**California Dreamin’: 10 Must-See Spots, Hidden Gems & Epic Places to Stay in the Golden State**

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Why California Should Be on Your Bucket List

From sun-soaked beaches to misty redwood forests, California is basically like dating a billionaire surfer with a PhD — impossibly cool, endlessly adventurous, and surprisingly cultured. Ready to plan your California escape? Let’s dive in.

Top 10 Things to See and Do in California

1. Yosemite National Park

Iconic views, jaw-dropping waterfalls, and postcard-perfect granite cliffs. Hike to Glacier Point or snap a selfie with El Capitan.

Pro Tip: Book a [local car rental](https://localrent.tp.st/BWSEer3z) to cruise the scenic byways.

2. Napa Valley Wine Country

Because wine not? Sip your way through famous vineyards and stay in boutique inns.

Book wine tours in advance with [WeGoTrip experiences](https://wegotrip.tp.st/YVL5ihrF).

3. Santa Monica Pier

Amusement rides, beach vibes, and classic Cali sunsets.

Rent a bike from [BikesBooking](https://bikesbooking.tp.st/lzXnwZrC) and pedal the coast!

4. Lake Tahoe

Perfect for summer paddleboarding or epic winter ski trips.

Snag a deal on [car rentals here](https://economybookings.tp.st/bRR16EhB).

5. Big Sur

Road trip heaven. Think dramatic cliffs, crashing waves, and Bixby Creek Bridge.

Plot your drive with [WayAway's trip planner](https://wayaway.tp.st/a3ky7N3D).

6. Joshua Tree National Park

For stargazing and trippy landscapes. Stay in a retro desert Airbnb or cozy cabin.

Use [Aviasales](https://aviasales.tp.st/1OvJR03a) to find flights nearby.

7. Disneyland

Because you’re never too old for Mickey ears and churros.

Book tickets early through [TiQets](https://tiqets.tp.st/h8P2EGQI) for easy entry.

8. San Francisco

From Alcatraz to the Golden Gate Bridge, it’s quirky, cultured, and cool AF.

Grab city passes on [TicketNetwork](https://ticketnetwork.tp.st/8YnYe4QJ).

9. Sequoia National Park

Meet the planet’s largest trees. Hug a giant sequoia — no judgment.

Book reliable transfers with [GetTransfer](https://gettransfer.tp.st/7ugUWF39).

10. Catalina Island

A hidden gem for snorkeling, ziplining, and dolphin spotting.

Sail over with [SeaRadar yacht charters](https://searadar.tp.st/r6KgoTXH).

Where to Stay

* [Hotellook](https://hotellook.tp.st/eTR4sPTY) — Compare hotels and book the best deals.

* [AutoEurope car rentals](https://autoeurope.tp.st/w4hzS21n) for road trip freedom.

* [Radical Storage](https://radicalstorage.tp.st/tIES5ra9) for stashing bags while you explore.

Hidden Gems You’ll Want to Brag About

* Glass Beach in Fort Bragg — beachcombing with a colorful, glassy twist.

* Salvation Mountain — an epic, psychedelic art installation in the desert.

* Albion River Bridge — dreamy photo op on the Mendocino coast.

* Ojai — low-key boho town perfect for wine, spas, and spiritual retreats.

Travel Smart

Get travel insurance via *[VisitorsCoverage](https://visitorscoverage.tp.st/YjSIozxi)**.

Stay connected with *[Airalo eSIM](https://airalo.tp.st/YSJ1DHLl)** or [DrimSim](https://drimsim.tp.st/Y3raNHJt).

Check for flight compensation with *[CompensAir](https://compensair.tp.st/hmqeYcEY)** if your flight gets delayed.

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