California is one of the most dynamic and diverse states to visit in the entire USA. As the largest state in the country with a population greater than those Canada and Australia. If California were its own nation, it would have one of the highest GDPs in the world. Because of this, California is very much a destination in and of itself and it can seem somewhat overwhelming to visit.
Whether you’re interested in heading to the laid-back beaches of SoCal, wandering around the hip streets of San Francisco, hiking in the mountains of Yosemite National Park or skiing in the slopes around Lake Tahoe, California is a destination that truly has something to offer everyone.
So if you’re planning a trip to the Golden State and don’t know where to start, this California travel guide will surely point you in the right direction.
Table of Contents
Planning a Route in California
Before you get into the nitty-gritty of planning out all of the details of your trip, it’s essential to determine a rough route through California. As a massive state with virtually every kind of climate to explore, you need to iron out exactly what you want to see, where you want to go and how much time you have.
Do you want to head up the Pacific Coast or are you more interested in visiting the inland National Parks? Or are you simply looking for a break to one of California’s beautiful cities to enjoy all of the cultural diversity, great food and beautiful landscapes?
There are lots of different routes to take within this incredible state and if you’re looking for some inspiration, check out the guides below.
Planning a Route on the West Coast
If you’ve got your sites set not just on California, but on the other states on the West Coast, as well, this is going to need some adequate planning.
Whether you’re simply looking for a shorter road trip from Northern California to Southern Oregon or you’re ready to embark on an epic trip from San Diego all the Way to Seattle, you need to make sure you’re armed with as much information as possible to plan your perfect trip.
So if you’re looking for a route along the West Coast, check out these travel guides to help map out your route.
Cities & Towns to Visit in California
As such as large state, there are lots of different, diverse cities and towns to visit in California.
From laid-back San Diego to tech-savvy San Francisco to star-studded Los Angeles and everywhere in between, there is so much to see and do in all of these places that figuring it all out can seem a bit overwhelming.
So if you’re trying to plan out what to do in the destinations you’re visiting, the guides below should help you with whatever you may need!
National Parks to Visit in California
If you’re looking to visit California for the natural beauty that this state boasts, then you’re not alone. There are a whopping nine national parks in California — more than in any other state — and each has something unique to offer visitors.
Navigating national parks can be tricky if you’re not armed with the right information — especially if you’re visiting a desert park like Death Valley.
No matter where you choose to experience the incredible nature that California has to offer, the guides below are here to help you plan the ideal time in some of the Golden State’s most iconic natural areas.
Best Time to Visit California
There is a common misconception that the entirety of California is perennially warm and sunny. And yes, while this may be objectively true in the southern, coastal areas of the state (I, personally, believe that San Diego may well have the best climate in the world), the diversity of California means that some areas very much experience all four seasons.
For instance, it is not a good idea to visit Death Valley in the summertime as the temperatures can get dangerously hot and the area is incredibly remote. Conversely, heading to some mountainous areas in the winter can be met with freezing temperatures and lots of snow.
Because of the things you may need to keep in mind seasonally, the guides below are here to help you prepare!
Cost of Travelling to California
There is no denying that California can be an expensive destination to visit. However, it can be helpful to know just how much things may cost when you’re there and how and where you can save money and still enjoy your trip to the fullest.
You should definitely expect prices to be high, but there are certainly areas where you can save and still not miss out on unforgettable experiences. Arming yourself with the knowledge of pricing before you go can help you prioritise where to spend your hard-earned cash.
Keeping in mind the prices of things like accommodation, transportation, food, activities and entertainment will help you plan the best trip possible to this incredible state.
Read More: How Much Will a California Trip Cost?
Packing for California
When considering the diversity of climate and whatever season you may be visiting, figuring out what you may need on your trip to California can seem a bit daunting.
However, packing for your trip to the Golden State need not be a chore so long as you know where you’re visiting and what the weather may be like!
If you need a little bit more assistance, then the articles below are sure to help you pack for your California adventure and make sure you don’t leave anything behind!
Read More: The Essential California Packing List
Accommodation in California
No matter your budget, you’re sure to find an accommodation option that suits your fancy in California. Whether you’re looking for a campsite or a luxury resort – the Golden State has a wealth of choices that will ensure you find a suitable place to rest your head.
Finding accommodation in Californian cities and towns is not difficult if you use sites like Booking.com or your favourite private holiday rental place. And if you need help in a specific area, the articles below may be of assistance to you!
Read More: Where to Stay in Monterey or Carmel, CA
California is one of the most iconic and interesting states in all of the USA. Planning a trip to this incredible state is sure to leave you with countless lasting memories for years to come.