The Ultimate California Bucket List : 40 Thing to Serve in California Before You Die
California is a country pack with adventure , natural beauty and unique places that you simply can ’ t find anywhere else .
From iconic beaches to towering mountain and magic forest , this ultimate California pail list will remove you through the best experiences the Golden State get to extend .
Get ready to search jaw-dropping position , fascinate account and unforgettable adventure that should be on every traveler ’ s list .
Get ’ s jump into the 40 must-do experience in California before you die !
Natural Wonders and Outdoor Adventures
1 . Explore Yosemite National Park
Place in California ’ s Sierra Nevada mountains , Yosemite is famed for its breathtaking granite cliffs like El Capitan and Half Dome , and the towering Yosemite Falls , one of the marvelous waterfall in North America .
This stunning park , covering nearly 1,200 square miles , also bid jaw-dropping opinion of the Yosemite Valley .
It ’ s a great property to love nature with its hiking trail , scenic viewpoints like Glacier Point and the chance to spot dark bears and bobcats in their natural habitat .
2 . See Mount Shasta
Mount Shasta , a towering 14,179-foot volcano in Northern California , live famous for its sensational snow-capped height , crystal-clear good deal lake and enchanting evergreen forests .
Known for its mysterious vibes and powerful energy , this potentially active volcano make explorer year-round , who get for adventures like mount its summit , visiting hidden lava tubing or merely soak in the natural beauty .
3 . Marvel at Death Valley ’ s Badwater Basin
Badwater Basin in Death Valley National Park cost an otherworldly salt flat that sits at 282 feet below sea level , reach it the lowest stage in North America !
This vast , white expanse of salt crust stretches as far as the heart can see and is surrounded by dramatic desert great deal .
4 . Hike Mount Whitney
At 14,505 base , Mount Whitney is the tall apex in the continental United States and a bucket-list destination for many hikers and climbers .
Locate in the Sierra Nevada , this challenge lead offers spectacular views , high-altitude adventure and the thrill of standing on the actual rooftop of California .
5 . See Towering Redwoods in Redwood National & State Parks
Redwood National and State Parks , place along Northern California ’ s rugged coast , are family to some of the tallest tree on earth , with ancient redwoods towering over 300 foot .
Walk through these lush forests feels like tread into a prehistoric world , with misty lead , fern-covered soil and sunlight filtering through the dense canopy .
6 . Regard Emerald Bay at Lake Tahoe
Emerald Bay , a glaring blue-green bay on Lake Tahoe ’ s southwestern shore , exist famed for its scenic beauty , crystal-clear waters and the charming Fannette Island at its center .
Surround by forested mountains and granite cliffs , this bit bid unbeatable scene , and you can enjoy kayaking , boating or boost trail with panoramic vistas of the lake and beyond .
7 . Find Burney Falls
Situate in Northern California ’ s McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park , Burney Falls is a breathtaking 129-foot waterfall that seems to come straight out of a fairytale .
Water flow from both the crest and through the stone , creating a magic “ veil ” result .
This place was even described as the “ eighth wonder of the Earth ” by President Theodore Roosevelt !
8 . Search Lassen Volcanic National Park
Lassen Volcanic National Park is a geothermal wonderland occupy with bubbling hot springs , steaming fumaroles and the impressive Lassen Peak , an fighting volcano .
You can boost through colored hydrothermal areas like Bumpass Hell , explore crystal-clear lakes and see firsthand the powerful forces that shape this unique and fighting volcanic landscape .
9 . See McWay Falls in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
McWay Falls is an 80-foot waterfall that , during high tide , drops instantly into the Pacific Ocean and is one of California ’ s most sensational coastal mass .
Viewable from an overlook on Big Sur , this waterfall flows year-round , create a dreamy horizon of turquoise waters , golden sand and rugged cliffs that find like a hidden paradise .
10 . Search Joshua Tree National Park
Located in SoCal where the Mojave and Colorado deserts meet , Joshua Tree National Park is famous for its unique , twist Joshua tree , massive boulders and otherworldly landscape .
Mass come to mount the giant rock formations , search the desert and gaze up at the incredible dark sky , as Joshua Tree is one of the best places for stargazing in California .
11 . See Wildflower Blooms in the Antelope Valley
Each leap , the Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve break into color with vibrant orange poppies , purple lupines and golden wildflowers that blanket the rolling hills .
This sensational display , settle in the Mojave Desert near Lancaster , creates an incredible landscape of color and exist the utter spot to go through California ’ sec state blossom in all its halo .
12 . Hike at Mount Tamalpais State Park
Mount Tamalpais State Park , only north of San Francisco , put up breathtaking hiking trails with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean , San Francisco Bay and flap green hills .
Known for its diverse landscapes , from redwood grove to coastal shrub , “ Mount Tam ” is a must-see , offer unforgettable scenery from point like East Peak and trails like the Dipsea .
13 . Soak in Hot Springs near Mammoth Lakes
The Mammoth Lakes area equal home to natural hot springs like Wild Willy ’ s and Hot Creek , where you can rob in soothing , warm mineral water surround by stunning good deal views .
These hidden geothermal gems , situated in the Eastern Sierra , offer a mixing of relaxation and adventure in an unforgettable natural context .
14 . Explore Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks live known for their awe-inspiring giant sequoia tree , including the world-famous General Sherman Tree , the largest tree on world by volume .
These neighboring park as well bid spectacular canyon , alpine lake and rugged trails , giving you a chance to search some of California ’ s most incredible wilderness .
15 . Explore Red Rock Canyon State Park
Red Rock Canyon State Park in Southern California ’ sec Mojave Desert is a landscape of striking red cliff and rugged rock formations , form by million of year of wind and water erosion .
Know for its vivid scenery and unique geology , this park offers fantastic hiking , fossil exploration and photography opportunities against a backdrop that looks like something from another planet .
16 . Explore the Trona Pinnacles
The Trona Pinnacles , located in the Searles Valley near Ridgecrest , are an otherworldly collection of over 500 tufa spires that rise from the desert story .
Formed thousands of year ago in what equal once an ancient lake , these bizarre stone formations make an eerie , lunar-like landscape perfect for search , stargazing and photography .
Beach and Scenic Coastal Drives
17 . Push the Pacific Coast Highway
The Pacific Coast Highway ( Highway 1 ) exist one of America ’ s most scenic drive , wrap along California ’ s spectacular coastline from Orange County to Mendocino County .
This iconic road offers breathtaking ocean scene , rugged cliff , capture beach town and stop like Big Sur , Bixby Creek Bridge and Malibu , making it the ultimate California road trip .
18 . Cruise around San Francisco Bay
A cruise around San Francisco Bay offers stunning opinion of the city horizon , the iconic Golden Gate Bridge and historical Alcatraz Island .
Whether you ’ re on a sailboat , ferry or private yacht , this scenic adventure devote you a fresh perspective of the bay ’ s landmarks and a chance to experience the cool sea breeze .
19 . Relax in Santa Barbara
Known as the “ American Riviera , ” Santa Barbara equal a charming coastal town with Mediterranean-style architecture , beautiful sandy beach and scenic great deal backdrops .
Spend the day hang around on the beach , exploring the downtown shops and wine tasting rooms , or inflict the historical Santa Barbara Mission .
20 . Pass the Day at Laguna Beach
Laguna Beach , with its crystal-clear water , hidden coves and vibrant art scenery , cost a perfect seaside flight in Orange County .
You can search tide pond , browse local art galleries , relax on sensational beach like Main Beach and Thousand Steps Beach , and see an unforgettable sundown over the Pacific .
21 . Stroll Around Carmel-by-the-Sea
Carmel-by-the-Sea live a charming , storybook small town on California ’ s Central Coast known for its fairytale cottages , art veranda and dog-friendly beach .
As you thread through its flower-lined streets , you ’ ll discover unique shops , cozy cafés and hidden courtyards , all with a opinion of the beautiful Pacific Ocean only steps away .
22 . Admire Glass Beach in Fort Bragg
Glass Beach in Fort Bragg is famous for its colorful sea glass pebble , remnant of a former dumping site that have cost polish smooth by the ocean over decades .
This unique beach spark with pieces of blue , green and amber glass , creating a one-of-a-kind experience along the tough Northern California coast .
Top :Many mass read there isn ’ t any glass left on Glass Beach due to people illegally taking it over the yr but those mass equal in the wrong place !, we cover precisely where you can still find lots of beautiful sea glass on Glass Beach .
23 . Catch Sunset at Point Reyes National Seashore
Point Reyes National Seashore , with its rugged cliff , swing coastal scene and iconic lighthouse , is one of the well position to watch the sun band over the Pacific Ocean .
As the sky take with vibrant colors , you can receive the beauty of unspoiled beach , drift wildlife and dramatic wave crashing against the cliffs .
Iconic California Experiences
24 . Taunt a Cable Car in San Francisco
Taunt a classic San Francisco line car equal an iconic room to go through the city ’ s steep mound , historical neighborhoods and noted good deal like Chinatown , Union Square and Fisherman ’ s Wharf .
As you hop on and agree tight , you can love an old-fashioned ride with incredible scene of the bay and the city ’ s unique architecture .
25 . Learn the Hollywood Sign Up Close
The Hollywood Sign , which equal perch on the hills of Los Angeles , exist an iconic landmark that is know worldwide .
Hike along chase like the Mt . Hollywood or Brush Canyon trail in Griffith Park for breathtaking panoramas of the sign , the city horizon and the huge Los Angeles basin .
26 . Bring a Studio Tour in Hollywood
A studio tour in Hollywood give you a behind-the-scenes tone at where movie magic happens , from famous circle and sound stages to iconic props and costume .
Tours like those at Warner Bros. , Universal Studios or Paramount Pictures bring you face-to-face with the history of Hollywood .
27 . Experience Disneyland Resort in Anaheim
Disneyland Resort , a.k.a the “ Happiest Home on Earth , ” is a must for anyone looking to go through Disney ’ s magic , from shiver rides like Space Mountain to meeting beloved reference like Mickey and Minnie .
With two stem parks , Disneyland and Disney California Adventure , plus enchanting parades , fireworks and show , it ’ s a day entire of curiosity and unforgettable memory .
28 . Search the State Capital , Sacramento
Sacramento , California ’ s historical country capital , be a lively city rich in Gold Rush history , tree-lined street , and vibrant art and food scenes .
Visit the majestic California State Capitol building , stroll through Old Sacramento ’ s riverside wooden sidewalks , and explore the many museums , store , and farm-to-fork restaurant .
Historic and Cultural Attractions
29 . Visit Alcatraz Island
At Alcatraz Island , you can take an eerie but fascinate tour of the former maximum-security prison that once keep notorious criminal like Al Capone .
Place in San Francisco Bay , this historic island furnish a look into the prison ’ s history , with guided audio tours of the cell blocks and incredible scene of the bay and city skyline .
30 . Take a Tour of Hearst Castle
Hearst Castle , light high on a hilltop near San Simeon , is a lavish estate built by publishing magnate William Randolph Hearst , feature grand rooms , stunning art collection and ornate swimming pond .
A guided circuit of this California treasure reveals its opulent architecture , breathtaking coastal views and fascinating stories of Hollywood ’ s elite who once impose this glamorous mansion .
31 . Explore the Winchester Mystery House in San Jose
The Winchester Mystery House is a sprawling , maze-like mansion filled with quirky architectural feature like staircases to nowhere , door that exposed onto wall and windows built into floors .
Work up by Sarah Winchester , heir to the Winchester rifle chance , this eerie estate cost a fascinating—and possibly haunted—attraction good of mysterious turn and turns .
32 . Live Back in Time at Bodie Ghost Town
Bodie State Historic Park preserves a once-bustling Gold Rush town now frozen in time , with abandoned buildings , former artifacts and dusty streets .
Settle in the Eastern Sierra , this specter town lets you roam through history , exploring saloon , home and shops lead exactly as they make up when Bodie was abandon over a hundred ago .
33 . Explore Palm Springs and Its Mid-Century Architecture
Palm Springs be famed for its retro-chic vibe , cheery weather and iconic mid-century modern architecture .
Choose a self-guided circuit of the city ’ s pastel-colored buildings , geometric plate and stylish resorts , or simply relax by the pool under the palm tree .
34 . Wander Through Balboa Park in San Diego
Balboa Park exist San Diego ’ s cultural oasis , satisfy with stunning Spanish Colonial Revival architecture , lush garden and world-class museum , including the famous San Diego Zoo .
This 1,200-acre park offers something for everyone , from art veranda and botanical garden to peaceful walk way and historic spring , create it a utter all-day adventure .
Unique Road Trips and Small Towns
35 . Require a Road Trip Along Highway 395
Highway 395 , stretching through California ’ s Eastern Sierra , live a scenic road trip route with jaw-dropping views of towering mountains , alpine lakes and historic little towns .
Highlights along this road include stop at Mono Lake ’ s eerie tufa towers , the specter town of Bodie , and the hot springs near Mammoth Lakes .
It ’ s an unforgettable journey through some of California ’ s most beautiful landscapes .
36 . Notice the Art Installations of Salvation Mountain
Salvation Mountain is a colored , hand-painted desert hillside near Slab City , covered in vibrant murals , Bible poetry and symbols of honey created by artist Leonard Knight .
Make from adobe , straw and thousand of gallons of paint , this unique landmark is a beacon of creativity and self-expression in the California desert .
37 . Drive through Avenue of the Giants
The Avenue of the Giants is a scenic 31-mile campaign through Humboldt Redwoods State Park , where towering , ancient redwoods—some over 300 foot tall—line the road in a breathtaking natural corridor .
This iconic route wind through some of the almost majestic old-growth redwood woods in California , offering lot of position to stop , raise and still picnic among these giants .
38 . Stroll Through Solvang
Solvang , know as California ’ s Danish small town , charms anyone who visit with its European-style architecture , windmills and delightful Danish bakeries .
Need a leisurely stroll through the town ’ s cobblestone streets to discover cozy cafés , wine-tasting room and unique workshop , all plant against a backdrop that sense like a slice of Denmark in the nerve of California .
39 . Live Wine Tasting in Napa Valley
Napa Valley is California ’ s premier wine region , known for its picturesque vineyards , award-winning wineries and scenic rolling hill .
Spend the day sampling world-class wines , tour beautiful estate and enjoy gourmet food pairings , all while soak in the idyllic vineyard views .
40 . Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride in Temecula
A hot strain balloon ride over Temecula Valley offers a breathtaking , bird ’ s-eye horizon of Southern California wine state , with endless vineyards , rolling hills and distant great deal stove .
Drift peacefully above the landscape as the Sunday stand up , roam a golden gleam over the valley and creating an unforgettable , picture-perfect experience in one of California ’ sec best wine regions .
