Top 20 must-do experiences in California

California has some of the best sights and things to do in the USA. From stunning coastline to dramatic mountains and fun cities, California is a top destination for any trip. Check out the top 20 must-do experiences in California.

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1. Go whale watching along Big Sur

California is one of the best places in the world to see whales. Whale watching is definitely one of the top 20 must-do experiences in California for any trip. Humpback Whales, Grey Whales and Blue Whales can all be seen at different times of the year as they travel up and down the coast on their migrations. Many of the major towns and cities offer whale watching trips, such as Monterey and Santa Barbara. If you’d rather not go on a boat, you can sometimes get lucky and see whales from the coast as well. I was lucky to see Humpback Whales at one of the viewpoints along Big Sur and it was just incredible. Check out my blog on whale watching in Big Sur here.

2. Hiking in Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park has some of the best mountain views in the world. There are so many hiking trails to choose from. Some hiking trails take you through the forests and valleys, and others take you to higher points to see the views. Wherever you decide to hike, make sure you take a few minutes to appreciate the views around you. Check out some other amazing viewpoints in Yosemite here.

3. Relax on the beach in Santa Barbara

California has some of the best beaches in the world. One of my favourite California beaches is at Santa Barbara. This beautiful town has a beautiful white sand beach, and a pier which gives great views back over the beach and town. Enjoy the sunny California weather and take a day to relax on the beautiful beach in Santa Barbara. Check out some other things to do in Santa Barbara here.

4. Walk across the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco

For an iconic California experience, head to the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco. This beautiful bridge is so famous and instantly recognisable. One you’ve taken a few photos of the bridge, try walking over to Sausalito on the other side. But be warned – the bridge is very high, and it’s a long way down to the water, which moves beneath you. So if you’re not super keen on heights, maybe only walk some of the way!

5. Look for bears in Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is home to some amazing wildlife, and if you’re lucky you might be able to spot some. One of the cutest animals in Yosemite are the black bears. Many of them live high in the mountains and stay away from people. However, sometimes you might get lucky and spot one. I was super lucky to see a small black bear near the hiking trail to Yosemite Falls. I’d just been watching some deer, then suddenly the deer fled and a bear appeared! It was a magical experience, and I’d definitely recommend trying to look for bears in Yosemite National Park.

6. Drive along Highway 1 down Big Sur

For one of the most spectacular roads in the world, head to Highway 1 in California. It’s definitely one of the top 20 must-do experiences in California. The views are just amazing, and there are loads of places you can stop so you can take photos. I’d definitely recommend driving to Bixby Creek Bridge for an amazing viewpoint across to the beaches and bridge. Check out some of the other good viewpoints here.

7. Spot Sea Otters in Monterey

Monterey is a great small city on the California coast. There are loads of fun things to do in Monterey, but the highlight for me was seeing otters. Sea otters live just off the coast of Monterey, and you have a good chance of seeing them. Walk along the coast from Cannery Row to Old Fisherman’s Wharf and look out to sea. Otters like to hang out in the patches of kelp near the coastline, so that’s the best place to look.

8. Explore behind the bars at Alcatraz

Alcatraz is one of the most famous prisons in the world, and no visit to California is complete without a trip here. It’s just a short boat ride from San Francisco. It’s a fascinating place to visit, but harrowing as well. Take the audio guide to learn more about life for prisoners here and also to hear stories of escape attempts. Just make sure you book the boat trip plenty of time in advance as they get booked up quickly. Check out the boat times and prices here.

9. Learn about sea life at Monterey Bay Aquarium

Monterey Bay Aquarium deserves its reputation for being one of the best aquariums in the world. There’s a huge variety of sea life to watch and learn about. There’s a touching pool as well where you can tickle starfish and rays. The huge tanks are just amazing as you watch fish and sharks swim past. Check out some more tips for visiting Monterey Bay Aquarium here.

10. Be a film star for the day at the Hollywood sign and Walk of Fame in LA

Another of the top 20 must-do experiences in California is to spend some time in Hollywood. Hollywood in LA needs no introduction. It’s the home of film stars, where actors go to make their dreams come true. Get a great photo of the Hollywood Sign before heading to the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Looks for the stars with the names of your favourite actors, and check out the handprints by Grauman’s Chinese Theatre as well. Visiting Hollywood is a great way to feel close to your favourite movie stars.