Road trips in California offer an unparalleled adventure filled with diverse landscapes, vibrant cities, and natural wonders.
Traveling by car lets you experience the state’s varied scenery—from breathtaking coastlines to majestic mountain ranges—all at your own pace.
Discovering these epic places will give you a unique perspective on what makes California special.
10) Hollywood Walk of Fame
The Hollywood Walk of Fame stretches across Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street in Los Angeles.
With over 2,700 brass stars set in pink terrazzo, it honors big names from movies, music, TV, and more. It’s one of the most visited spots in LA.
You’ll find famous stars like Marilyn Monroe, Michael Jackson, and Walt Disney. Taking a photo with these stars is a must. It’s a great way to feel connected to Hollywood’s rich history.
Nearby, you can visit several fun museums. Check out Madame Tussauds Wax Museum, where you can see lifelike statues of celebrities. The Hollywood Museum and the Guinness World Records Museum are also close by and worth a visit.
The area is lively, with street performers and vendors adding to the buzz. It’s best to visit during the day when it’s less crowded. Parking can be tricky, so consider using public transport or ride-share services.
9) Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree National Park is a must-visit on any California road trip. The park is famous for its unique Joshua trees and stunning desert landscape.
One highlight is the hike to Barker Dam. This trail takes you through some of the park’s best scenery. You might even spot a bighorn sheep near the water.
Another great spot is the Cholla Cactus Garden. Walking through the dense mass of teddybear cholla cacti is an experience you won’t forget. The boardwalk trail is short and easy, making it perfect for a quick stop.
For those who enjoy rock formations, the Arch Rock Trail is a must. This easy trail features iconic rock formations like Arch Rock and Heart Rock. You’ll also have a chance to do some fun rock scrambling.
8) Death Valley National Park
Death Valley National Park is a must-visit on your California road trip. It’s the hottest, driest, and lowest national park in the United States. This vast desert landscape offers unique geological features and stunning views.
One popular spot is Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America. You can walk on the salt flats and see the striking white landscape.
Zabriskie Point is perfect for sunrise and sunset views. The colorful badlands below create a beautiful scene as the sun changes positions.
For stargazing, Death Valley is a designated Dark Sky Park. It’s one of the best places to see stars and planets without light pollution.
Another highlight is the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes. You can hike the dunes, take pictures, and enjoy the unique scenery.
Don’t miss Dante’s View. It offers panoramic views of the park from a high vantage point, providing a complete perspective of Death Valley.
For a bit of history, check out the Harmony Borax Works. This site gives insight into the early mining operations in the area.
Death Valley also has several unpaved roads leading to the backcountry. If you have the right vehicle, you can explore remote areas and see even more of the park’s beauty.
7) Disneyland Resort
Disneyland Resort in California is a must-visit spot on your road trip. Located in Anaheim, it offers two main parks: Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure.
You’ll find classic attractions like Space Mountain and new favorites like Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.
Disneyland Park is the original park, opened in 1955. It features iconic rides like Pirates of the Caribbean and It’s a Small World. You can also meet your favorite Disney characters here.
Disney California Adventure is the newer park. It features attractions such as the Incredicoaster and Soarin’. Don’t miss the amazing shows with Disney characters projected on dancing fountains.
Both parks provide unique experiences for all ages. Make sure to check height restrictions for rides if you’re traveling with kids. Plan your visit early in the day for shorter wait times.
There’s so much to see at Disneyland Resort. Plan your day wisely to make the most out of your trip. Use apps and guides to navigate efficiently. Enjoy the magic and adventure Disneyland Resort has to offer.
6) Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe is a must-see destination on your California road trip. It straddles the border between California and Nevada. With its crystal-clear waters and surrounding mountains, it’s perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
For hiking, check out the Cascade Falls and Eagle Falls trails. Both offer stunning views and are accessible for various skill levels. For a more challenging experience, hike the Shirley Canyon Trail.
D.L. Bliss State Park is another area you shouldn’t miss. It offers great hiking and breathtaking views. You can also visit Emerald Bay, famous for its vibrant blue water and rugged shoreline.
If you enjoy history, stop by the Donner Memorial State Park. It has trails, picnic areas, and a museum dedicated to pioneer history.
You can also enjoy water sports, including kayaking and paddleboarding. In winter, the area transforms into a skiing paradise with multiple ski resorts.
5) Napa Valley
Napa Valley is a must-visit for wine lovers. This region is famous for its world-class wineries and beautiful vineyards. You’ll find a range of wine tasting experiences, from small family-owned estates to large, well-known wineries.
Exploring Downtown Napa is a great way to start. It’s filled with charming shops, gourmet restaurants, and historical buildings. Consider taking a ride on the Napa Valley Wine Train for a unique experience.
Hot air balloon rides offer breathtaking views of the valley. From high above, you can see the patchwork of vineyards and the distant mountains. These rides are usually scheduled in the early morning for the best conditions and views.
For a touch of luxury, visit the O’Brien Estate Winery. This estate offers personalized tasting experiences that highlight their high-quality wines. Another notable spot is the Meritage Resort and Spa, which provides top-tier accommodations and spa services.
Napa Valley is also known for its food. Many wineries have on-site restaurants that feature fresh, local ingredients. Be sure to try some of the gourmet meals paired perfectly with local wines.
4) Golden Gate Bridge
The Golden Gate Bridge is an iconic spot you can’t miss on your California road trip.
Start at Battery Spencer in the Marin Headlands. This spot offers a breathtaking view that feels close enough to touch the bridge.
For a quieter experience, head to Battery 129 at Hawk Hill. This location offers a unique perspective without the crowds.
Another great viewpoint is at Point Bonita Lighthouse in Marin Headlands. It’s the farthest view but offers a different angle of the bridge.
Driving along Conzelman Road, you’ll find numerous places to stop and enjoy different vistas. Anywhere you see parked cars, stop. The view will be incredible.
3) Santa Monica Pier
Santa Monica Pier is a must-visit spot on your California road trip. This iconic pier has been a key attraction since it opened in 1909.
Located at the end of Colorado Avenue in Santa Monica, the pier offers stunning ocean views and a variety of activities. You can enjoy rides, games, and an aquarium.
The pier is home to Pacific Park, which has an iconic Ferris wheel and roller coaster. These rides provide a fun experience for all ages.
If you love fishing, bring your gear. The pier is a popular fishing spot with many people trying their luck daily.
Food options are plenty. You can find casual dining like Bubba Gump Shrimp Company or grab a quick bite from various food stalls.
Santa Monica Pier is also a great place for live entertainment. Musicians and street performers often entertain visitors with diverse acts.
Open from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily, the pier offers flexibility in visiting hours, making it easy to fit into your travel schedule.
Don’t miss out on visiting this iconic landmark. The mix of history, activities, and scenic views make it a memorable stop on your journey.
2) Yosemite National Park
Yosemite National Park is a must-visit destination in California. Known for its stunning granite cliffs and majestic waterfalls, this park offers breathtaking views and outdoor adventures.
One of the highlights is Yosemite Valley, featuring iconic landmarks such as El Capitan and Half Dome. You won’t want to miss Bridalveil Fall, especially during the spring melt.
If you prefer a quieter spot, head to Hetch Hetchy Valley. It’s less crowded but equally beautiful, offering serene landscapes and fewer visitors.
For a peaceful and scenic experience, visit Tenaya Lake. Located on Tioga Road, this alpine lake is perfect for a relaxing day by the water.
Exploring Yosemite means immersing yourself in nature. The towering sequoias in Mariposa Grove are another must-see. These ancient giant trees are awe-inspiring and provide a sense of the park’s deep history.
1) Big Sur
Big Sur is a must-see spot on your California road trip. Located along Highway 1, it offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
Drive across the iconic Bixby Creek Bridge. This 714-foot-long bridge stands 280 feet high and provides a fantastic photo opportunity.
Don’t miss McWay Falls, an 80-foot waterfall that cascades directly into the ocean. It’s one of California’s few tidefalls.
Pfeiffer Beach is famous for its unique purple sand and stunning rock formations. It’s less crowded than some other cool beaches, and perfect for a relaxing walk.
For hiking, check out the trails at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. You’ll walk through lush forests and see more coastal views.
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve offers diverse wildlife, from sea lions to various bird species. It’s also an excellent spot for snorkeling and diving.
Garrapata State Park is another great place to explore. It features rugged coastal scenery and fields of wildflowers.
If you’re interested in history, visit the Henry Miller Memorial Library. It’s dedicated to the famous writer and offers a cozy spot to read or attend events.
Lastly, Limekiln State Park boasts impressive redwood trees and remnants of historic limekilns.
With its stunning landscapes and diverse activities, Big Sur is an unforgettable stop on your road trip.
The Bottom Line
California offers an amazing range of places to explore on a road trip.
Your journey through California will be memorable with a mix of cities, coasts, and national parks. Plan well, and enjoy every moment on the road.