23 Experiences for the Ultimate California Bucket List
From surfing in San Diego to exploring the Kelso Dunes, these are the 23 best experiences to add to your California bucket list.
Written by Andrea Barrett
Reviewed by Kathleen Flear
From stargazing in Death Valley to chowing down on a classic Double-Double from In-N-Out to wine tasting in Napa, these 23 incredible experiences in
California
must be on your bucket list. Whether you’re a lifelong Californian or you’re heading over for a short visit, there’s an overwhelming amount of places to see and things to do in Cali. Sun, sand, surf, and celebrities may be the most well-known, but they’re not the only things worth checking out in California.
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Outdoor activities for your California bucket list
1. Go surfing in San Diego
When: Year-round
Why: San Diego was built for surfing—the gorgeous weather, warm waters, and consistent waves are perfect for hitting the surf. Check out Pacific Beach, La Jolla, or Oceanside, whether you’re a newbie to the board or a seasoned pro. They’re great regardless of your skill level. If you’re not a surfer before you go, you will be when you leave.
How much? Free (unless you’re renting gear)
Pro Tip If you’re in the mood for some post-surf grub and cocktails, head toEl Pescador Fish MarketorVerdes El Ranchero.
2. Hike the Hollywood sign
When: Year-round (go early if in the summer)
Why: Hollywood is where dreams come true, and it would be a sin to visit the City of Angels without making your way to the top. You can navigate to the sign from several trailheads or join an organized hiking group. And while you can’t get close to the sign, getting a photo from the top is a rite of passage if you’re in Hollywood. The hike is just over 6.5 miles with more than 1,700 feet of elevation gain. Lace-up your sneakers and get your legs ready for this one!
How much? Free
3. See the sunrise at Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
Where: Borrego Springs
When: Winter
Why: If you’re looking for one of the most spectacular sunsets you’ll ever see, Font’s Point in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is the place to go. The unique rock formations and wind caves also make for some great exploration. And if you’re camping in the park, take a peek at the sky at night to catch the stars—they’re epic. It’s just a quick 2.5-hour drive from
Los Angeles
but a must.How much? $10 for a day pass
4. See the famous trees in Joshua Tree National Park
Where: Joshua Tree
When: March to May, October to November
Why: If you’re into hiking and stargazing,
Joshua Tree National Park
is your spot. Aside from its natural beauty, night skies, and surreal geological features, it’s the only place you can see the infamous Joshua trees, which are actually agaves. But if you’re planning to visit in the summer months, be careful—it gets blazing hot.How much? $15 (7-day individual pass), $30 (7-day vehicle pass)
5. Cross the Golden Gate Bridge
When: Year-round
Why: The Golden Gate Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in San Francisco, if not the country, and you can drive, walk, or bike its 1.7-mile span connecting San Francisco to Marin County. While you’re there, take a tour of Fort Point, wander through the Presidio, and bring a picnic to quench that appetite!).
How much? Free
6. Explore the Kelso Dunes in the Mojave National Preserve
Where: Essex
When: March to May, October to November
Why: A key spot for preserving a diverse number of ecological habits and more than 10,000 years of human connection with the desert, there’s plenty to explore in the 1.6 million acres of
Mojave National Preserve
—but you have to check out the Kelso Dunes. They’re majestic piles of sand that provide one of the most incredible and surreal backdrops. When you reach the summit, you’ll think the dunes never end. Although it’s a popular trail, you’ll still be able to find solitude. How much? Free
7. Stargaze on the Salt Flats in Badwater Basin, Death Valley
Where: California/Nevada border
When: March to May, October to November
Why: The Badwater Basin is the lowest point on the continent—282 feet below sea level—and makes up a large chunk of
Death Valley National Park
. It also happens to be one of the most amazing places for stargazing. It’s relatively flat and an easy walk from the main area, so you can go as close or far as you please and look up to see the star-speckled galaxy above.How much? $15.00 (7-day individual pass), $30.00 (7-day vehicle pass)
8. Drive the Big Sur coastline
Where: San Francisco to Los Angeles
When: Year-round
Why: The Big Sur coastline is one of the most picturesque drives in the state—it offers some of the most jaw-dropping, epic views you’ll find anywhere. This stretch of coastline is known for its rugged cliffs, green mountains, and deep blue water. The best viewpoints are in central California, where you’ll pass
Point Lobos State Park
, Calla Lily Valley, Bixby Bridge
, Pfeiffer Beach
, McWay Falls, Hearst Castle
, and much more.How much? Free
9. See the world’s tallest trees
Where: Humboldt Redwoods State Park
When: Spring or fall
Why: If you thought the views of Big Sur were incredible, the
Avenue of the Giants
might rival it. It’s a 31-mile stretch that parallels Highway 101 and takes you through some of the most epic and breathtaking groves of redwoods you’ve ever seen. Every curve offers another stunning view—and you can stop and experience the trees up close. You’ll pass through forest hamlets, campgrounds and picnic areas, and access points to the Eel River, where you can swim, fish, and paddle.How much? Free
10. Visit Yosemite National Park
Where: Sierra Nevada Mountains
When: Year-round
Why:
Yosemite National Park
is the crown jewel of California and a must-see on any bucket list. It was the first land to be federally protected in the United States and offers some of the best hiking, views, and experiences of all the national parks in the country. Hike the iconic John Muir Trail, venture to Half Dome, check out Yosemite Falls, or head to the dramatic rock formation, El Capitan.How much? $35.00;
reservations
are required to enter Yosemite National Park during peak hours (6 a.m. to 4 p.m.) from May through SeptemberThe meals that should be on your California bucket list
11. Any dog at Pink’s Hot Dogs in Los Angeles
Where: 709 N La Brea Ave, Los Angeles
When: Year-round
Why: L.A. is no stranger to weird foods, and
Pink’s Hot Dogs
is a mecca for hot dog lovers. They’re some of the most epic dogs you’ll find named after infamous celebs—and the long line of people tend to agree. Whether you go for the “Ozzy Dog” loaded with nacho cheese, American cheese, grilled onions, guac, and tomatoes or the “America the Beautiful” topped with pastrami, bacon, lettuce, and tomatoes, there are loads of delicious combos to indulge in.How much? $5.95 to $13.95
12. Baby back ribs from Phil’s BBQ in San Diego
Where: Multiple locations
When: Year-round
Why:
Phil’s BBQ
wasn’t featured on Yelp’s Top 100 Places to Eat in 2016 for no reason—the baby back ribs are killer and a must-try in San Diego. Smoked, grilled, and doused in BBQ sauce, they’re succulent and addicting. How much? $28.99
13. Carne Asada Burrito at Casa Vega in Sherman Oaks
Where:13301 Ventura Blvd, Sherman Oaks
When: Year-round
Why: If you’re in California, you have to get a burrito—and the Carne Asada burrito at
Casa Vega
is the one to try. Slide into a booth decked out with colorful strings of lights at the cavernous 60-year-old SoCal eatery. The massive Carne Asada burrito is loaded with chunky pico de gallo, fresh guacamole, and refried beans. Besides getting your burrito fix, you might also spot celebs at this low-key hideout.How much? $19
14. Double-Double at In-N-Out Burger
Where: Multiple locations
When: Year-round
Why: Although you can find
In-N-Out
in other states, it’s a California classic—and so is the double-double. The hefty burger rocks two American beef patties, two slices of American cheese, tomato, lettuce, and the joint’s signature “secret” sauce, all loaded on a freshly baked bun. And if you want to go bigger, add a side of fries—animal style, of course.How much? $3.95
15. Adobada Tacos at La Elegante Taqueria in Fresno
Where: 1423 Kern Street, Fresno
When: Year-round
Why: Whether you’re staying in Fresno or passing through, the Adobada Tacos at
La Elegante Taqueria
is worth the stop. While the city is overflowing with awesome taco joints, the tacos here are some of the best you’ll find. Order a few of their delicious tacos, but make sure you get the adobada—a chile-braised pork. They’re spicy, so order a horchata to cool yourself down. 16. Apple pie at Julian Pie Company in Santa Ysabel
Where: 2225 Main Street, Santa Ysabel
When: Year-round
Why: You’ll likely smell the apple pie wafting through your windows as you roll into Santa Ysabel. A family joint started in 1986,
Julian Pie Company
is a haven for pie lovers from all over the country—and you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better one. Their apple pie is their big seller. While there are several varieties, grab a slice of their signature Original Apple—it can’t be beaten. How much? $22.95
17. Fried chicken sandwich from Bakesale Betty in Oakland
Where: 5098 Telegraph Ave, Oakland
When: Year-round
Why: There is no shortage of fried chicken options in Oakland, but it’s hard to beat
Bakesale Betty
. Thanks to their highly efficient assembly line, the tiny shop has gained quite the following—they crank out fried chicken sandwiches like it’s nobody’s business. The chicken is plump, juicy, and perfectly breaded, slathered with crunchy jalapeno coleslaw for a bit of heat and crunch.How much? $11.75
Only-in-California experiences for your bucket list
18. Sip vino in wine country
When: August-October, March-May
Why: Whether you’re a wine lover or not, Napa Valley and Sonoma County are some of the most picturesque places to visit with rolling hills blanketed with grapes. With five towns making up Napa Valley, they offer their own unique attractions ranging from hot air balloon rides and hot springs to hiking and amazing eateries. If you want to skip the hassle of sorting through the endless wineries, book a
wine tour
and experience several! With a winery on nearly every corner, come thirsty. How much? Prices vary
19. Stand in the footprints of celebs at Grauman’s Chinese Theatre
Where: 6925 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles
When: Year-round
Why:
Grauman’s Chinese Theatre
is a staple if you’re in Hollywood. Set along the historic Hollywood Walk of Fame, the theatre is also one of the most spectacular and well-preserved movie palaces from Hollywood's golden era. Decked out in gold-and-red decor, the interior usually upstages what you watch. And no matter how often tourists say they’re not starstruck, their hands and feet will be in the prints in no time.How much? Free
20. Head to America’s largest urban cultural park
Where: San Diego
When: Winter
Why: If you’re checking out San Diego, you have to hit
Balboa Park
, a designated National Historic Landmark. It’s America’s largest urban cultural park that offers something for everyone—museums, educational and interactive playgrounds, botanical gardens, and the famous San Diego Zoo. Walk through the park, admire the Spanish Renaissance architecture, and snap photos of the stunning gardens. How much? Free
21. Seek inspiration at Salvation Mountain
Where: Beal Rd, Calipatria
When: Year-round
Why:
Salvation Mountain
is the perfect spot to stretch your legs on your California road trip. Spending nearly 25 years transforming an ordinary hill near the Salton Sea into a sculptural masterpiece, Leonard Knight has left a mark with inspiring messages and bright murals! If you’re checking out Palm Springs, Joshua Tree National Park, or Indio, you’ll pass this landmark on your way. How much? Free (donations optional)
22. Try a date shake at Great Shakes in Palm Springs
Where: 160 S Palm Canyon Drive Suite A, Palm Springs
When: Year-round
Why: Date shakes are all the rage in the health food community, and if you’re looking to try the trend, head to
Palm Springs
—it’s one of the most ideal spots for growing dates. Their caramel-like taste and soft, chewy texture make for the perfect treat on their own, but they’re even better in a milkshake. Head to Great Shakes
and grab a Date Walnut shake, which has a rich date taste loaded with walnuts and topped with whip cream.23. Visit Monarch Butterly Grove at Pismo Beach
Where: 400 S Dolliver Street, Pismo Beach
When: October to February
Why: The Butterfly Grove at Pismo Beach is one of only five places in California that sees more than 10,000 butterflies annually. Thousands of butterflies flock to the beach on their migration from the cold northern winters and cluster on the limbs of the towering, majestic Eucalyptus trees. Get out your camera and prepare for some of the most spectacular sights you’ve ever seen.
How much? Free
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