The Top 28 Tourist Attractions in California

With so many man-made attractions, natural playgrounds and dramatic landscapes that are all world-famous, it is no wonder that California attracts millions of visitors from all over the globe.

Only in this state can one experience the likes of stunning coastal drives, a forest of the world’s tallest trees, a lake that offers year-round fun, and magical theme parks and shows. To learn more about what to see and do in the Golden State, check out the following top tourist attractions in California.

28. Santa Monica Pier

Step onto Santa Monica Pier and you’ll get a taste of classic California coast. The pier stays open all year and still holds onto that old-school boardwalk vibe.

Pacific Park’s Ferris wheel spins right over the ocean, and the old carousel creaks along nearby. You’ll find an arcade, plus plenty of snacks if you get hungry.

Most folks come for the beach views or to catch street performers. You can fish at the end of the pier, or duck under the seats to the little aquarium (kids usually love it).

Parking is close but fills up fast—show up early if you can. Santa Monica Pier’s easy to enjoy for a few hours, and there’s always something happening.

27. Mammoth Lakes

If you’re an outdoorsy type, Mammoth Lakes is worth a visit. Hike scenic trails or just sit and watch waterfalls in the summer.

Fishing’s big in the clear lakes, and lots of people kayak or paddleboard too.

Hot springs are nearby—nothing beats soaking after a long day out. Mountain biking and boating? Yeah, you can do those here too.

Even a short stroll brings mountain air and great views. Whether you want adventure or just some downtime, Mammoth Lakes delivers.

26. La Jolla Cove

Chasing ocean air and killer views? La Jolla Cove is a gem. The little beach nestles under dramatic cliffs in San Diego.

You’ll probably spot sea lions (sometimes seals) lounging around or swimming close by. Bring a swimsuit if you want to snorkel—the water’s usually clear and there’s plenty of colorful fish.

The paved walkway lets you wander along the coast. Snap a few photos, watch the sunset, or just zone out. Cafes and restaurants are nearby if you get hungry after your visit.

25. Hollywood Boulevard

Head to Hollywood Boulevard and you’ll see it’s more than just another busy street. Check out the Walk of Fame and hunt for your favorite celebrity’s star.

Old theaters like the TCL Chinese Theater line the boulevard—don’t miss the famous handprints out front. Street performers in movie costumes are everywhere, and sometimes they’re pretty convincing.

Shops, restaurants, and museums crowd the area. The Metro Red Line drops you off right at Hollywood and Highland, so getting here’s a breeze. Walk, snap photos, and see what draws so many people to this must-see spot.

24. Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

Down in Southern California, the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway lifts you up the cliffs of Chino Canyon. It travels over two miles in about ten minutes.

The tram cars rotate slowly, so every seat gets a view of the desert and mountains. At the top, Mt. San Jacinto State Park greets you with cool air and big views.

Hop off and wander hiking trails, step onto an observation deck, or grab food at the restaurant. Wildlife’s around if you keep your eyes open.

If you’re itching to escape the heat or just want a fun activity, the tramway’s a solid pick.

23. Joshua Tree National Park

Drive out to Joshua Tree National Park and you’ll find a wild desert full of weird Joshua trees and giant boulders. Rock climbers and hikers love this place.

At night, the stars are unreal—some of the clearest in California. Stargazing here is next-level.

Cruise the main park roads to see spots like Hidden Valley and Keys View. Keys View looks out over the Coachella Valley and it’s a favorite for a reason.

Short walks bring you right up to those crazy plants and rocks. Bring more water than you think you’ll need—summer gets brutally hot and dry.

Photographers flock here too. Sunrise and sunset light up the rocks in wild colors.

22. Santa Catalina Island

Hop on a ferry and soon Santa Catalina Island appears across the water—clear ocean, rocky hills, and all.

Avalon’s the main town. Wander the harbor, poke around the shops, or grab a bite at a local place. The Catalina Casino (not for gambling!) is a landmark with a movie theater and event space.

Outdoor activities are everywhere—snorkeling, kayaking, even parasailing if you’re up for it. The climate’s warm and breezy most of the year.

Trails offer views and a shot at spotting wildlife. Honestly, just chilling on the beach feels different here.

21. Heisler Park

Heisler Park sits high above Laguna Beach. Paved paths give you sweeping Pacific views, stretching from Aster Street to Diver’s Cove and plenty of coastal nooks to explore.

Landscaped gardens, funky sculptures, and shady trees dot the park. Picnic tables and barbecues make it easy to hang out with friends or family.

Tide pools along the edge hide little sea creatures if you’re patient. The paths are perfect for a slow stroll or photo ops.

Lawn bowling greens and open spaces invite you to just relax. Restrooms and beach access mean it’s a breeze to spend a lazy afternoon here.

20. Napa Valley Wineries

In Napa Valley, winery-hopping is almost required. There are hundreds—some modern, some straight out of a fairy tale.

Most offer tours and tastings. Grab a seat outside, sip wine, and just look out over the vines. It’s an easy place to slow down.

Pine Ridge Vineyards is a favorite, especially for Cabernet Sauvignon and the views. Some big names like Robert Mondavi might be under renovation, but their tasting rooms in town are still open.

Even if wine isn’t your thing, Napa’s scenery and easygoing pace make it a nice place to wander. Art galleries and picnic spots fill the gaps between tastings.

19. Monterey Bay Aquarium

Right on Cannery Row, the Monterey Bay Aquarium sits close to the water. It’s famous for huge tanks and open sea exhibits. Sea otters, jellyfish, sharks—you get to see them all up close.

The aquarium highlights the local marine scene. Most animals actually come from Monterey Bay, a National Marine Sanctuary.

You’ll need at least two or three hours to see the main stuff, but if you’re into feedings or special shows, plan for more.

No parking at the door, but nearby lots and street parking work if you’re lucky. It gets crowded, especially on weekends and in summer.

18. Universal Studios Hollywood

In Los Angeles, Universal Studios Hollywood is a must. It’s a theme park and a real film studio—hard to beat that combo.

Take the Studio Tour for a peek at actual movie sets—filming sometimes happens right in front of you. Rides based on Jurassic World and Transformers are crowd favorites.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter draws both kids and adults. Hogwarts, butterbeer, and live shows add to the fun.

There’s a ton to do, but tickets aren’t cheap. Plan ahead and give yourself a full day to see everything.

17. USS Midway Museum

In downtown San Diego, the USS Midway Museum floats right on the waterfront. It’s a real aircraft carrier that served the Navy for about 50 years.

Step aboard to see dozens of restored aircraft and rooms set up just like sailors left them.

You can try flight simulators, watch short films, or poke around the bridge and engine room. Volunteers—often Navy vets—love sharing stories and answering questions.

The USS Midway is a family-friendly spot with awesome city and bay views. It’s a big piece of San Diego’s history and a hit with all ages.

16. Malibu Beach

Visit Malibu Beach and you’ll get why it’s a California favorite. The coastline goes on for miles, perfect for walking, relaxing, or snapping photos.

Swim, surf, or just watch the waves roll in. Dolphins sometimes cruise close to shore, and the sunsets? They’re unreal—especially if you’re near the water.

Food and shopping are nearby, so you don’t have to go far for a snack or a souvenir. Parking’s available but fills quickly on busy days. Malibu Beach is a solid bet for a sunny afternoon.

15. 17-Mile-Drive

If you want to catch some of the best coastal views in California, try 17-Mile Drive near Pebble Beach. The road twists past rocky cliffs, tall cypress trees, and quiet beaches, sometimes all at once.

There are plenty of places to pull over and snap a few photos. The Lone Cypress is probably the most famous stop. You’ll spot huge golf courses and some seriously fancy homes along the way, too.

You can drive, bike, or even walk a section if you feel like it. There’s a small fee for cars, but the scenery and salty ocean air make it feel worth it. The route’s marked well, so you won’t get lost.

Sunset is a popular time—can’t really blame anyone for that. Every curve brings something new: crashing waves, open forests, maybe even a fogbank rolling in. If you’re into nature, 17-Mile Drive is tough to beat.

14. Alcatraz Island

Hop on a ferry from San Francisco and head out to Alcatraz Island, better known as “The Rock.” The island’s got a wild past as a federal prison that held some of America’s most notorious inmates.

When you arrive, a park ranger usually gives a quick intro and some tips. The cellhouse audio tour comes with your ticket and is genuinely interesting.

You get to wander the old prison blocks and see what daily life looked like for inmates. There’s plenty to learn about the island’s earlier days, too, including its time as a military site.

Don’t skip the lighthouse—the oldest one on the West Coast. And yeah, the San Francisco Bay views from Alcatraz are something you’ll want your camera for.

13. Hearst Castle

If you’re on California’s Central Coast, you’ll spot Hearst Castle perched on a hill above San Simeon. This historic estate came together under newspaper tycoon William Randolph Hearst in the early 1900s.

The main building, Casa Grande, stands out with its twin towers and massive social rooms. Guided tours take you through the grand halls, old kitchens, and guest cottages.

The grounds cover more than 100 acres—think terraced gardens, fountains, and glittering pools. Movie stars and other big names used to hang out here back in the day.

The coastline views are wild, and sometimes you’ll see zebras or other animals wandering around. Hearst Castle is a pretty unique blend of California history and jaw-dropping architecture.

12. Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

If you’re into classic amusement parks, the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is your spot. It’s right by the sand in Santa Cruz and has been open since 1907.

There are over 40 rides and attractions to try out. The Giant Dipper—a wooden roller coaster from 1924—remains a favorite. There’s also an old-school carousel that’s spun for generations.

Besides rides, you can hit up the arcade, go bowling, or play mini golf. The boardwalk’s lined with little shops selling souvenirs, snacks, and sometimes surf gear.

Locals and visitors both flock here. Whether you want to stroll the sand, munch on saltwater taffy, or just watch the crowd, there’s always something going on.

11. Griffith Observatory

If you’re in Los Angeles, Griffith Observatory is a must-see. You’ll find it up in Griffith Park, perched on the slopes of Mount Hollywood. The views? Some of the best in LA, hands down.

You can see the Hollywood Sign and take in the whole LA skyline. Inside, there are exhibits about space, science, and the solar system. The planetarium hosts live shows, too.

You don’t need to be a science buff to enjoy yourself. Check out the free public telescopes and play with the interactive displays. Whether you’re into astronomy or just want a killer view, it’s easy to lose track of time here.

Parking gets hectic, but you can catch a bus up if you don’t want to deal with that headache. Admission’s free, so your wallet will thank you.

10. Redwood National and State Parks

Up on California’s north coast, Redwood National and State Parks sprawl across four different parks: Redwood National Park, Jedediah Smith Redwoods, Del Norte Coast Redwoods, and Prairie Creek Redwoods.

Walking here means wandering among the world’s tallest trees. Trails wind past giant redwoods, mossy logs, and thick ferns.

You’ll find quiet beaches and wide prairies, too. Some trails lead to the coast, where you might spot whales or sea lions if you’re lucky.

Driving’s easy—scenic roads weave under towering trees and along rugged coastline. Campgrounds sit in the redwoods or near the beach if you’re up for sleeping outside.

Hiking, biking, or just chilling—there’s really no wrong way to enjoy these parks. The cool air and peaceful vibe make it a one-of-a-kind California stop.

9. Emerald Bay, South Lake Tahoe

When you roll up to Emerald Bay in South Lake Tahoe, you get hit with clear blue water and forested hills. The overlook spots along Highway 89 offer up some seriously good views. Honestly, it’s easy to lose a few hours just staring.

Trails wind through the pine woods, and hiking down to the beach puts you right by the water. On warm days, you’ll see folks swimming, kayaking, or paddleboarding.

Vikingsholm, a quirky old mansion, sits near the bay’s edge. You can tour it and hear about its backstory. Boaters love Emerald Bay, too—it’s simple to reach by water.

8. San Diego Zoo

The San Diego Zoo sits inside Balboa Park, covering about 100 acres. This world-famous zoo houses over 12,000 animals from more than 650 species.

Head to the Australian Outback for one of the biggest koala colonies outside Australia. Giant pandas used to live here, but now you’ll see everything from tigers to polar bears.

Stroll at your own pace or hop on the guided bus tour for the highlights. Wide paths and plenty of shade make it a pretty easy place to explore.

Gift shops and food spots are scattered around—Albert’s Restaurant is there if you want a sit-down meal. Free parking right out front makes life easier.

Honestly, every visit feels a bit different. There’s always some new animal or plant around the bend.

7. Venice Beach

Venice Beach hugs the coast in LA and has a laid-back vibe. Street performers, the busy boardwalk, and a jumble of artists and musicians fill the area. Vendors sell all sorts of souvenirs, some quirky, some classic.

Ocean Front Walk is always buzzing, whether you’re walking or biking. Muscle Beach is right there if you want to watch bodybuilders do their thing. The skatepark near the sand draws a crowd, too—some of those tricks are wild.

Need a break? Wander the Venice Canals for a quieter stroll. The bridges and calm water are perfect for photos, and the nearby cafes and shops mean you’ll never go hungry or bored.

6. Dante’s View, Death Valley

Dante’s View sits high above Death Valley and hands you one of the park’s widest, wildest views. You can look down at Badwater Basin—the lowest spot in North America. On a clear day, you might even spot both Telescope Peak and Mount Whitney way off in the distance.

The road up twists for about 13 miles. Sunrise and sunset get crowded, so coming early or late can help you dodge the rush.

Lots of people love this spot for photos and stargazing. The landscape’s rocky and wide open, so bring plenty of water and sun protection. If you want a killer Death Valley view without a long hike, Dante’s View is hard to beat.

5. General Sherman Tree

If you’re a fan of giant trees, the General Sherman Tree is impossible to miss. It stands tall in Sequoia National Park and holds the record for largest tree in the world by volume.

This tree towers at about 275 feet, with a trunk so thick it takes a bunch of people holding hands to wrap around it.

The General Sherman Tree is estimated at around 2,200 years old. Signs along the short paved trail from the parking lot let you pick up fun facts as you walk.

It’s a photo magnet, so expect to see groups snapping pics. If you’d rather avoid crowds, try coming early in the morning or late in the day.

4. Disneyland

Let’s be real—when most people think California, Disneyland pops up. It’s in Anaheim, this famous theme park that opened in 1955 and is packed with rides, shows, and those classic Disney characters.

There are different lands like Fantasyland, Tomorrowland, and Adventureland. Each one’s got its own vibe and attractions—Space Mountain, Pirates of the Caribbean, and It’s a Small World, just to name a few.

Thrill-seekers usually go for the Matterhorn Bobsleds or Indiana Jones Adventure. If you’ve got little ones, rides like Dumbo or the carousel are always a hit.

Beyond rides, you can meet characters, catch a parade, or watch the fireworks. Disney California Adventure Park sits right next door, with even more to see.

Food’s everywhere—churros, themed restaurants, you name it. You can make your visit as chill or as jam-packed as you want.

3. Tunnel View, Yosemite National Park

Tunnel View is easily one of the most famous viewpoints in Yosemite National Park. From here, you get that classic, jaw-dropping sweep of Yosemite Valley—El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Fall all showing off at once. The overlook sits just outside the Wawona Tunnel on State Highway 41.

No hiking boots required. You just pull into the lot and stroll a minute or two to the viewpoint. In summer, crowds show up fast, so if you want a quieter moment, try getting there early.

Chances are, you’ve seen this view before—it’s a favorite of photographers, both famous and amateur. Even when it’s packed, the scenery kind of steals your attention. Bring your camera, or at least your phone; you’ll probably want to capture it for yourself.

2. Big Sur Coastline

Drive down the Big Sur coastline and you’ll see rugged cliffs right up against the Pacific. The stretch between Carmel and San Simeon is all winding roads and jaw-dropping views.

Pull over at Bixby Creek Bridge or McWay Falls for quick photos or just to soak it all in. There are tons of little pullouts along the way.

Hiking trails snake through redwood forests and coastal bluffs. Beaches like Pfeiffer Beach are good for chilling or a walk on the sand.

Highway 1 cuts through Big Sur and ranks among California’s most scenic drives. Expect parks, small cafes, and a relaxed, almost dreamy vibe the whole way down.

1. Golden Gate Bridge

You can spot the Golden Gate Bridge from all over San Francisco. That bold orange color and those tall towers? You can’t really miss them.

If you walk across the bridge—yeah, you’ll get some of the best city views around. There’s a Welcome Center right nearby, open every day, and it’s got some cool stories and facts about the bridge’s past.

If you’re into the outdoors, Lands End Trail is worth a look. The path twists through trees and then, suddenly, you’ll get these awesome views of the bridge. The famous red-orange color of the bridge was specifically chosen to make the bridge more easily visible through the thick fog that frequently shrouds the bridge.

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Or maybe try a sunset cruise for a different angle. Boats drift under the bridge as the sky goes all pink and gold. You get the city skyline, the water, and the bridge— a pretty unbeatable combo.