Top California Destinations For West Coast Exploration

The West Coast of the United States is a unique part of the world that we all should have the joy of exploring once in life. California is a hub for many things, and tourism is definitely one of those “things.”

The state stretches from the Mexico border all the way up to Oregon (close to the Canadian border). The state is a gigantic playground for those who love to travel and explore.

Take a moment to explore what the West Coast has to offer, including everything from white water rafting on an American Whitewater Expedition to the incredible sights that San Francisco has to offer. Want to know more? Check out a few of the top destinations within the generous boundaries of the Golden State.

San Diego, California

San Diego (and the surrounding areas) could keep you and your travel party busy for days. There are more than 90 different museums to explore and nine different art districts in the area. Art and culture enthusiast can bask in the diversity of San Diego.

The area also offers plenty to see for the kids. Legoland, Disneyland, and Seaworld are all located in and around San Diego. For more affordable lodging, stay in the neighboring city of Carlsbad, California.

The Sequoia National Park

We should all be so lucky as to visit the Sequoia National Park at least once in this life. Nature’s beauty is large and in charge in this giant forest.

Also, Sequoia National Park sits right next to King Canyon National Park. Two parks in one destination? You can’t get much better than that for all the nature lovers out there.

Death Valley National Park

Keeping with the natural theme of a California travel tour, Death Valley National Park is located the east-central part of the state. The park is huge, and you shouldn’t expect to see it all in just a few hours.

The best place to begin your tour is at the Furnace Creek Visitors’ Center. There you and your travel party can watch an orientation movie, get free maps of the area, and set up a ranger-guided tour (if you so choose). The park is around 3.4 million acres, so you may want to take that guided tour to get the best out of your visit.

Santa Monica, California

Located just west of Los Angeles, Santa Monica provides breathtaking scenery and respite from the hustle and bustle of the big city of LA. Visit the Santa Monica Pier, and enjoy the history and robust culture of the Pacific Park amusement park.

There are also plenty of other outdoor activities to keep you and your travel party occupied and active. You can bike the Marvin Braude Bike Trail, surf, paddleboard, and swim. Enjoy the gentle rays of the west coast in Santa Monica.

Krissy Georgiadis

Written by Krissy Georgiadis

Law graduate and wanderlust sufferer. I like rum and beaches.