California

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Hiker stands amidst a field of wildflowers on the rolling Carrizo Hills

Nathan Yan / Stocksy United

Overview

Twinkling cities, misty redwood forests, sun-kissed beaches, a creative local food scene and an adventurous attitude: California is instantly captivating.


Attractions

Must-see attractions

Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip

Best Things to Do

California has a reputation for sunshine, beaches and palm trees, but there's much more to see in the Golden State. Here are California's top things to do.

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Best Places to Visit

From cosmopolitan cities to epic natural wonders, California has it all, and the state's best places appeal to travelers of all sorts.

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Best Time to Visit

From avoiding the crowds to getting the best budget deal, here's what's happening through the seasons in California.

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Things to Know

California's sun-drenched parks, beaches and cities are a huge draw for tourists but where to begin? Here's what you need to know before you go.

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Transportation

California may be besotted with cars but that's not the only way to see the Golden State. Here's everything you need to know about getting around California.

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Free Things to Do

California attracts travelers with expensive tastes but there's plenty to do here on a budget. Here's our round-up of the best freebies in the Golden State.

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Money and Costs

California has a lot to offer travelers and unfortunately, the price tag to match. But there are ways to visit on a budget if you know how!

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Best Road Trips

These ultimate California road trips take you from sea to mountains and through desert and redwoods.

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Articles

Latest stories from California

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Yosemite village, California / USA - June 16 2017: tourist van on the tourist road in the Yosemite National Park, California, USA. Panorama of the Yosemite valley and Yosemite Falls in summer, License Type: media, Download Time: 2025-04-08T20:45:23.000Z, User: bhealy950, Editorial: true, purchase_order: 65050 - Digital Destinations and Articles, job: Lonely Planet Online Editorial, client: Best road trips in Yosemite, other: Brian Healy

Camping

Plan the ultimate road trip between three iconic California national parks

Apr 13, 2025 • 11 min read

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California and beyond