Smart Ways to Explore California

California’s network of 27 primary commercial airports, including major hubs like Los Angeles International (LAX) and San Francisco International (SFO), makes it easy for visitors to start their adventures in any part of the state. Most major hotels offer convenient airport shuttles, with designated pick-up zones. Renting a car provides the quickest and most flexible option for exploring, though shared-ride shuttles are a budget-friendly alternative, albeit a bit slower. Taxis are also available but stick to licensed ones for safety.

If you plan to drive, remember that California's traffic, especially in cities like Los Angeles, can be intense. Avoid peak hours if possible, and if you’re in a city without reliable public transportation, using rideshare services like Uber or Lyft can save time and parking headaches.

Fun Fact: Did you know California is the only state to host both the Summer and Winter Olympics? Squaw Valley was the site of the 1960 Winter Olympics, while Los Angeles hosted the Summer Olympics in 1932 and 1984.

As the third-largest state in the U.S. and home to nearly 40 million residents, California offers a seemingly endless array of attractions and activities. To get the most out of your visit, focus on a few key spots instead of cramming too much into your schedule. Popular places like Disneyland come with long lines and hefty price tags, so consider other theme parks like Knott’s Berry Farm in Buena Park or Legoland in Carlsbad to make your money go further while avoiding massive crowds.

For those willing to explore beyond the usual spots, California’s hidden gems are plentiful. For example, the town of Solvang, known for its Danish-inspired architecture, offers a charming experience without the hustle of larger tourist spots. Traveling down the Pacific Coast Highway offers unforgettable coastal views, and stopping in lesser-known towns like Cambria can provide a peaceful break from the busier destinations.

California’s metropolitan areas are famous for their traffic jams, so plan your travel times carefully. Peak hours can turn a short drive into a much longer ordeal, so it’s wise to avoid rush hours or plan extra time if you can’t. If navigating the city by car sounds daunting, rideshare services are a convenient way to dodge traffic and the struggle of finding parking, especially in crowded tourist zones.

When exploring natural areas, prioritize safety. California’s wildlife includes rattlesnakes, coyotes, and even mountain lions. If you plan on hiking, wear appropriate clothing and footwear, and always stay on marked trails. Remember, the ocean can be unpredictable—never swim alone and avoid flood channels and aqueducts, which are particularly dangerous after rain.

California is full of popular tourist attractions, but if you want a true taste of the local vibe, seek out hidden treasures known mainly to residents. In Los Angeles, explore the city’s secret staircases. There are 14 scattered across the city, and many locals recommend the Saroyan Stairs, built-in 1923 in the Hollywoodland neighborhood. These steps not only offer a challenging 148-step climb but also provide incredible views of historic storybook homes surrounded by greenery.

For history enthusiasts, California’s missions offer a glimpse into the state’s Spanish colonial past. These historic sites, stretching along the coast, reveal stories from the early days of settlement, showcasing California’s rich cultural heritage beyond its modern-day, sun-soaked image.

Some of the most beautiful experiences in California don’t cost a thing. For a stunning sunset, head to Sunset Cliffs in San Diego, a 68-acre coastal park offering panoramic views of the ocean and dramatic cliff formations. It’s an ideal spot for unwinding as the sun sinks below the horizon.

The Hollywood Bowl isn’t just a music venue—it’s also a public park. When there are no performances scheduled, you can hike the “Bowl Walk.” The trail provides shaded pathways, wildlife sightings, and picnic areas where you can enjoy a quiet afternoon. For another unique experience, visit the Northstar area in Tahoe, where you can enjoy a free gondola ride, taking in sweeping mountain views from above.

California has no shortage of picturesque locations perfect for Instagram, but it also offers plenty of opportunities to put the phone away and fully immerse yourself in its beauty. Balboa Park in San Diego is one such spot. Spread across 1,200 acres, it boasts lush gardens and scenic walking trails. Palm Canyon, a tropical haven within the park, makes for a perfect backdrop for memorable photos.

For a splash of vibrant history, visit Haight-Ashbury in San Francisco. Known as the epicenter of the 1960s counterculture movement, this five-block area features record shops, vintage stores, and colorful murals that capture the spirit of an earlier time. Alternatively, for natural beauty, head to Yosemite National Park in the fall. The park’s colorful splendor and majestic landscapes make it a dream destination for photographers. Just remember, sometimes the best way to experience California is to put the phone down and soak in the moment.

Fun Fact: San Francisco’s population skyrocketed from 200 in 1848 to 36,000 by 1855, largely due to the Gold Rush. This rapid growth led to California adopting “Eureka” as its state motto, meaning “I found it” in Greek.

California is known for its epic festivals, drawing visitors from around the globe. Coachella, one of the oldest and most iconic music festivals, takes place over two weekends in April. Each year, it attracts over 125,000 attendees who come to enjoy music, art, and the unique desert vibe.

If you prefer visual arts, the Palm Springs International Film Festival in January showcases global talent and attracts filmmakers and film lovers alike. Food enthusiasts can mark their calendars for the Newport Beach Wine and Food Festival in October. This event brings together world-class chefs, cooking demonstrations, and mixology courses, providing a paradise for foodies.

For a festive holiday season, head to Yosemite’s Majestic Hotel, which hosts the famous Bracebridge Dinners—a seven-course feast accompanied by live music and wine tastings. Whether you’re into food, music, or cultural events, California’s festivals offer an experience for everyone.

California’s food scene is diverse and dynamic, reflecting the state’s multicultural population. Rather than focusing on any single type of cuisine, “California cuisine” emphasizes fresh, locally sourced ingredients. From the northern coast to the southern border, you’ll find everything from seafood specialties to authentic international flavors.

Avocados are a staple here, featured in everything from avocado toast to guacamole and fresh salads. Another must-try is California’s seafood, often prepared in unique ways such as fish tacos, clam chowder, and spicy spot prawns cooked with jalapeño and cilantro. Don’t leave without sampling one of the state’s historic dishes, Cioppino, a hearty seafood stew created by Italian immigrants in San Francisco during the 1800s. It’s a flavorful nod to the city’s rich culinary heritage.

A short 45-minute drive from Palm Springs will lead you to Joshua Tree National Park, one of California’s most extraordinary natural landscapes. Hidden Valley, surrounded by giant boulders and iconic Joshua trees, is a favorite spot for locals. Here, you can hike, set up camp, and end your day under a blanket of stars. The park’s clear skies make it an ideal stargazing location, offering a mesmerizing view of the Milky Way.

If you’re up for a bit of adventure, explore the one-mile loop trail starting from the parking lot. The path takes you through rocky formations, offering countless opportunities for exploration. Whether climbing the rocks or simply taking in the scenery, Joshua Tree delivers a rugged, unforgettable experience.

Fun Fact: Death Valley, located in California, is the hottest and driest place in the United States. Despite its name, the park offers incredible surprises, from colorful dunes to mysterious rock formations.

If you prefer driving to hiking, the Big Sur coastline should be on your list. Stretching for 90 miles along the central coast, this scenic route offers breathtaking views of cliffs, beaches, and forests. Driving the historic Highway 1, with its twists and turns, isn’t for the faint of heart, but the reward is magnificent coastal panoramas that are often featured in films and commercials.

The area became a hub for artists and writers in the 1950s and 60s, attracting free spirits like Jimi Hendrix and Steve McQueen. Today, visitors can stop at iconic landmarks such as the Bixby Creek Bridge, a top spot for selfies and scenic shots. The drive through Big Sur is more than just a road trip—it’s a journey through California’s coastal beauty and artistic history.