With 10 National Parks, more than 800 miles of coastline, and landscapes ranging from deserts to forests to everything in between, it's not hard to find yourself California dreamin'. The most obvious park to visit is the iconic Yosemite National Park, but other parks provide equally incredible experiences: Death Valley's striking sand dunes, Joshua Tree's gnarled yuccas, Redwood's imposing forests, and Lassen Volcanic's colorful geothermal weirdness are all just as amazing. And don't forget, in the middle of all of this, you'll find Big Sur's breathtaking beaches and Lake Tahoe's lush shoreline... better leave enough time to visit all of California's most beautiful spots!
Sequoia National Park, California, United States
Yosemite National Park will always have a special place in the National Parks System. A favorite of famed naturalist John Muir, the Yosemite Valley offers iconic views from Tunnel View and Glacier Point... but even though pictures of this stunning park are everywhere, it's still worth visiting in person. Seeing the sweeping beauty in real life is an intense and heart-stopping experience.
Central California has the country's prettiest beaches, hands down, bar none. They're rugged, foggy, secluded, and utterly breathtaking. They're not lined by boardwalks and souvenir shops like beaches on the East Coast or along the Gulf of Mexico. And if you're not convinced, take Point Reyes National Seashore as proof. Point Reyes is almost entirely separated from the mainland via a sunken rift in the San Andreas fault, and it's famed for its rugged coastal scenery, misty and hidden beaches, trails that wind past untamed fields of wildflowers, and rare and endangered wildlife.
Boulder-studded coves, shady pine forests, crystal-clear water, and beaches can all be found at Lake Tahoe's Sand Harbor. Hike, kayak, swim, or parasail the day away, and then cozy up at a campsite or in a resort come nightfall. It's a popular vacation destination, and it's not hard to see why! Pro tip: Paddle out to Fannette Island, the lake's only island, to explore the abandoned tea house!
California is a special place. Beaches, forests, mountains, deserts, and more all blend together to create a landscape that's utterly enchanting. This is why bucket lists were created!
