California is one of the most beautiful and popular states. The west coast is a hotspot for lovers of sun, sea, beach, and beautiful people. See and be seen, that is what it’s all about in this beautiful Western paradise. This huge state has everything you could wish for during your trip. It’s impossible to get bored in the Golden State! There are a few things in life that you can't miss out on and California is definitely one of them.
Miracles of Nature: Yosemite, Death Valley and Sequoia
California is home to some of the most beautiful National Parks in the country. Colourful rock formations, waterfalls, and canyons alternate each other in the beautiful nature of California. Go to Yosemite to enjoy of a breath taking view with rock formations, waterfalls and glacier. Feel the heat in the hottest region of the United States in Death Valley. Near this "desert of death", you will find Sequoia, home of a giant forest with trees of 80 meters high. Keep your budget down and buy a National Park pass, in this way you save some money and can visit all these parks during a whole year.
See and be seen in Los Angeles
You will not be bored for a second in the city of angels! Experience the coastal culture in the South Bay of Los Angeles. Public transportation does not really exist here so rent a car and explore what Los Angeles has to offer driving through Santa Monica, Venice Beach, Malibu, Hollywood and Beverly Hills. Make sure to go to downtown L.A. Here you will find all kind of different neighbourhoods with their own distinct personalities: think off the Arts District, Chinatown and South Park. Going from one extreme to the other, hang with the rich and famous in Beverly Hills, Bel-air and on Rodeo Drive, which might be one of the most famous and luxurious shopping streets in the world. You will also see roller-skating ladies in bikinis and bodybuilders working out on the beach at Venice Beach. Last but not least: Spend a day at Universal Studios and take a picture of a real "star" on the Hollywood Walk of Fame!
San Francisco
This "progressive" city supports various flower power celebrations and gay pride parades during the summer. There is no shortage of parties, especially not in the SoMa (South of Market Street) neighbourhood. This up and coming area has a lot of cafes and bars. While you are there, be sure to also check out the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art. Forget the touristy cable cars (just take a quick picture) and Fisherman’s Wharf. But, do reserve some tickets in advance for Alcatraz, America’s most famous island prison. A walk along the Golden Gate Bridge should also be on every traveller's list.
San Diego
If you have some time left after all of this, travel back to the south and spend a little time in San Diego. The San Diego Zoo is one of the top sights to visit in California. The city is also home to some of the most beautiful beaches, check out La Jolla and Coronado Beach. If you are looking for more than just a beach, head over to Mission Beach. Later go for a stroll and end the day in Little Italy, in downtown San Diego. From San Diego, it’s also easy to take a day trip to the real Mexico. The sinister Tijuana is just a half hour drive away, though you may have to wait several hours to cross the border.
Surfing in California
Southern California is a real surf paradise. There is no place on earth were there are more surfers per capita than in Southern California. California is so much more than just a destination, it is claimed to be the birthplace of the surf culture! The weather and surfing conditions are good all year round.
Skiing in California
In California you can have it all, from wintry ski resorts to dry desert landscapes. During the ski season, the slopes near the Lake Tahoe region are a popular place for some downhill skiing. Besides skiing, you can also head to the sled parks, go snow tubing or snowshoeing. Not a big fan of snow and skiing? Head down to one of the ski towns in the off-season. The area around the Big Bear Lake is very beautiful and you can do all sort of outdoor activities here.