California offers unique destinations, from beaches to museums. California can offer everything from relaxing beachside walks to the opportunity to swim in ancient lakes or meet dinosaurs – something for every traveler and tourist in this diverse state!
Experience the beauty of Big Sur by discovering Bodie Ghost Town, a National Historic Landmark. Or take a break from city life with a relaxing trip to Lava Beds National Monument.
Pfeiffer Beach
Pfeiffer Beach is an iconic California Highway 1 attraction worth discovering for photographers and influencers. Renowned for its distinctive purple sand, formed from Manganese garnet rock from nearby cliffs that washes down onto the beach, Pfeiffer Beach is an unforgettable sight that only appears briefly; for best results visit before sunrise or following rainstorm.
To reach the beach from Big Sur Station, drive south on Sycamore Canyon Road until you see a turn-in on its right hand side that leads down Sycamore Canyon Road. Be aware that parking space may fill quickly due to strong currents and cold waters – however picnicking or just taking in the scenery are ideal activities here.
Feather River Fish Hatchery
Feather River Fish Hatchery is an integral part of Oroville’s past and future. Raising spring-run and fall-run Chinook salmon for commercial salmon trolling fleets to supplement fishing efforts. Visitors can watch as these salmon make their journey upriver towards Oroville Dam from viewing windows along Table Mountain Boulevard all year-round (spawning and rearing areas are closed during a pandemic, however the platform area with beautiful views towards Thermalito Diversion Dam remains open).
If you are visiting North Table Mountain Ecological Preserve during spring or fall, take an optional side trip to its breathtaking basalt mesa featuring wildflowers in springtime and waterfalls year-round – both attractions are only seven miles apart and provide for an exciting road trip adventure.
Channel Islands National Park
Channel Islands National Park lies off of California’s southern coast, protecting five idyllic islands and their marine environments. One of America’s lesser-visited parks, this spot makes a worthwhile stop for outdoor enthusiasts, camping, and nature enthusiasts.
Spend your day relaxing on a tranquil beach, hiking a mountain trail, camping overnight or diving into the island’s pristine marine environment. This protected archipelago provides something special for everyone – from sea lions and wildflowers to historical sites and archaeological treasures!
Island Packers, the official park concessionaire, makes getting to these stunning islands relatively effortless with year-round ferries between Anacapa and Santa Cruz and Santa Rosa, Santa Barbara and San Miguel; spring through fall services also operate to Santa Rosa Santa Barbara and San Miguel for visitors from Santa Barbara and beyond.
Sierra City
California offers adventurers of all kinds an abundance of captivating experiences from remote wilderness to idyllic beaches, offering memorable and remarkable adventures. Unlock spectacular natural wonders at Sonoma Coast’s Goat Rock Beach and Pfeiffer Beach; explore Channel Islands National Park; or discover Sierra City, an adorable Gold Rush town which pays homage to legendary author Jack London.
Visit Sierra City’s historic Kentucky Mine to gain insight into its gold mining past, then stroll Main Street and stop for lunch at Red Moose Cafe – serving delicious homestyle meals! Don’t miss Gravity Hill; your car may appear to move uphill, leaving an intriguing impression! Whether an optical illusion or paranormal phenomenon, Gravity Hill will leave an unforgettable impression!
Jack London State Park
Jack London State Park combines the compelling history of one of literature’s most revered authors with tranquil nature to provide an unforgettable experience. Take a stroll or mountain bike ride through 29 miles of back-country trails that wind through rolling hills and grassy meadows covered by orange California poppies and purple lupin, for an unforgettable journey into nature!
The park contains London’s cottage residence where he wrote books, short stories, articles and oversaw various agricultural enterprises – it was Charmian’s wish that this property be preserved as a memorial to him.
Discover a range of hiking trails that provide different perspectives of the park’s environment. As part of your trek, visit Happy Walls House & Museum, Wolf House Ruins and even grave sites associated with Jack London and his wife.