Throughout the state of California, there are a number of sights to see and enjoy. The state of comprised of several regions; each completely distinct in terms of natural beauty and attractions. Because of this expansive diversity, California is one of the most popular states in the country for tourism. Whether you want to hit the beaches for some surfing or the mountains for skiing, California offers something for everyone. Tour historical landmarks, sample world-class wines from Sonoma and Napa Valley, or revel in first-class shopping and dining in Beverly Hills. See the Hollywood Sign, take a studio tour, and become an extra in a Hollywood production. The options are endless in the many exciting regions located throughout California.
The North Coast region of California hugs the Pacific coast and is home to the world-famous Redwood National Park. There are also numerous other attractions and cities to visit in this region, including the premier wine growing region of Sonoma, the charming seaside village of Mendocino, and the quaint antique shops and hot balloon tours in Santa Rosa. Visitors will also find a host of beautiful beaches scattered throughout the North Coast region, each ideal for sunbathing, surfing, and relaxing.
In the San Francisco Bay Area region, visitors can enjoy an array of attractions, including beautiful harbor views and the Golden Gate Bridge. The Bay area is home to a number of exciting cities, including the city of Oakland, known for its vibrant culture and sporting events. Wine aficionados will certainly want to tour the exclusive wineries of Napa Valley while surfers will find plenty to love along the beaches in San Mateo County, home to the largest waves on the mainland.
The Central Coast region of California boasts an exciting array of attractions, including the Solvang Danish Village and Hearst Castle. This is also where you will find the prettiest coastline in the entire state. Be sure to pack your camera for the many great photo opportunities you will find along the scenic 17-Mile Drive. From sand dunes riding to horseback riding, there is always something exciting to enjoy in and around the cities of Monterey, Santa Barbara, and Carmel.
If you are looking for world-class entertainment and shopping, Los Angeles County is the place to be. Home to Hollywood and Rodeo Drive, Los Angeles County is the largest county in the state. Just a few of the things to enjoy here include the Los Angeles Zoo, Universal Studios, Getty Museum, Port of Los Angeles cruises, seeing the Hollywood Sign, the shops and boutiques along Rodeo Drive, and studio tours. See the handprints and footprints of your favorite celebrities and then take a tour to see the mansions of yesterday's legends and today's stars.
Situated just south of Los Angeles is Orange County. While LA may be home to Hollywood, Orange County is home to Mickey Mouse. In Orange County, visitors can enjoy a wide range of family-friendly fun, including Disneyland in Anaheim, Knotts Berry Farm, and Mission San Juan Capistrano. The Performing Arts Center in Costa Mesa offers a wealth of cultural attractions and events while the numerous beaches in this region provide ample opportunity for cooling off. When you are in the mood for dining, shopping, sports, or nightlife, the city of Anaheim is the place to be.
At the top of the state, you will find the Shasta Cascade region. The region is named for the Cascade Mountain range, Shasta Lake, and Shasta Mountains. Nature lovers will feel right at home in this region. From fishing to boating, mountain hiking to cave exploring, there is something for everyone here. Just a few highlights to enjoy here include Shasta Caverns, Shasta Dam, Burney Falls, and Mount Lassen National Volcanic Park. To top off your trip, be sure to drop by the McConnell Arboretum and Gardens, and the Turtle Bay Aquarium.
California is well known for the discovery of gold in 1849 and the subsequent Gold Rush. There is nowhere else in the state where that fact is celebrated more than in Gold Country. In this region, you can step back in time and pan for gold, tour museums that chronicle the lives of the men and women who flocked to California in the mid-19th century in search of fortune, and enjoy plenty of old-fashioned fun. Continue the tour of the state’s history by visiting the state capitol in Sacramento. Complete your visit to the region with a stop by Big Trees State Park.
The High Sierra Mountain Region in California offers some of the most memorable and scenic views in the state. Although the beaches may be several hours away, you will hardly miss them with the majestic forests and pristine mountains to explore in this region. Take advantage of the opportunity to view some of the tallest trees in the entire world in Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks. No matter what time of year you plan to visit this beautiful mountain region of California, you will find something exciting to enjoy. In Tahoe and South Lake Tahoe, you will find an abundance of outdoor activities to enjoy, including golfing, skiing, and mountain climbing.
At the heart of the state, you will find the Central Valley Region. This is the perfect region for taking trips with the family. Sample some of the farm fresh produce you will find throughout this area or head to one of the region’s many lakes for some kayaking or fishing. The wetlands in this area are ideal for bird watching. Prefer to stay on dry land? There are numerous casinos in the surrounding area where you can try luck.
The vast Desert Region of southern California is anything but vacuous. In this beautiful region, visitors can enjoy fine cuisine, world-class casinos, luxury hotels, and championship golf courses. If you enjoy nature, there is an endless array of outdoor activities to enjoy here as well, such as rock climbing and wildlife viewing in the numerous national parks situated throughout this region. The desert region is home to a variety of wildlife and plants that are completely unique to this arid region, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.
The Inland Empire Region boasts an array of activities for practically any taste. Whether you enjoy hot air ballooning, winery tours, mountain skiing, fishing, or getting up close and personal with nature, there is something for everyone in this region. While San Bernardino offers numerous historical landmarks for history buffs to enjoy, Big Bear Lake is a great place for the entire family to enjoy camping, fishing, and getting away from the stress of modern life.
When you're looking for blue skies, sunshine, and plenty of outdoor entertainment, San Diego County has it all. Situated along the Mexican border, this region is also a premier beach destination. For those visitors who can't wait to hang ten on some of the best beaches in the world, the surfing town of Encinitas is always a popular draw. When you're not lounging on the beach or hitting the waves, you can explore such exciting attractions as Sea World, Balboa Park, the San Diego Zoo, Point Loma Lighthouse, the Wild Animal Park, and the Star of India.
