50 Things to do in California
Disclaimer: We are not paid to promote any restaurant, hotel, activity, product, or attraction. All opinions are subjective and based on our personal experience. Your experience may be different.
21. Hike in the Santa Monica Mountains
Skip all the crowded tourist attraction for a day of nature, scenic views, and an amazing workout at Topanga State Park. This gorgeous wilderness area stays pretty quiet even though it is located just minutes from the hustle and bustle of the city. As one of “the largest state parks within a city,” there are lots of great trails to choose amongst. My favorite which offers tremendous mountain scenery and coastal views is Los Liones, a steep 1 mile climb through the Santa Monica Mountains which offers one of the region’s best views of the coast!
22. Window shop on Rodeo Drive
Rodeo Drive is one of the most famous streets in the world, due to the fact that it has been featured in many movies and TV shows. The prominent 2 mile street in Beverly Hills features some of the most exclusive designer shops, including Bijan, the most expensive store in the world.
Although you are unlikely to spot a celebrity, Rodeo is a fun place to stop for a coffee, people-watch, and get in a little exercise in the beautiful Southern California sunshine. Not something I would go out of my way to do again, but something to add to your bucket list just to say you did it!
23. Tour Vikingsholm castle
Located on Emerald Bay in South Lake Tahoe stands Vikingsholm Castle, a 38 room historic mansion, now included in the National Register of Historic Places. Tours are offered 7 days a week, from late May to September. Tourists have the option of taking a self guided tour through this architectural masterpiece (tours cost $10). On a side note, Vikingsholm is considered one of the best examples of Scandinavian architecture in the West.
24. Enjoy 6 miles of coastal views along Long Beach’s Shoreline Pedestrian Path
The Shoreline Pedestrian path in Long Beach is a great addition to any vacation plans. This short ride can easily be incorporated into any schedule. The flat, easy ride feels more like a treat, rather than an intense workout. Gorgeous sandy, ocean views run the entire length. Grab your bike or your sneakers and get out and enjoy some beautiful weather and relaxing ocean views. The course is about 3 miles so perfect for an easy weekend ride or jog.
25. Enjoy the therapeutic benefits of a mineral bath at River Oaks Hot Springs
Natural hot springs have been used throughout history to cure different ailments, such as arthritis and joint pain. The restorative properties of the springs come from the high concentration of crucial minerals and trace elements found in the water. River Oaks offers beautiful private outdoor tubs filled with the spring water. As you relax and soak up the healing benefits, you are treated to gorgeous views of the hilly Paso Robles landscape.
26. Take a scenic ride aboard the Squaw Valley Cable Car
Amongst many attractions, the most memorable at Squaw Valley Resort in Lake Tahoe is a relaxing, picturesque cable car ride. After traveling 2000 feet up to High Camp (elevation 8200 feet), you are treated to one of a kind panoramic views of the Lake Tahoe area and an assortment of mountain top activities (ranging from a mountaintop pool, hot tub, and tennis in the summer to ice skating in the winter). Update: The resort has been renamed Palisades Tahoe.
27. Take in a volleyball game at Hermosa Beach
Hermosa Beach is often referred to as the “Beach Volleyball Capital of the World.” On any given day, you will see novice and/or professionals out perfecting their game. Numerous professional tournaments take place in Hermosa throughout the year. Check the Hermosa Beach website for a calendar of upcoming events.
28. Hike coastal trails at Torrey Pines
Torrey Pines State Nature Reserve in La Jolla is one of the best places to hike in the San Diego region, if not in all of California. All of the trails here are pretty easy in nature although the views of the coast are pretty fantastic! You really get in a lot of bang-for-your-buck here! Asides from hiking, there is a beautiful under visited beach to enjoy, nature programs throughout the year, and a great little nature center to explore.
29. Spend a night on the Queen Mary
The historic ship operates as a hotel with several on-site amenities, including: tours, restaurants, and a tea room. Various tours including paranormal night tours are offered (the ship is supposedly one of the top haunted places in the world). The Sunday Champagne Brunch, which offers more than 50 dishes and live entertainment, is very popular amongst residents. Read more about the history of Queen Mary.
30. Relax at the beaches of Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe is comprised of 72 miles of scenic, pristine beaches, making it the perfect place for a summer vacation. In the 3 main cities (South Lake Tahoe, Incline Village, & Tahoe City), you will find a variety of beaches to suit everyone’s interests. The full list of Tahoe’s public beaches.
