Top 20 must-do experiences in California

11. Go wine tasting in Sonoma Valley and Napa Valley

California has some famous wine-growing regions which are great for a day out. I loved the white wines from Sonoma Valley and Napa Valley. I’d recommend taking a wine-tasting tour around the vineyards in the region, so you can try as many wines as you like without needing to worry about driving anywhere.

12. Enjoy the view at Glacier Point in Yosemite National Park

One of my favourite viewpoints in the whole of the USA is from the top of Glacier Point. The drive up here is definitely worth it to see one of the most spectacular mountain views in the world. Just take a minute to breathe in the fresh air and look around you. It’s one of those moments when you need to pinch yourself to remind yourself it’s real.

13. Learn some US history at the Santa Barbara Courthouse

California is full of interesting history. Santa Barbara Courthouse is a great place to start learning about some of the Spanish influence on this region. The Santa Barbara Courthouse was built in 1929 and dates back to the Spanish colonial times. As well as learning about history, it’s a great place to enjoy the view as well. You can climb up the tower for great views over the red roofs and also out to sea.

14. Go kayaking on Lake Tahoe

For beautiful lake and mountain views, a trip to Lake Tahoe is perfect. The huge lake is beautiful, with stunning views to the surrounding mountains. You can relax on the side of the lake for days. Or if you’re looking for something more adventurous, Lake Tahoe has plenty to offer. Try kayaking or paddle boarding for an afternoon of fun and excitement.

15. Ride the cable cars in San Francisco

For another iconic San Francisco experience, ride the cable cars. The cable cars, or trams as they’re sometimes called, run up and down the steep hills. They’re such an iconic part of San Francisco and a great way to see the city without having to walk up the steep hills! Check out some more fun things to do in San Francisco here.

16. Go shopping in Beverly Hills

Spend the day acting like a film star in LA and go shopping in Beverly Hills. Treat yourself to something special, or just marvel at the high prices and dream of being able to afford it all one day. Beverly Hills is a great place to visit in LA. Check out some more tips for your trip to LA here.

17. Have fun on Santa Monica beach and pier

There’s more to do in Los Angeles than just the Hollywood sights and shops. LA also has some beautiful beaches as well. Santa Monica is a beautiful beach with long stretches of golden sand. The pier at Santa Monica is great fun as well. Browse the stalls and play the arcade games on the pier, before feeling the adrenaline on some of the rides. It’s a really fun place to spend your day!

18. Marvel at Giant Redwoods in Muir Woods

California has some of the tallest and oldest Redwood trees in the world. Nothing can prepare for the size and scale of these massive trees. It really reminds you how small we all are compared to nature. A great place to see some of California’s Giant Redwoods is in Muir Woods. It’s not too far from San Francisco so easily doable as a day trip from San Francisco. Follow the hiking trails to see some of the most amazing trees in the world.

19. Laugh at the Sea Lions on Pier 39 in San Francisco

Pier 39 in Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco is home to some Californian Sea Lions. These wild Sea Lions come here all year round to relax on the pontoons. They’re great fun to watch as they lounge around, dip in the water, and occasionally have an argument about the best spots to lay. Fisherman’s Wharf is a great place to visit as well, with lots of great shops and restaurants. There’s also the Musee Mechanique here, which is full of traditional arcade games. Definitely make sure Pier 39 and Fisherman’s Wharf is on your list for visiting San Francisco.

20. Watch the sunset over the Pacific Ocean

For the perfect ending to any visit to California, find a spot to watch the sunset over the Pacific Ocean. California really is a magical place, and watching the sunset after some busy days exploring really is the perfect finale.

If you’re planning a trip to California, make sure you take this great Lonely Planet Travel Guide to California (affiliate). It’s perfect for planning your perfect trip to this amazing US state.

Enjoy the top 20 must-do experiences in California! You can also visit California by train – check out the best Amtrak train routes here, and what it’s like to travel in the USA by train. Check out my other California blogs for more details about all of the places mentioned here. Have fun in the big cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles. Enjoy beaches in Santa Barbara and the coast at Big Sur and Monterey. Then head to the mountains of Yosemite National Park. California really does have something for everyone, so start exploring now!