10 of California’s Most Beautiful Places

Every year I ask myself the same questions: How can I see something more impressive and more beautiful on my travels than last year? How can I make this year’s excursions even better?

If these questions are running through your head, too, consider visiting California, one of the most beautiful states in the USA. The Golden State offers incredible diversity, an abundance of national and state parks, and of course, the Pacific Coast Highway. Whether you love mountains, deserts or beaches, you can find them all in California.

In a state so large it would take a minimum of 16 hours to drive from tip to tip, how do you decide where to go? As a California native and enthusiast, I’m here to help you out with my picks for 10 of the state’s most beautiful places.

La Jolla Shores

A bit north of sunny San Diego, check out the interesting rock formations and beach cliffs in La Jolla. These shores are perfect to visit any time of day, though they’re particularly stunning at sunset. Dine at one of the nearby farm-to-table restaurants, or join a yoga class. It’s perfect for families and solo travelers alike.

Anza Borrego Desert State Park

For a non-coastal Southern California experience, check out the badlands of Anza Borrego Desert State Park. While you can enjoy the amazing rock formations any time of the year, the park is famous for its spring wildflowers. Consider also catching a sunrise at Font’s Point. In a state where sunsets rule, this is one of the few amazing places to watch the sunrise in California.

Runyon Canyon Park

For a more picturesque and less touristy Los Angeles experience than the Hollywood Walk of Fame, check out Runyon Canyon for a gorgeous view of downtown with the ocean in the distance. The hike to the viewpoint takes only about 15 minutes, so this stop is suitable for kids, too. Find more beautiful spots around Los Angeles here.

Santa Barbara

Two hours north of LA, Santa Barbara’s Spanish architecture and gorgeous coastline is a must-see! Head to State Street for shopping and some cool photo ops, such as the Old Mission. Be sure to visit Butterfly Beach for one of the most famous beaches in California, and don’t forget to pop by El Capitan just north of the city for one of the best campsites in the area if you’re toting a tent.

Monterey

Another coastal gem along the Pacific Coast Highway is Carmel-By-The-Sea or Monterey, both with even more dazzling coastal views. In the summer, it’s easy to see whales breaching in the waves just by standing on the shore. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is also a fantastic option for families.

Kings Canyon

Located about three and a half hours east of San Jose, Kings Canyon is less popular than Yosemite National Park, but it’s absolutely worth a visit, especially in the summer when Yosemite is busy. Kings Canyon is perfect for day hikes or multi-day backpacking trips. Choose your pleasure.

Mono Lake

While you’re in the area, try to include Mono Lake into your trip, which is located just east of Yosemite. The landscape is much more like a desert, and the rock formations just might make you feel like you’re on the moon!

Sonoma Valley 

We can’t talk about California without giving a nod to wine country. Whether you’re into wine or not, the vineyards are truly beautiful. Although Napa is a worthy stop, Sonoma Valley is less costly and offers more coastline. This stop is easy to add onto your San Francisco trip itinerary.

Fort Bragg

Have you heard of the glass beach in Fort Bragg?  Over time, this Fort Bragg has become one of the most interesting and unique places along the northern coast. Instead of sand, the beach is covered by tiny polished pieces of glass. Watch the sun catch it around sunset for the best photo op. Begin your journey there from San Francisco International Airport.