California

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - The Hollywood sign overlooking Los Angeles. The iconic sign was originally created in 1923.
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA -Traffic and pedestrians on Hollywood Boulevard at dusk. The theater district is famous tourist attraction.

California, USA

California is basically a greatest-hits album of travel destinations. One minute you’re surfing in San Diego, the next you’re wine tasting in Napa, and before you know it, you’re hiking in Yosemite or road-tripping along the Pacific Coast Highway. From big cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco to charming small towns and breathtaking national parks, California is a choose-your-own-adventure kind of place.

For solo travellers, California offers a mix of bustling urban experiences and peaceful nature escapes. Whether you’re looking to meet fellow adventurers in a hostel in LA, take a scenic drive through the mountains, or just sip wine with a view, California makes it easy to travel on your own terms.

What’s New

Check Out Our Latest Posts…

Things to Do in California

California is packed with things to see and do, no matter what kind of traveller you are. From Hollywood glamour to coastal hikes, this state has a little bit of everything.

If you love big cities, Los Angeles is the place to soak up the entertainment industry, San Francisco brings historic charm and tech culture, and San Diego offers laid-back beach vibes. Prefer the outdoors? The state is home to world-famous national parks like Yosemite, Joshua Tree, and Redwood National Park, where you can hike, camp, and explore some of the most stunning landscapes in the US.

Wine lovers will want to check out Napa Valley and Sonoma, while road-trippers can hit the Pacific Coast Highway for one of the most scenic drives in the world. And if you’re after quirky, off-the-beaten-path destinations, head to places like Salvation Mountain, Big Sur, or the ghost towns of the Sierra Nevada.

Coming Soon:

  • The Best National Parks in California: A guide to the must-visit parks, from Yosemite to Death Valley.
  • Ultimate California Road Trip Itinerary: A scenic drive through the best of the Golden State.
Indian Wells California USA. Residential Area and the Palm Trees.
FRESNO, UNITED STATES - Park in Fresno, California. Fresno is the 5th most populous city in California (509,000 citizens).
Wine and Cheese Tasting at the Vineyard
The California Lighthouse on the Caribbean island of Aruba under a blue sky with beautiful clouds
Aerial view Castro District in Eureka Valley neighborhood flying LGBT pride flag near street intersection. Famous town in San Francisco, California, synonymous gay culture, historic Victorian houses

Where to Stay in California

California has an incredible range of accommodations, from stylish city hotels and beachfront resorts to cozy mountain cabins and vineyard stays.

In Los Angeles, you’ll find everything from budget-friendly hostels near Hollywood to luxury hotels in Beverly Hills. San Francisco is known for its boutique hotels and historic inns, while San Diego has plenty of laid-back beachfront stays. If you’re heading to Napa Valley, you can splurge on a vineyard retreat or find charming B&Bs in smaller wine country towns.

For a truly unique stay, consider renting a cabin in Big Bear, a glamping site in Joshua Tree, or even a converted Airstream along the Pacific Coast Highway. No matter your style, there’s a perfect California stay for you.

Coming Soon:

  • Best Places to Stay in Los Angeles: Where to stay for every budget and travel style.
  • Unique Stays in California: From vineyard retreats to treehouse cabins.
Ferry Building in daylight San Francisco California
SAN FRANCISCO - Braves Vs. Giants: braves Kenshin Kawakami on the scoreboard with rainbow visible in distance at Att Park San Francisco California.
Alcatraz Island, San Francisco, California facilities for a lighthouse, a military fortification, a military prison
Reed grass on headland, Golden Gate National Recreation Area, Golden Gate Bridge, The Presidio, San Francisco, California, USA
Palace of fine arts, San Francisco, California, USA

Itineraries for California

California is a huge state, so having a good itinerary is key to making the most of your trip. Whether you’re city-hopping or exploring the great outdoors, these guides will help you plan an unforgettable adventure.

Coming Soon:

  • 48 Hours in Los Angeles – A 2 Day Itinerary: How to see the best of LA in just two days.
  • 48 Hours in San Francisco – A 2 Day Itinerary: How to see the best of San Fran in just two days.
  • One-Week California Road Trip: The ultimate route for seeing beaches, cities, and national parks.
Coit Tower on Telegraph Hill with San Francisco Bay and Angel Island in the background at dusk. Taken from a downtown building rooftop. San Francisco, California, USA.
San Francisco USA - : A cable car an iconic mode of San Francisco transportation meets an iconic landmark Alcatraz Prison at the top of Hyde Street at San Francisco California USA
Tourist looks up at the General Sherman Tree in Sequoia National Park, California. This tree is the largest known living single stem tree on Earth.
Los Angeles, California, USA : Morning aerial view of canyon homes and Hollywood Sign in Griffith Park with the San Fernando Valley in background.
VENICE BEACH LOS ANGELES CALIFORNIA - People enjoying a sunny day on the beach of Venice California. Summer time activities.

Solo Travel Tips for California

California is an excellent destination for solo travellers, with its friendly locals and diverse experiences. Whether you’re wandering through bustling cities or hiking in remote areas, California offers a mix of social activities and solo-friendly escapes. Don’t hesitate to join a walking tour or strike up a conversation at a coffee shop—solo adventures here are both rewarding and fun.

  • Use public transport in cities like LA and San Francisco, but rent a car if you’re planning to explore beyond.
  • Visit popular attractions early in the morning to avoid crowds—sunrise hikes in national parks are especially worth it.
  • Pack layers, since California’s climate varies wildly (it can be warm in LA and freezing in San Francisco on the same day).
Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Hollywood, California, USA
Los Angeles, CA, USA . View of the los angele. Good sunny day in downtown Los Angeles, California. Aerial view of Los angeles city from Runyon Canyon park Mountain View
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA -Traffic and pedestrians on Hollywood Boulevard at dusk. The theater district is famous tourist attraction.
Aerial panoramic view of Ocean Ave freeway in Santa Monica beach at sunset - City streets of Los Angeles and California state surrounds - Warm twilight color filter tones with dark vignetting
A breathtaking view of San Francisco's skyline and bay at dusk with city lights aglow.

Cultural Experiences in California

California is a melting pot of cultures, history, and creativity, offering countless ways to dive into its unique character.

  • Visit the Hollywood Walk of Fame and experience LA’s entertainment industry up close.
  • Explore Alcatraz Island in San Francisco, where you can tour the famous prison and learn about its fascinating history.
  • Take a vineyard tour in Napa Valley, where you can sample world-class wines in a stunning countryside setting.
Aerial shot of Venice Beach showcasing urban architecture, palm trees, and ocean view.
A captivating sunset view of an empty highway lined with tall palm trees.
Stunning seascape of cliffs meeting the ocean under a cloudy sky in Soledad, California.
A scenic view of the famous Hollywood sign on a sunny day in Los Angeles.
Iconic Golden Gate Bridge spanning the San Francisco Bay on a clear day.

FAQ’s

Got questions? We’ve got answers!

California is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on what you want to do. Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) offer mild weather and fewer crowds. Summer is great for beaches and festivals, but national parks and cities can be crowded. Winter is ideal for skiing in the Sierra Nevada or exploring coastal towns without the crowds.

Yes! California is generally safe for solo travellers, especially in well-traveled areas like LA, San Francisco, and Napa. Just stay aware of your surroundings, especially in busy tourist areas where pickpocketing can occur. If you’re hiking in remote areas, always check trail conditions and let someone know your plans.

Public transport is available in major cities, but if you plan on exploring beyond urban areas, renting a car is the best option. The state is massive, and road trips are one of the best ways to experience its diverse landscapes.

California has endless attractions, but top picks include Yosemite National Park, Disneyland, Golden Gate Bridge, Hollywood, and the Pacific Coast Highway drive. Wine lovers should visit Napa Valley, and outdoor enthusiasts shouldn’t miss Joshua Tree or Big Sur.

California’s climate varies, so pack layers—you might need a jacket in San Francisco but only shorts and a T-shirt in LA. Bring comfortable walking shoes, sunglasses, and sunscreen, especially if you’re exploring beaches or national parks.

California is a foodie paradise, with everything from gourmet restaurants to legendary food trucks. Don’t miss In-N-Out Burger, fresh seafood along the coast, and authentic Mexican food in Southern California. Napa is famous for wine and farm-to-table dining, while LA’s international food scene is unbeatable.

Yes! Head to Muir Woods for towering redwoods, Sonoma for more laid-back wine tasting, or Monterey and Carmel for coastal charm. Lake Tahoe is also an epic day trip if you’re up for a bit of a drive.

Wrapping Up Your California Adventure

California is the kind of place that keeps surprising you. Whether you’re road-tripping along the coast, exploring big cities, or hiking in the mountains, there’s always something new to discover. With endless sunshine, diverse landscapes, and a laid-back vibe, California is a dream destination for every kind of traveller.

Planning more US travel? Check out our other guides and start mapping out your next adventure. Cali is calling—better start packing!