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California Today

Readers Share Their Favorite California Travel Tips

Perhaps they’ll provide inspiration for your next trip.

By Soumya Karlamangla

For more than a year, we’ve been asking you for tips on exploring the Golden State — and you’ve been delivering.

California is treasured for its natural beauty, and you’ve recommended hundreds of the best places to soak it all in. The darkest desert campsites to see the stars, the best road trip routes to the world’s biggest trees or just your favorite hiking trails in your regional park.

Today we’re offering a highlight reel of sorts. Recently, many of you have written to us about trips you’ve taken within the state that were inspired by reader suggestions published in this newsletter. It’s been lovely to see how delighted you’ve been to discover, or rediscover, California and all its wonders.

Below, I’m sharing some of the notes and photos you sent in from your trips, which will hopefully provide some inspiration for future vacations. As always, please keep sending us your favorite places to visit in California by emailing us at [email protected] . We’ll be sharing more in upcoming editions of the newsletter.

Enjoy your travels.

“I followed a contributor’s suggestion , traveled to Fort Bragg in Mendocino County, rented a bicycle and rode the Noyo Headlands Trail . Breathtaking views of the Pacific; beautiful, warm temperature; and an ample supply of benches to stop and take in the scenery. Followed by a double-scoop waffle cone from Cowlick’s Ice Cream. During the Whale Festival in March , you get the chance to view the skeleton of a blue whale that washed ashore in 2009. Highly recommended.” — Birgit Nielsen, Flensburg, Germany

“In mid-October, I met my friend who lives north of Bishop for a few days of hunting for the best fall colors in the Sierra . The first day we went north from Bishop up towards South Lake, and found wonderful colors on the aspen, just after sunrise but before the sun lit up the slope. Nothing can beat the aspen in fall.” — Steve Ziman, San Rafael

“Although my best friend and I have lived most of our lives in San Francisco, neither of us had spent much time at Point Reyes. We did everything in the recommendation — we walked at Abbotts Lagoon, where we did indeed see river otters as well as great herons and other birds; had lunch in Point Reyes; bought three cheeses at Cowgirl Creamery and T-shirts at Point Reyes Books; and got ice cream at Palace Market. We also drove up to the elk preserve, hoping to see some elk, and half a mile inside the gate we saw a herd just off the road. It was the best day I’d had in a long, long time.” — Samantha Kahn, San Francisco

“My husband and I recently moved from Pennsylvania to San Diego. We traveled to the Bay Area to have Thanksgiving with friends, and we stopped on the way at San Juan Bautista, which was recently described in your newsletter . It is such a quaint and historic town. We walked all around the mission and the state park there. We meandered down the street with its beautiful wood benches and prickly pear trees noticing all the shops and restaurants.

“The San Juan Bakery in San Juan Bautista did not disappoint. I got a beautiful crocheted hat there for $10, and we ordered a couple of the apricot hand pies, which were the best I have ever had! We circled back to the bakery and bought more for our friends. We will definitely go back to enjoy this historic town.” — Celine Evans, San Diego

“ I visited Lands End trail in San Francisco, inspired by the newsletter. I was living in Chicago at the time and knew I wanted to move to California. My first time in California was so wonderful, confirming my desire to live in this beautiful state, and that hike is one of my favorite memories from my solo trip.” — Hanna Hixson, Los Angeles

The rest of the news

Feinstein’s Senate seat: Representative Nancy Pelosi said she would support Representative Adam Schiff’s bid for the U.S. Senate if Senator Dianne Feinstein decides not to run for re-election next year, CNN reports.

Tom Girardi: The former high-profile trial lawyer known for winning a record settlement for the environmental activist Erin Brockovich has been indicted by federal grand juries in Los Angeles and Chicago on charges that he embezzled more than $18 million from clients.

Vaccine mandates: California officials are quietly ending their plan to mandate Covid-19 vaccines for schoolchildren, EdSource reports.

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

Jill Biden: The first lady plans to visit San Diego this week to discuss details of the administration’s “moonshot” initiative on cancer and her Joining Forces initiative, which helps military families, The San Diego Union-Tribune reports.

Costco homes: The first Costco in south Los Angeles could be built with 800 apartment units , KTLA reports.

CENTRAL CALIFORNIA

Police officer killed: An on-duty Selma police officer was fatally shot on Tuesday while responding to a resident’s concern about a “suspicious man,” stunning many in the small city just southeast of Fresno, The Los Angeles Times reports.

NORTHERN CALIFORNIA

Zogg fire: Pacific Gas & Electric will face trial for manslaughter over its role in the Zogg fire, which killed four people in 2020, The Associated Press reports.

Olympic Valley may get a makeover: A new proposal for a 94-acre recreational tourist and housing development near Lake Tahoe is being met with hesitation from residents , The Mercury News reports.

Farm to table: California-grown fruits and vegetables and grass-fed meats grace the cafeteria menus in the Mount Diablo Unified School District, defying stereotypes of low-quality school food, The Associated Press reports.

What we’re eating

Valentine’s Day dinner ideas and recipes.

Where we’re traveling

In the Fairfax District in Los Angeles, the Original Farmers Market.

With Valentine’s Day coming up, we’re asking about love: not who you love, but what you love about your corner of California.

Email us a love letter to your California city, neighborhood or region — or to the Golden State as a whole — and we may share it in an upcoming newsletter. You can reach the team at [email protected] .

And before you go, some good news

At the intersection of the 15 and 395 freeways, where the Cajon Pass stretches out of the San Bernardino Mountains, rows of 18-wheeler trucks are parked behind an A-frame building.

The building is a roadside diner called the Outpost Cafe, with leather booths, turquoise bar stools and the aroma of frying oil and hot coffee. For many truckers, the restaurant, which serves items like chicken-fried steak with eggs and bacon, is considered the best in all of California, Eater L.A. reports.

Truckers will “go 50 miles out of their way to come here because it’s good hometown cooking,” said Sherry Spearow, who’s been a server at the restaurant in Hesperia since 1992. “Mom-and-pop places are few and far between, and most of the truck stops now are taking the restaurants out and putting in fast food.”

Scott Colon, a truck driver based out of Arizona, recently finished delivering a load from Tucson, Ariz., to Camp Pendleton in San Diego County. Tired and hungry, Colon decided to make the trek to what he called “the best food in California.”

“I came 110 miles, even though I have to go in the other direction, just so I can eat here,” Colon said.

Thanks for reading. I’ll be back on Monday. Enjoy your weekend. — Soumya

P.S. Here’s today’s Mini Crossword .

Isabella Grullón Paz and Allison Honors contributed to California Today. You can reach the team at [email protected] .

Sign up here to get this newsletter in your inbox .

Soumya Karlamangla is the lead writer for the California Today newsletter, where she provides daily insights and updates from her home state. More about Soumya Karlamangla

We asked, you answered: Your favorite California travel recommendations

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Good morning, fellow Escapists. There’s something special about swapping travel recommendations, whether they’re exchanged between lifelong friends or strangers on a train.

When I began writing Escapes , I shared that I hoped it would be “as much your travel newsletter as it is mine.” That’s why I ask for your suggestions each week — and why I’m excited to bring you the very first edition made up entirely of reader recommendations.

Here, you’ll discover places to go in Ojai, San Diego, Cambria and Joshua Tree. As always, if you have a travel tip you’d like to pass along, please let me know .

Get inspired to get away.

Explore California, the West and beyond with the weekly Escapes newsletter.

You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.

Eat, drink and take in views of the Cambria coast

The Central California coast is lined with laidback towns ideal for enjoying the pleasures of life — and little Cambria, tucked amid Monterey pines, might just feel the most peaceful of all.

I included Cambria in last week’s newsletter , where I recommended including the community — and a stop at Moonstone Beach and Linn’s Easy as Pie Cafe for a slice of olallieberry pie — on a drive up Highway 1.

Reader Peter Valk happened to be in Cambria as he read the latest edition of Escapes, and he emailed me with a few suggestions:

• The Fiscalini Ranch Preserve : Valk recommends walks along coastal bluffs, part of its more than eight-mile trail system. It’s open daily from dawn to dusk.
• The French Corner Bakery : Travelers can fuel up with pastries, cakes, breads and other treats. It’s open daily from 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Stolo Vineyards : “It has a throwback vibe to when wineries weren’t big businesses,” Valk said. The vineyard offers wine tastings from noon to 5 p.m. daily by reservation. Visiting Cambria during the week? Stolo is hosting pilates classes in its meadow on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Glimpse marine life in San Diego

Travelers from all over the globe have heard of the San Diego Zoo. But there are many other places nearby to see wildlife, large and small.

“Whales are pretty easy to spot with binoculars from the cliffs above Black’s Beach behind the Torrey Pines Gliderport ,” wrote writes one reader. “I’ve seen them just beyond the breaking surf in shallow water there.”

The reader shared a few tips for anyone hoping to catch a glimpse: “[It] helps to go in the morning before the wind starts rippling the water and the sun’s glare makes seeing them tougher.”

For glimpsing smaller marine life, the reader recommended visiting Cabrillo National Monument and Ocean Beach Pier .

Could you use a coffee and a bite to eat on your way down to San Diego? A reader named Venelina recommends stopping by MRKT Space in Encinitas, which offers croissants, muffins, Mediterranean-style sandwiches and more.

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The best in Joshua Tree, according to locals

What’s the best view in Joshua Tree National Park? A local reached out to me to share her thoughts.

“I was born and raised here, and there are too many wonderful places to count,” wrote Julie O’Neil. “But one of my very favorites is Keys View .”

The wheelchair-accessible lookout off Keys View Road — “through some of the loveliest parts of our desert,” O’Neil said — is a popular spot in Joshua Tree for a good reason.

“At the top of the hill, you can enjoy the views of the Coachella Valley to the south, Mt. San Jacinto and beyond,” she said. “The feeling of being on top of the world without climbing a mountain is breathtaking.”

The San Andreas Fault, which cuts through the Coachella Valley, can also be seen from the lookout. If you visit on an exceptionally clear day — unfortunately uncommon because of poor air quality — you may even be able to see Mexico’s Mt. Signal, just south of the border west of Mexicali, according to the park’s website.

Another reader reached out with these suggestions for exploring the park:

• Use the North Entrance in Twentynine Palms as a way to skip the line at the West Entrance.
• While you’re on the Twentynine Palms side of the park, she suggests spending time in places such as the “the magical Fortynine Palms Oasis .”
• The Cholla Cactus Garden , deeper into the park on Pinto Basin Road, is also well worth a visit.
• Black Rock Canyon near Yucca Valley, which she said is “full of fantastic hikes.”

Hoping to see some art while in Joshua Tree? Another reader suggested the Simi Dabah Sculpture garden , which you can see from Sunfair Road.

It’s still pixie season in Ojai

Haven’t had a chance to pick up your share of Ojai pixie tangerines this season?

Susan Petrella recommends Friend’s Ranch in Ojai, run by a family that has been growing citrus in the area for over a century.

It’s “the premier place to purchase those delicious pixies, other yummy tangerines, avocadoes, lemons, [etc.],” Petrella said. “ My husband and I discovered Friend’s Ranch at the Hollywood Farmers Market and have been faithful customers.”

Travelers can also pick up Friend’s Ranch citrus directly from the farm’s packinghouse in Ojai, open on 7 a.m. to noon Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays through May.

While you’re in Ojai, save time to explore the town. Andrea Pett sent me a few favorite spots:

• The Dutchess : a bakery, cafe and restaurant open Wednesdays through Sundays from 7 a.m. - to 2 p.m. for coffee, bread and pastries and from 4:30 to 9:30 p.m. for dinner.
• Firestick Pottery : A membership-based studio and gallery. Open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily.
• Bungalow By FiG : A gift shop selling candles, clothing, accessories and more — all with that distinct Ojai style. Open 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.
• Summer Camp : Love plants and Ojai-themed merchandise? Summer Camp is your place. Open noon to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday and noon to 4 p.m. Sunday.

📰 What I’m reading

• Want to go whitewater rafting this summer? It’s time to book your trip. Brian Clark breaks down California’s eight best rivers in The Times.
• Bridgette and Tiffany met on a Greyhound bus from Sacramento to San Francisco in 1987. “This chance meeting was the beginning of a 35-years-and-counting romance ,” writes Francesca Street in CNN Travel.
• Nereya Otieno learned to ski at age 29. She writes about what the experience has taught her in Ski Magazine.
• How did Cambria become a destination for olallieberries? Julie Tremaine writes about how “olallieberries have become more than just a food, but a cultural phenomenon that attracts tourists year-round” in this Central Coast town.
• “The funniest travel account on Instagram is run by the T.S.A.,” writes Cassandra Brooklyn in the New York Times. She interviews Janis Burl, the woman behind the agency’s Instagram account .

🎸 Road song

Song: “ Good Legs ” by Jensen McRae

Favorite lyric: “And you said, ‘Don’t live in your head. The world’s so wide, why not explore?’”

Where to play it: Waiting in traffic at LAX

Sign up for The Wild

We’ll help you find the best places to hike, bike and run, as well as the perfect silent spots for meditation and yoga.

Rachel Schnalzer Stewart is a former audience engagement editor for the Los Angeles Times. In addition to overseeing daily news engagement for the Business and World Nation sections, she managed promotion for projects such as Global California, Repowering the West and the Great SoCal House Hunt. Schnalzer Stewart has also served as the lead writer for the Times’ travel newsletter, Escapes, and Business newsletter. Schnalzer Stewart graduated from Johns Hopkins University and worked at BuzzFeed and Snap before joining The Times in 2019.

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What's New in California

Latest developments, discover your next story.

What’s New in California showcases new openings and developments happening across the Golden State. Find inspiration for stories revolving around accommodations, arts and entertainment, culinary, family, major milestones, luxury, outdoor, shopping, spas, technology and tours, wellness and more. Dates listed are subject to change. Confirm with appropriate media contacts listed with each entry.

See what’s new below and click here to find inspiration with curated story ideas.

California Welcomes New Attractions and Celebrates Milestone Anniversaries in 2024

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Dec. 6, 2023) – California invites travelers to experience an abundance of new offerings coming online in 2024. Throughout the year, the Golden State will celebrate the opening of exciting new attractions, rich educational offerings, milestone theme park anniversaries, luxury hotels and more.

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23 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in California

From the mountaintops to the lowest point in North America, these are the best places to visit in California.

Adrian Rudd/Travel + Leisure

California has a reputation for being a surfer's paradise . And sure, its sandy beaches are something to marvel at and indeed a must-see on any visit. But as the third largest state in the nation, it’s so much more . From mountains to deserts to wine towns and the Mouse House, here are 23 most beautiful places to visit in California. 

Palm Springs

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Those seeking a chic, mid-century modern getaway should consider Palm Springs . The average high never falls below 69 degrees Fahrenheit, meaning no matter when you visit, you’ll get to enjoy some fun in the sun. Book a few nights at The Good House , a bungalow-style hotel that sits on its own natural hot springs, which will leave you feeling renewed. 

Joshua Tree

Irjaliina Paavonpera/Travel + Leisure

Not far from Palm Springs, Joshua Tree offers more desert fun. However, you’ll want to trade in your poolside outfit for hiking gear. Explore the massive Joshua Tree National Park, then check out the plentiful vintage shops in downtown Joshua Tree to hunt for treasures. Stay a few nights at AutoCamp Joshua Tree for a glamping stay unlike any other.

James Marshall/Getty Images

It’s time to head to California’s wine country . And no, we aren’t talking about Napa. Head to the southern part of the state’s wine region, Temecula . Located in southwestern Riverside County, this destination is home to gorgeous vineyards growing some 50 varietals of wine, from cabernet sauvignon to chardonnay. Enjoy a boutique stay at The New Inn , which comes with just five stunning villas for ultimate privacy.  

Santa Monica Pier

Adrian Rudd/Travel + Leisure

The entire city of Santa Monica is worth a visit, but don't miss the iconic Santa Monica Pier while there. The 1,600-foot pier comes with a little amusement park featuring a roller coaster so you can get a bird’s-eye view of the beach below before taking a short, belly-flipping drop back down. Then, rest your head at the Shore Hotel , which provides views of the pier, too.

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For a dose of Southern California cool, head to Long Beach. As the name implies, the seaside community comes with plenty of beach frontage, but it also boasts its fair share of culture. That includes the RMS Queen Mary , docked at Queensway Bay; colorful pieces at the Museum of Latin American Art; and more than a few fish swimming at the Aquarium of the Pacific. Stay at The Cove Hotel , which is within walking distance of all the city’s best attractions.

Mammoth Lakes

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You'll want to trade your surfboard for a snowboard with a visit to Mammoth . The beloved ski resort is home to some of the best powder in the world, as well as one of the longest ski seasons in the nation. Don’t feel intimidated if you’re a newbie, as the mountain has a robust ski school available. Stay at the Sierra Nevada Resort , a revamped classic that’s equal parts rustic and charming, making for an ideal mountain getaway.

Chris Demonbreun Photography/Getty Images

Gulp in a breath of fresh air during a visit to Lake Tahoe . This lake destination, tucked in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, straddles the neighboring state of Nevada as well. It’s an all-season delight, with skiing in the winter , wildflowers in spring, warm days by the shore in summer, and fall foliage to round it out. Book a room at Edgewood for a luxurious stay with lakeside views to boot.

Santa Barbara

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Santa Barbara deserves a spot high on any must-see list of California. Its gorgeous beaches, quaint shops, wonderful hotels , stunning street art, and plenty of delicious seafood restaurants make it a place worth experiencing for more than a long weekend. Book a stay at the divine San Ysidro Ranch , a 500-acre private enclave tailor-made for total relaxation. 

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

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Take in the endless vistas at Anza-Borrego Desert State Park . Visitors here may find super blooms in the spring, but don’t skip over this destination in the summer, fall, or winter, either. The state park is a stellar place for hiking, admiring avant-garde art at Galleta Meadows, and even pitching a tent just about anywhere with a bit of backcountry camping.

Tetra Images/Getty Images

Looking for awe-inspiring views? Take a drive up Highway 1 to Big Sur . The cliffside community overlooks some of the most jaw-dropping coastline in the state, and it's home to some hiking trails worth exploring, too. Sleep at the Post Ranch Inn , which provides those epic ocean views out of every window.

Disneyland Resort/Christian Thompson

Sneak in a little magic by paying a visit to the Happiest Place on Earth:  Disneyland . Choose between visiting either one of its two parks, or snag a Park Hopper pass to see both in one go. Then, spend your nights at the Grand Californian Hotel & Spa , where you can view the park right out your window. 

Yosemite National Park

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Feel inspired by Mother Nature at every turn with a visit to Yosemite National Park . Here, you can gaze upon the breathtaking views of Yosemite Falls, El Capitan, and Half Dome while hiking to lookout points or taking a slow drive with the windows rolled down. Stay inside the park and camp at Curry Village , home to 14 tented cabins that sit under centuries-old trees.

Channel Islands

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Hop a boat to the Channel Islands , an archipelago that remains wild and free. Explore the eight islands, which are home to more than 2,000 species of plants and animals, by hopping from one to another or scuba diving off the coast. Again, it’s another perfect spot to pitch a tent, so you never have to leave the great outdoors. 

Kelly Griffin/Travel + Liesure

Looking to paddle out with the best surfers in California? Then, it’s time to head to San Diego , the place to be for a surf lesson (or two) and lounge session on the warm, sandy shore. But the city also has plenty more to explore, from fantastic breweries to the world-class San Diego Zoo. Book a stay at Pendry San Diego , which features a rooftop pool so you can take a dip and enjoy the city skyline all in one.

DianeBentleyRaymond/Getty Images

For more wine-centric fun, head to the small town of Healdsburg, where you’ll find plenty of wineries happy to pour you their best glass. Guests here can also live like a local by shopping, dining, and strolling through the Plaza, exploring the downtown area, or taking a hike through the pristine landscapes. Book a night or more at the Montage Healdsburg , which comes with so many luxuries, you may never want to leave.

San Francisco

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Get an urban escape in San Francisco . The NorCal city is home to plenty of delicious dining venues and shopping galore on Haight Street. While here, take some time to explore the outdoor spaces too, like The Presidio and Golden Gate Park, both of which offer fantastic views. Stay at The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco, beloved by Travel + Leisure readers, as it was voted the best hotel in the city in our 2022 World’s Best Awards.

Death Valley

Alessandro Lai/Getty Images

Don’t let the name Death Valley fool you. Death Valley National Park is a place teeming with life — if you know where to look. Visit Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America, and check out the endless salt flats, which happen to be home to an endemic snail only found here. It's also worth exploring Salt Creek, home to another endemic species — the pupfish, which have evolved to live in the salinated waters. Then, snag a room at the historic Inn at Death Valley , a recently revamped desert oasis that will cater to your every whim. 

Big Bear Lake

ikon/Getty Images

Find smaller mountain magic at Big Bear Lake . In the winters, the community becomes a snow-filled heaven, much to the delight of skiers and snowboarders in Los Angeles, who can get there in under a three-hour drive. Come summer, Big Bear transforms into lakeside bliss, so no need to pick one or the other, as every season here is perfect. Book a stay at Noble + Proper , a gorgeous, high-design hotel.

Santa Catalina Island

lfreytag/Getty Images

Grab a boat to Santa Catalina Island , where you can hop on a bike (we recommend an e-bike to help battle the massive hills) and pedal for as far as your legs will take you around the jagged coast. Stop in for a bite, a drink, or an ice cream in the city of Avalon, or head inland for a tour of the island’s wild buffalo herd. At day's end retreat to one of the island's top hotels . For instance, lay your head at the Hotel Atwater , a more than 100-year-old gem in Avalon. 

Redwood National Park

Carmen Martínez Torrón/Getty Images

Located in the northern part of the state, Redwood National Park is home to some of the tallest trees in the world — some so large, you have to drive through them to get by. Again, it’s best to stay in the park, which is entirely possible, thanks to the delightfully charming little abodes at Elk Meadow Cabins . 

Tobiah Lui/Travel + Leisure

Even though Hollywood is actually a relatively small neighborhood in Los Angeles, its larger-than-life reputation makes it a star. Come see the famed Hollywood sign , honor your favorite celebrities on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and tour icons like the TCL Chinese Theatre. Stay at ​ The West Hollywood Edition , a sleek property located in the center of the action.

Laguna Beach

kanonsky/Getty Images

See one more surf mecca by visiting the Southern California gem of Laguna Beach. This coastal town is bursting with artistic talent, which you can check out in its numerous galleries or by taking a self-guided tour to admire its impressive outdoor public art. Like San Diego, it, too, is a great place for a surf lesson. Or, you can always just hang on your board long enough to watch a pod of dolphins swim by. Spend the night at the Surf & Sand Resort and leave the windows open all night to snooze to the sound of the crashing waves outside. 

stellalevi/Getty Images

The charming community of Solvang is well-known for its Danish-style architecture that will make you feel like you've been transported to Europe. Here, visitors can indulge in more of California’s wine culture, too. Book a stay right in town at the Mirabelle Inn , home to First & Oak, a Michelin Plate-designated restaurant. 

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10 best places to visit in California

Sep 11, 2023 • 8 min read

The best places to visit in California include amazing natural wonders and some of the most cosmopolitan cities in the US © franckreporter / Getty Images

From towering redwood forests in foggy northern California to perfectly sun-kissed surf beaches in the south, the Golden State on the Pacific simply begs to be explored.

Tip back top vintages and dig into world-class cooking. Blow your mind exploring active volcanoes, soaring mountains and grand redwood groves. Roam free at the world's most iconic surfing beaches, craggy coves and austere bluffs. Get your wheels in gear for incredible road trips from desert to dunes. Hoist your pack and delve into truly remote wilderness.

Here are the best places to visit in California.

1. San Francisco

Best city for variety, iconic sights and LGBTIQ+ travel

Pushing boundaries with trendsetting food, social movements, art and technology, San Francisco  is as far out as you can get without winding up in the Pacific.

This town is defined by bold moves. The iconic Golden Gate Bridge is an engineering marvel in a color chosen over the Navy's objections. Nature lovers elbowed aside speculators to establish Golden Gate Park . Alcatraz was occupied by Native American protestors and turned into a museum.

Discover the weirdest tech in the West at the Exploratorium  and find inspiration in new-media installations at supersized SFMOMA . Be moved by poetry by San Francisco’s literary landmarks, starting with City Lights Books .

You don’t need to stay up late to be out and proud in SF. Flag-flying crowds are an absolute joy throughout June Pride month, at Sunday afternoon Castro “tea dances” (a WWII euphemism for LGBTIQ+ parties) and any sunny day at Dolores Park’s “Gay Beach.” 

Local tip: Don’t forget to sample widely some of the state’s most interesting cuisine, from Asian-fusion creations at Benu that look like minimalist sculptures to some of the world’s best burritos at Mission District classics like Taqueria El Farolito  and East Bay treats like Chez Panisse .

2. Redwood National Park and Humboldt Redwoods State Park

Best region for magnificent trees and family travel

Hugging a tree never came so naturally as it does in California's sun-dappled groves of ancient redwoods, the world's tallest trees. The roots of these giants may be shallow, but they hold each other up and reach dizzying heights, some surviving since the days of the Roman Empire. Even a short stroll on the soft forest floor beneath them puts the rest of the world into perspective.

Redwoods thrive along the coast from Big Sur north to the Oregon border, and you'll find massive stands of old-growth groves at Redwood Nationaal Park . Don’t miss the magical drive through Avenue of the Giants and California’s largest redwood park, Humboldt Redwoods State Park , which covers 53,000 acres – 17,000 of which are old growth.

Local tip: Stop for a pizza at  Brick & Fire  in Eureka and soak away any hiking aches at the Finnish Country Sauna and Tubs in the eclectic town of Arcata.

3. Sonoma Wine Country

Best region for wine and food

As winemaking in neighboring  Napa Valley grows ever more upscale, sun-dappled vineyards in Sonoma County are still surrounded by pastoral ranchlands. Wineries range from the Sonoma Valley to the coastal Russian River Valley , and tasting rooms abound in buzzy Healdsburg .

The uniqueness of the terroir is valued in this down-to-earth wine country, where you taste vintages straight from the barrel inside a tin-roofed shed while playing with the winemaker’s pet dog (at Porter Creek , just one of many excellent wineries). In addition to wine tasting, wallow in volcanic bubbling mud in Calistoga or float the river around LGBTIQ-friendly Guerneville.

Local tip: Follow your bliss down the Bohemian Hwy to Occidental and its epic Friday night farmers market, alive with live music. 

4. Highway 1

Best region for road tripping, ocean views and couples

Though in southern California it's known by its more famous name, the  Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), northern Californians have a more succinct label for the 400-mile stretch from San Francisco to Crescent City: Hwy 1. The edges of the highway hug the coast and cradle small communities as it alternates between hairpin switchbacks and straight stretches through the bucolic countryside. 

Start on the PCH at Santa Monica  and cruise north through Malibu , Big Sur, Monterey Bay, and San Francisco and up along Sonoma Coast State Park. In Fort Bragg, stop and admire the "glass beach" and check out its artistic community. 

5. Yosemite National Park

Best region for waterfalls, outdoors and family trips

Feeling so small has never felt this grand. Everything is monumental at Yosemite National Park : thunderous waterfalls tumble over sheer cliffs, granite domes tower overhead and the world's biggest trees cluster in mighty groves of giant sequoias.

Conservationist John Muir considered Yosemite a great temple, and awe is a natural reaction to the vast wildflower-strewn meadows and steep valleys carved over millennia by glaciers, avalanches and earthquakes. To achieve maximum wonder, stop at Glacier Point under a full moon, or drive the high country’s Tioga Rd on a cloudless summer day. Unsurprisingly, Yosemite has some of the best hikes in California .

Detour: You can enjoy an extravaganza of incredible parks by combining your visit to Yosemite with stops in Kings Canyon National Park and Sequoia National Park .

6. Los Angeles

Best city for celebrity sightings and movie buffs

Bordered by sandy beaches, winding canyons and the Santa Monica and San Gabriel Mountains, Los Angeles is a sprawling cityscape of distinct neighborhoods, endless entertainment options and year-round outdoor recreation. Bask in the undulating stainless steel curves of  Walt Disney Concert Hall , commune with world-beating contemporary art at the  Broad or check out modern music history at the  Grammy Museum . 

Stop for a meal at the century-old but gourmet-led  Grand Central Market before browsing the galleries and shops of the Arts District,  Olvera Street and  Chinatown . 

When you're ready for your close-up, there's only one place to go. The stars come out at night for red-carpet premieres at restored movie palaces, and you too can have your Hollywood moment on the pink-starred Walk of Fame . Snap a selfie outside TCL Chinese Theatre (better known as Grauman’s) or duck into Hollywood and Highland’s Babylon Court for a photo op with the iconic Hollywood sign and revel in your 15 minutes of social-media fame. Afterward, visit the fascinating  Academy Museum .

Local tip: How do you beat LA traffic? Hit the beach instead. Sunny  Santa Monica bestows joy upon even the weariest traveler. Learn to surf, get a bird's-eye view from your seat in a solar-powered Ferris wheel, learn more about the secrets of the ocean at the aquarium’s tidal touch pools or paddle in the Pacific and let your troubles float away. Join the parade of New Agers, muscled bodybuilders and goth punks at nearby  Venice Beach , where there's a tribe for everyone. 

7. Monterey Bay

Best region for wildlife and family fun

Get up close and personal with California marine life in the fishing village of Monterey , where writer John Steinbeck brought colorful local wharf characters to life – and the seals are pretty outrageous too. Hop aboard a whale-watching cruise to explore a national marine sanctuary or walk right into the bay at the aquarium to spot golden sea dragons, shy pink Pacific octopuses and scene-stealing rescued otters at play.

Soak up the authentic maritime atmosphere at the  West Coast’s oldest continuously operating lighthouse in Pacific Grove. Head north to quirky Santa Cruz , stopping off on broad stretches of cream-colored beach to spot gray whales, sea otters, sea lions and seals. Indulge in some playtime on the beach boardwalk with its historic roller coaster and watch surfers shred at Steamer Lane.

Local tip: In the winter, you'll see local Dungeness crab on menus – order it.

8. Death Valley National Park

Best region for desert drama and spring trips

Its daunting name of brings to mind Wild West ghost towns, broken-down pioneer wagon trains and tumbleweed blowing past skulls on desert sand dunes, but Death Valley is actually full of life. 

Spring wildflowers daub the dunes with a painter’s palette of colors, adrenaline-seekers zoom across crackled salt flats, and shy desert wildlife lives by starlight. Twist your way up narrow canyons, zoom across crackled salt flats and past geological oddities, and descend into volcanic craters formed by a massive eruption 2100 years ago.

9. Lake Tahoe

Best region for mountains, adventure and skiing

Nestled in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Lake Tahoe , the second-deepest lake in the USA, is a California favorite. In summer, startlingly clear blue waters are perfect for swimming, kayaking and even scuba diving. Meanwhile, mountain bikers careen down epic single-track runs, and hikers stride along trails threading through thick forests. 

After dark, retreat to a cozy lakefront cottage and toast s’mores in the firepit. When the lake turns into a winter wonderland, gold-medal ski resorts keep downhill fanatics, snowboarders and Nordic traditionalists more than satisfied. You'll never be short of  things to do in Lake Tahoe .

Detour: Head to Truckee for the burgeoning local food scene and the area’s best restaurants.

10. Big Sur

Best region for coastline

Following your bliss inevitably leads to Big Sur . Waterfalls splash down sandy bluffs in rainbow mists, and yurt retreats perch at the edge of redwood forests. Beyond purple-sand beaches and coves lined with California jade, pods of migrating whales dot the sparkling Pacific.

But don't forget to turn around: hiding behind these coastal bluffs are hot springs and Beat literary retreats, with California condors circling over the cliffs. Experience all of the best adventures on a s cenic Big Sur road trip .

Local tip: Time your visit for peak waterfall season in May or after the summer vacation period for maximum meditation.

This article was first published Aug 9, 2019 and updated Sep 11, 2023.

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The 21 Best California Tours

Make the most of your time in the Golden State with one of these top-rated tours.

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Explore California's cities, coasts and cultures on these tours.

With its beaches , lakes , mountains, vineyards and national parks , California is full of unforgettable experiences. But its sheer size can feel overwhelming, even for the seasoned traveler. Relying on the knowledge and expertise of a local can help you make the most of your visit. After consulting traveler opinion and expert input, U.S. News compiled the best California tours. Whether you want to savor a glass of wine in Napa Valley or marvel at Yosemite's peaks, there's a tour for you.

Note: Some tour providers on this list may be running more limited operations due to COVID-19 or may impose testing or vaccine requirements. Check with your tour operator about availability before you book.

San Francisco: Painted Ladies Tour Company – San Francisco City Tour

Cruise around San Francisco in a vintage Volkswagen bus with the Painted Ladies Tour Company. On the two-hour San Francisco City Tour, which welcomes up to seven participants, you'll see sights like Lombard Street, Union Square , Chinatown , the Golden Gate Bridge and more. Plus, you'll make three stops for photos. Tourgoers say this is a fun and unique way to sightsee around San Francisco and describe the guides as funny and well-versed in the city's history.

Ticket prices start at $85 for adults and $65 for kids ages 1 to 12. Discounts are available for seniors ages 65 and older. Tours are generally available multiple times a day from 8:30 a.m. to 1:45 p.m. They depart from Fisherman's Wharf or Union Square. The company also offers tours of Sonoma in its signature Volkswagen buses.

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Los Angeles: Six Taste – Downtown LA Food Tour

According to reviewers, the Downtown LA Food Tour from Six Taste is a great way to start off your Los Angeles visit. During the roughly four-hour tour, you'll enjoy more than seven tastings as you traverse 12 city blocks. In between bites, your guide will share information about the city's art deco architecture and its unique history. Plus, you'll pay a visit to the Grand Central Market – LA's largest and oldest public market. Tastings on the tour may include Cantonese barbecue pork, gelato, homemade pasta and French dip sandwiches, among other dishes. Note that the tour is not suitable for vegan or gluten-free diets.

Tickets cost approximately $75 per person. Tours are generally available on Saturdays and Sundays at 11 a.m. Craving more? Six Taste offers a variety of tours in other parts of the city, including the Arts District and Santa Monica .

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Napa: Platypus Wine Tours – Napa Valley Join-In Tour

You and up to 11 other participants will visit three wineries within Napa Valley on this popular shuttle tour. Wineries visited vary by the day, but you can expect to stop at small, intimate locations, such as Tedeschi Family Winery and Hans Fahden Vineyards. Travelers highly recommend the tour, citing the personable, informative guides as highlights. Reviewers are also pleased with the wineries visited. Tours are generally available daily, departing at 10:30 a.m. and returning at 5 p.m.

Tickets start at $119 per person and include round-trip Napa hotel transportation, a picnic lunch and bottled water. Note that winery tasting fees are not included and generally cost $20 to $25 a person. The company also operates winery tours through Sonoma, in addition to private tours.

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San Diego: San Diego Seal Tour

According to reviewers, the San Diego Seal Tour is a great experience, whether you're traveling with your family or by yourself. During the approximately 90-minute excursion, you'll cruise through the streets of San Diego in an amphibious vehicle before splashing into the San Diego Bay. As you keep your eyes peeled for sea lions, seals and dolphins, your captain and first mate will offer an overview of San Diego history. Along the way, you'll pass by attractions like the USS Midway Museum , Point Loma and Shelter Island. Tours depart on the hour from downtown's Seaport Village from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the summer and from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the winter.

Ticket prices start at $44 per adult, $25 for kids ages 4 to 12 and $10 for children 3 and younger. You can take advantage of a slight discount if you purchase your tickets online in advance. Tickets that combine a Seal tour with a tour on the Old Town Trolley are also available.

Los Angeles: Pedal... or Not – LA Electric Bike Tour

Cycle your way through sunny Santa Monica on this three-hour electric bike tour. Along the way, you'll see Santa Monica Pier , Venice Beach , Muscle Beach and the Venice Canals, among other sights. According to tourgoers, guides are knowledgeable and friendly, and the bikes are easy to use. Though the bike allows you to switch between pedaling and using the electric motor, the company still recommends that participants be comfortable riding a bike. The company provides helmets.

Tours are generally available daily at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Tickets start at $79 per participant ages 13 and older. Children younger than 13 cannot participate in the tour. You can also book this as a private tour for between two and six riders. Tickets for the private tour option start at $99 per person.

San Diego: Flagship Cruises and Events – San Diego Full Bay Harbor Cruise

Enjoy views of the Coronado Bridge , military ships, waterfront landmarks and marine life on this two-hour cruise around San Diego Bay. Along with 360-degree views of the harbor, you'll also enjoy live narration from the crew, who share details about San Diego history and the military ships that dock in its harbor. Cruisers call this a must-do in San Diego, praising the views and interesting narration. Reviewers say this is a great thing to do on your first day in San Diego.

Tickets cost approximately $35 for adults, $32 for seniors and military members and $17.50 for children ages 4 to 12. Tours depart from 10 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. every day, though there may be fewer cruises in the winter months. If you're short on time, you can opt for the company's hourlong cruises, which sail around either the north or south harbor. Whale watching excursions and dining cruises are also available.

San Diego: San Diego Whale Watch – Whale Watching Tour

San Diego offers travelers the rare opportunity to observe whales migrating through its nutrient-rich waters year-round. For help spotting these magnificent sea creatures, hop aboard a tour with San Diego Whale Watch. The company's three-hour whale watching cruise features live narration from a certified marine biologist, along with indoor and outdoor seating, a snack bar and beverages. Reviewers report spotting plenty of whales and dolphins and praise the clean boat. Others say the crew is well-versed in the bay's marine life and describe the trip as educational.

Morning tours depart at 9 a.m.; afternoon tours depart at 12:30 p.m. Tickets start at $48 for adults and $44 for children 17 and younger and seniors 62 and older. Sunset cruises are also available.

Santa Barbara: Sustainable Wine Tours – Shared Wine Tour

If you're interested in visiting the private vineyards and estates in Santa Barbara 's wine country , consider this seven-hour tour. You and up to seven other travelers will stop at wineries that use small-production techniques and demonstrate a commitment to sustainable, organic and biodynamic agriculture. Travelers say this is a great tour if you want to visit small, family-owned wineries. Reviewers are complimentary of the accommodating, expert guides and say this tour is much more than a wine tasting since you have the chance to meet the producers and owners.

Tickets, which include tasting fees and lunch, start at $193 per person for tours offered Sunday to Friday and $218 per person for Saturday tours. Tours are generally available daily, with pickups beginning at 10 a.m. Private wine tours are also available.

Palm Springs: Big Wheel Tours – Joshua Tree National Park Jeep Tour

If you're visiting Palm Springs and looking for a rugged adventure, consider this Joshua Tree National Park Jeep tour. You'll ride through the Little San Bernardino Mountains on backcountry trails through the Colorado and Mojave deserts, reaching an elevation of 4,000 feet. Reviewers say the views are incredible and highly rate the guides, who they say provide an engaging commentary about the park's history and the animal and plant species that call it home. Set aside at least four hours for the entire experience.

Tickets cost approximately $180 per person. Tours depart twice daily at 7:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. and include round-trip hotel transportation from select area hotels. If you're looking for an experience that still gets you out in nature, but isn't as adrenaline-fueled, consider the company's biking and hiking tours.

Carmel: Carmel Food Tours – Carmel-by-the-Sea Classic Food Tour

Taste your way through Carmel on this three-hour food tour. Stops along the way may include a farm-to-table restaurant, a bakery, a honey company and a tavern, for a total of up to seven tastings. As you digest between each location, your guide will share stories of Carmel's history and architecture, and offer recommendations for the remainder of your visit. Travelers are particularly impressed with the guides, who they describe as smart, funny and informative.

Tours are generally available Friday and Saturday at 11 a.m., though an additional Thursday morning tour is offered from May to October. Tickets cost approximately $110 per person. If you'd prefer to explore Carmel on two wheels rather than your own two feet, consider the company's Carmel Bikes, Bites & Bevs tour.

Monterey: Monterey Bay Whale Watch – Daily Trips

The Monterey Submarine Canyon offers a rich feeding ground for whales, which is why travelers can often spot these gentle giants year-round. Though you may be able to view whales from the shore, a boat tour like the ones offered by Monterey Bay Whale Watch is the best way to see them. Four-hour morning cruises and up to 3 1/2-hour afternoon cruises are offered all year long. January through March is the best time to see gray whales, dolphins and killer whales, while humpback, blue and killer whales can often be spotted April through December. Reviewers appreciate the onboard marine biologist and the cleanliness of the boat. Many call this the highlight of their trip to Monterey .

Ticket prices vary by season and by day of the week, but generally, tickets for adults start at $65 for a morning trip and $60 for afternoon tours. For children ages 4 to 12, prices start at $53 for a morning outing and $48 for an afternoon excursion. Children 3 and younger can join for $15. Winter cruises depart at 10 a.m. and 2:30 p.m., with additional tours at 9 a.m. and noon on select Saturdays and Sundays. Spring, summer and fall tours depart at 9 a.m., 10 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. Eight-hour and 12-hour trips are also available on select days.

Yosemite: Discover Yosemite – Yosemite Full Day Tour

According to reviewers, this tour is a great way to see the highlights of Yosemite in a short amount of time. During the daylong (up to nine-hour) bus tour, you'll see some of the park's top attractions , including Half Dome , Vernal Fall , El Capitan and Bridalveil Fall , among other sights. Tourgoers rave about the expert guides, who they describe as knowledgeable, accommodating and interactive. The tour offers round-trip transportation from communities surrounding Yosemite, including Bass Lake, Coarsegold, Oakhurst and Fish Camp.

Ticket prices vary by season. From Dec. 1 to March 31, tickets start at $180 for participants ages 16 and older and $90 for kids ages 3 to 15; from April 1 to Nov. 30 tickets start at $190 for travelers 16 and older and $95 for children. The cost includes the tour, water, lunch and park fees. Discover Yosemite also offers private tours of the park, among other options.

Los Angeles: A Day in LA Tours – LA City Tour

If you only have a limited amount of time in Los Angeles, consider this daylong bus tour. Over the course of the 7 1/2-hour excursion, you'll see some of the top attractions in Los Angeles, including the Santa Monica Pier, the Hollywood Walk of Fame , the Original Farmers Market and more. Along the way, your driver (who also doubles as your tour guide), will provide information about the history and current culture of Los Angeles. For many reviewers, their guide's insightful and entertaining commentary was the main reason they'd recommend A Day in LA Tours. Others praise the pacing and organization of the tour and say this is a great way to see a large portion of the city in a short amount of time.

Tours depart daily at 9:45 a.m. Tickets for adults start at $104 and $94 for kids ages 12 and younger; children 2 and younger can tag along for free. The tour price includes bottled water and round-trip transportation from your Los Angeles hotel. The company also offers a version of this tour that departs from Anaheim – perfect for if you need a day away from Disneyland .

San Francisco: Cruisin' the Castro Walking Tours – LGBTQ Castro Tour

If you've ever wondered how San Francisco's Castro District became synonymous with gay culture, you'll want to add this tour to your itinerary. During the two-hour LGBTQ Castro Tour, you'll learn how the LGBTQ community dates back to the California gold rush, the history of the iconic rainbow flag and the AIDS epidemic. Among the sites you'll visit are Harvey Milk Plaza and the Rainbow Honor Walk. Tourgoers applaud the guides for their informative and engaging storytelling and say the tour is an important, and at times emotional, experience if you're interested in LGBTQ and San Francisco history.

Tours are available Tuesday and Thursday through Saturday at 10 a.m. Tickets start at $30 for participants ages 5 and older. The company notes that adult situations and sexual content are referenced during the tour, so parental discretion is advised. Tours meets at the corner of Castro and Market streets.

San Francisco: Best Bay Area Tours – Hidden Gems of Yosemite Day Trip

According to reviewers, the Hidden Gems of Yosemite Day Trip is a great addition to any San Francisco visit. The tour, which is limited to 15 participants, picks you up at your San Francisco hotel before taking you on a scenic drive to the national park. Once inside the park, you'll enjoy free time at famous sights like Yosemite Falls where you can either follow the company's hiking suggestions or simply enjoy a picnic. From March to November, you'll also enjoy a guided hike through the Tuolumne Grove . Tourgoers speak highly of the passionate guides, who they describe as experts in all things Yosemite. What's more, reviewers say guides are quick to share their favorite photo spots and even play photographer. In total, the entire excursion lasts about 14 hours.

Tickets, which include round-trip hotel transportation, cost approximately $200 per person ages 13 and older and $150 per child 12 and younger. Lunch is not provided, but the bus will make several stops for tourgoers to purchase water, snacks and lunch. Best Bay Area Tours also offers trips to Sonoma, Sausalito and the Russian River Valley, among other locales.

San Francisco: Red and White Fleet – California Twilight Cruise

Many travelers call the California Twilight Cruise the highlight of their trips to San Francisco. During the 90-minute cruise, you'll sail past Alcatraz and under the Golden Gate and Bay bridges as you admire views of the San Francisco skyline. Reviewers recommend dressing warmly and arriving early to board so that you can score a seat on the top deck of the boat for the best views.

Tickets cost approximately $50 for adults and $40 for children ages 5 to 17. During the summer months, cruises depart daily; during the fall and winter months, trips are only available Thursday through Sunday. Departure times vary by month. Prefer to admire the city during the day? Red and White Fleet also offers two daytime cruises ranging from one hour to 90 minutes.

Sonoma: Sonoma Valley Wine Trolley – Sonoma Wine Tours

Visit a total of three Sonoma wineries on this six-hour wine trolley tour. Each stop includes a semiprivate tasting with a winery representative who is on hand to answer any questions and give a background of the winery. Locations you may visit include Jacuzzi Family Vineyards , Mayo Family Winery and Valley of Moon Winery, among others. Reviewers say this is a great way to see the area and appreciate the knowledgeable, personable guides. Tours are generally available daily and depart from Sonoma Plaza at 10 a.m. You'll return to the plaza around 4:30 p.m.

Trolley tickets start at $115 per person. Note that while lunch and bottled water are included, tasting fees at the wineries are not; tasting fees range from $25 to $35 per person. If you do not pay the tasting fee, you won't be allowed in the winery. Tourgoers must be 21 years or older.

Los Angeles: Bikes and Hikes LA – Griffith Observatory Hike

Spending time in Griffith Park is one of the top things to do in Los Angeles. If you're intimidated by the park's more than 4,000 acres, consider signing up for the Griffith Observatory Hike from Bikes and Hikes LA. During the 2 1/2-hour, 3.5-mile hike, you'll trek to one of the highest peaks in the park, snap plenty of pictures of the iconic Hollywood Sign and enjoy skip-the-line access to Griffith Observatory. Reviewers rave about the knowledgeable, entertaining guides and say this hike is strenuous, but manageable. Along with the views, travelers appreciate the amount of history guides share during the tour, as well their recommendations for other things to see and do in LA. Tours are available twice daily at 10 a.m. and sunset. The sunset tour meeting time varies depending on the time of year, but generally it departs at 3 p.m. from November to mid-March and at 4:30 p.m. from mid-March to November.

Tickets start at $28 per person. Note that the tour is only recommended for participants ages 6 years and older (strollers are not permitted). If you're short on time, the company also offers abbreviated 90-minute hikes. Prefer to explore on two wheels? Bike tours are also available.

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San Francisco: Extranomical Tours – Redwoods and California Wine Country Tour

Visit Muir Woods National Monument , Napa Valley and Sonoma on this approximately 10-hour daytrip from San Francisco. The guided bus tour includes time to explore the giant redwoods in Muir Woods, wine tastings in both Napa and Sonoma and plenty of photo stops along the way. Tourgoers rave about the guides, who they describe as engaging, funny and informative. Reviewers also assure that the tour never feels rushed and that you're given plenty of time at each stop to explore. Tours depart daily at 7:30 a.m.

Tickets start at $159 for participants ages 12 and older and $122 for children ages 6 to 11. Note: While tasting fees at the wineries are included, entrance to Muir Woods and lunch are not. You have the option to buy lunch on your own or pay extra to add lunch to your booking. Extranomical Tours offers a variety of excursions to Yosemite, San Francisco and Monterey.

Palm Desert: Red Jeep Tours – San Andreas Fault "Bones of the Earth" Jeep Tour

This tour manages to appeal to history buffs, geology nerds and adrenaline junkies all at the same time. During the three-hour Jeep ride, your guide will maneuver through the geological cuts and canyons of the San Andreas Fault Zone. You'll also get out and hike between the canyons, and enjoy a guided tour through a recreated Cahuilla Indian village. Reviewers describe guides as informative and say this trip offers much more than scenery – expect to learn about the geology of the area, as well as the history of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, who once occupied this land. Tours are offered at 8 a.m. daily. An additional 1 p.m. tour is available from October to May.

Tickets start at $150 for adults ages 18 and older and $135 for children ages 3 to 17. The company also offers Jeep and hiking tours to Joshua Tree National Park and Painted Canyon, among other locations.

Los Angeles: Warner Brothers Studio Tour

Get a behind-the-scenes look at the Warner Bros. Studio on this approximately three-hour tour. You'll cruise around the lot on a custom tour cart to see backlot sets and additional production areas. You'll also have free time to explore the "Stage 48: Script to Screen" exhibit, which includes the Central Perk set from "Friends," as well as "The Big Bang Theory" sets, classic costumes and more. Your tour concludes at "Action and Magic Made Here," which showcases recreated sets, props and costumes from the DC Universe and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Reviewers give this tour high marks for its informative, entertaining guides. Tourgoers also praise the amount of sets, costumes and props on display.

Tours are available Thursday through Monday from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Tickets cost approximately $70 for participants ages 11 and older and $60 for children ages 5 to 10.

You may also be interested in:

• The Best San Diego Tours
• The Best Hollywood Tours
• The Best Los Angeles Tours
• The Best San Francisco Tours
• The Best Resorts in California

Tags: Tours , Travel , Vacations , California , California Vacations , US Vacations , U.S. West Vacations

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• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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California Highway Patrol seizes 37 pounds of cocaine worth $1.3 million in I-5 traffic stop; 2 Oregon men arrested

FRESNO, Calif. (KTVZ) – A California Highway Patrol officer’s traffic stop on Interstate 5 in Merced County led to the discovery of 37 pounds of cocaine with an estimated street value of $1.3 million and led to the arrest of two Oregon men on several felony charges, CHP said Friday.

The CHP officer pulled over a white Jeep Cherokee shortly after 6 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 7 for an undisclosed traffic violation. During the contact, “the officer noted several indicators that led him to believe the two occupants were engaged in criminal activity,” CHP said in a news release.

After questioning and investigation, the officer developed probable cause to search the vehicle and find the drugs.

Tyler Lee Smith, 24, of Philomath, and Angel Pacheco, 20, of Albany, were taken to the Merced County Jail on charges of possessing cocaine for sale, transportation of cocaine across non-contiguous counties and conspiracy to distribute cocaine.

The case was turned over to the Merced Area Gang Narcotics Enforcement Team (MAGNET) composed of law enforcement personnel from the California Department of Justice, CHP and several other agencies.

"I would like to thank our officers for their continued commitment and dedication to removing dangerous narcotics from our roadways," said CHP Central Division Chief Damon Gilmore.

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Crime and Public Safety | 2 men arrested after $1.5 million of marijuana…

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Crime and public safety | 2 men arrested after $1.5 million of marijuana found in during california wildfire patrol.

The men, from Pinon Hills and Bullhead City, Ariz., were arrested on charges of conspiracy, cultivation of marijuana and transportation and sales of marijuana.

Deputies conducting security patrols around 9:21 p.m. in the 1500 block of Hollister Road — a section of Pinon Hills evacuated due to the Bridge fire — conducted a traffic stop on a Chevrolet Suburban towing a trailer with flat tires and no tail lights, according to a news release from the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department.

One of the suspects drove a second vehicle behind the SUV to act as a lookout, the sheriff’s department said.

Investigators learned of another potential marijuana grow at a home in the 1700 block of Trinity Road and executed a search warrant.

During the search, investigators said they found 700 marijuana plants and 1,300 pounds of processed marijuana. In all, officials estimate they found about $1.5 million of marijuana.

Investigators ask anyone with information to contact detectives at 760-552-6800 or the anonymous We Tip hotline at 1-800-78-CRIME or wetip.com

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