Get ready to fall in love.
Over the past few months, California has been affected by some of the worst wildfires in history. People have tragically lost their lives, homes, and businesses — and the fires are still burning.
You can help those affected by making a donation to a relief organization, such as the Red Cross or the California Fire Foundation.
But one thing that’s true about the Golden State is just how resilient it can be. Beauty is still here, and California is rebuilding and fighting back each day. We’ve rounded up some of the most breathtaking destinations so you can add them to your future bucket list.
1. Cypress Tree Tunnel
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If you want a shot that’s seriously ‘gram-worthy, look no further than Cypress Tree Tunnel in Point Reyes. Planted about 90 years ago, it’s a hidden gem that’s a breathtaking backdrop no matter what season it is.
2. Joshua Tree National Park
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Ready for an adventure? Look no further than Joshua Tree National Park. Located at the intersection of the Colorado and Mojave deserts, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into another world filled with unique spiky trees and surreal rocky views. Plus, did I mention how wildly beautiful the sunsets and sunrises are? It’s worth stopping by for those alone.
3. Fern Canyon
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You might be wondering if you’ve stepped into a fairy tale when you take a walk through Fern Canyon. This lush hideaway was used as filming backdrop for Jurassic Park, and you can experience it for yourself by visiting Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park on California’s north coast.
4. Bowling Ball Beach
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Plan your visit to Bowling Ball Beach during low tide, and you’ll catch the sight of a lifetime. If you couldn’t tell from the photo, this Mendocino County beach gets its name from the various rocks that look kinda similar to bowling balls. The view isn’t just relaxing, it also kinda looks like it belongs on the background of your computer.
5. Mono Lake
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Spanning about 65 square miles, Mono Lake is unlike any lake you’ve seen before. It’s over 1 million years old and is home to the famous “tufa towers” that draw visitors from near and far each year. These stunning calcium carbonate spires are formed when the alkaline lake water combines with freshwater springs. Catch them during sunrise or sunset, and you’ll be set for a stellar photo sesh.
6. Glass Beach
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Want to take your seaside vacay to the next level? Plan a visit to Glass Beach, an old city trash dump area in Fort Bragg, about three and a half hours from San Francisco. Smooth and vibrant “sea glass” glimmers in the sun, making this a picturesque pit stop on any Northern California road trip.
7. Lands End
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Want to skip the hustle and bustle of San Francisco and trade it in for an oceanfront hike? Make your next destination Lands End in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. You’ll find killer views, hiking trails, and a unique rock maze.
8. McWay Falls
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Big Sur is home to the McWay Falls — a destination that’s straight-up postcard-worthy. While it’s illegal (and there’s no set path) to go down to the beach, you can still catch a peek of the Pacific Ocean and get an epic bird’s-eye view of the cascading waterfall.
9. Yosemite National Park
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Whether you want waterfall views or a challenging Half Dome hike, Yosemite National Park in the Sierra Nevada has something for everyone. Arguably one of the country’s most famous parks, it doesn’t matter if you’re camping in a good ol’ tent, glamping in a yurt, or just visiting for the day — this is an outdoor lover’s haven that’s bursting with natural beauty.
10. Muir Woods National Monument
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If walking among towering redwood trees sounds like your ideal afternoon, you’ll find Muir Woods National Monument downright dreamy. It’s the perfect place for a relaxing stroll if you want some fresh air outside of San Francisco’s nearby cityscape.
11. The Racetrack
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Formerly a lake bed, the Racetrack, located in the massive Death Valley National Park, is now home to mysterious “sailing rocks” that leave imprints wherever they move. It’s worth spending time exploring the rest of the park, too. But be sure to stay hydrated if you drop by this remote and rugged destination — it’s known to get notoriously hot.
12. Emerald Bay State Park
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Ready for a blue-green dream? Look no further than the waters of Emerald Bay, not far from South Lake Tahoe. It’s a serene setting that’s astounding from every angle.
13. Lava Beds National Monument
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With over 800 caves and other historic sites to explore, this stop near the Oregon border is a geological wonderland. If you’re into all things volcanic, head underground to explore the highest concentration of lava tube caves in North America. They range in difficulty, so find the right path for you.
Pro tip: Some paths through the tunnels are dark, so don’t forget a flashlight.
14. Burney Falls
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Burney Falls is another place that’s dreamy as can be. It’s 129 feet tall and located in McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park. From the surrounding ferns to the sun trickling in between the trees, it should be fairly easy to see why this is an essential stop on any hike.
15. Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve
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From February to May, visitors can check out the vibrant wildflower blooms at Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve in Lancaster. The bold palette will make you feel like you’ve entered an artistic masterpiece that you’d find hanging on a museum wall.
16. Santa Catalina Island
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Located just 22 miles off the coast of Southern California, Santa Catalina Island is a charming getaway offering sandy beaches, diving, and more. Just take one look, and you’ll wish you could teleport straight there.
17. Capitola Beach
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The rainbow-colored houses that line Capitola Beach will instantly shift you into vacation mode. Enjoy fun in the sun as you lounge on the sand and dip your toes in the water, or explore the town of Capitola, which has everything from boutique shops to tasty eats.
18. Bixby Bridge
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Fans of Big Little Lies will instantly recognize the arched Bixby Bridge located in Big Sur. It opened in the early 1930s and has been a Central California icon ever since. If you happen to be traveling on Highway 1, be sure to drive across this bridge to get a glimpse of the panoramic views.
19. Morro Bay
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If you ever find yourself in Morro Bay, a laid-back beach town near San Luis Obispo, you’ll soon notice that Morro Rock is the centerpiece. It’s an extinct volcanic plug located at the end of Morro Rock Beach. Whether you’re sitting on the sandy shores or checking out the lagoons, I promise that this underrated spot is 100% worth your time.
