crimson cutie that is the Golden Gate Bridge, celebrity spotting in LA, and maybe even the Gold Rush (if you’re into history and that sorta thing).  Oh, and of course riding a few coasters in Disneyland and stuffing your face with authentic Mexican food (all worthy things to add to any California bucket list!).

But California is more than that (way more). And for good reason; it’s even larger than entire countries we love (Italy), and around the same size as others (Japan), meaning it’s got lots of square miles for boasting about.

California is home to the world’s largest tree (General Sherman), the highest peak in the lower 48 states (Mount Whitney), and the lowest point in North America (Badwater Basin). It’s got a lot going for it right off the bat.

It’s true – California has it all and then some – foggy forests, hip surf towns, craggy coastlines, boiling mud pots (yup!), and sprawling metropolises. There’s towering redwoods, fields of golden poppies, acres beyond acres of vineyards (how else could we produce 17 million gallons of wine each year?), pristine deserts, and stunning seaside bluffs. 

And it’s downright beautiful. Check out my list of 50+ beautiful spots in California (you won’t believe half of them!)

That’s just the beginning of what the Golden State has to offer. Being the 3rd largest state in all of the US, it’s no surprise that California is as varied and downright spectacular as they come. (And this California bucket list will show you just that!).

Oh – and then there’s the food. We’ve got the Mission burrito, freshly shucked oysters, delicious mint coffees (nobody does it better than Philz), fish tacos, Korean bbq, clam chowder (always in sourdough bread bowls), cruffins, garlic ice cream (yes, it’s a thing), etc.

And of course that fast food everyone knows and loves (In’n’out burger, I’m looking at you and you’re deliciously delish double doubles). We’re also fiercely proud of our incredible avocados, and will gladly pay the extra $3 for a few slices atop our burgers/toast/quinoa salads/you name it.

And even with the ongoing rivalry between SF and LA, we’ve got one thing in common: we’re all slightly obsessed with the state and everything it has to offer. Heck, there’s a reason I begged my husband to move out west just over 5 years ago (despite ridiculously disgusting rental prices and saying goodbye to our beloved NYC).

With spectacular weather the majority of the year and enough things to do in California to last a lifetime, I can’t see us leaving anytime soon (if ever). 

With all that being said, I’ve put together what I feel is the ultimate California bucket list – with things to see and do in all corners of the state. So grab your pen and take some notes; this list of things to do in California is more than 100 items long! Told you there was lots to do here. 

GENERAL THINGS TO ADD TO ANY CALIFORNIA BUCKET LIST

1. Drive the Pacific Coast Highway: A road trip down the California Coast on the Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) is an unforgettable way to see so much of what the state has to offer.  From waterfalls and castles (yes, really), to spectacular beaches and theme parks, there’s absolutely no shortage of things to do on a drive down the California Coast. 

FIND MY FAVORITE SPOTS ALONG THE PCH HERE! YUP, ALL 75 OF THEM!

Plan a few days along the popular route from SF to LA (Big Sur included), but if you’ve got more time, head north to Mendocino and south to San Diego. Whether you’ve got a weekend or a few weeks to travel (lucky you!), you can fill your time with a wide array of California experiences. ✓

2. Get a double double and animal fries at In n Out Burger: I’m sorry, but you absolutely cannot visit California without feasting on burgers, fries, and frosty milkshakes from this iconic staple, In n Out Burger. Even if you’re on that #lowcarbdiet, order it “protein style” (=no bun), and you’re good to go. Check out the secret menu, which includes a neopolitan shake, a 3×3, a root beer float, and of course a favorite, animal style fries. Because everything’s better with grilled onions, secret sauce, and cheese. ✓

3. Put a few National Parks on your California Bucket List: Ohhh, California’s just loaded with spectacular National Parks, and I highly encourage you to visit a few. While you probably won’t be able to see all 9 of them on one visit (they’re dotted all over the state), try your hardest to include 1 or 2.

If you find yourself in Northern California, your choices include Redwoods, Lassen Volcanic, Yosemite (my all-time favorite in winter), and Pinnacles (the newest one to the clan!). Southern California has Sequoia, Kings Canyon, Death Valley, Channel Islands, and Joshua Tree. ✓

4. Go wine tasting: California is loaded and loaded with vineyards, and yes, I promise it’s always 5 o’clock somewhere. Besides the usual suspects of Napa and Sonoma, we’ve also got Paso Robles, Calistoga, Healdsburg, Santa Barbara, St. Helena, Yountville, Lodi, Livermore, Oakville, Santa Ynez, Los Olivos, Sebastopol, Temecula, and Hopland (plus even more, but my fingers are getting tired from typing). ✓

THINGS TO DO IN NORTHERN CALIFORNIA

1. Devour a Mission Burrito in SF: Let’s kick this northern California bucket list off on the right foot, with a bomb.com burrito, shall we (no one said I’m up to date on all the lingo)? What makes a Mission Burrito so tantalising and unforgettable? Besides it’s sheer size (the tortilla literally bursts at its seams), it’s actually quite simple, consisting of meat, beans (black or pinto), and Mexican rice. ✓

Get the carnitas burrito (make it a “super” with guac and sour cream) from La Taqueria (rice-free), Pancho Villa, or El Farolito and you won’t need to eat dinner.  Let’s just say I’ve eaten my fair share of burritos since moving to San Francisco. And while you’re here in the Mission, check out Clarion and Balmy alleys for unique street art and 24th street for shopping til-you-drop. ✓

2. See the Redwoods in Muir Woods: Standing a whopping 250 feet tall, the grand redwood trees will soar above and make you feel tiny. Hike the rustic, dirt pathways of Muir Woods, as the sun streams in from in between the sky-high leaves and paints patterned shadows on the rugged ground. Do note that a parking pass/reservation is now required, so do your homework in advance if you want to spend the day stress-free at the park. ✓

3. Stomp on grapes in Napa Valley: Hike your pants up to your knees and prepare to get down and dirty with some grapes, feel the juice between your toes, and giggle at the squelching sounds. We took some friends to Sterling Vineyards and loved climbing into the wine barrels and stomping the freshly harvested grapes. Something to add to your Napa Valley itinerary for sure!

While in Napa Valley (after you’ve cleaned yourself from the grape juice and skins), you can also relax in the Calistoga mud baths and tickle your taste-buds while olive-oil tasting. ✓

4. Hike in Big Basin Redwoods State Park: California’s got some amazing redwoods, and Big Basin is one of the best spots to see them. Put on some comfy shoes and hike the mesmerizing Big Basin Redwoods State Park, where you’ll stumble upon soaring trees and whimsical waterfalls.

This is where I made the 11-mile roundtrip trek to Berry Creek Falls (the longest hike on this California bucket list). If you’re up for it, set up a tent, a campfire, and spend the night surrounded by nature. ✓

5. Get spooked at Alcatraz: Being the inspiration behind countless urban legends, television shows, and movies, Alcatraz is possibly the most famous thing to do in California.

Once home to the state’s most dangerous criminals, Alcatraz is now open to the public for guided tours and is sure to send a shiver down your spine (especially on the extra dark night tour, highly recommended I might add!). Keep your eyes peeled, as many believe this notorious prison is haunted by past wardens and felons… ✓

6. See the houseboats in Sausalito: Stumbling upon Sausalito is like wandering into a village upon the sea, with a myriad of houses floating upon the waters surface. If you’re looking for things to do in California, perusing the variety of waterfront shops and restaurants scattered along Sausalito’s main road is definitely a must. And don’t miss my favorite ice cream shoppe – Lapperts! ✓

7. Appreciate the views from Glacier Point (Yosemite National Park): I can guarantee that the picturesque views from Glacier Point will take your breath away… With vast, never-ending mountains and clear, crystalline skies, you’ll be witnessing a view straight out of a postcard. Note that you can either hike up (9.6 miles roundtrip) or take the easy way out and drive straight up to the viewpoint (which I’ll be doing next time).

8. Learn the history of the Sutro Baths: Found on the most western point of Lands End, the Sutro Baths hold a vast amount of history within their waters. Originally built in 1896, the baths used to be a privately-owned, salt-water swimming pool complex, and were at one point the world’s largest indoor swimming pool (whoaaaa).

However, the structure was ruined in a fire, and now all that is left are stone walls, accessible stairways, and deep tunnels, which visitors can explore. It’s especially spectacular at sunset on clear nights! ✓

9. Marvel at Giant Redwoods in Redwoods National Park: Trees, trees, and more trees! You won’t realize how impressive and breathtaking mere trees can be until you’ve visited Redwoods National and State Parks, where the trees are so tall that they seem to end when the sky begins. 

Don’t miss Avenue of the Giants and Founders Grove within Humboldt Redwoods State Park, Fern Canyon within Prairie Creek Redwoods, and the Tall Trees in the National Park itself. ✓

10. Indulge in clam chowder in Bodega Bay: If you’re wondering what to in California as a food-lover, look no further as the clam chowder in Bodega Bay will leave you feeling stuffed and satisfied. I’m drooling just imagining it… I recommend getting your chowder from either Spud Point Crab Company or The Tides Wharf (and yes, get the bread bowl).

To make the most of Bodega Bay, be sure to to take a minute to admire the scenic views at Bodega Head and the Doran Regional Park. ✓

11. Hike sunrise at Mt. Tam: Make sure you’ve had a cup of coffee before you embark up Mt. Tamalpais, as the view at sunrise is truly out of this world. You’ll forget about the bags under your eyes as you watch the sky coming alive with color (ohhh those soft, golden hues over the Bay in the distance), as this is easily one of the most beautiful and worthwhile things to do in California. As long as you don’t mind waking up at 5am. ✓

12. Hike to Alamere Falls: Change into some comfy clothes, bring a big bottle of water, and make sure to stretch before you head off on this beautiful beach and mountain hike. The tiring leg workout may seem strenuous, but the awe-inspiring waterfall you’ll soon discover at the end makes all the hard work completely worth it. Do note that a decent amount of scrambling is involved to reach the falls, so expect to work hard for your waterfall views.

13. Scream on roller coasters at California’s Great America: Here’s one for those looking for adrenaline-pumping things to do in Cali! Wherever you look, you’ll find soaring high and winding roller coasters, so take your pick and hold on tight! Tons of thrill rides and water attractions, as well as special events for Halloween and Christmas. ✓

14. Drive down Lombard Street: Known as the “most crooked street in the world”, it’s a pain to drive down (do so for the iconic SF experience), but a wonder to gander at. Lombard Street is all steep turns, windy roads, blooming flowers, and colorful houses (yes, people live along the street, please be respectful).

You can either skip riding the dizzying street by walking alongside it, or admire the odd road from above/below in a cable car. Looking for the windy section of Lombard Street? You’ll see it right on the map! ✓

15. Eat Ramen in Japantown: There’s nowhere better to get a steaming bowl of ramen than Japantown (SF), with heaping servings and out of this world flavors. Head to the areas most popular spot, Marufuku, but be prepared to wait in a long line (one of the tastiest spots on this California bucket list).

Other tasty options include Hinodeya Ramen Bar and Waraku. While wandering the busy streets of Japantown with a belly full of ramen, be sure to check out the Peace Pagoda (a 5-tiered monument promoting unity), take kitchy Pika Pika photos, and eat all the things: mochi, sushi, yakisoba, takoyaki, udon, dango, and matcha ice cream (at either Belly Good Cafe & Crepes or Uji Time) included. ✓

16. Try oysters in Tomales Bay: If you’re a fan of oysters, you’ve gotta get yourself over to Tomales Bay – the oysters are fresh and scrumptious, and you’ll definitely be coming round for a second serving. Plan to visit either Tomales Bay Oyster Company or Bodega Bay Oyster Bay (or just do your due diligence and taste-test both).

Buy some oysters and a shucking knife, and head to the beach to enjoy your feast. I’m not a huge shellfish lover, so I pass on the experience (although I did try one… once). Tomales Bay is also home to Hearts Desire Beach and Hog Island, which are both perfect destinations to lounge while in a food coma… ✓ 

17. Drive around scenic Lake Tahoe: Make a splash in the expansive, emerald waters of Lake Tahoe in the short, summer months when the water finally gets warm enough for a quick dip (July-early September). From boats tours, to swimming, to intense water sports, there’s not a shortage of things to do.

A 72-mile scenic drive around the lake will bring you to all my favorite spots, including Sand Harbor, Inspiration Point, and Emerald Bay, and you’ll even venture into Nevada for a hot second. ✓ 

18. Wave hello to the bison at Golden Gate Park (SF): Say hi to the big, fluffy bison that hang around Golden Gate Park, and watch them wander around in their natural habitat. While there, you can also explore the beautiful Conservatory of Flowers and the impressive Japanese Tea Garden. ✓

19. Go cherry picking on Marsh Creek Road (Brentwood): Any lovers of sweet, juicy cherries in the house? Yes?! Then cherry picking is the perfect activity for you (we brought my 6-year-old nephew and he loved it, cherry-juiced faced and all!).

Scour the cherry fields and pick out your perfect basket of succulent fruits to take home, or pig out before you even get there (I’m not speaking from personal experience, not at all)… To make the most of your time in Brentwood, be sure to check out Thorndon Country Park and the Hopefield Animal Sanctuary. ✓

20. Go wine tasting in Sonoma: No California bucket list would be complete without at least a little bit of wine drinking; I just really can’t say no to a cold glass of wine in the blazing sun (I swear the grapes just taste better over here).  While Napa is much more ritzy, you’ll find that Sonoma has a more chill, laid-back country feel.

Tantalize your taste buds and enjoy the wonderful local wine. Plan to head to Roche Winery, WALT Wines, and Corner 103. If you have the time, make sure to visit Sonoma Plaza for a multitude of wining, dining, and shopping options. 

21. Find the Lands End labyrinth: Follow the winding pathway towards the edge of the continent, and you’ll find Land Ends Labyrinth hiding away on a cosy cliff corner. Created by artist Eduardo Aguilera, this maze is outlined by countless rocks and overlooks the Golden Gate Bridge. An amazing photo op and one of the best photo spots in San Francisco! ✓

22. Explore the Lost Coast: Remote and desolate are two words which accurately describe the Lost Coast. This area of California should be on every backpackers bucket list, with sandy coastlines as far as the eye can see and a glorious, wavy sea that stretches off into the horizon.

Widely untouched by humans (it’s actually named after depopulation occurred in the 1930’s), this natural and undisturbed sight is one of the most scenic things to do in California. Keep an eye out, as elephant seals are known to frequent the bay and lounge about! 

23. Cool off at Burney Falls: Oh my, I had no clue this collection of waterfalls in Northern California would be this spectacular. Once you make your way down from the parking area, dip your toes into the refreshing water of Burney Falls, and let the waterfall splash away the sweat from your strenuous hike to Burney Creek. Do note that the water is very powerful, so be extra careful if you do plan on venturing into the water. Observing from the sidelines is well worth the effort, too, I promise. ✓

24. Kayak down the Russian River: If you love a bit of adventure and are wondering what to do in California during the extended summer months, paddling down the 177km Russian River is the answer. Rent a canoe, chuck on a life jacket, and float down the breathtaking waters. Such a fun activity with friends – I can’t wait ‘til the weather warms up. Check out other things to do in nearby Guerneville here!

25. Go on a safari at Safari West: Graceful zebras, knobbly-kneed giraffes, bulky rhinos, sneaky lemurs, and colourful birds – Safari West is home to a multitude of extremely adorable exotic creatures that wander freely around the safari grounds.

Hop aboard a buggy and let your knowledgeable guide unload their vast amount of information onto you, and learn more than you could imagine about the creatures right in front of your eyes. And better yet, you can even spend the night at this wildlife and safari preserve, and wake up to animals grazing right outside your room! ✓

26. Find some sea glass at Glass Beach in Fort Bragg: Wander around this pebbly beach and be blown away as the sun gleams off each shard of sea glass! Though beautiful, do not remove any remnants from the glass beach, as the amount of sea glass has greatly decreased over the years, and you’ll need to pick out the pieces in order to form a full handful. Go explore nearby Mendocino and the rest of the surroundings while you’re in the area. ✓ 

27. Eat pizza and cannolis in North Beach: I can’t deny it, I’m partial to a good cannoli and slice of pizza (I’m only human after all and I did grow up in NY). There isn’t much great Italian food (especially pizza) in most of California, so if you want the good stuff, make sure you head to North Beach, considered the Little Italy of San Francisco.

My stomach rumbles just thinking about the focaccia pizza from Golden Boy (my absolute favorite spot) and creamy cannolis from Stella Pastry… To make the most of your time in North Beach, be sure to check out Coit Tower for unforgettable views of the entire Bay, and hang in the historic Washington Square right next to the landmark Saints Peter and Paul Church. It’s one of my favorite neighborhoods in San Francisco. ✓

28. Take a dip in the Travertine Hot springs: Surrounded by snow-capped mountains and unique rock formations, the steaming waters of Travertine hot springs are sure to steal your heart. Once you’re submerged in the warm waters, you’ll be so relaxed that it’s almost impossible to convince yourself to get out. While in Bridgeport, be sure to take a trip down to the pier and coastlines. 

29. Admire the State Capital Building in Sacramento: Standing tall since 1860, this architectural wonder is home to the government of California. Colossal, creamy-white columns. High, peaked roofs, with the American flag flying high. Bushy palm trees scattered across the ground (living up to the California stereotypes, of course). This gorgeous structure deserves a definite spot on your California bucket list. And while in Sac, be sure to check out their thriving foodie scene, a must for anyone even a tad bit hungry after all their explorations. ✓

30. Check out the unique landscape of Mono Lake: There’s something so inexplicably captivating about the bizarre rock formations, known as tufa, scattered around Mono Lake. With stones standing without any pattern or reason, the natural rocks are ones you need to witness in person to comprehend. Beware – it’s kinda smelly here and you definitely won’t be swimming – the water is 2.5x saltier than the ocean! Take the South Tufa Trail to learn a lot more! A true oasis in the middle of the desert.

31. Drive along the Avenue of the Giants: Rolling through the Avenue of the Giants (a scenic highway running through Humboldt Redwoods State Park) is like something straight out of a movie, as you’re surrounded by colossal trees stretching towards the sky. You’ll be oohing and ahhing driving this 31-mile portion of Historic Highway 101, containing the largest remaining number of redwoods in the world. ✓

32. Witness the geothermal wonders at Lassen National Park: This unique National Park is home to Lassen Peak Volcano, and the geothermic wonders it has created. From steaming hot springs and bubbling mud pots, to piping fumaroles and remnants of volcanic activity, this place is sure to make you feel a little hot under the collar…I just couldn’t believe how bad certain parts of park smelled (sulphur, which smells juuuust like rotten eggs). ✓

33. Walk down Telegraph Ave (Berkeley): Berkeley is as quirky as it gets –  and you’ll see exactly what I mean after a quick stroll down Telegraph Ave. Psst – it still feels like the bohemian flower-power center of the 60’s, but with an elevated culinary and cultural scene!

And since you’re already here, you may as well walk around UC Berkeley’s campus (be sure to go up Sather Tower), stuff your face with Cheeseboard Pizza (#droolstatus), and try some potato puffs from Gregorie’s. ✓

34. Drink some tea at the Japanese Tea Gardens (SF): I love a good cup of tea (especially in the chillier months), and you aren’t going to find a better cup than at the Japanese Tea Gardens within Golden Gate Park in San Francisco. Wander the fruitful gardens, with glistening ponds, bushy green trees, and traditional Japanese architecture.

When you’ve thoroughly explored the gardens, take a seat in the tea house and sip away on tasty concoctions to your heart’s content. ✓

35. Drift away on a hot air balloon in Napa: Forget the world for a while and relax while floating along with the breeze. Get an awe-inspiring, sky-high view of Napa from the comfort of a scenic hot air balloon. Make sure to wrap up, as it can get quite chilly while so high up! The perfect experience for a special occasion, as long as you don’t have a fear of heights! ✓

36. Hike the iconic Half Dome (Yosemite National Park): Yes, this is the hike that’s so well known (and popular) in Yosemite, yet an absolute b*tch to plan and conquer. This unique natural rock formation will have you turning your head, as it appears that a large rock has been chopped down the middle – and you’ll be climbing right on the side of it!

Watch your step as you hike up, as the journey is a precarious one! You’ll need to secure a permit for this oh-so difficult hike, so be sure to plan well in advance. 

37. Explore the ghost town of Bodie: If you’re looking for spooky things to do in California, you’re in the right place, as the deserted streets of Bodie are straight out of a horror movie. There’s something so unnerving about the old, isolated streets and abandoned, rickety homes… 

38. Watch the sunrise over Emerald Bay: As the sun rises behind the majestic Emerald Bay, the never-ending water comes alive with light and color. Vivid purple and flaming oranges dance across the horizon, and witnessing this unforgettable view is easily one of the prettiest things to do in California.

Google image it and see for yourself, although all of Lake Tahoe is stunning. If you can’t wake up early enough for sunrise, don’tchu worry – Emerald Bay is just as stunning come daytime. ✓

39. See a Giants game at Oracle Park (formerly AT&T Park): Californians are known to take baseball very seriously, and there’s no better way to witness this vivacious attitude than supporting the local team at a game. Grab yourself a foot long hot dog, slap on some face paint (orange and black), and holler every time the Giants score (or when everyone else is cheering, if you’re like me and not the best at following what’s going on). ✓

40. Walk to the lighthouse at the Point Reyes National Seashore: With magnificent cliffs and whipping winds, the national seashore is one ripped straight out of the scene of a fantasy romance novel. Concealed behind one of the many rolling cliffs, you’ll find a quaint little lighthouse straight out of a dream. If you can manage the steep walk down, you’ll be rewarded with a spectacular view of the coastline (just remember, you gotta come back up). ✓

41. Bike/walk the Golden Gate Bridge: There is absolutely no way a California bucket list would be complete without a trip to the Golden Gate Bridge (obviously – best views over here)! This impressive structure is one of the most famous attractions on the west coast, and with its stunning views and intricate infrastructure it’s not hard to see why.

Rent bikes and head across, or walk part-way – just remember the bridge is 2 miles long, each way. Before/after you make your way across, plan to spend some time in nearby Crissy Field. ✓

42. Ride a cable car in SF: San Francisco is home to the largest manually operated cable car system in the world, and if you want to live like a true Californian live out your tourist dreams, you simply cannot miss out on giving these historical cars a spin. With the tracks spanning over 17 miles, you could easily waste a day riding back and forth with the wind whipping in your hair… ✓

43. Smell the roses at the Municipal Rose Garden (San Jose): While wandering the rose garden, rainbow-painted flowers can be seen at every angle, as the gardens seem to stretch on endlessly. The Municipal Rose Garden is definitely not a stop that can be missed while in San Jose – unless you have hayfever, then you may need to sit this one out (or bring a pack of tissues)… Head to San Pedro Square afterwards for a tasty bite to eat. ✓

44. Drive through a tree in Leggett: If you’re heading to the redwoods up north, you’ve just gotta add driving through the Chandelier Tree at the Leggett Drive-Thru Tree Park onto your California bucket list! Do note the size of your vehicle, though! We saw a few SUVs and trucks attempt to go through, but didn’t fit! A must on any Northern California road trip itinerary! ✓

45. Be a tourist at Fisherman’s Wharf: Although one of the most touristy things on this California bucket list by far, a trip to Fisherman’s Wharf should be on any 3-day San Francisco itinerary! There’s clam chowder bread bowls from Boudin, mini donuts from Trish’s, colorful murals to take photos with, and of course, the sea lions to watch!

46. Walk through the lush Fern Canyon: The second I saw a photo of Fern Canyon I wanted to go — despite having NO clue where it was! Well, my California bucket list friends, it’s alllll the way up in Northern California, only a short distance from Oregon! The canyon is filled to the brim with seven different types of Ferns and oh so much greenery – you’ll feel like you’re walking in Jurassic Park.

THINGS TO DO IN CENTRAL CALIFORNIA

1. Visit the charming coastal town of Carmel-by-the-Sea: This tiny little beach-side town is one ripped straight out of a fairy tale, with cosy cottages, cute coastlines, and extensive history. Home to stunning scuba spots, sweeping white sandy beaches (stay for a sunset at Carmel Beach), extensive libraries, and historic museums – no matter what you’re in the mood for, Carmel-by-the-sea has it all.

If you’re looking to add a bit of wildlife sightseeing to your time on the central coast, head 10 minutes south to Point Lobos (sea otters, harbor seals, and peregrine falcons included)! ✓

2. Marvel at jellyfish at the Monterey Aquarium: There’s something so oddly captivating about jellyfish; maybe it’s their translucent golden orange coloring, the way they pulsate throughout the water, or maybe it’s just all those crazy tentacles.

Whatever the answer is, you’re bound to lose track of time admiring these gelatinous beauties found at the Monterey Aquarium within the facilities “Jellies Experience”. Here you’ll find a whole assortment of them- box jellies, sea nettles, umbrella jellyfish, white spotted jellies, and more.

This wonderful sea life centre is also home to wiggly octopuses, adorable otters, and intimidating sharks! ✓

3. Hike in Pinnacles National Park: Lace up your boots, as hiking this gorgeous national park is one of the most scenic things to do in Cali. Littered with unique rock features, dusty pathways, and awe-inspiring views, you would be missing out if you didn’t explore the wonders Pinnacles National Park has to offer. And being the newest of California’s national parks, this spot remains relatively uncrowded, so you won’t find the masses here like you do in Yosemite. Talk about peace and quiet.

4. Ride the vintage Giant Dipper in Santa Cruz: First opened in 1924, this rattley, wooden roller coaster is a Santa Cruz classic. With it’s red and white paintwork and twisting tracks, this ride will leave butterflies in your stomach and a desire to go on again… And again… And again… The view from up top isn’t half bad either!

Be sure to thoroughly explore the rest of the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk for more adventurous rides and addictive fairground games. You can’t forget some cotton candy and/or a corn dog, preferably once you’re done riding the coaster! And make a pit stop at Surfrider Cafe for some fried avocado (I told we have a thing for avos over here…) <3

5. Sleep in a lighthouse in Pescadero: I mean, how many people can say they’ve slept in a lighthouse before? Psst- probably not many. Wander down to Pigeon Point and encounter the most unique hostel in California.

With affordable prices, unforgettable views, and comfy beds to rest your head, this quaint lighthouse hostel is the perfect place to stay if your looking for something a tad different. Make the most of your time in Pescadero, and explore Bean Hollow State Beach and Butano State Park for more gorgeous sights. 

6. Drive the Big Sur coastline: Big Sur is a 90-mile stretch of coastline with the most breathtaking views. Trust me, you can easily waste an entire day driving down the coast and stopping at the astonishing sights along the way.

With this being said, Big Sur isn’t necessarily a specific spot on the map, but rather a state of mind – it’s a place to decompress, say goodbye to stress, and just enjoy nature. Be sure to stop and spend a moment at Bixby Creek Bridge and McWay Falls, two absolutely stunning locations and the most famous tourist spots along the drive. ✓

7. Walk on purple sand at Pfeiffer Beach: While cruising down the Big Sur coastline, be sure to make a pit spot at Pfeiffer Beach, at its one of the most unique things to do in California. Because, hello, purple sand!!! You can thank the garnet and other heavy minerals for its deep purple color, which shows off even more after it rains.

Besides gawking at the distinctively colored sand, feel free to make a lilac sand castle, run through the chilly waters, and notice the Keyhole Arch. Parking is limited, as to ensure the beach is never too crowded, so be sure to get there early to avoid waiting or being turned away! ✓

8. Stand on the Green at Pebble Beach: If you’re looking for something adventurous to add to your California bucket list, wandering the greens at Pebble Beach is perfect for you. These famous golf greens are in close proximity to the local beaches, so they’re easy to access, though do so at your own risk – despite countless tourists wandering the greens freely, they are private property so doing so is technically illegal. Avid golfer and looking for a splurge-worthy course? Book yourself a tee time for countless hours on the greens. ✓

9. Spend a night at the iconic Madonna Inn: Found on California’s central coast in San Luis Obispo, this resort hotel is one of the most famous on the entire span of the west coast. It’s whimsical, charming, and kitschy all at the same time. Each of the 110 rooms are uniquely decorated, from prehistoric caves with matching leopard print bedding, to lavish pink rooms with velvet sheets. There’s even a ‘love nest’, for those who want to get a bit saucy… 

10. Whale watch in Monterey: Majestic whales frequent Monterey’s local waters, and this beach city has plenty of boat tours available that’ll take you out to sea to spot these massive creatures. The types of whales you’ll see highly depends on when you visit- you’ll commonly see humpbacks in the summer, while winter brings an abundance of migrating gray whales.

Interested in spotting a few orcas? Plan to visit in the springtime! If being out at sea isn’t your thing, sit on the coast with some binoculars or walk through the Monterey Bay Aquarium for a sneak-peak at California’s sublime sea-life. 

11. Drive the scenic 17 mile loop: If you’re stuck on what to do in California, a slow drive around the mesmerizing 17 mile drive is the perfect way to spend an afternoon. With many stops and sights to enjoy, from the beautiful Spanish Bay to the captivating restless sea, you’ll easily lose track of time on these winding roads.

Do note that you’ll be expected to pay a fee (per car), and motorcycles are not permitted, so be sure to roll up ready and prepared! Well worth the few bucks in my opinion. ✓

12. Marvel at majestic Hearst Castle: Yes, there’s even a castle over here! With majestic architecture and crystalline pools, this breathtaking castle is definitely one for your California bucket list. First time visiting the castle? Sign up for the Grand Rooms tour, where you’ll feel like a royal as you’re guided around the extravagant rooms that make up this opulent building.

To make this place even more magical than it already is (if that’s even possible), keep an eye out for the zebras that frolic around the local land when you enter/leave! Be sure to reserve a ticket ahead of time, as this beautiful castle gets busy quick… ✓

13. Feast on pie at Pie Ranch: Slap on some stretchy pants and get ready to stuff your face with the most delicious pie in America, as Pie Ranch is easily one of the tastiest things to do in California. With a multitude of flavors and options, made fresh with home-grown berries, I can guarantee you’ll be coming around for a second serving!

Be sure to arrive early, as these pies fly off the shelves quicker than you can imagine, especially on weekends – it’s a sentiment to their delicious nature! We love stopping here on our way to Pescadero! ✓

14. Check out the large monolith in Morro Bay: Endless, crystal waters. Vast stretches of golden sand. Boats bobbing along the horizon. Morro Bay is one of the most scenic places in California, and is not one to be missed.

To add to its beauty, Morro Bay is home to the most magnificent rock structure, with the most famous being a gigantic rock on the coastline, rightfully called Moro Rock. You can’t miss it- trust me. Head to the beach next door to search for some sand dollars (last time I was there, I found about 20!). ✓

15. Go dune bashing in Pismo Beach: Warm, white sand. Bushy, swaying palm trees. Endless, clear waters. Pismo beach is a dream. But this isn’t your average beach town. Relax by the bay, or cater to your thrill-seeking side and rent a dune buggy, where you’ll be able to race over the massive rolling sand dunes!

The Oceano Dunes are comprised of 5 miles of rippling sand, and it’s an off-roading adventure just waiting to happen. Just please be careful, as these large toys can be dangerous no matter whose handling them. And if you’ve got extra time, head on over to SLO, and check out the cute cafes and sticky gum wall! ✓

16. Surprise your taste buds with garlic ice cream in Gilroy: Hear me out, garlic ice cream may not sound particularly appetizing at first, but you need to at least give Gilroy’s speciality a chance (just be sure to have some mints handy afterwards).

The town dubs itself as the garlic capital of the world, even hosting an annual garlic food festival each July to celebrate their signature dish. Where else are you gonna find an entire event dedicated to all things garlic?! ✓

17. Treat yourself to a Spa Day in Ojai: If you’re wondering what to do in California and need to relax, treat yourself to a massage and a mud mask at one of the many spas in Ojai. Work out those tense muscles and forget about your worries with cucumbers on your eyes, and leave feeling like a different person.

Book some treatments at the Ojai Valley Inn & Spa, as it’s named one of the best spa destinations in the world. Ojai is also home to Los Padres National Forest and their own certified farmer’s market, so be sure to give these a visit to make the most of your time in the wonderful city. 

18. Drink some wine in Paso Robles: I couldn’t write a California bucket list without at least mentioning wine (a few times….), I just couldn’t. Paso Robles in famous for its endless wineries and love for a good, large glass of wine (my kind of city!), so be sure to have a glass or five in one of the local vineyards.

I recommend doing a tasting and ordering a cheese plate at DAOU, the views are just as spectacular as the food/wine. My other top picks are Sculpterra Winery (we love their outdoor seating area!) and Calcareous (mmm smell the lavender here!). ✓

19. Watch the butterflies along the Natural Bridges Monarch Trail: Wandering through crowds of vivid butterflies is one of the most magical things to do in California, and that’s exactly what you’ll encounter on this scenic trail. While butterflies are only seen from October to January (as they migrate), the trail is open all year long and is beautiful in and of itself (butterflies or not). ✓

20. Visit the Danish town of Solvang: Tired sick of California? How dare you! Haha, but really, head to Solvang – you’ll be wandering traditional Danish streets in no time. With the towering windmill and picturesque architecture it’ll feel like you’ve somehow been transported to the Netherlands. Explore the rural Rusack Vineyards, Hans Christian Andersen Park, and have a nibble on some mouth-water aebleskiver (a dutch, jam-filled donut) before you leave town… that was my favorite. ✓

21. Stroll around the seaside town of Capitola: Capitola is a seaside town ripped straight out of a postcard, with rainbow beach houses and bright colors littering the coastline. It’s truly a sight that’s sure to leave a smile on your face. Despite its small size, Capitola has plenty of things to do, from historical museums to wandering along the sandy shores. Grab an old fashioned ice cream cone from one of the many local shops around town and go explore.  ✓

22. Look up at the Giant Trees in Sequoia National Park: More towering trees over here in California (we’re lucky to have quite a bunch if you haven’t noticed)! With trees soaring 30 feet high, you’ll feel short in comparison while wandering through the redwoods and sequoias, no matter how tall you are. Don’t miss the General Sherman Tree while hiking through the forest, which is known to be the largest, single-stemmed tree in the entire world. THE WORLD. Whoaaaaaa.

23. Laugh at barking elephant seals in San Simeon: Do we have any animal lovers in the house? If so, (or you just want to enjoy a good laugh), visit the Piedras Blancas elephant seal rookery just south of Hearst Castle.

They’re huge, loud, ugly, wild, and cute all at the same time. Such odd creatures they are, and they make the most interesting noises. It’s something that must be heard to be believed, and is one of the most unique and hilarious things to do in California. ✓

24. Wander around State Street in Santa Barbara: There’s a reason Santa Barbara is dubbed the American Riviera – it’s downright gorgeous. Here you’ll find widespread beaches, Mediterranean-style white stucco buildings with red-tile roofs, and a truly relaxed atmosphere.

If you want to shop, eat, or sip cocktails, the floral State Street is the perfect place to go! With divine little boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants, you’re spoiled with choices on Santa Barbara’s most famous avenue. Before you leave town, climb up the Santa Barbara courthouse for the most beautiful, palm-tree ridden perspective of SB (it’s one of my favorite views in all of California). ✓

25. Feast on olallieberry pie at Linn’s in Cambria: What’s better than a warm slice of oozing berry pie on a chilly day on the coastline? Hint – not much. What’s olallieberry you ask? It’s a cross between a blackberry and a raspberry. Expect a flakey buttery crust filled with semi-sweet and semi-tart berry filling. Mmmm… one of my favorite snacks on this California bucket list by far.

While you’re here, why not spend an entire day on the coast checking out all the fun things to do in Cambria?! ✓

THINGS TO DO IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

1. Witness science in action at the La Brea Tar Pits: Take a step back to the Ice Age and experience bubbling, inky tar in Hancock Park. Long, long, LONG ago, prehistoric animals would wander into the sticky tar and get stuck, which preserved their skeletons wonderfully, making the tar pits home to an impressive collection of ancient fossils. Located right in the heart of LA, it’s the only active, urban Ice Age excavation site in the world. Who knew California was so wildly unique?!

2. Stroll down the Venice Boardwalk: Perhaps one of the most famous boardwalks in all of America (yup, California’s got it all), this buzzing beach town has a bohemian spirit that’ll leave you feeling all kinds of wacky. Funky shops, captivating street performers, colorful murals, busy skate parks, savvy souvenirs  – there’s endless things to do. Rent some wheels and bike down the boulevard all the way to Santa Monica Beach. Whatever you do, don’t miss out on muscle beach, an outdoor gym swarming with muscular, shirtless men! ✓

3. Unleash your wild side at Disneyland and California Adventure: Slap on some Mickey Mouse ears and stroll on into the most magical place on earth! Feast on sugary cotton candy, fawn over your favorite characters, and be flipped upside down on one of the many exhilarating roller coasters. A trip to Disneyland is hands down one of the most iconic things to do in Cali; aka don’t leave the state without a proper visit! You’ll probably wanna grab a Disneyland Park Hopper ticket so you can move from Disneyland to California Adventure freely.

4. Cherish the views from Griffith Observatory: Providing the most unforgettable, panoramic views of the LA skyline, a trip to the impressive Griffith Observatory should definitely be on your California bucket list. Psst – you can even see the Hollywood Sign from up here! Be blown away by the stunning sights, and enticed by the wonderful world of telescopes and inter galactic discovery inside… It’s definitely something everyone should do on a trip to LA. ✓

5. Go museum hopping at Balboa park: You’re spoilt for choice in America’s largest urban park, with museums catering for all tastes and preferences. Be thrown back in time at the Natural History Museum, ponder over the masterpieces at the Museum of Art, or enter a different galaxy in the Air and Space Museum. If museums aren’t your thing, Balboa park is also home to the famous San Diego Zoo! ✓

6. Go sunbathing year round at Laguna Beach: Ohhh Laguna Beach – it’s what dreams are made of, as long as you’re made of a million bucks. Yeah, it’s expensive over here, but hey – if you wanna work on your tan and return home golden and glowing, look no further than this classic beach town. With a spectacular, sandy coastline, strong waves that are perfect for surfing, and hidden tide pools, you’ll never want to leave this quaint coastal town. ✓

15. Hop along a TMZ Celebrity Tour in LA: Travel through Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and the Sunset Strip on the famous red TMZ bus, where you’ll take in the sights (and perhaps a few famous faces). Celebrities such as Mariah Carey and Justin Bieber have been spotted by previous passengers, so keep your eyes peeled and be ready to swoon!

7. Walk the Santa Monica Pier: Found on the very end of Venice Beach, this iconic wharf is one of the most popular piers in the entire world. Get dizzy on the famous 1922 indoor merry-go-round, appreciate the views atop the towering big wheel, scream and shout while riding the twisting roller coasters – I can guarantee that the Santa Monica Pier will leave you coming back for more. Be sure to schedule a visit for the evening, where the rainbow fairground lights glow in the night. ✓

8. Spend a weekend in the desert at Joshua Tree National Park: Rugged rock formations, prickly cactuses, stark desert landscapes, and lots and LOTS of sand make up this unique national park. Oh, and of course the namesake Joshua trees, oh so twisted and bristled! Set up a tent on one of the many campgrounds and spend a few days submerged in the natural beauty around you (just be sure to clean up after yourself, as the land is protected by the government). Top sites include the Cholla Cactus Garden, Keys View, Barker Dam, and Skull Rock. ✓

22. See a glimpse of days past at the Salton Sea: Situated 235 feet below sea level, this “sea” is actually a lake, and as you may have guessed from its name, a pretty salty one at best. The lake is rather desolate, and actually pretty smelly, with an entire beach area full of dead fish, bones, and gills. You’ll also find broken down houses, abandoned TVs, tires, and other ruins from old mobile homes, making for some wacky photographs. What an interesting place, and for sure one of the oddest things to do in California, am I right?! ✓

9. Check out the funky sculptures at the Broad Museum: Found in downtown Los Angeles (DTLA to locals), this contemporary art museum is free (and crowded) to enter (hint – there’s usually a horrifically long line, just be aware). Take your time wandering through the seemingly endless artwork, and be sure to spend a moment amongst the balloon model dogs, rainbow tulips, and many, many more. You can easily spend a whole afternoon in this modern museum. ✓

10. Get artsy at Salvation Mountain: Ever wondered what half a million gallons of latex paint looked like splattered on the side of a mountain? This creative, man-made mountain (which took a whopping 28 years to build), painted by a local California resident, adorns a giant heart on its side and a cross standing up top.

You can even venture inside the mountain, where odd patterns and vivid colors will most definitely leave you as confused as ever. An utterly bizarre and beyond surreal experience in the middle of the California desert. Bring your camera – you’re gonna wanna photograph this. ✓

19. Go wine tasting in Temecula: Have a glass of wine (or five, I won’t judge) in one of the many incredible wineries scattered in and around the stunning Temecula Valley (there’s over 30 wineries nestled within 3,000 acres of picturesque wine country, so you’ve got lots to choose from)!

Temecula is famous for its red varietals, so be sure to try some of these local brands along the way (and perhaps even take a bottle home). You’ll also find championship golf courses, hot air ballooning adventures, and the Temecula Valley Museum.

11. Hike Runyon Canyon with celebrity dogs: Time to get your sweat on, with yup, celebrity dogs! It doesn’t get more LA than that! You’re bound to break a sweat as you hike along this long, steep trail (although it’s not so bad, my husband the #nonhiker even did it), so be sure to bring along a big ole’ bottle of water to keep you going.

Celebrities are known to frequent this hike with their cute pups, so keep an eye out as you may stumble upon a familiar face, and the only thing better than a celebrity is a celebrity dog! I only speak the truth… ✓

13. Search for colorful doors in Palm Springs: Home to perfectly groomed palm trees, airy, mid-century modern retreats, and scorching hot weather (this is the desert after all), Palm Springs is a natural stunner. And this little city is not only famous for its beauty and blue skies, but also for its popular doors.

If you’re like me and obsess over a cute door, walk around the Indian Canyons neighborhood on a DIY door-tour! You’re bound to find cotton-candy colored hues around each and every corner.  I’m sure you’ve seen the stunning #thatpinkdoor before (it’s a Palm Springs classic)- unfortunately photography is off-limits now, so please remember to be respectful. ✓

14. Spend a weekend in Catalina Island: Palm trees and cabanas. Awe-inspiring natural beauty. Unbeatable, sunny weather. Intoxicating art deco. Catalina Island will take your breath away, and make you feel like you’re in the Mediterranean (and thankfully only an hour away from the California coast).

With no cars on the island, 360 degree ocean views, and crystal clear ocean snorkeling, you’ll easily fall in love with this stunning island. Don’t miss the Trans Catalina trail and the romantic lover’s cove.

12. Find your favorite celebrity star along the Hollywood Walk of Fame: Perhaps one of the most iconic things to in Cali (and a bit overdone), the Hollywood Walk of Fame is not something you can skip out on, especially if it’s your first visit to the state.

With stars such as Marilyn Monroe, Micheal Jackson, Louis Armstrong, Anne Hathaway, and even Godzilla along the walk, you’re bound to find a few familiar names while wandering down this world-famous landmark street. ✓

16. Kayak in the Channel Islands: Looking for a bit of oceanic adventure and wondering what to do in California to fulfill this aquatic fantasy?! Look no further than the Channel Islands! Along the southern California coastline you’ll find these 5 islands, known for their sea caves, kelp forests, splendid hiking opportunities, and more.

Primitive, isolated, and outdoorsy. You’d be missing out if you didn’t make the most of these islands by jumping in a kayak, so hop aboard and get paddling! The ultimate California bucket list item for true adventurers!

17. Hike to the Hollywood Sign: I’m sure you’ve seen LA’s most recognizable symbol before, and there’s no way you can visit California and not visit the Hollywood Sign! I mean, did you really visit LA without a selfie with this famous landmark?

This iconic monument stands tall and proud atop Hollywood Hills, and seeing it up close and personal is easily worth the hike up. Plus, the views aren’t half bad from up top either! Just don’t forget your sunscreen and water, as some of the trails are quite steep and with little shade!

18. See a Dodgers game in LA: Americans love a good game of baseball, it’s undeniable, but you’ll never meet more dedicated fans than the Californians. Get yourself down to a local game and experience the craze first hand, where you’ll be in the middle of a whole lot of hollering, hot dog eating, and baseball-related chants.

Tickets are easy to score, as Dodger Stadium is the largest ballpark in the whole country, and all-you-can-eat seats are perfect for those hoping to stuff their faces with Dodger dogs, nachos, popcorn, and peanuts.

20. Snorkel alongside the sea lions and kelp forest in La Jolla Cove: As a snorkel enthusiast like myself, you’ll absolutely love swimming in this area – not only is the water warmer-than-usual, but it’s sheltered by high rise cliffs, meaning hardly any rough waves!

And better yet, the local sea lions may come for a swim with you as you explore the gorgeous underwater kelp forest. Psst – while each day brings different underwater creatures to the caves, you can commonly find sea turtles, leopard sharks, seals and sea lions, dolphins, and starfish. 

21. Traipse in the Carlsbad Flower Fields: Experience 50 acres of the most beautiful flowers you’ll ever encounter, with rows and rows of extraordinary color ready and waiting for you to discover. Think rainbow ranunculus, world famous Ecke poinsettias, an orchid greenhouse, artist gardens, and even tea in the garden.

You can only visit between March 1st and May 10th (when the flowers are in bloom), so be sure to plan appropriately ahead of time and don’t miss this annual burst of intense color. ✓

23. Stroll the Venice Canals: One wander throughout the Venice Canals and you’ll instantly feel like you’ve been transported to Italy. However, unlike Venice in Italy, there isn’t a man in a gondola ready to row you into the sunset (a girl can dream).

After being entranced by the multi-story, multi-million-dollar homes and vintage bungalows along the canals, head down to the trendy Abbot Kinney Boulevard for some local boutique shopping and world-class dining. ✓

24. Drink butter beer at Hogwarts: Your Hogwarts letter may have gotten lost in the post, but that doesn’t mean you can’t visit the iconic Hogwarts Castle and delve into the wizarding world.

Find your perfect wand at Ollivanders, ride atop a state of the art Quidditch broom, sip on the iconic butter beer, and nibble away at a chocolate frog – this magical attraction within Universal Studios Hollywood brings the world of Harry Potter alive. 

25. Smell the flowers at Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve: Did you know that the California poppy is the official state flower? And with poppies as far as the eye can see, wandering the poppy reserve is one of the most beautiful things to do in California (for those who love flowers of course).

You’ll want to visit after a wet winter, as this is when the poppies really flourish. But be sure to keep an eye on the bloom status before you visit to avoid disappointment, as wildflower season is not year round. And whatever you do, promise me you’ll stay on the trail and don’t even think about stepping on or picking any poppies! 

26. Get transported to another world at Red Rock Canyon: I hadn’t even heard of this spectacular state park until a good friend posted a photo on IG, and I swore it was taken in Utah or Arizona. Ahhh the powers of social media.

This national conservation site is home to some of the most fascinating rock formations in California, scenic desert cliffs, red sandstone peaks, and giant geological columns. You can either hike through the precarious canyon, enjoy the 13-mile scenic drive, or both. It’s even been featured in a whole slew of movies!

27. Take photos with the Cabazon Dinosaurs: Over 50 life-size vintage dinosaur replicas are scattered throughout the dusty Californian desert, from the terrifying tyrannosaurus rex to the breath-taking brontosaurus (which actually is also a gift shop!).

And located right off the highway between LA and Palm Springs, it’s well worth the short detour (every road trip needs a few quirky roadside attractions). You may even recognize these popular dinosaurs from their feature in Pee Wee Herman’s Big Adventure! ✓

28. Spend a relaxing weekend at Lake Arrowhead: This quaint town may be small, but it’s crawling with things to keep you occupied. Boat out onto the grand lake, fill the night with laughter at Lollipop Amusement Park, explore the mesmerizing Aztec Falls, or just kick back and relax in this serene town. And there’s no shortage of scenic views here, as the town’s perfectly located in Bernardino National Forest, and known as “The Alps of Southern California”.

29. Stand at the lowest point in North America, Badwater Basin: Being able to say you’ve stood at the lowest point in North America is reason enough to visit Badwater Basin – though, if that doesn’t sell you, the vast and unique scenery sure will.

With a depth of 282 feet below sea level, the landscape of this expansive salt flat is absolutely surreal. While in Death Valley (one of the many National Parks in California), make the most of your time by visiting Zabriskie point and Dante’s View, where you’ll experience the most spectacular views of the area. 

30. Pan for gold at the Calico Ghost Town: Wandering the deserted streets of this eerie ghost town is surely one of the spookiest things to do in California. Formerly a mining town, now a country park, this abandoned town full of western architecture and traditional buildings will make you feel as though you’ve stepped back in time. Whack on a cowboy hat and pan for some gold, just as they would back in the 1800s!

31. Paraglide above Torrey Pines: Torrey Pines has vast green lands and stunning ocean views, and easily the best way to experience this heavenly area is by paragliding, of course! Cater to your adventurous side and admire the view from up above – I hope you’re not scared of heights! If you don’t want to partake in the fun, you can just sit and watch the paragliders at the Gliderport jump off the cliffs and soar along the bluffs instead.

32. Ski at Bear Mountain: Here in California we’ve got it all – 8,805 foot high mountains and all. Put on your skis and be blown away by the winding, snowy mountains. With over 200 acres of winter wonderland fun and 55 runs to have a go at, you can spend countless days rushing down the icy inclines. And since we’re talking about California here (meaning it never gets too cold), you won’t need to layer up on clothing too much. 

So there ya have it, a long, long list of some of the remarkable things to do in California. Which ones have you checked off your California bucket list already?!

Looking for more California content? Explore my other California guides here!

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The post 100+ Things to do in California: The Ultimate California Bucket List appeared first on A Passion and A Passport.

Ever since moving to California from NYC, I’m still pinching myself that I get to call this absolutely stunning state my home. #Westcoastbestcoast, am I right? And the more I learn about this fascinating state, my list of places to visit in California just keeps getting longer and longer.

California never fails to amaze me, and I become more enamored and downright floored by the beauty of this left-coast state every time I visit a new spot. From the gushing waterfalls, to the glistening lakes and sparkly, rocky beaches, to the snow-capped mountains, to the colorful wildflower fields, to the towering redwood forests, California really has it all and then some. Any nature lovers delight. 

And if you’re stumped on places in California to visit, just refer back to this post (miiiight be good idea to bookmark it or use that handy dandy pin-it button up there).   

Sorry New York, CA is my new home now. Tacos, palm trees, and sun? Yes, yes, and yes please!

You could easily spend weeks (and weeks!) exploring California and hardly see any of it. Thankfully, with the help of other west-coast lovers as well, I’ve compiled a (long) list of some of the most beautiful places in California to add to your California bucket list. Use this guide as help when planning your next California road trip, or just as itinerary inspiration for your next California adventure.

Or do as I do from time to time, and just gawk at the photos. I mean, c’mon, any list of the best places to visit in California will be some sort of eye candy, am I right?

So without further ado, and in no particular order (it’s more fun that way), let’s get to it > the most beautiful places to visit in California! Did I miss any must-see spots in California?

Let me know down below in the comments! I’m always looking for more places in this swoon-worthy state to visit! 

45 Most Beautiful Places in California

01 | Burney Falls, Shasta County

First up of the most beautiful places to visit in California – the absolutely stunning Burney Falls!

Located a short hour and a half away from Redding in Northern California within McArthur–Burney Falls Memorial State Park, Burney Falls are a sight not to be missed! Every angle is just as stunning as the last, and it’s basically impossible to take an ugly photo here.

You can hike the trail to the bottom of the falls (more like a walk) and relax on a rock for as long as you’d life – though it does get super misty as you descend down the path! A cool respite from the usual heat in this area. And even better – you can swim here (albeit pretty chilly anytime of year), as long as you stay close to the rock outskirts.

Bring water shoes as the ground is rather rocky and downright slippery.

Read Next: A Weekend at Lassen Volcanic National Park + Burney Falls

02 | Emerald Bay, Lake Tahoe

Ohhh, I’m absolutely enamored with all things Lake Tahoe, and can easily name it one of the best places to visit in California. Period. If you adore shockingly blue waters, snow-capped mountains, and water spots, I have a slight feeling you’ll agree as well.

Emerald Bay is a gorgeous inlet on the western shore of Lake Tahoe, one of my favorite road trips from San Francisco. Exploring this area will take you away from the cozy little towns of North or South Lake Tahoe down a scenic, winding road and through the rugged Desolation Wilderness (the name is misleadingly depressing).

One of the best ways to explore Emerald Bay is on foot, by hiking the 9-mile Rubicon Trail. The hike begins in D.L. Bliss State Park– camp there if you can – high up in the granite, pine-topped cliffs.  It winds through gorgeous lake vistas down to Vikingsholm, which was once some eccentric rich person’s Scandinavian style villa, and is now one of the most curious things to see in Emerald Bay.

It sits directly on the shore of Emerald Bay and visitors willing to hike the 1 mile trail from the parking lot are rewarded with a beach, tours, and a little gift shop which, you’ll be happy to know, sells ice cream.

Oh, and that island in the middle of the bay? That was their tea house. Rich people, amirite? In addition to camping and hiking and random viking villas, you can explore Emerald Bay by boat, kayak, or Stand-Up paddle-board – you’ll want to rent in South Lake Tahoe and cruise over. // Lia Garcia

03 | Sand Harbor, Lake Tahoe

Yup, another one of the best places in California is in Lake Tahoe! Sand Harbor is a gem in the Sierras with crystal clear water and magnificent boulders every where you look! The sand on the beach is perfect and the experience is magnified by the stunning nature all around.

The smell of the piney scent and the sound of birds and other wildlife around you makes it feel like a dream you don’t want to wake up from. It’s easily one of my favorite stops when driving around Lake Tahoe!

People with an appreciation for photography will definitely have plenty of opportunities to take breathtaking shots that will remember them of this paradise. Especially the combination of sand and rocks is picturesque beyond imagination. The water looks so clean that it makes you think that it’s drinkable and it feels so good that once you get in you won’t want to get out.

Boulders are perfect for jumping from them and if you are not an adrenaline junkie you can kayak and scuba dive as well. Sand Harbor on Lake Tahoe is definitely a place you should visit and it’s an experience you won’t forget. // Viktor Vincej

04 | McWay Falls, Big Sur

There are not many places like Big Sur in the world, and McWay Falls is a true testament to that!

Whenever heading down the coast, we always make a stop at McWay Falls – every single time. It’s just THAT beautiful, and easily one of the best views in California. I promise you – any California coast road trip needs to include McWay Falls, located in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park.

So why is this waterfall just so mesmerizing? For starters, it’s 80 feet tall, and one of two waterfalls in California that flow right into the Pacific Ocean (with Alamere Falls near SF being the second). And secondly – you only have to walk about 8 minutes to see it (the mini trail is no more than half a mile). When people say they’re “hiking” to McWay Falls, they’re really just casually strolling down a paved path.

Do note there is no beach or ocean access, and it’s actually forbidden to go down there. There are plenty of other beaches to hang around, so do your part and just stay where you’re supposed to be.

05 | Pfeiffer Beach, Big Sur

Purple sand? Say whattttt? Yup, Pfeiffer Beach most definitely wins the title for #1 of all exotic places in California. I mean, how could you compete with purple-hued sand?

Although quite hidden in Big Sur, once you make it there (after a few too many u-turns), you’ll be absolutely amazed.  The beach has streaks of purple sand from eroded crystals of garnet. Yes, you read that right – the sand is actually purple and marbled in with black and white sand. Spectacular rock formations are found here as well. Quite rare to say the least.

Psst – the best time to witness this purple sand is right after it rains – make sure you bring your camera.  

Don’t miss this lesser-known beach (it’s really easy to miss the turn off of CA 1 as there aren’t many signs pointing you in the right direction – only a small one at the turn off). Don’t confuse it with other “Pfeiffer” parks in the area, it’s its own separate spot! Put it in your GPS and you’ll be golden!

You’ll probably need a light weight jacket if you come after hours as it gets quite windy.  Windy and rocky yet downright beautiful. One of the rarest and most beautiful places in California, in my opinion!

Read Next: A Visitor’s Guide to Big Sur – What to See, Do, Eat, and Explore

06 | Valley View, Yosemite

Visiting California for the first time and not visiting Yosemite National Park is a crime. And thank god, I didn’t commit one. The Yosemite Valley, carved by glaciers, fenced by granite domes, watered by the Merced River, hemmed with pine trees, is a dream place for a landscape photographer like me. Inside the park, I visited almost all the vantage points to get that one postcard picture and all views were equally stunning.

However, out of all the spots in California, Valley View won my heart. I prefer this view over any other view as it is an ideal place to shoot mirror view postcard pictures. With the Merced River creating a flawless mirror reflection of El Capitan to the left and Cathedral Rocks to the right, the Valley View is a great spot to click that masterpiece either during the day or at the golden hour.

And if you come at the right time (during off-season, perhaps), I can assure you this will be one of the most peaceful places in California you’ll visit on your trip.

Add this to your list of must see places in California, you won’t be disappointed, I promise you that, even if the weather disappoints a bit! // Archana Singh

07 | Glacier Point, Yosemite

Gazing over the edge at Glacier Point is not an exercise in uncovering subtle beauty.  The obviousness of it can take your breath away.  It’s almost too beautiful, and your brain will struggle to take it all in. And that’s surely why Glacier Point is most definitely one of the must see places in California.

From this vantage point, the vast expanse of the Yosemite Valley stretches out below, but your attention will undoubtedly turn first to the majestic curving profile of Half Dome.  From there your eyes can follow Tenaya Canyon up and over the High Sierra or focus on the massive Nevada and Vernal Falls as they cascade to the valley floor.

The impressive view to the West can’t quite capture the full splendor of Yosemite Falls, but even that can be remedied by a short hike down the “Four Mile Trail”.  If you hiked or took the bus to the top, you might as well just keep going, the views are almost as spectacular on the way down. // Jessica Brown

08 | Avalon, Santa Catalina Island

Catalina Island is one of our favorite weekend or day trips from Southern California. There are three port options which makes it really convenient from LA and OC: Dana Point, Long Beach, and San Pedro. After just an hour ferry ride, it feels like you’re somewhere on the Mediterranean. Catalina Island is such a gorgeous location with mild weather year around.

There are SO many options of things to do; you can have almost any type of trip you’d like from romantic, adventurous, to relaxing. Here are some of our favorite activities:

• Walk along the waterfront, go from the beginning of the town to Lover’s Point
• Relax at Descanso Beach Club and grab a frozen drink
• Rent a golf cart to explore the island
• Go snorkeling or scuba diving at Lover’s Point
• Take a jeep tour to check out the Avalon backcountry and see the bison
• Try a water activity like parasailing, jet skiing or kayaking
• Take a zip line tour
• Go hiking at Garden to the Sky
• Go on a food tour

As you can see, there’s a great variety of activities available! We hope you enjoy this charming and magical island! // Photo and text by Lena Elzayn

09 | Hearst Castle

Hearst Castle is possibly the most fascinating and the most opulent historic attraction in California. When William Randolph Hearst inherited the land from his father, he set about building his dream home: the 165 room Hearst Castle which is set upon 127 acres of gardens, terraces, pools, and walkways.

Hearst Castle today is an incredible attraction where visitors can marvel at William Randolph’s eclectic taste of world treasures (it’s an absolute must-do on any California coast road trip). I don’t think there’s many places where you can walk upon ancient Italian mosaics whilst looking at Egyptian artifacts and medieval tapestries all in the same room. He collected what he liked and placed them where he thought they looked good rather than by eras.

In 1957, Hearst Castle was donated to the State of California and today the California State Parks manages the site. To visit, head to San Simeon on the coast of California and follow the signs. You may even notice the zebra on the side of the highway! It’s definitely one of the more popular places in California, so be sure to book a ticket ahead of time. // Leah Smileski

10 | Alamere Falls, Point Reyes National Seashore

Looking for a waterfall hike in the San Francisco Bay Area? Check out Alamere Falls, a 10+ mile round trip hike that takes you to the base of the waterfall (which flows right into the Pacific Ocean actually!) Don’t expect any peace and solitude as this hike is rather popular, but the views highly make up for it. Note that it’s usually pretty foggy in the morning, so dress accordingly and even though it could be a bit chilly, make sure to bring some water.  The gradual up-hill climbs will keep you warm.

Throughout the hike, you’ll get ocean views from atop a high cliff, walk in densely wooded areas, pass a big pond and some open meadow areas. Quite a long hike, and definitely not “easy”, but is worth it to see the falls pour directly onto the beach. One of the more active places to go in California, so be sure to wear your hiking boots and pack a backpack filled with necessities (including snacks)!

11 | Dana Point Harbor, Orange County

Dana Point Harbor has everything and then some. From whale watching and fishing to restaurants and bars, tourists shops to small local boutiques and yoga studios and a beach, this harbor is more than just a place where locals keep their boats. Grab a coffee, marvel in the view, and go window shop the magnificent yachts. A great place to get a fresh seafood lunch or dinner (with ocean views of course!). If you’re looking to chill and relax, this beautiful place in California is your spot.

12 | Hawk Hill, Marin County

Many visitors to San Francisco never make it over the bridge besides the obligatory Golden Gate Bridge drive-over. But look just how amazing this spot is! SWOON! Located on the other side of the bridge in the Marin Headlands, you get picture-perfect postcard views of that famous rust-colored San Francisco icon.

Not scared of raptors? This area is the best place to witness the fall raptor migration on fog-free autumn days (don’t worry, you still need binoculars – they’re not thaaat close), and provides habitat for the mission blue butterfly as well.

Make sure you venture on over to the other side of Hawk Hill as well. Although there’s no bridge view here (endless ocean views here instead), it’s just as splendid and much quieter, and one of the prettiest places in California in my opinion. And since you’re already over the bridge, may as well head to Sausalito and/or Muir Woods!

Psst: Visiting San Francisco? Here are the best places to photograph the Golden Gate Bridge.

13 | Napa Valley Vineyards

No list of beautiful places in California would be complete without the famous Napa Valley Vineyards. From home to the Patwin Native Americans in ancient times to the home to America’s finest wine, Napa Valley has come a long way. The process of cultivating vineyards in Napa started in the 18th Century when Europeans came to this part of the country and started making wine.

Today about 400 wineries dot Napa Valley and make some of the most sought after wine in the world, including the iconic Cabernet Sauvignon. Napa makes a wonderful day (or overnight) trip from San Francisco, and you’ll soon see why. But really, I recommend staying at least 3 days in Napa to get the full experience.

A few activities include wine tasting (of course!), tours of some old and iconic vineyards, great food, hot air balloon rides, mud baths, and more. There are beautiful resorts with spas, fine dining restaurants, as well as cool hangout joints to suit the needs of all types of travelers. Pro tip: Don’t miss the wine cellar at Beringer Winery as well as the The Rhine House there. // Siddhartha Joshi

Not into wine? Don’t fret >> Here are a bunch of Things to do in Napa Valley Besides Drink Wine.  Looking for the best views? I’ve got you covered >> Wineries with the Best Views in Napa (my favorites)

14 | Santa Cruz, Channel Islands

Not to be confused with Santa Cruz in Northern California, this island off the coast of Santa Barbara is one for the bucket lists.  Imagine taking a road trip down the Pacific Coast Highway, and spending a day cruising to what feels like a Mediterranean island. Yes, in California!

If you are in need of an escape from the frantic pace of the LA area, this is the perfect getaway for you. Located within the Channel Islands National Park, this island not only boasts spectacular views from it’s many vantage points, but also a wide array of hiking trails, kelp forests, tide pools, and seasonal whale sightings.

Note that the only way to reach the island is by boat (from several ports in Southern California), as there are no bridges which connect it to the mainland, and you’ll almost always see dolphins, whales, and sea lions on the way out.

15 | Point Lobos, Monterey

Point Lobos is one of those special places in Monterey County that is often overlooked when visiting Monterey and the Carmel Valley region. But for those that take a little effort, the short drive to the coastal state park is an incredible experience.

I would recommend taking some of the popular hiking trails along the coastlines dotted with beautiful annual blooms. The jagged rock islands and terrain is really breath taking to see and photograph even in cold or cloudy days, which tend to happen regularly along the Monterey coastline.

You will definitely enjoy the hikes here, but if you don’t have that much time, you can easily drive to the coastal parking areas for a shorter visit. Make sure to check out the smallish but cool visitors center and talk story with the ranger – there’s a lot of interesting photos, artifacts and other historic things to see and learn about the history of the area. // Noel Morata.

16 | Joshua Tree National Park

A visit to Joshua Tree National Park is a unique experience, which will let you explore the desert from a different angle. The Park is easy to navigate, so it is possible to see the main highlights in one or even half a day. If you want to stay longer, you will find several camping options within the park.

The most popular time for visiting the park is spring, but I am sure you will still find things to do at any time of the year. No matter what the length of your stay is, make sure that you put the Keys Views, Skull and Jumbo Rocks and Cholla Cactus Garden on your list. Full day trip itinerary here (including all the Joshua Tree highlights)!

Apart from admiring the Joshua trees, there are numerous other activities to do in the park, ranging from the usual hiking, cycling and bouldering to more unique, such as star-gazing, night festivals and wild flower walks in spring time. // Ana Rozanova

17 | Mount Shasta

Located 290 miles north of San Francisco, Mount Shasta is a 14,161-foot-tall volcanic mountain.  It last erupted in 1786, and it is the origin of the Sacramento River.  Many consider it the most beautiful mountain in the west, including poet Joaquin Miller who described it as “lonely as God and white as a winter moon.” 

Strange stories about it abound, including some about UFOs, and because it is said to have unusual energy fields, some think it is as mysterious as Stonehenge and the pyramids and others have ranked it as one of the world’s seven sacred mountains. 

All this, and it has some spectacular trails and waterfalls, too, and for the price of a hamburger you can sit in a comfy booth in the town’s Burger King and enjoy a million-dollar view.  // Carole Meyers

18 | Cypress Tree Tunnel, Point Reyes

While not an actual tunnel, the Cypress Tree Tunnel is made up of Monterey cypress trees, located on the Point Reyes Peninsula. It’s a very popular scenic driving location, so bring your camera and a friend, and test out some shots!

When the light is good, you’re bound to get a few Insta-snaps to make any friend jealous. Psst- come in the late afternoon for the best lighting.  With the sun shining and birds chirping, it’s an idyllic California spot not to be missed if you’re in the area.

19 | Painted Canyons, Mecca

Ready for a hike with some epic scenery along the way? The hike isn’t too difficult, as long as you’re not afraid of ladders or heights, and don’t mind some heat!  

Psst – make sure the ladders are stable before going up or down them!

Along the hike you’ll head through some crevices and down onto the canyon floor. Definitely a great day if you’re in the Palm Springs area! Remember to bring water! A lot of water! It’s the desert we’re talking about!

20 | Glass Beach, Fort Bragg

The glass beach at Fort Bragg is one of those special places worth visiting if you are driving around Mendocino County in Northern California. Once a dumping ground for early settlers in the area, all the bottles, glass, ceramics and other junk dump from early settlers is now a treasure trove of fun collecting along the shoreline of glass beach.

In between the sandy beaches are large swaths of polished and smooth glass pieces and ceramics that are fun to pick up as souvenirs of an earlier time. Now that the beach areas have been cleaned up and reclaimed as a natural coastal beach area, it is a perfect place to relax and also hunt for treasure at the same time. // Noel Morata.

21 | Point Cabrillo Light Station, Mendocino

If you’re in the area of Mendocino, you absolutely must visit this light station.  How cute is it?! Can you tell I’m just an absolute sucker for lighthouses?  I honestly don’t know what it is about them, but I feel the need to visit them all! Of course this would hold a firm spot on the list of most beautiful places in California!

The Point Cabrillo Light Station has been used for navigational purposes since 1909 (#wow!), and is now part of the California State Parks system.  There is a short trail to reach the lighthouse, but if you haven’t caught my drift yet, it’s worth it.  And really, it’s super short.   No excuses.  Get your coffee and go.

Want to make a weekend out of it?! Check out this fantastic 3-day Mendocino weekend itinerary!

22 | Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve

If you appreciate and LOVE flowers, this is your place! Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve is a state nature reserve within the Mojave Desert with tons of hikes and a wildflower season every March to May. So many orange flowers it looks like the hills are on fire!

Don’t just drive by – the place is too beautiful to miss and should hold a first spot on any list of places to go in California. The reserve is quite large so although it may be crowded at times (especially during wildflower season), you won’t be walking on top of everyone. Signs warn of snakes, so be careful. And remember where you parked your car as it is the desert and everything looks the same!

23 | Lone Cypress, Carmel

Prized for its beauty and rarity, the Lone Cypress stands on a rocky outcropping off Pebble Beach’s famous 17-Mile Drive. At 250 years old, it has stood in this postcard-worthy place longer than just about anything but the nearby surf and sand.

The Lone Cypress has weathered fog, fire, and the sometimes-unpredictable weather of Northern California. It is so important to the area that caretakers have held it in place with steel cables for the last 65 years.

For $10.25 per vehicle, visitors can cruise 17-Mile Drive (part of the Pebble Beach resort) to visit the tree, which is located between two of the best-known golf courses in the world. While you can’t get too close, you can certainly get close enough to appreciate the starkness of the lone tree against the horizon. // Laura and Lance Longwell

24 | Mono Lake, Sierra Mountains

Whoa, is this place in California even real?! You betcha! Like the purple sand at Pfeiffer, you’ll find another top contender of the most exotic places in California in on the eastern slope of the Sierra Mountains in Northern California. It’s just outside of the eastern boundary of Yosemite National Park, so easily accessed in the summer with the road is open.

The park became famous for its tufa formations which appeared when the level of the lake was dropped to provide water to the city of Los Angeles. The water began being diverted in 1941 and the amount of water being diverted to LA was greater than the amount replenishing the lake.

Over time the lake dropped 49 feet and lost over half its volume. An agreement was eventually reached with Los Angeles which would put a limit on how far Mono Lake could drop, preventing it from disappearing completely. // Photo and text via Gary Arndt 

25 | Salton Sea, Sonoran Desert

The Salton Sea is an anomaly in the California desert. Situated 235 feet below sea level, the “sea” is actually a lake, and as you may guess from its name, a salty one. It’s actually the largest lake in California, and truly a dream for moody photographers for its post-apocalyptic nature and desolation. 

If you choose to camp the night you may very well be the only person there. As you near the lake, you’ll notice the pungent smell, the abundance of crushed fish bones, and even a few dead birds littered around the shoreline. This is due to the combination of overly salty water and the agricultural run offs from nearby farms.

Without a doubt, it’s a unique stop to make on a California road trip, and a scenic spot for pictures or to simply be alone in nature. It’s a place to wonder how abandoned places like this still exist in as populated a destination as California, which just goes to show you how big of a state it really is. // Mimi McFadden

26 | Salvation Mountain, Slab City

Salvation Mountain is one of those little known gems in the middle of nowhere that you don’t really stumble upon, rather you seek out. It is awesome, inspiring, and a little nutty too!

Deep in the desert of Southern California, near the Salton Sea lies Niland, home of Salvation Mountain. Created as Leonard Knight’s tribute to God, it is covered with religious scriptures.

Apart from the religious aspects, it is filled with flowers, trees, waterfalls, beautiful patterns and wonderful vibrancy that will have even non-believers feeling the happiness and love of the space.

Read Next: Everything You Need to Know for a Visit to Salvation Mountain!

Made of adobe clay, donated paint, and various recycled material, it is a sight to see – and photograph! One of the most colorful and beautiful places in California! // Karilyn Owen

27 | Zabriskie Point, Death Valley

Death Valley rewards lovers of a spare landscape. To some, it might look like an endless expanse of brown on brown. But to the discerning desert-lover, there a great subtlety in Death Valley’s landscape and nowhere is that more on display than at Zabriskie Point!

Zabriskie Point looms over Badwater Basin, the lowest spot in the United States. Right underneath the scenic overlook are wrinkled hills that roll away in waves toward the flat, dry lakebed and the Panamint mountains beyond.

Read Next: The Perfect 2 Day Death Valley Itinerary

The westward facing overlook and the rippled topography create stunning views at dawn. The emerging sun spotlights the distant mountains first and then as it rises higher, it begins to reveal the striated colors in the hills. Many visitors leave right after dawn…but you should wait. Because as the sun rises yet further, the hills light up with a corrugated play of light and shadow.

Pro tip: Visit Death Valley in the spring for the best weather and go down to the valley floor for equally stunning views at dusk.  // Carol Guttery

28 | Mesquite Sand Dunes, Death Valley

The Mesquite Sand Dunes of Death Valley are conveniently located in hell. Yes, you read that right – Hell!

Wondering how Death Valley got it’s name? During the pioneer migration, Death Valley essentially starved and dehydrated any wagon trains foolish enough to attempt transiting the desert. With a 140 mile valley floor bordered on both sides by mountains. The prevailing winds and the geology have created a wind funnel that has swirled up the old lake bed into dunes.

While Death Valley and the dunes were hard on the pioneers, they are a revelation for the modern photographer. If you position yourself in the middle of the dunes right before dawn, you will be treated to a subtle light and shadow show that is abstract and organic. There is something very peaceful about a quiet dawn in such a spare landscape. A must-visit during any trip to Death Valley.

Pro tip: Go in the spring or fall to avoid the worst of the heat and consider making a road trip out of it by visiting more dunes in Utah and Colorado. // Carol Guttery

29 | Bowling Ball Beach, Mendocino

Any trip up the coast of California should to include a visit to Bowling Ball Beach. Part of Schooner Gulch State Beach in Mendocino County, you won’t find many other natural formations like this one, making it one of the most beautiful views in California.

The beach is named for it’s spherical sandstone concretions which are found there at low tide (aka plan your visit around low tide!). A short hike across the bluff top and a scramble down a dirt path will take you to Bowling Ball Beach. The trail and the stairs down the cliff have eroded considerably in the past few winters so be careful.

Read Next: Must-Do Things in Mendocino and Fort Bragg

30 | La Jolla, San Diego

Known for its curving coastline and steep ocean bluffs, La Jolla is a charming seaside community just inside the San Diego city limits. Secluded beaches and scenic walking trails wind their way along the La Jolla coast, adjacent to ritzy restaurants, upscale boutiques and luxurious homes.

The best way to experience La Jolla is to spend a day strolling along the coast: walk along sandy stretches of beach, climb over massive boulders, peek into the many crystal-clear tide pools, and watch as the powerful Pacific Ocean crashes into the rocky shoreline.

Be sure to keep an eye out for seals, sea lions, pelicans, and other coastal wildlife! When you’re tired from walking, pop into one of the many cozy restaurants for fresh seafood and good California wine. // Kelly Borglum

Read Next: Top Day Trips from San Diego, my favorite way to spend a long weekend in San Diego, photo spots in San Diego, and the ultimate San Diego bucket list!

31 | Pacific Coast Highway

The Pacific Coast Highway is a part of the US Highway 1 in the Golden State, California. This state route is one of the most scenic roads in the world. You get to cross stunning scenery, gorgeous beaches, beautiful green forests, cute tunnels, and quaint villages along the way. If going on road trips is your kind of fun, you would totally fall in love with this amazing drive!

A few stops to consider adding to your Pacific Coast Highway road trip: Montara State Beach, Half Moon Bay, Santa Cruz, Monterey, Big Sur, Malibu, Los Angeles and San Diego. Every stop deserves its own day to explore. The Pacific Coast Highway is a destination on its own and is a must-added item to any California bucket list. Road trip, anyone?! // Priya Rejendran

Read Next: The Ultimate California Coast Road Trip Itinerary

32 | Griffith Park, Los Angeles

Yes, LA does have some beautiful spots, haha. I mean, just look at that view from Griffith Park! It’s actually the second largest municipal park in California and one of the largest in the United States.

With its foundation in 1896 the park has grown to over 4,300 acres in size. The park contains a host of attractions for its visitors. The most popular of these being the Los Angeles Zoo and botanical gardens, following this in popularity is the Griffith observatory. This area provides one of the most stunning views of Los Angeles stretching from the Pacific Ocean up to the Hollywood hills.

Headed to LA soon?! Check out these other resources: 25+ Things to do in LA, The Tourist’s Guide to LA, Hip/Funky Long Weekend in LA + Santa Monica

Within the observatory itself are exhibits to Nikola Telsa, a planetarium and a host of other scientific and cultural memorabilia. In 2010 the Hollywood sign and its lands became an official part of the park. Other smaller attractions within the park include The Greek theatre and Autry museums along with other venues. A trip to Griffith park is a must do when visiting LA as it provides a stunning backdrop to the city. // Eoin Dolly

33 | Carlsbad Ranch Flower Fields

A dazzling display of color and nature, the Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch are one of California’s most whimsical sights. If you love flowers like me, you’ll definitely agree that the Flower Fields are by far one of the prettiest places in California. More than 50 acres of Giant Tecolote Ranunculus flowers bloom each spring from mid-March to mid-May, during which time the ranch opens to visitors.

Guests are free to wander the fields, admiring the colorful blossoms and watching as they sway in the soft Pacific breeze. Snacks, lemonade and other refreshments are available to purchase, so picnicking with a floral backdrop is highly encouraged!

Welcome in the spring season by twirling through one of California’s most scenic flower fields (and snagging that perfect Instagram-worthy shot). // Kelly Borglum

34 | Mt. Whitney

Being the highest summit in the continental United States, Mt. Whitney stands tall at 14,505 feet (4,420m). Located within Sequoia National Park and the Inyo National Park, the best place to view the mountain is actually  at the Interagency Visitor Center on Highway 395 due to a chain of mountains blocking the views from the park roads.

Hoping to climb the tallest mountain? You’ll need a permit for that. All hikers entering the Mt. Whitney zone, including day-hikers, are required to obtain a permit. Don’t forget this as you’ll be turned around without prior permission. And make sure you bring your water – the shortest and most popular route to climb is 10.7 miles!

35 | Pismo Beach Sand Dunes

Pismo Beach in Central California is one of those typical beaches that you may have in your mind what the scene is all about in visiting the area. But what’s really cool about this beach is the fact that you can actually drive on the beach in very compact and solid ground even up to the water.

The sand dunes of Pismo Beach are quite impressive with large sand dunes covering a big area in the park and dotted with swaths of summer annual blooms and other colorful plants.

Pismo Beach is a fun place to explore with the dunes, driving on the beach and the beach culture is in full swing with the cool shops, galleries and eateries in the hip and funky coastal beach town which is a perfect spot to just hang out, enjoy the beach community and local vibe of the area. // Noel Morata

36 | Butterfly Beach, Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is any beach lovers dream. With miles and miles of sun-drenched sandy coastlines, any beach visit will prove to be better than the last. Thirsty? Grab a cocktail at Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara across the street from the beach.

You may even catch a celebrity sighting! Yes, this place is that good! Hoping to catch a spectacular sunset? Wait for a night with a few clouds for a more dramatic effect, and you’ll hopefully get to witness the sky changing from blue to yellow to pink to purple!

37 | Heisler Park, Laguna Beach

Heisler Park is a treasure located just up the road from central Laguna Beach. The beautifully manicured park is perched above the sea cliffs with picnic lawns, benches, and pathways perfect for an afternoon stroll. Everywhere are Bougainvillea, wild flowers, palm trees, various cacti and other exotic flowers I couldn’t name.

If you look westward you can see Catalina Island in the distance or watch the surfers down below navigating a treacherous surf spot. There are steps that will lead you to the beaches, coves and hidden tide pools. In my experience, Heisler Park is one of the most gorgeous places in Southern California and it’s a must visit if you’re ever in the Laguna area. // Asher Fergusson

38 | Pigeon Point Lighthouse

Perched on a cliff on the central California coast, the Pigeon Point Lighthouse is one of the tallest lighthouses in America.  It’s a stop we always make on our way to Santa Cruz (all my favorite stops from SF to Santa Cruz here).

And the lighthouse has quite a history – it’s been used to guide boats and other mariners since 1872, and you can even see the light showcased in a building nearby. Renovations are currently underway, but the lighthouse is still intact and such.

Don’t miss the area surrounding the lighthouse – the waters and nearby rocks are so rich with marine mammals (we typically see whales spouting water from their blowholes in the distance). Be on the lookout for harbor seals hanging out on the rocks as well.

39 | Morro Bay Rock

California’s famous coastal Highway 1 is known for its views from North to South of the State. However, very few people talk about Central California. Morro Bay is a small coastal city in Central CA that Highway 1 cuts through and in my opinion one of the pleasant surprise packages on the drive.

As you head to the lagoon where Morro Bay State Park is, first thing that will catch your eye is a gigantic volcanic rock formation in the middle of the bay. That’s the iconic Morro Rock after which the city gets its name.

There are plenty of activities to do at the State Park including hiking, fishing, sailing, and bird watching. Morro Bay Harbor is another great spot in the city to enjoy a chilled beer, fresh fish, and great view of Morro Rock. A combination of Morro Rock and sunset can be quite impressive. // Photo and text by Richa Joshi

40 | Shaver Lake

Shaver Lake is one of the best-kept secrets in California! Nestled in the Sierra National Forest, you will find snow capped mountains, crystal clear water, and green wooded forests but none of the crowds of Tahoe or Yosemite. On the lake, you can rent kayaks or motor boats and spend the day visiting each of the dozens of small beaches along the lake. Each beach is separated from the next by rock formations so it’s easy to find a private spot to relax or swim.

If you’re camping, you can walk to the lake from Dorabelle campground. Try to get a campsite further from the lake and at the end of the loop. You’ll have to walk farther to the lake, but your campsite will back up to enormous rocks and you won’t have many neighbors. Even if you can’t get your desired spots, Shaver Lake is one of the few truly desirable campsites in California where you can get reservations even at the last minute. // Jessica Covington

41 | Muir Woods

Just north of the beautiful Golden Gate Bridge, atop Mount Tamalpais, you’ll find the towering redwoods of Muir Woods National Forest. Though they lie a short distance from the city, hiking the trails here will transport you to a seemingly extraterrestrial realm.

Your eyes will be drawn up immediately as you enter the park. Your gaze will follow the trunks of the old-growth redwoods to what feels like an infinite length as they pierce into the sky above. Not only are these trees soaring in height (even thought to be the tallest of all living things!), their colossal trunks can reach a diameter wider than the length of a car!

Some of the enchanting forest trails even lead to peaks overlooking the mighty Pacific Ocean. Hikers can find themselves admiring the natural wonders in these woods for hours while getting a great cardio workout and then suddenly exit the portal of greenery to the beautiful blue vastness of the ocean below. // Taiss Nowrouzi

Read Next: 30 Spectacular Day Trips from San Francisco

42 | Fern Canyon

With 50 feet tall walls covered from top to bottom with ferns the aptly named Fern Canyon is one of the most iconic locations in California. Hiking back to the canyon is taking a step through time back to the time of the dinosaurs, and Hollywood agrees.

Fern Canyon has been in several documentaries about dinosaurs and was even in one of the Jurassic Park movies. The trail is incredibly easy to walk, though not wheelchair friendly. Be sure you have extra socks on hand as you will be walking through some very wet terrain. Fern Canyon is incredibly photogenic and usually not very busy. // Shannon Doyle

43 | Avenue of the Giants, Humboldt Redwoods State Park

Avenue of the Giants is a scenic redwood tree-lined highway in northern California located about 4hrs north of San Francisco. The main portion of the route runs through the Humboldt Redwoods State Park for approximately 20mi between Miranda and Redcrest. Key sights off of the road include the Immortal Tree, Founder’s Grove, the Dyerville Giant, the Rockefeller Forest Grove, the Shrine Drive-Thru Tree, Eel River, and South Fork.

Looking for more redwoods near San Francisco? Here’s a whole bunch of them!

Driving through the forest on this road is one of the most beautiful drives and my favorite thing to do in this area. But you can’t come to a Northern California redwood forest and not go hiking! For a leisurely walk, I highly recommend the Founders Grove Nature Loop; this trail takes you to the Founders Tree, a 346ft tall tree with a circumference of 40 feet, and the fallen Dyerville Giant, which was once a 370ft tall redwood believed to have been about 1,500 years old! // Constance

44 | Bumpass Hell, Lassen National Park

If you’re looking to escape the crowds at some of California’s National Parks, an ideal place to head to is Lassen Volcanic National Park. Located at the Northern tip of California’s Sierra Nevada range the park is a geothermal hotspot which hosts some incredible scenery. The majority of the geothermal areas within the park are found around Mount Tehama’s caldera, with the highlight being Bumpass Hell.

Aptly named, this geothermal area was named after an unlucky early pioneer named Kendall Vanhook Bumpass fell into these hydrothermal features in the 1860s. The largest fumarole in the park, Big Boiler, is also one of the hottest fumaroles in the world with temperatures measured as high as 322°F (161°C). The best way to explore the bubbling and gurgling of Bumpass Hell is to venture around the fumaroles on the 3 mile boardwalk trail. // Rand Shoaf

Read Next: A Weekend in Lassen Volcanic National Park (plus not-to-miss waterfalls!)

45 | Thousand Island Lake, Ansel Adams Wilderness

With hiking it often goes that the most beautiful places are not the easiest to get to. Thousand Island Lake falls in this category. This stunning alpine lake sits below massive Banner Peak in the high country of the Sierra Nevada mountains within the Ansel Adams Wilderness. The hike up to the lake offers magnificent scenery with towering snow-covered peaks, canyons filled with glistening waterfalls, and crystal clear lakes.

Filled with many tiny islands scattered throughout, Thousand Island Lake lives up to it’s name and although not the easiest to reach, it is well worth the effort of getting there. The lake can be reached via both the iconic Pacific Crest Trail and John Muir Trail, but be sure you’re prepared for a very long full-day hike or better yet, pack along camping gear and enjoy a sunset dip at the lake! // Rand Shoaf

Which of these most beautiful places in California would you like to visit the most? Have any others to add to this list?!

Photos via  5 | 6 | 7 | 10 | 11 | 14 | 15 | 17 | 18 | 19 | 22 | 23 | 25 | 26 | 27 | 28 | 29 | 30 | 33 | 34 | 35 | 36  | 39 | 40 | 41 | 42 | 43 | 45 

The post 45 Most Beautiful Places in California (Itinerary Inspiration) appeared first on A Passion and A Passport.

LA sure is one of the best cities in the world; however, its traffic and crowds will surely drain you at some point! Therefore, there’s no better way to escape the city than by getting outta town for the day – and by day trip I don’t mean Disneyland (that’s too obvious)! Whether it’s an excursion to a small California town to dive into some culture, or into nature – mountains and beaches are plentiful here– everything is possible when it comes to day trips from LA. Because I’m adventurous and love to see as much as I can, I’m a fan of combining a few places at once, especially if it’s a longer drive, but of course, you can solely focus on one place if you don’t feel like moving around too much.

Jennifer from Discovering Legacies has been an L.A. resident for almost eight years and has explored the city’s surroundings quite a lot!  Therefore, since I recently moved to San Francisco and am keen on exploring more of The Golden State, I’ve asked Jennifer to share her favorite recommendations for best day trips from LA.  If you’re not from around the area, you’ll be able to find flights to Los Angeles quite easily as LAX is a major hub for many airlines.

For all of these day trips from LA, a car is your best bet. For San Diego and Orange County, Greyhound buses or the Amtrak are possible as well, as are organized tours which simplify transportation if you haven’t rented a car nor want to deal with public transportation.

Best Day Trips from LA:

1 | For culture enthusiasts: Cachuma Lake, Solvang, & Santa Barbara

For this day trip from LA, it’s best to get an early start. If you don’t have any trouble getting up in the a.m., drive so that you can witness the sunrise at a beach of your choice along the way – it’s the best and most relaxing way to start your day!

Take the 101 to the 154 and find Cachuma Lake on your right after less than two hours. Even though you can’t swim there or get into the water, this recreation area with camping facilities situated within the Santa Ynez and Sant Rafael mountains is just wonderful if you just want to relax and have a BBQ, for example. The County of Santa Barbara’s website recommends visiting during any season.

Once you had enough of the scenic views, make your way to Solvang, a small, picturesque town established by Danish colonialists with European feels and foods in the middle of California. Indulge in delicious baked goods and sausages, wander through the center of town, take a ride in a carriage, or visit an ostrich farm – whatever you do, you’ll most likely feel like you’re in Europe.

On your way back from Solvang, stop in Santa Barbara, one of California’s most infamous college towns, and take a sunset stroll by the beach. Then, have dinner at an ocean view restaurant or somewhere in Downtown along State Street.

Read Next: The Ultimate California Coast Road Trip Itinerary

2 | For (underage) drinkers & party lovers: Mexico

Why not combine your day trip from LA with a country hop to Mexico? Don’t forget your passport for this one! Leave in the early morning hours, pass San Diego, and take the last exit of the 5 freeway where you can leave your car in a parking lot on the right (not more than $10-12 per day). Cross the street on foot, walk over the bridge, and simply continue across the border.

Once in Tijuana, Mexico, stock up on the delicious street food – yummy tacos and mini pancakes. Ask for the bus station and take a bus (or cab depending on your budget) to Rosarito or Ensenada. Enjoy fresh sea food and cheap drinks in both cities, ride horses or four-wheeler’s along the beach or just stroll through the streets.

Make sure you know from where your last bus back to Tijuana leaves and don’t miss it! Also, the line to enter the US is always longer than the other way around, and waits can sometimes take up to an hour or two, on weekends possibly even longer.

Read Next: A Long Weekend in Cabo, Mexico

3 | For city kids: La Jolla, San Diego & Coronado Island

On your way to San Diego, be sure to stop at La Jolla to get close to, look at, listen to, and smell the seals, or jump into the refreshing water at the beautiful cove.

Once in San Diego, you can choose between visiting Balboa Park, taking a stroll along the harbor, eating Mexican lunch or dinner in Old Town, hitting up some wineries, checking out a museum, or having a happy hour drink in the Gaslamp district.

To top off your visit, drive over the Coronado Bridge or take a boat to Coronado Island. Enjoy the wonderful beaches there, some good food, and admire the once largest resort hotel in the world. Makes for one of the most wonderful day trips from LA, that’s for sure!

4 | For beach bums: The best of Orange County

The cities that are about to follow boast the most beautiful beaches in Orange County. To skip traffic, leave L.A. early and start off with a breakfast or brunch in San Clemente. If you like more crowded beaches, spend your afternoon in San Clemente.  

However, if you love surfing or prefer a less populated beach with almost no tourists or buildings in sight, check out Trestles, only three miles south of San Clemente. Take exit 72 for Cristianitos Road and park right by the freeway. From there, just follow the surfers on a one mile walk to the beach and enjoy the peacefulness.

Read Next: Itinerary for Sunny Southern California

To finish up your day trip from LA, drive back up north to Dana Point, take a walk along the beautiful yacht harbor or do some late afternoon small boutique shopping in Laguna Beach. For dinner during sunset, either of these cities’ ocean view restaurants will serve as a perfect finish for your O.C. beach day trip from LA.

5 | For hikers: Potato Chip Rock

I bet you’ve seen this iconic rock formation countless times on Instagram, but people rarely know that it’s actually in California, not far from LA! One of the most exhilarating day trips from LA lets you work on your fitness: Poatato Chip Rock.

Start your hiking adventure by driving to 14644 Lake Powey Road and finding a parking space for $5-7 per car or park for free close by highway 67. You can even take your dog!

Don’t forget to bring water, energy food, and plenty of sunscreen. If you forgot either of them – there’s a convenience store by the lot. On hot days, make sure to start your hike in the early morning!

The hike to the Rock is quite strenuous and can take up to 4 hours, also depending on how long you have to wait in line to get your IG shot. Yes, there’s a line to do that – cuz, you know, everyone’s gotta show off on social media, right?

Actually getting on top of the rock may be a bit scary for some because you’ve got to jump over quite the gap! But encouragement from fellow hikers will help you get over potential jumping fears and take a picture for you. It’s worth the shot!

6 | For desert lovers: Palm Springs, Salton Sea, Salvation Mountain (Slab City)

Start your day off with a brunch in Palm Springs, continue to Salton Sea, and check out the abandoned ghost town of Salton City. From there, keep driving southeast until you hit Slab City. Having been in L.A., you’ve probably forgotten that small towns like these even exist! Being in Slab City feels like you just went back in time!

A bit outside this tiny town, you’ll find Salvation Mountain – absolutely one of a kind! Not only art lovers and pilgrims will be in awe of this colorful, random mountain which was erected by artist Leonard Knight.

For the best atmosphere at this place, climb to the top and watch the sunset from there. Note: your drive back will take you about three hours, so take that into account if you don’t want to be driving much in the dark.

7 | For big spenders: Catalina Island

This day trip from LA is even better on your birthday because you’ll get a free ticket to go to the island when you travel with a companion! Besides nice views, this will be the only free thing on this island. But the good thing is: because literally everybody there is on vacation, you’ll feel like you are too!

You can park your car in Long Beach or San Pedro from where the boats leave. Your tickets can be reserved at the Catalina Express’ website. Choose Avalon as your destination port. A roundtrip costs almost $75 per person. The first boat leaves Long Beach at 6 a.m., the last one Avalon at 7:30 p.m. Make sure to get in line early.

The city is very walkable, and you’ll find plenty of restaurants and bars by the waterfront. Catalina also offers a beach club, hiking, ziplining, snorkeling and scuba diving, paragliding, golf, island tours, sailing, and much more. It’s a place made for you to leave your money. But the views and atmosphere are worth it – just go on your birthday!

Are you heading to Los Angeles soon?!  Make sure to schedule in some time for a few of these day trips from LA!

The post Day Trips from LA: 10+ Destinations You Can’t Miss appeared first on A Passion and A Passport.

A road trip down the California Coast on the Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) is an unforgettable way to see so much of what the state has to offer. 

From waterfalls and castles (yes, really), to spectacular beaches and theme parks, there’s absolutely no shortage of things to do on the California Coast. 

Whether you’ve got a weekend or a few weeks to travel, you can fill your time with a wide array of California experiences. Let’s get this Pacific Coast Highway road trip under way!

Being one of the most scenic drives in the world (and rightfully so), I advise you to take your sweet time to really savor all the charming beauty of this west coast road trip down California.

And before we go into it, if you’ve got even more time in California and you’d like to visit a few spots off the coast, check out my latest post: 45 (Extremely) Beautiful Places in California (opens in new tab, don’t worry!) << lots more itinerary inspiration for your California road trip!

Recommended Route down the California Coast

• Stop 1: San Francisco, California
• Stop 2: Half Moon Bay
• Stop 3: Santa Cruz
• Stop 4: Monterey/Carmel-by-the-Sea
• Stop 5: Big Sur
• Stop 6: San Simeon
• Stop 7: San Luis Obispo/Pismo Beach
• Stop 8: Solvang
• Stop 9: Santa Barbara
• Stop 10: Ventura → Channel Islands
• Stop 11: Malibu
• Stop 12: Los Angeles/Santa Monica
• Stop 13: Anaheim
• Stop 14: Orange County
• Stop 15: San Diego

ALL 75 of my favorite PCH stops RIGHT over here! There’s tons of ideas in this California coast road trip itinerary, but those are my absolute favorites.

Note that the number of stops you’ll be able to make highly depends on how much time you have allotted for this California road trip.

Suggested One-Week Itinerary: If you have a week or so for this drive down the California Coast, I recommend a day in SF (depending on whether you’ve been or not), a day in Carmel/Monterey, a day in Big Sur, stopping at Hearst Castle in San Simeon, dune-bashing (if that’s your thing) in Pismo Beach, a day in Santa Barbara, stopping in Malibu en route of LA, checking out the main sights of LA/Santa Monica, then some beach time in Orange County.

Yes, it’ll be pretty jam-packed, but highly doable if you plan your drives correctly. You can really spend an infinite amount of time on the California Coast, so it’s hard to say exactly how long this road trip will take. It highly depends on your interest, how much time you wanna spend in the cities, and how much driving per day you wanna do.

Note that you can drive directly from San Francisco to LA in roughly 6 hours, but this route (via Highway 101 and Highway 5) will take you inland, meaning you’ll miss out on so much of the Central Coast. 

If you’re planning to drive round trip, I highly recommend that you drive South down the coast via Highway 1 – the Pacific Coast Highway, and then venture back up North via Highway 5 and Highway 101. 

You can drive either way (from SF to LA/San Diego -or- LA/San Diego to SF), but I prefer driving South, starting in the SF Bay Area and making my way down to LA/SD.  Pssst: the views are better this way as the car will be closer to the water.

Renting a Car: Since this is in fact a road trip, you’ll need a vehicle to get you from place to place! Worth mentioning so you don’t forget to account for the cost of a rental car when following this California coast road trip itinerary!

I like to search via this site in order to compare rental companies to see who has the best price.

Note that many rental car shops charge extra for returning their cars at different pick up/drop off locations – just something to keep in mind (it may be worth the extra 6 hour drive back to your original starting point to avoid this pesky fee).

Search for the cheapest car rentals over here!

WHERE TO GET THE BEST FLIGHT DEALS TO CALIFORNIA:

First things first, if you’re not a resident of San Francisco (or LA), you’ll of course need to get yourself there. Since SFO is a major international airport, and a hub for many airlines, you can easily find cheap airfare within the states. 

I swear by Skyscanner and Google Flights, and always always always use these two sites when looking for airfare.  The option to watch prices and get email notifications are top notch and one of my favorite features of the two. 

Always check budget airlines that may not be listed, especially if you are coming from other areas of the US with shorter flight times.  A great list of budget airlines can be found here.

If you’ll be following this  itinerary and heading south (without driving the direct 6+ hours back to San Francisco), you’ll want to book two one-way tickets. 1) HOME → SFO, 2) LAX→ HOME. Make sure to search for one-way flights when booking tickets.

Totally your call, but I suggest flying round trip from the same airport so you can avoid one-way drop off rental car fees.

When to Drive Down the California Coast

Keep in mind that the summer months (June, July, and August) are usually rather foggy in San Francisco and down the California coast.  Because of this, some mornings will be pretty damp and misty.  For best weather and best chance of sunshine, plan for a road trip in either late September or October. 

If summer is your only option, you may get lucky with clear skies, but don’t count on it.  However, with this in mind, the fog usually clears up by mid-morning/afternoon.  Normal summer temps are in the low-60’s to mid-70’s, so bring a jacket and reconsider that convertible!  “May Grey, June Gloom” is a real thing out here.

*All drive times are approximations.  Traffic can be heavy at some points along the drive, and you’ll likely be getting out of your car occasionally to take photos along the way.

Stumped on what to pack for a California road trip itinerary? Check out this ultimate road trip essentials packing guide (opens in new tab)!

What to Pack for your Pacific coast highway road trip (rotate sideways on Mobile)

Sunglasses	Floppy Hat	Headphones	Camera
Cocktail Kit	Maxi Skirt	Kindle	Fun Backpack
Mini Hair Brush	Sunscreen	Beach Tote	Back Up Battery Charger

Now let’s get this California coast road trip planning on it’s way!

California Coast Road Trip Itinerary:

1) Start in San Francisco

Ahhh, SF, my favorite city; although technically I’m biased because I chose to move to the city by the bay from NYC a few years ago.

A few San Francisco must do’s include either walking or driving over the Golden Gate Bridge, wandering around Fisherman’s Wharf (and stuffing your face with an ice cream sundae at Ghirardelli’s), getting spooked at Alcatraz Island (go on the night tour!), relaxing with some coffee in Union Square, walking down twisty Lombard Street, and riding a cable car. 

Get some great views at either Twin Peaks or the top of Coit Tower, check out the Painted Ladies, commonly known as the “Full House” houses, and nosh on some sourdough bread, fresh pasta in North Beach, and a burrito in the Mission District.

Other things to do in San Francisco include taking a panoramic night tour of city, cruise around the bay in a catamaran (champagne included!), see the Golden Gate Bridge from above on a seaplane tour, and taking a day trip to Napa Valley (not to be missed on any PCH road trip!)

Visiting San Francisco for the first time? Read THIS and THIS.  And make sure to check out this perfect 3-day SF itinerary!

Beware, parking is not the greatest (and garages are expensive), and public transportation is somewhat lacking.  I’ve lived here for 4 years now and still don’t love touring the city via car.

I recommend playing tourist and taking a full tour of the city instead of trying to do everything on your own.  Or rent bikes, electric bikes (!!!), or even a really fun (and kind of cheesy) goCar if you’d prefer to fly solo. Uber is always a good suggestion, and with my discount code (jessicak148), you can get a few bucks off your first ride!

Read More about San Francisco:

• A First Time Visitors Guide to San Francisco
• The Ultimate San Francisco Food Bucket List
• Hiking in San Francisco: A Coastal Walk through Lands’ End
• 25 Spectacular Day Trips from San Francisco
• Best Places to Photograph the Golden Gate Bridge
• Best Desserts in SF (All my Favorite Spots)

Where to Stay in San Francisco

• Intercontinental San Francisco (up-scale luxury and fantastic restaurant)
• Hotel Carlton (travel themed and around the block from Mr. Holmes Bakehouse)

2) Half Moon Bay (45 minutes from SF)

Your first official stop on your California coast road trip (unless you wanna make a few stops in Pacifica/Pescadero – I’ve got a whole road trip guide from San Francisco to Santa Cruz here)!  Say goodbye to the city and venture on over to Half Moon Bay, a cozy little seaside village right on the coast. 

You could easily plan a full day’s worth of activities here, but I suggest spending either a morning or afternoon, unless you want to take the plunge and stay at the ever-so-beautiful Ritz Carlton. 

A few must do’s: go for a stroll on one of the many beaches that dot this area of the coastline (my favorites: Poplar, Mavericks, and Miramar), wander around Half Moon Bay Main Street, walk the coastal trail, and indulge in a lobster roll from Sam’s Chowder House.

Read More about Half Moon Bay:

• The Weekend Guide to Half Moon Bay
• 12 Reasons to Love the Ritz Carlton Half Moon Bay
• All My Favorite Beaches in Half Moon Bay

3) Santa Cruz (1 hour from Half Moon Bay)

Drive a bit further on Highway 1 and you’ll reach Santa Cruz, where I suggest stopping for a few hours.  Walk on the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, ride the Giant Dipper and/or the Ferris Wheel right on the beach, and stop for a snack or two (churros and funnel cake are my favorites).  You can also head to Shark Fin Cove if you’re looking for a unique beach!

Also, don’t miss the Mystery Spot, which I won’t give away for obvious reasons, and make sure you try Marianne’s before heading out (the absolute BEST ice cream in the area).

Read More about Santa Cruz:

15+ Things to do in Santa Cruz

4) Monterey/Carmel-by-the-Sea (45 minutes from Santa Cruz)

Next up on our Pacific Coast Highway road trip – Monterey and Carmel! California is just full of sweet little seaside towns, and this area, despite being rather touristy, is definitely one to stop at. 

Monterey and Carmel are only a few miles apart, and I highly suggest spending the night in either of these towns (Monterey being the more affordable option) while on your California coast road trip.

A few recommended activities and bites: bundle up on a whale watching tour, indulge in clam chowder at Old Fisherman’s wharf, walk around Cannery Row, and spend a few hours at the Monterey Bay Aquarium (included in the San Francisco CityPASS if you’ve gotten it previously).

Don’t miss a walk around the charming little town of Carmel, cruising around the area in a Sea Car, watching the sunset at Carmel Beach Park, and stopping at the viewpoints along the 17 Mile Drive. 

On our most recent visit, I couldn’t stop raving about the food, with my favorites being the Monterey Crepe Company, Red’s Donuts, and The Poke Lab.  I really should make an-depth guide to Monterey soon!

Read More about Monterey/Carmel:

• Why I Want to Move to Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
• Monterey and the 17 Mile Drive

Where to Stay in Monterey:

• Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa (located on a golf course!)
• Holiday Inn Express Monterey-Cannery Row (wonderful location)
• The Monterey Tides Hotel (right on the beach!)

5) Big Sur (50 minutes from Monterey)

Next up: Big Sur, famous for a reason and many people’s favorite stop on this California coast road trip itinerary. Most people are surprised at how little “civilization” is around here – no traffic lights, strip malls, or banks. 

It’s more of a state of mind rather than a specific point on a map, encompassing about 90 sunny Californian miles down the coast. 

With this being said, plan to drive down the coast and consider setting up camp/hotel in another location, unless you want to fork over some big bucks for a luxury hotel.  I recommend everyone spend a bit of time in Big Sur on a California coast road trip (at least half a day)– it’s too remarkable to miss!

You’ll be stopping on the side of the highway so many times you’ll lose count – the coast line is just that spectacular!  It’s known for its winding turns, seaside cliffs, and breathtaking views of the often misty coastline. 

A few must-do’s here in Big Sur: see McWay Falls at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, wiggle your toes in purple sand at Pfeiffer Beach (yes, parts of it really are purple, I was surprised too…), marvel at the Bixby Creek Bridge, and check out all the views from Point Lobos. OH, and if you’re visiting between February and April, definitely find the hidden blooms at Calla Lily Valley!

Read More on Big Sur

• A Big Sur Road Trip Itinerary: What to See, Do, Eat, and Enjoy

Where to Stay in Big Sur (Super Duper Beautiful Luxury Spots)

• Post Ranch Inn (cliff-top hotel with a gorgeous spa)
• Ventana Inn (luxe wilderness resort, with lots of privacy)
• Hyatt Carmel Highlands (overlooking Big Sur)

6) San Simeon (2 – 4 hours drive, depending on how many stops you make in Big Sur)

Did you think you’d be stopping at a castle on your California coast road trip?  When I first learned about Hearst Castle, I was mesmerized.  Being a historic landmark on the coast, tours do fill up in advance, so be sure to book your spot ahead of time. 

First time visiting?  Sign up for the Grand Rooms Tour – and that’s exactly what you’ll see – plenty of spectacularly ornate rooms, plus lots of time to explore the absolutely stunning grounds. 

Non-negotiable on any California Coast road trip, in my opinion.  Be sure to look out for the zebra on the side of the highway as you enter/leave.  Bizarre, opulent, and oddly satisfying.

And while you’re in the area, make sure to stop at Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery, a popular spot to observe elephant seals with its own boardwalk and viewing areas. 

The best times to visit the rookery are in late January, late April, and late October, but visits are encouraged year round.  Have you seen an elephant seal use their large, inflatable noses to make noise?  It’s pretty wild!

7) San Luis Obispo/Pismo Beach/Morro Bay/Paso Robles (45 minutes from San Simeon)

So there’s kinda a lot to do in this little area – so best to pick and choose your favorites (if not, you can easily spend a whole week here!). 

In SLO (what locals refer to as San Luis Obispo), sip pink drinks at the Madonna Inn, stuff your face with bbq are Firestone Grill, blow bubbles at the Bubble Gum Wall in downtown, and grab donuts at SLO Donut Company (SloDoCo). All my favorites, and I can’t image an afternoon not doing any of these.

Looking to stretch your legs?  Opt for the Bluff Trail at Montaña de Oro State Park, a 3.4 mile round trip relatively flat path with (better-than-okay) ocean views.

Thought Napa/Sonoma were the only wine countries in California? Winos – you’re in luck.  This part of your California coast road trip (in Paso Robles) features over 100 wineries, and deciding which to visit is the hardest part! 

The DAOU Vineyards gets constant praise, and with it’s wonderful wine, olive oil, and views, it’s hard to beat!

Want someone else to take you around? Probably a good idea if you’ll be drinking lots of wine! Hop on a full-day hop-on, hop-off wine tasting tour (yes, they exist!) and you can choose your own itinerary in Paso Robles Wine Country.

Or take the easy way out and let someone else decide for you on this Ultimate Wine Experience in San Luis Obispo (foodie lunch and 3-5 wineries included!).

You need to include a dune buggy ride on Pismo Beach on your Pacific Coast Highway road trip! One of the most epic things to do in this area! More info on that here. Nowhere else in California can you drive a vehicle on a public beach!

Before getting to SLO, you may as well make a pit stop in Moro Bay. If the weather cooperates (always a gamble over here), you’ll be rewarded with views of the giant monolith. Be sure to walk around the nearby beach to find sand dollars, and grab a cinnamon bun from one of the local bakeries.

If you’re thinking of stopping here for the night (or have had too much to drink…), consider staying at no other than the wildly famous Madonna Inn (we LOVED our quirky stay here!).  But be sure to save your breakfast appetite for SLO’s legendary Big Sky Café.  Oh, and there’s always beach time as well if the weather cooperates.

8) Solvang (1 hour from San Luis Obispo)

A bit in-land, but well worth the few miles off the highway.  This cute little area will feel as if you’ve been transplanted to a Danish village, with authentic Dutch bakeries and international cuisine.  Worth a quick pit stop, for the pastries alone (try the aebleskiver – pancake puffs).  

Stroll the village to spot Danish icons including the Little Mermaid Fountain, a handful of historic windmills, the giant red clog, and Round Tower.  There’s also two historic churches to check out, Old Mission Santa Ines and Bethania Lutheran.

Looking for something a bit more active? See the unique architecture of the only Danish city in The West via segway tour! They are so much fun and an easy way to get around!

9) Santa Barbara (45 minutes from Solvang)

An absolute must-stop on any Pacific Coast Highway road trip!  Here in Santa Barbara – dubbed the American Riviera – you’ll find widespread beaches and a truly relaxed atmosphere. 

Downtown you’ll find Mediterranean-style white stucco buildings with red-tile roofs, which accurately reflect the city’s Spanish colonial heritage.

And the food! Oh, the food here! Consider joining a historic Santa Barbara Food Tasting Tour to get a true feel for what the locals love here (hint hint: includes Northern Italian dishes, gourmet cheese, local wine and handcrafted chocolates… yum).

Rather take a beer tour? Sign up for the Self-Guided Santa Barbara Lagoon Loop Craft Beer Trail (yes, it’s a thing down here).

Don’t miss Old Mission Santa Barbara, a historic church known for its beauty, a panoramic view of the city from the Clock Tower observation deck of the Santa Barbara County Courthouse, and the Santa Barbara Public Market. 

Save some time for Stearn’s Wharf and then beach it up, you deserve it!  If you haven’t noticed by now, I’m all about that ice cream – satisfy your sweet tooth at McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams (worth the wait and then some).

And whatever you do, don’t leave Santa Barbara without taking a surf lesson (<– reserve your spot now, as they can fill up pretty quickly during the warmer months).

Where to Stay in Santa Barbara:

• Inn by the Harbor (romantic and Mediterranean two blocks from the waterfront)

Recommended Tours in Santa Barbara:

• El Paseo Wine and Photo Tour
• Santa Barbara Amazing Scavenger Hunt Adventure
• Santa Barbara Funk Zone: Food and Photo Tour

10) Ventura for Channel Islands National Park (40 minutes from Santa Barbara)

Usually not very common on a ‘traditional’ California coast road trip, but I couldn’t leave this destination off the list.  In Ventura, be sure to check out Mission San Buenaventura, Olivas Adoble, and Oxnard Beach Part. 

This vibrant town is the unexpected spot to make your way to Channel Islands National Park, located just off the coast via ferry, plane, or private boat.

Take a break from the crazy urban life and go for a hike on the Channel Islands, literally!  The park is comprised of 5 islands and their surrounding mile of ocean, so it’s best to decide beforehand where and what to go/do. 

Head to Inspiration Point on Anacapa Island for some of the best views of the National Park, and/or you can snorkel/dive/kayak in Landing Cove (Anacapa Island) or at Scorpion Anchorage (Santa Cruz Island).  If you’re on Santa Cruz Island, be sure to check out Cavern Point, which provides a spectacular view after a short hike.  You can even go whale watching around here!

FYI – there is NO transportation available on the islands – you have to either walk, kayak, or cruise around via private boat.  Bicycles are not allowed.  Plan a day trip here from Ventura to get your nature fix.

Recommended Channel Islands Tours

• Channel Islands Full-Day Private Sailing Trip

11) Malibu (50 minutes from Ventura)

Just the name “Malibu” sounds exotic and beachy to me.  Here on your California coast road trip you’ll find wide stretches of beaches, celebrity homes, and The Getty Villa (which is said to be absolutely stunning). 

But Malibu is more than just that, including stunning canyons, horse ranches, waterfront restaurants, acres of land, and lots and lots of hiking trails. You can also take a private surf lesson if you missed out in Santa Barbara!

A few spots not to miss: Paradise Cove (the only restaurant you can actually drink on the beach), Geoffrey’s Malibu for a wonderful lunch view (get some fresh seafood here!), Point Dume Beach (you’ll always see dolphins!), Malibu Pier, a tour of celebrity homes, and wide and sandy Zuma Beach, known for its excellent surf. 

Don’t leave without some gelato from Grom Gelateria, the absolute best of the best! And if you’re a sucker for fantastic views like me, don’t miss out on a Malibu scenic airplane tour! Your pictures will be epic, I promise!

12) Los Angeles/ Santa Monica (50 minutes from Malibu)

I highly suggest you spend at least 2-3 days here as there is just SO much to do.  You’ll want to divide your time between Downtown LA (DTLA) and Santa Monica/Venice Beach, with possible other stops to make as well.  

After checking out all the necessary tourist hot spots, you’ll have more time to envelope yourself in the “true” feeling of Los Angeles. Promise me you won’t miss a Warner Brothers Hollywood Studio Tour!

In DTLA, I highly suggest the Broad Museum (FREE, but usually a long wait time), getting an egg sandwich at Eggslut, The Last Bookstore, macaroons at Bouttega Louie, and culture and snacks in Little Tokyo.

Don’t feel like walking? Take a segway tour of DTLA! Don’t feel like figuring out public transportation? A hop-on, hop-off bus of the LA area is always the way to go!

In Santa Monica and Venice, be sure to check out the Santa Monica Boardwalk (ride the ferris wheel and/or the coaster during sunset), Abbot Kinney Boulevard, Venice Canals, and the Venice Beach Boardwalk. 

In addition, you can’t miss the Urban Lights exhibit at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)!  You’ll find pretty cool murals all around the area as well if that’s your type of thing (it most definitely is mine)!

Hike in the Hollywood Hills, take an airplane tour of Santa Monica and the coastline, go on a tour of some movie stars’ homes,

Read More about Los Angeles/Santa Monica:

• The Ultimate SoCal Guide: 25 “Very LA” Things to do in Los Angeles, California
• The Perfect Way to Spend A Day (or Two) in LA
• The Cool Girl’s Guide to LA: What to See, Do, Eat, and Enjoy

Where to Stay in Los Angeles/Santa Monica

• The Orlando Hotel (middle of West Hollywood and lots of great Mexican nearby!)
• HI Hostel (perfect for solo travelers, and around the block from the beach)

13) Anaheim for Disneyland (45 minutes from LA)

Disney lovers will enjoy this spot for sure, but just for the record, Disneyland is not as large and/or “wow!!!!” as Disney World.  I had a Disney-fanatic-friend visit Disneyland a few months back and she was not impressed to say the least. 

Save this stop if you’ve never been to the location in Florida, or if you can’t stand not to check it out for yourself.  Regardless, you’ll have a grand ol’ time on the rollercoasters and indulging in all things Mickey.

A few parks to check out (click to buy tickets): Universal Studios Hollywood, Disneyland Park, Adventure City, and Disney California Adventure Park.

I highly recommend getting these theme park tickets in advance to by-pass any super-long lines and spend more time in the parks. You’ll save yourself lots of time, that’s for sure!

• Universal Studios Hollywood 1-Day Ticket with Options
• Anaheim: Disneyland Resort 1-Day Entrance Ticket

14) Orange County: Huntington Beach/Newport Beach/Laguna Beach (35 minutes from Anaheim)

This stretch of coast is absolutely BEAUTIFUL and should not be missed if your itinerary has you driving down to San Diego (or even as an extra stop from the LA/Ahaheim area). 

Here you’ll find manicured beach towns, a hell of a lot of beautiful people, and even more beautiful stretches of sand with mesmerizing sunsets. 

The beaches are plentiful, but my favorites include Huntington Beach, Newport Beach, and Laguna Beach, all within a few miles of each other.  We recently spent a bit of time in San Clemente, and fell in love with the town! Don’t miss gelato at Gelato Paradiso and the views from Heisler Park and Dana Point.

You won’t want to skip “The OC” on your California coast road trip – I can promise you that!

Read More about Orange County/Southern California

• My Birthday in Sunny Southern California
• 4 Days in Huntington Beach: Everything You Need to Know
• The Complete Guide to San Clemente

Want to extend your PCH road trip?!

1) GO FURTHER SOUTH! You could choose to venture even further south to San Diego, as there’s lots and lots to do! Watch this space for updates and more information on California, including best things to do in San Diego as well!

2) START UP NORTH! Interested in starting this Pacific Coast Highway road trip a bit north of San Francisco? Check out the drive from San Francisco to Mendocino, highly recommended in my opinion if you’ve got a few more days to explore! A weekend in Mendocino is the perfect way to start your trip! And if you’re looking for some redwoods, you’ll find lots around here!

3) HEAD ALL THE WAY TO SEATTLE! Yes, it’s possible! If you have ample extra time, say another week (or more), check all these stops on a San Francisco to Seattle road trip! Crater Lake and donuts, anyone?!

Have you ever take a California coast road trip?!  Is taking a road trip down the Pacific Coast Highway on your bucket list?!

The post The Ultimate California Coast Road Trip Itinerary appeared first on A Passion and A Passport.

When you’ve ticked off the necessary touristy hot spots in the LA area, it’s time to explore a bit off track, cool girl style!  And this -long weekend in LA- itinerary will do just that!  If you’re a fan of donuts, murals, and spectacular scenic spots, this itinerary was made absolutely for you!  I’ve narrowed down this guide by both day and neighborhood, so you’ll get an idea of what you’ll be able to accomplish day by day.

I followed this exact itinerary during my long weekend in LA (more or less, bathroom breaks added in for comfort of course :p), and while I certainly ran around a lot, it was most definitely do-able.  Note that I traveled in January when the sun sets rather early (around 5pm-ish), so those summer months will allow even more daylight for activities.

*I traveled solo for a long weekend in LA and felt safe the entire time.  I was most nervous about wandering around the Venice Boardwalk by myself, but found it to be cleaner and safer than I had originally remembered.  I probably wouldn’t recommend DTLA or Venice solo after dark, though.

First time in Los Angeles and looking for the essential “tourist experiences”?  Check out these posts: The Perfect Way to Spend A Day (or Two) in LA + 25 Essential LA Experiences

First-Timer Tips:

• Use Uber Pool.  It’s huge here.  And with rides as low as $2.99, so cheap as well.
• Don’t lose your train pass/card.  You’ll have to waste another dollar each and every time you want to purchase a ride between Santa Monica and DTLA (or for any other stop).  I “lost” mine and had to buy another, later to find it in my jacket pocket.  Whoops!
• There’s no such thing as too many donuts.  Try them all. You’ll be walking a lot.  Treat yourself.
• While we’re at it, there’s no such thing as too many murals either.  Photograph each and every one.
• There’s traffic.  A lot of traffic.  Don’t rent a car.  I repeat, do not rent a car.  You’ll regret it.  Plus, parking can be a b*tch (and expensive) at times.

WHERE TO GET THE BEST FLIGHT DEALS TO CALIFORNIA:

I swear by Skyscanner and Google Flights, and always always always use these two sites when looking for airfare.  The option to watch prices and get email notifications are top notch and one of my favorite features of the two.  Always check budget airlines that may not be listed, especially if you are coming from other areas of the US with shorter flight times.  A great list of budget airlines can be found here.

Where to Stay:

I highly recommend staying in the Santa Monica neighborhood during a long weekend in LA as the train/metro is right there, and the bus to various parts of the area run quite frequently (every 10 minutes or so).  I was on a modest budget so I chose to rest my head at HI Santa Monica, and I was thoroughly impressed with the hostel. 

Minus a breakfast-to-be-desired (hey, they had free bottles of OJ for grabs), the space was modern, clean, and in a safe location.  Plus, the 3rd Street Promenade and the beach were only a few steps away.

Looking for more luxury options?  I’ve heard wonderful things about the Fairmont Miramar Hotel and Bungalows, Oceana Beach Club Hotel, and Viceroy Santa Monica, all which I hope to stay at in the future (when I’ve allotted more cash to accommodation) and all located directly on the beach.

What to Pack (rotate sideways on Mobile)

Sunglasses	Floppy Hat	Headphones	Camera
Cocktail Kit	Maxi Skirt	Kindle	Fun Backpack
Mini Hair Brush	Sunscreen	Beach Tote	Back Up Battery Charger

Long Weekend in LA + Santa Monica (4-Day Itinerary)

Day 1: Santa Monica + Venice

Morning:

1.Start off your day at Sidecar Donuts, famous for their huckleberry donuts and coffee.  I decided to save my sweet treat for later, but if your stomach’s a-growling, there’s absolutely no shame in stuffing your face first thing in the morning.  All the cool kids are doing it. :p

2. Check out a few murals on your way to your next stop, particularly the Love Berto Mural (1011 Broadway), a 15 minute walk from Sidecar and the Saskia Mural located at Vidiots (302 Pico Blvd).  So much color I loved it!

3) Breakfast burritos, anyone?!  Stop for an egg, avocado, and cheese burrito at Dog Town Coffee to-go, and bring it the beach.  The community around Dog Town Coffee is so super cute you’ll want to snap a few photos along the way as well.  People watching at Santa Monica Beach while munching on your breakfast is my perfect start to a perfect morning.

Afternoon:

4) Once you’re done eating, walk along the pedestrian path to Venice Beach, which will take you roughly 40-60 minutes depending on how leisurely you walk and how many photo stops you take. 

It’s a flat, easy walk that is extremely doable, but be sure to stay on the pedestrian paths as they intersect and intermingle with the bike paths.  You can easily rent a bike and ride to Venice Beach instead, but I opted not to and was glad I chose to walk. 

You’ll eventually come across the Venice Beach Boardwalk, which is full of hundreds of street vendors and performers, including break-dancing, jugglers, mimes, and musicians.  You’ll also see medical marijuana dispensaries, shops to buy sunglasses, shirts, and other souvenirs, and plenty of restaurants, juice spots and bars, as well as a big amount of homeless and hobos – it’s all part of the culture!

Don’t miss the skateboarders (found on a skate park on the sand), a photo at Muscle Beach, a refreshing bowl of Acai, and the Venice Beach art and graffiti walls (always changing).  Plan to spend about 2 hours at the boardwalk.

5) Had enough of the sensory overload and chaos?  Head to the Venice Canals, a short 15, 20 minute walk from the boardwalk.  There are 5 canals in total lined with houses, sidewalks, and bridges, forming their own little community, which is downright spectacular to see on a sunny day! 

It’s a wonderful spot for a leisurely stroll!  Plan to spend about 45 minutes to an hour here wandering in awe while pretending you’re in Europe during your long weekend in LA!

6) Abbot Kinney Boulevard is next on our agenda, which is full of creative and quirky shops and the most delicious ice cream known to man, Salt and Straw (most definitely worth the wait and an absolute must-eat during your long weekend in LA). 

Some of my favorite shops include The Piece Collective, General Store (3 min walk from The Piece Collective), BURRO flagship, Mollusk Surf Shop, Intelligentsia Tea, Salt and Straw ice cream, and The Butcher’s Daughter. 

Looking for more murals?  You’ll find plenty here, including Uniwolfcheetah Mural, the Greenleaf Chopshop Mural, The Otheroom Mural, and a palm tree mural across the street from 3 square cafe, among others.

Night:

7) If you’re not too tired, head to the Santa Monica Pier for sunset, which was one of the highlights of my entire trip.  The lights are infectious, and the energy is just booming. 

Be sure to try a churro and/or a funnel cake (the ultimate boardwalk food), and ride the West Coaster in Pacific Park (the amusement park located on the pier) – the only oceanfront rollercoaster on this side of the country.  Yes, it’s a bit touristy, but the sunset and rides make up for that in my opinion. 

NOTE: If you’re staying in Santa Monica, you can opt to spend time at the pier any night as it’s relatively close and within walking distance to many hotels.

Day 2: Downtown LA

1) First things first, get on line for The Broad Museum.  This contemporary art museum, newly opened in late 2015, has been popular ever since and the long line shows it!  I waited almost 2 hours, but when a museum this good is free (yes, completely FREE), it’s hard to complain.  Bring a few snacks and you’ll be good to go. 

Get there first thing in the morning (a bit before opening), you and hopefully won’t have to wait too, too long.  Or better yet, reserve a ticket in advance to skip the line.  Plan to spend 2 hours or so here once you get in.  The works are absolutely phenomenal.

2) Check out the Disney Concert Hall, a block or so away from The Broad.  Just marvel at the architecture for a moment or two.

3) It’s time for some food, and Eggslut is the answer.  This super-casual, egg-centric food stand, located in the Grand Central Market, boasts some of the best egg sandwiches in the city, or better yet, in all of California.  Try the fresh orange juice as well, it’s the perfect mix of sweet and citrusy.  Indulgent, messy, and satisfyingly eggy. 

Prepare to wait on line (15-20 minutes), as it’s a popular spot in the city, but not to miss during your long weekend in LA.

4) Across the street from Eggslut, you’ll find The Bradbury Building, an architectural landmark and the oldest commercial building remaining in the center of DTLA. 

Behind it’s extremely modest exterior, you’ll be rewarded with a light-filled Victorian court that rises almost fifty feet with open cage elevators, marble stairs, and ornate iron railings.  Pure magic if you ask me. Worth a quick 15 minutes or so.

5) My favorite spot in all of the city during a long weekend in LA: Little Tokyo (I visited twice!)  This area is the heart of the largest Japanese-American population in all of North America, and is full of all things Japanese – a Sanrio store and all!  Try all the treats, including fruity pebbles and bacon mini donuts from Cafe Dulce, mochi ice cream from Mikawaya, red bean buns, and bubble tea.

6) If you’re still hungry and in that asian spirit, head to Sugar Fish for dinner, home to some of the best sushi in town.  Again, there may be a wait as it’s an especially popular spot and quite small interior, but well worth it if you ask me (and are in the mood for some fish).

Day 3: Downtown LA

1) It’s back to DTLA today!  Grab some breakfast at Verve Coffee, which is known for being the most photographed patio in all of LA, and for good reason – it’s absolutely stunning!  A super cool vibe, and wonderful selection of beans, but you’ll pay the price (at least double that of Starbucks or other chains).  If you’re in the mood, check out the Ace Hotel, with great views from the upstairs bar and patio lounge.  I missed it this time, but I plan on taking my camera up there on my next trip to LA.

2) After your coffee fix, hit up The Last Bookstore, the ultimate book haven for any book lover.  Make sure you take the stairs to the second level, complete with art installations (including a tunnel of books) and epic views of the tens of thousands of books down below.  A great atmosphere and creative vibe with great pricing on both new and used items.

3) Next up, the LA Arts District! Tons of hip coffee shops, plenty of colorful murals, and the sweetest pie in all of LA at The Pie Hole.  My plan was to have no plan at all – to wander around, photograph some murals, and admire the nitty-gritty of the whole area.

4) Before heading back to Santa Monica, stop by Bottega Louie for a few of their delectable macarons!  With so many flavors to choose from, I couldn’t choose just one!  The raspberry and birthday cake were my favorite!

5) BEACH and RELAXATION TIME!  By this time on your long weekend in LA, a little relaxation is in order.  The entire itinerary is go-go-go (I know…), and while it’s all fun and exciting, it’s definitely tiring!  Spend some time on Santa Monica Beach and call it an early night.

Day 4: LACMA + Melrose Ave

1.Start off the morning at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, or LACMA as it’s known by locals.  You may recognize the urban lights exhibit located directly outside the museum, but the rest of the museum is worth the $15 entry fee. 

Note that the LACMA is closed on Wednesdays, so plan accordingly.  Plan to spend 2-4 hours here, depending on how much you want to see, since it is the largest art museum in the western United States!

2. Spend the rest of the day on Melrose Avenue, a hip and sophisticated street a bit west of DTLA.  The avenue is quite long, so plan to Uber it around if you’re hoping to check out different parts.  I was lucky enough to be visiting a friend with a car on this day, but Uber would have been just as easy since parking was a tad difficult. 

Any caffeine lovers out there?  Head to Alfred Tea Room or Alfred Coffee for a particularly delicious cup with delectable flavors.  A few murals not to miss: Paul Smith Pink Wall (8221 Melrose), Made in LA Wall (8025 Melrose, Cisco Home), and Retna Wall (8826 Melrose, Craigs).

3. If you’ve got some time and are staying in Santa Monica, check out the Santa Monica 3rd Street Promenade, full of restaurants and shops.  Eat at either Bruxie’s for mouth-watering chicken waffles or Greenleaf for more asian flavors.

4. Up for some late-night donuts?  Take a quick Uber to DK’s Donuts & Bakery to pick out a few of their creative concoctions, including a donut/waffle hybrid dubbed the “wownut” and more crazy toppings than you could ever imagine. So many different donut creations it’s overwhelming, but in the best way possible. 

I fell asleep early, what a shock, I know, so I got my fix of DK’s in the morning before heading off to the airport.  Your long weekend in LA isn’t complete without some of the good stuff.

Additional Suggestions for long weekend in LA (If you’ve got more time):

• The Getty Villa in Pacific Palisades (FREE), closed Tuesdays
• Stahl House (need to book a tour)
• Michel Torena Stairs
• Hike to the Hollywood Sign
• California Donuts (in Koreatown)
• Kreation Cafe for smoothies and juices

Read more about LA and the surrounding areas:

All open in NEW tab:

• The Ultimate So Cal Guide: 25 Things to do in LA
• My Birthday in Sunny Southern California (Long Weekend)
• LA Hotspots: What First Timer’s Shouldn’t Miss
• Hotel Spotlight: The Orlando Hotel (West Hollywood)

Have you been to LA before?  What would you add to the list?

The post The Cool Girl’s Guide to LA + Santa Monica (Long Weekend Itinerary) appeared first on A Passion and A Passport.

When you think of Los Angeles, you probably think of the Beach Boys, surfing, and celebrities. While this is all true, LA is much more than that! Any Angeleno will tell you that LA is a melting pot for all kinds of activities, food, cultures, and spots to explore.

You can get to the beach, mountains, desert, and the forest within an hour, which makes your vacation filled with possibilities! Put visiting Los Angeles as your next #bucketlistitem- you won’t regret it!  I’m visiting LA next week, so I’ve asked my friend Karina from Spot the Red Head to share her favorite LA must-do’s with me! Enjoy!

But first things first: Where to Stay in LA

When deciding where to stay in LA, all the options can make it somewhat daunting. However, there are a few main areas I recommend:

1. Santa Monica:

Located on the western edge of LA and steps from the beach, Santa Monica’s your best bet if you want to wiggle your toes in the sand every morning. With tons of restaurants and shopping nearby on Third Street Promenade, and the eclectic Venice Beach Boardwalk a quick bike ride away, I can promise you you’ll never get bored here.

$ – If you’re on a budget, your best bet is to stay at HI Hostel Santa Monica. Literally around the block from the beach, the largest hostel lockers I’ve ever seen, and free daily breakfast, lack of cash is no excuse here!

$$ – Ocean views calling your name? Check out the Le Meridian Delfina Santa Monica. California-inspired decor and an outdoor pool await! Prefer to be on the beach (ok fine, a 3 minute walk), you may like The Hotel California- Santa Monica. And with quirky rooms featuring surfboard headboards, who wouldn’t want to stay here?!

$$$ – With chic public areas, posh balcony rooms, and ocean view dining, there’s no better place to stay than Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel. Super upscale and super awesome. Check out the Hotel Shangri-La Santa Monica if you’re looking for more of an art-deco feel (complete with a rooftop bar and poolside cabanas).

See all hotels in Santa Monica.

2. Beverly Hills and West Hollywood (WeHo):

Stay in Beverly Hills if you’re looking for luxury (this is where Rodeo Drive is located), and West Hollywood if nightlight and culture/hot trends are more your thing. There’s really no wrong option here, with my top recommendations below:

$ – Super stylish and sophisticated, on a (kind of) budget- The Orlando is just minutes from The Grove (a must-do) and plenty of top eateries. Unfortunately you won’t find many low-cost options here.

$$ – Sofitels never disappoint, and the Sofitel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills is no exception! Get a room with views of the Hollywood Hills, and make sure to try out the onsite restaurant serving classic French cuisine.

$$$ – Afternoon tea and spa/rooftop dining sound like your jam? Check out the Peninsula Beverly Hills, a super chic 5-star hotel surrounded by tropical gardens. Rather pricy, but worth the money for a special occasion.

See all hotels in Beverly Hills.

See all hotels in West Hollywood.

I honestly don’t recommend staying in either Hollywood or Downtown LA, as they are overly congested with both tourists and locals headed off to work (aka say hello to massive traffic jams). If you want to explore these areas, they’re easy to get to via public transportation from either Santa Monica or WeHo.

Things to do in LA:

First and foremost, if you want to do a bunch of activities in LA, it’s definitely worth it to get the Go Los Angeles Card, which gives you entry to over 37 attractions and will save you loads of money.  I’ve used these passes in various cities around the states, and have always been grateful that I bought them in advance.

1. Get Wild- Animal Style at IN-N-OUT

Anyone from California will tell you that the FIRST thing you should do after touchdown in LA would be to get an In-N-Out Burger! LA has TONS of amazing food options, but if we are being honest, In-n-Out is a staple. Try a Double-Double with Animal Style fries! You can’t get it anywhere else and a belly full of in-n-out is the fuel you’ll need for adventure.

2. Get Lit at Lacma Lights

The Urban Lights exhibit by Chris Burden is a classic art piece that has made it into many Hollywood movies, like ‘No Strings Attached’ with Ashton Kutcher and Natalie Portman. The light poles are refurbished from the 1920s and they make for a beautiful photo backdrop. If you make it here early in the morning, you may have them all to yourselves!

3. Stargaze at Griffith Observatory

If you want a night full of magic, take a drive up to the Griffith Observatory around sunset. It’s a bit of a winding road up the hill, but you’ll spot the BEST view of LA from the Observatory. Stay until nightfall to see the city light up like the night sky. So romantic!

4. Go to Universal Studios

Not just for kids anymore!  This park will have you smiling from ear to ear all day long, with its action packed entertainment – thrilling rides, numerous shows, tour a real working movie studio, and visit LA’s best shops, restaurants, and cinemas at CityWalk.  

My advice – get Universal Studios Front of the Line Tickets.  Make sure to use the button below to score your front of the line tickets, and skip wasting time at the beginning of your day.

4. Play with The Puppies at Dog Beach

If you’re wondering how a day at the beach can get any better, let me tell you: ADD PUPPIES! Grab a pup and head to either Rosie’s Dog Beach, Huntington Dog Beach, Point Fermin Park, or Leo Carrillo State Park Beach. Not only will you enjoy some of California’s best beaches, your dog will love you too.

5. Airplanes and Bacon at Maniac Mikes

A quirky breakfast cafe on the outskirts of LA is perfect for pilots and plane-lovers alike. You’ll eat breakfast and watch cable planes take off and land. The food there is traditional eggs, pancakes, and fresh biscuits and the people are very warm. You’ll even meet a pilot or two and get offered to take a ride on their planes! This airplane cafe is a local favorite, so go now before everyone finds out about it!

6. Hike the Hollywood Sign

You cannot visit Los Angeles and skip the Hollywood Sign- It’s iconic! The best way to see the Hollywood sign is to hike it! Park on Beachwood Dr. and follow the signs. You’ll be hiking up on the backside of the sign, but you’ll get an amazing 360-degree view of Los Angeles!

If you’re worried about not being able to find the start of the hike, or are traveling solo, I highly advise you to book a group hike, as its never safe to hike alone, no matter how old or experienced you are.

If you don’t feel like hiking, there are great views of the Hollywood sign on the third floor of Hollywood and Highland Center Mall.

7. Stroll Down the Santa Monica Pier

Cue the Beach Boys music and take a stroll down the Santa Monica Pier. You’ll pass under the iconic entrance that is over 100 years old! You’ll see beautiful vistas of the beach and the city from the end of the pier that will have you saying ‘pinch me, I must be dreaming’. Munch on classic burgers and shakes, ride the Ferris wheel, and enjoy the amusement park rides. You could spend a whole day enjoying Santa Monica Beach.

8. Catch Some Waves at Newport’s Wedge

If you’re coming to California to surf, there is no better place than ‘The Wedge’ at Newport Beach. ‘The Wedge’ is classic Californian slang for THE SPOT to go surfing. This place was popular even back in the 1960’s because the swells can get up to 30 feet high! Right between the jetty and the sand, on the easternmost point of Balboa Peninsula, is the place to be on a hot summers day.

9. You’ll Shut Your ‘Pie Hole’ When You Taste How Good This Is!

LA Natives know that any sweet craving will be conquered at ‘The Pie Hole.’ Located in the Art District of LA, across from cool street murals, this heavenly spot has all the goods. Indulge in sweet and savory pies, breakfast empanadas, lattes and more! The Earl Grey and the Mexican Chocolate Pies are must-haves!

10. Walk through LA’s Art Walk

If you’re an art buff or a savvy instagrammer, you’ll enjoy walking through the 2 miles of street art that line the Art District of LA. Just off 4^th street and Colyton, you’ll find warehouses covered in art that is sure to inspire. Grab a coffee at the cute shops downtown and stroll along the walk! Don’t miss out on the super-instagrammable angel wings.

11. Embrace Culture on Calle Olvera

Multicultural is a great word to describe Los Angeles. Grab your camera and explore the Mexican Pueblo on Olvera Street, Little Tokyo, Chinatown, and many more. Calle Olvera has handmade jewelry, leather bags and belts, musical instruments, clothing, delicious Mexican food restaurants, and bands that play music in the plazas. The atmosphere is so friendly and warm, you’ll never want to leave.

12. Nom on Tacos, Taquitos, and Burritos

LA is a melting pot- and that pot is full of beans, cheese, and rice! LA has some of the best Mexican Cuisine in the entire United States- so make sure you have some before leaving. Cielito Lindo on Olvera St. has delicious taquitos with homemade avocado salsa. Patty’s Tacos has some of the best tacos and burritos in the outskirts of LA. Wash it down with an Horchata or Jarritos, and don’t forget to ‘gram it!

13. Try Delicious Sausages at WurstKuche

Locals love the Rattlesnake, Jalepeno, and Rabbit Sausages at WurstKuche! Located in the Art District of LA, the menu is so varied and the line is almost always out the door. This place is solid for satisfying any hot-dog cravings you might have. Vegetarians listen up: They also have 3 delicious vegetarian options to try! Try the Louisiana Hot Links, Belgian fries, and the German beer! Best. Day. Ever.

14. Bike down the boardwalk

Nothing says California Dreamin’ like biking down the boardwalk on a cruiser. Sport your tank tops (even in winter!), your sunscreen, and sunnies to enjoy a cruise down the boardwalk. You’ll pass by muscle beach and spot locals hula-hopping and tightrope walking on the sand. Soak up the sunshine before you head home!

15. Urth Café

If your goal is to catch celebrities on their off-duty days, eat lunch at Urth Café. Located all over LA, this restaurant is always poppin’. Grub on their amazing green tea latte with boba, their sprout sandwich, the Eggs Benedict with Salmon, or the Matcha Tiramisu. You can’t go wrong!

16. Take Awesome ‘Grams Under The Pier

Walk under any pier in California and you’ll see photographers, models, and beautiful views of the ocean. The lighting is magic under the pier and when you go down there, you’ll see. If you’re looking to meet photographers, models, or locals, the pier is where it’s at. Bust out the selfie stick or ask a friend to take your new LA Profile Pic.

17. LA Zoo

A fun Saturday afternoon activity is to visit the LA Zoo! You’ll see everyone’s favorites: Monkeys, Giraffes, Elephants, Lions, and Zebras! Spend a relaxing day among the animals and enjoy California’s sunny weather. The LA Zoo even puts on holiday events, so check and see if you’ll be lucky enough to catch one!

18. Bar 82

You may be grown, but you can still be a kid! Bar 82 in the Art District of LA is a perfect place to take a date or to play retro arcade games with your friends. Located secretly behind this black gate, you can order your favorite drinks and play pinball machines all night long.

19. Art District Brewery

Have you ever been to a BARCADE? The positive vibes and great beer selection make this place a 5 star joint. Wash away the worries of work or an ending vacation with a brew and a game at the Art District Brewery. There’s a little something for everyone: Sports buffs will love their sports lounge and gamers will love their old-school arcade games. Bring cash for the machines!

20. Hiking LA

LA natives are all about #WildernessCulture. Hiking is our greatest form of exercise, so be sure to join in early on the weekends. Lace up your kicks and choose between Runyon Canyon (watch out for celebrities), Eaton Canyon, The Claremont 5 Mile Loop, and Escondido Canyon! There are many more but these are the ones I recommend for easy/moderate hiking. As Miley Cyrus sings ‘These are the moments you’ll remember most. It’s the climb!’

21. Walk Of Fame and Hollywood

Everyone in the world knows that Hollywood is the epitome of glitz, glamor, and movie stars. If you’re a huge movie-buff, I suggest walking up and down the Walk Of Fame and seeing the TCL Theater entrance. You’ll see stars like Marilyn Monroe, Clint Eastwood, Alfred Hitchcock, Harry Potter and even Winnie The Pooh. Be sure to bring cash to take photos with the costumed characters that walk up and down the Walk Of Fame.

If you’re really interested, you can even book a movie stars’ homes tour!  I did this when I was little and am dying to do it again since I’ve actually heard of some actors and actresses now! Something still on my LA bucket list.

Another tour worth checking out: the 75 minute behind the scenes Hollywood walking tour! Explore Hollywood’s landmark theaters, stroll along the “Walk of Fame”, see the famous Hollywood sign, and learn about the past 100 years of Hollywood history!

22. Last Bookstore

Hi Book Lovers! Snuggle up at the Last Bookstore and enjoy the cozy ambiance. You’ll meet other book-lovers and gab all day over the newest books. They divide their sections by genre and have rows and rows of every kind of book imaginable. There’s no better way to describe it than a whimsical labyrinth of books!

23. Catch a Baseball game

LA has a fierce rivalry between the LA Dodgers and the LA Anaheim Angels, but whichever game you attend, you’ll have a great time. Sit down with a Dodger Dog, a beer, and enjoy America’s past-time. The best part about enjoying a baseball game in California is that you can enjoy the sunshine!

24. Disneyland

Get your Mickey Ears on because the most magical place in the world is only a 30 minute drive from Downtown LA! Visiting Disneyland is an all-day event, so plan accordingly. Kids and adults alike will have the time of their lives here riding the rides and enjoying Disneyland’s magical foods!

Quick Disney Tips: Stay to watch the World of Color, try the Clam Chowder Bread bowl in New Orleans Square, and collect fast passes for all your favorite rides first thing in the morning!

25. Take A Day Trip To Palm Springs

Only an hour away, Palm Springs is the quirkiest desert town that has a rich Hollywood history. The greatest Hollywood Starlets from the golden age of Hollywood have vacationed here. From Frank Sinatra to Dean Martin to Loretta Young, you’ll be walking through history when you walk through the historic downtown. Palm Springs is famous for it’s nightlife, desert dinosaur museums, and delicious restaurants like ‘Las Casuelas.’ Take a whole day to visit Palm Springs!

See more things to do in LA here.

While you’ll need a week or so in the city to exhaust this list, it’s possible to see a whole lot in just one day in LA.  I can promise you that!

If you want to make sure you hit all the highlights, I highly recommend this LA small group sightseeing tour.   See the historic buildings in the downtown area and mega mansions in Beverly Hills and Santa Monica. Drive along the Sunset Strip and experience the good life on Venice Beach.  Just a few of the many many stops you’ll make on this day tour.  Plus, you won’t get lost! Double bonus!

Other posts you might like:

A Weekend in Sunny Southern California

The Best Way to Spend a Day in LA

The Mini Guide to Mendocino, Northern California

The Ultimate Weekend Guide to Half Moon Bay

7 Spectacular Day Trips from San Francisco

The First Timer’s Guide to San Francisco

The Ultimate San Francisco Food Bucket List

Further Reading and Resources for a Trip to Los Angeles:

Los Angeles is a very popular destination, and because of that, there’s certainly some very valuable resources to read when planning your trip.  A few of my favorite resources include:

• Fodor’s Guide to L.A., which gives you a complete guide to the area and surrounding areas, including Disneyland and Orange County (2 other spots you should definitely check out)
• The Lonely Planet Los Angeles, San Diego, and Southern California Guide, which is great for finding things to do in LA, places to eat, and places to stay
• A US road atlas if you’ll be roadtripping to Los Angeles! You never know when you might lose service on your GPS!
• Discover Los Angeles page, the official tourism website of the area, which will give you lots more sound advice and will be able to answer so many of your questions
• Viator and GetYourGuide for a plethora of additional activity suggestions while in town, just make sure to search for LA!
• 20 Best Things to do in LA via US News
• Thrillist’s LA Bucket List: 45 Things to do Before you Die

Tips for Getting the Right Accommodation for Your Budget

Whether your budget is quite large or you’re hoping to visit with minimal expenses, finding the best deal on accommodation is super important.  One of the most important parts of travel planning, actually!

• If hotels are your thing, I highly suggest you check out HotelsCombined in order to find the best deal.  Unlike many other booking websites, they scour the web for the best deal from a multitude of booking sites all in one place.  You can be sure you’re getting the best price.  Try them out and see!
• Prefer an apartment?  I highly recommend you take a look at AirBnB.  You can choose from entire homes, apartments, or private rooms – depending on your preference.  AirBnB has the greatest number of options and are usually less expensive than staying a hotel.  Sign up with this link and you can earn $40 off your next stay!
• Last minute travel plans?  Check out Hotel Tonight to score a last-minute hotel stay!  Use my promo code JKLEINER for a free $25 towards your first booking.
• On a tight budget and want to spend as little money as possible?  Consider staying in a hostel!  Definitely not preferable for families or couples, but if you’re traveling solo or with a friend or two this may be a great way to save a bunch of cash.  Recommended hostels in LA include:
  • HI Santa Monica Hostel – I stayed here and LOVED it! Right next to the beach!
  • Banana Bungalow Hollywood
  • Samesun Venice Beach

Have you been to LA before?!  What would you add to this list?

Not yet? What’s holding you back?!

The post The Ultimate So Cal Guide: 25 ‘Very LA’ Things to Do in Los Angeles, California appeared first on A Passion and A Passport.

Like any trip I plan, I found a way to pack in more activities than humanly possible.  I mean, whats the point of a weekend getaway if you sit in your hotel and do nothing? Might as well sit at home on the couch!

We arrived to LA Friday night around 9pm, picked up our rental car, and checked into our hotel at The Orlando.  After some Mexican food at a nearby taqueria (a new staple in our diet since we moved to CA), it was time to snuggle up into our comfy King bed and rest up for our busy weekend ahead.

Side Note: If you’re looking for a relaxing weekend away, this is NOT the itinerary to follow.  

Saturday: My Birthday (!!!)

We started the morning nice and early with breakfast at The Georgian, offering fantastic views of the Santa Monica palm trees and that cold Pacific water.  This meal reminded me that I need to start eating outside more often.  The fresh air promises a great start to any day, my birthday or not.

The remaining part of the day was spent exploring the city with A Day in LA Tours.  Sometimes it’s nice to have someone else plan the itinerary for the day, especially on my birthday! We toured all the best spots in the city, from Rodeo Drive and the Griffith Observatory, to Venice Beach and Hollywood.  I instantly regretted wearing jeans the second we exited the bus on our first stop, as it was in the mid-high 70’s.  Thank goodness for ice cream!

It surely was an exhausting day, but I was just glad to have someone drive us around.  And that someone was a super cool (almost-famous) actor named Raul, who kept us laughing all day and informed about the city’s best kept secrets.  If you come to LA and take the tour (which I strongly suggest you do), request Raul – he’s the man!

The tour dropped us off in Santa Monica, where we wandered around the shops after sunset.  Santa Monica is a bustling area, and I’m glad I had enough energy to walk around and watch a few street performers.

And to top off our night, we celebrated with a birthday dinner at Chipotle (my absolute favorite, for reals).  Ok, we couldn’t make a decision (story of our lives), and Mexican was right across the street.  However, I wouldn’t have it any other way– this girl loves her rice bowls.  After a quick pit stop at Dunkin’ Donuts (there are NONE in northern California – the only downside to moving there), we made our way back to The Orlando for another night of restful sleep.

Sunday:

How could we come ALL the way to Los Angeles (ok, it’s not that far) without making a stop in Orange County?  With some friends down in the area, we knew we couldn’t miss out on a fun day of catch up and sun.  The drive down was phenomenal, with more palm trees dotting the highway than we could imagine.  And the weather couldn’t have been more perfect – I was sporting a skirt that day, on the first of February!

Our friends played tour guide for the day (another nice surprise), taking us to the best restaurants (Mexican, again, surprise, surprise!) and the best lookout spots in Laguna Beach.  Crescent Bay Point Park and Heisler Park were my favorites.  I could have stayed at either all day putting my photography skills to the test (although I’m convinced there is so such thing as a bad picture here).  We spent the afternoon petting the most adorable little dogs, hunting for shells, playing in the tide pools looking for sea anemone and hermit crabs, and spotting seals swim around in the ocean .  Oh, and stuffing our faces with three scoops of gelato- each. It was a rough day, lemme tell you.

Monday:

Every since we moved to the San Francisco Bay Area, I’ve really taken a liking to climbing up hills, or hiking if you may.  But only those hikes with rewarding views at the top.  So when I discovered there was a hike a few miles from our hotel that showcased the Hollywood Sign AND The Griffith Observatory, I made sure we packed some hiking clothes.

Please tell me I’m not the only one who takes selfies before going on the hike…

After finding parking nearby (my advice- go super early, parking is a b****), we walked our 20 or so blocks to the start of the trail.  The hike up Runyon Canyon wasn’t as challenging as I had thought, but after our mile walk getting there, I was thankful for that.  No celebrity sightings today, but we did see our fair share of dogs (which I’d prefer any day).

Thew views were phenomenal – you could see the LA city skyline nestled among the palm trees and greenery.

Post hike, we filled up on pizza and sorbet before packing our bags and heading to the airport.  Lunch at The Churchill, the restaurant of choice at The Orlando restaurant, was just what we craved.

All in all, my birthday weekend was fantastic.  Think I’ll be back down south in the near future.

And after this weekend, I made the executive decision that we’ll be spending my birthday traveling every year! Hmm… any suggestions?!

The post My Birthday in Sunny Southern California appeared first on A Passion and A Passport.

A Day in LA Tours provided just that- a fun-filled jam-packed day loaded with all the highlights any visitor coming to Los Angeles would want to see. From Santa Monica and Venice Beach to Hollywood and Rodeo Drive, the carefully planned out itinerary was at our fingertips and all we had to do was enjoy the scenery as we were rolling by.

Santa Monica

Venice Beach

Venice Beach, our first official stop of the day, can be summed up in three words- colorful, eclectic, and funky.  We literally ran around for the half hour we were given, from Muscle Beach to the famous basketball courts to the skateboard park to the unique shops, trying to take in all the sights in minimal time.  We arrived rather early and beat the crowds, although there were still some interesting suspects to spot.

 

Oh, and the beach?! Absolutely gorgeous! Clean, yellow sand, with a bike path running alongside for when we come back (sooner than later, hopefully!) and rent some wheels.

Although I’ve heard others use the terms “gritty” and “grungy” when describing the area, I actually found it to be rather inspiring.  So much “character” and interesting people to gawk at.  Sure, there are a few homeless people with unpleasant fragrances roaming the area, but if you enjoy the beach, you’ll find Venice a good time regardless.  Just make sure you come with an open mind.

And speaking of an open mind, if you happen to come across people in neon green scrubs, please don’t yell for them if you suddenly require some professional health care.  They’re medical marijuana “doctors”, and don’t fill out their “medical survey” unless you know what you’re getting yourself into…

We stopped for a few moments  to watch the skateboarders practice, and its remarkable to think they are just little kids.

Beverly Hills

Rodeo Drive is the complete opposite of Venice Beach, with it’s grandiose marble buildings and expensive, luxurious vibe.  Palm trees and boutiques line the avenue, along with million dollar sports cars- basically, the life style of the rich and the classy, and possibly famous.

 

The whole area was chic and posh, for lack of better words, with high-class people walking their perfectly groomed and perfectly cute tiny dogs.  There’s even an intersection with cobblestone streets and a European influence, which looks like it could be on a postcard in Italy.

I definitely felt out of place here, and window shopping was all we could afford. Every time I looked up I noticed another store who’s merchandise I’ve seen featured in popular glossy magazines, including Gucci, Prada, Ferragamo, Chanel, LV, etc.  Every person walking in and out of those stores were more beautiful than I could ever imagine, and I secretly wished I had chosen a better outfit for the day.

Beverly Hills was much more relaxing, and we were thankful to sit down for at least a few moments in the fresh air after our busy busy morning in Venice Beach.  We left feeling refreshed and poor, but no poorer than when we originally started the day. I thought about convincing my husband that a new purse was absolutely necessary, but ultimately decided I was too indecisive and the shopping trip would probably take all day.  Hey, it was my birthday after all!

Farmers Market/The Grove

By this point in the day it was lunch time, and we were starting to get rather hungry.  Raul suggested we opt for Brazilian bbq, which sure did look (and smell) tasty.  However, due to a long line and my husband’s verge of hangriness (ya know, hungry + angry), we ended up with savory crepes.  Warm, cheesy, made-before-your-eyes crepes.  No complaints here!  And due to the short line, we had ample time to walk around and take in the rest of the market.

We perused the area for a bit, walked by the fountain, admired some cute dogs. And of course I couldn’t pass up the Bennett’s ice cream we saw – cookie dough and chocolate chip it was!

Griffith Observatory

After a filling lunch of crepes and ice cream, we ventured on the Rasta Bus towards the next stop of the day – the Griffith Observatory.

Traffic began for miles outside of the park, and we couldn’t be more thankful we were on the bus.  As we drove up, we saw people hiking up the mountain, tired and sweaty looking before they got to the observatory, let alone even see it! The price of the tour is worth it just to dismiss the crazy headache parking would have been. Raul drove right up to the facility, bypassing the guards, and let us out feet away from the entrance.  Thank the heavens! After our jam-packed busy morning, I don’t think I would have made it up that hill!

The views of the Hollywood Sign couldn’t be beat!  We took pictures from a bunch of different angles, and walked up the steps of the observatory to get even better views.

The grounds are just lovely and this was by far my favorite stop of the day.  Anyone who says LA doesn’t have much green space is clearly wrong.

Besides boasting phenomenal views of the city, Griffith Observatory is the place to be when you want to get your science on.  The inside of the facility has top-notch astronomy displays, including a full display of every element on the periodic table (if you’re into that kinda stuff) and a wide array of constellations and planets to oogle at.  I’m fascinated by the night sky, so this place was right up my alley.  We’ll have to come at night next time.

Hollywood

Ahh- the Times Square of California, at least that’s what it reminded me of.  Hollywood kind of felt like home to me, considering I’ve lived in New York up until a few months ago.  The energy, the absent-minded tourists, and the dressed up characters are kinda what Hollywood (and Times Square) are all about.

We saw all the expected tourist spots in Hollywood – the stars, the hand prints, the Chinese Theatre, and the Dolby Theatre.

Raul let us in on some Hollywood tidbits- like how it costs 30,000 dollars to have your name on a star, and how almost (if not all) of the characters work on tips from tourists.  Don’t even think about snapping a photo of Darth Vader – Raul informed us that he can get pretty unpleasant and rude.

I must say- the people watching was absolutely phenomenal.

After leaving the Hollywood area, I completely remembered why I normally stay away from super-touristy spots.  The congestion was unbearable, and we fought for a few of those pictures above with the stars – but hey, it’s something you have to experience at least once when you’re in the LA area.  I just won’t be heading back in a very long time.

I must say, by the end of the day the sun was setting and I was drifting – my eyes were closing and I could barely keep them open.  Blaming it on the comfy seats is surely an option, but all the running around we did made me tired!  Thankfully Raul kept quiet on most of the ride back, and I was able to rest my eyes in comfort.  And every one knows, if I fall asleep on the way home – it means I had my favorite kind of day – productive and exhausting, both in a good way.

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Disclosure: I was a guest of A Day in LA Tours, but, as always, opinions are my own.

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