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Oh California… the golden state… my home state. If there is any state that I have explored extensively, it’s California. Feel free to argue, but I stand by my statement that California is the best state (at least geographically). I could go surfing and snowboarding in the same day if I wanted to (or if I knew how to do either). California is full of things to do.
With that said, I had the hardest time narrowing down the 5 best things to do in California. But here they are, from a California native.
Disclaimer: All of these suggestions are based on my own personal adventures and are completely subjective to the experiences that I had in the state. If you disagree with the list, please feel free to add any of your suggestions in the comments below 😊
Cruise with the windows rolled down on Hwy 1
What is more representative of the golden state than the gorgeous beaches and coastline along highway 1? Highway 1 serves as the ultimate road trip for anyone. I imagine that the best way to experience it is on a sunny day in a convertible with the top down. Well if you are like me and not fancy enough to own a convertible, rolling your windows down will have to do.
I could write an entire post about the different stops along highway 1 that are worth checking out (oh wait I did… check it out here), but it’s too much to share here. I can tell you that the most popular stretch of the highway is between Monterey and Big Sur. However, my favorite stretch is up north where it takes you through the Redwood forest.
Gawk at Yosemite Falls at Yosemite National Park
A best 5 list of California wouldn’t be complete without mentioning Yosemite National Park. Not only is it the most popular national park in the state, but it is one of the most popular in the entire country with over 4 million annual visitors in 2019. Admittedly, I only visited the park for the first time when I was in college… and I only lived two hours away! Don’t ask me how or why, because I have no idea. But I can tell you now that I missed out all those years.
The landscape of Yosemite is stunning, and I could spend days there exploring. but if there is a single thing that you have to see when visiting, it is the iconic Yosemite Falls. Dropping 2,425 feet, Yosemite Falls is one of tallest waterfall in North America.
Of course, there is so much more to see if you have the time, but don’t miss Yosemite Falls!
Stargaze at Joshua Tree National Park
Do you remember how I said that California is the best state geographically? Well, Joshua Tree National Park is yet another example of the diverse landscape. I never thought that I would enjoy the desert until I visited Joshua Tree National Park. The landscape is gorgeous, the hikes are adventurous, and the night sky is breathtaking.
Joshua Tree National Park is designated as an international dark sky park, meaning that it is an amazing place to stargaze. I laid there staring at the stars for hours and never got bored. If you are looking for peace and quiet, you’ll find it here at night.
Ride Space Mountain at Disneyland
Before you ask, yes, I’m an adult. And yes, I still love Disney. The first time I remember going to Disneyland, I was 5 years old and was terrified to ride Space Mountain. My parents made me go on it, and after I got off, I was ready to go again. I rode that rollercoaster at least five times on that trip and every time I went to Disneyland after that. The fact that Space Mountain is the best ride is 100% subjective, but it is a lot of fun.
There are so many great rides at Disneyland, but what makes it so special is the magic of the park. I am not going to sit here trying to explain it, because honestly, that’s too difficult. If you have been, you probably already know. If you have been, and think that Disneyland is overrated, well, you’re wrong. Nah, I’m kidding; I respect your opinion
If you haven’t been to Disneyland, I recommend experiencing it at least once if you have the means to do so. Zac never visited Disneyland until he was 19 years old. He thought he would hate it. Spoiler alert: he actually loved it, and we have gone together several times since then.
Hike the Bear Gulch Reservoir Trail at Pinnacles National Park
Pinnacles is the newest national park in California, and it is such a gem! Pinnacles was designated a national park in 2019. One of my favorite hikes that I’ve ever been on is the Bear Gulch Reservoir Trail. This trail lets you scramble over rocks and duck into rock caves, but it’s not too long or difficult. It also provides epic views of both the reservoir and the park. Pinnacles National Park has several other trails to check out too!
These are a few of the amazing things to do in California. The truth is, I’ve lived in California my whole life, and I still haven’t explored everything that I could in the state. If you have some other favorites, feel free to share them in the comments!
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