Things to Do in California

Combine beaches, theme parks, big-city excitement and outdoor recreation in one popular region with great weather and a laid-back lifestyle.

Explore the outdoors, from rivers and lakes to mountains and volcanoes. Here miners once came to find gold and tourists now find nature’s recreational treasures.

Take the ride to Southern California’s rooftop to hike through forests of pine and white fir, and experience views that will stay with you forever.

Discover the diversity of Joshua Tree National Park on a short walk around a grove of cactus plants that shimmer in the bright sunshine. 

Spend a day camping, hiking and kayaking while surrounded by the serene and untamed wilderness of Lassen Volcanic National Park. 

Watch mountain peaks reflected in calm water and enjoy recreational activities, such as canoeing and hiking, at this picturesque lake.

Nestled within the stark landscapes of Death Valley is this series of caves, grottoes and waterfalls accessible via an informal trail. 

Get your camera ready for the panoramic vistas from atop the Black Mountains, widely considered some of the best views in Death Valley National Park.

Go boating on Golden Gate Park’s largest lake. The placid body of water is the home of turtles, ducks and during winter, Canadian geese.  

Walk through some of the most beautiful scenery in San Francisco along Lands End’s oceanfront trail from where you can see iconic sights such as the Golden Gate Bridge.

Beginner and advanced snow enthusiasts alike have their pick from more than 100 trails funneling down from two mountain peaks at this winter sports destination.

Hike, fish, sail or ride a horse in this expansive state park, just 40 minutes east of downtown Sacramento.

Transport yourself into the lawless world of America’s Wild West in this authentic gold-mining ghost town where you can step inside dozens of period buildings.

Sail, swim or simply relax on the sand; you’ll find all the fun of the seaside at Granite Bay Beach, just 40 minutes east of Sacramento.

One of the country’s largest urban nature refuges has bay waters, mudflats and salt marshes rich in wildlife.

Climb or hike to the top of a granite massif and look out across sweeping meadows and glacier-fed rivers from the rocky outcrop’s rounded peak.

Hike the trails of this beautiful park and enjoy panoramic views of Lake Tahoe. Dip your toes in refreshingly cool water and study fascinating geology.

This scenic inlet offers a beautiful beach, island, waterfalls, wreck dives, heritage sites and campgrounds with views over the crystal-clear waters of Lake Tahoe.

Visit this California landmark on the shores of Lake Tahoe and learn about the history and former inhabitants of this Nordic-style lakeside house.