47 Fun Things to Do in California

(UPDATED NOVEMBER 2022) I’ve loved seeing so much of California over the past twenty-five years. With unique attractions, beautiful beaches, incredible wineries, award-winning restaurants, and fantastic scenery, you’re going to love the fun things to do in California. Here are my suggestions.

1. Explore Hearst Castle

Easily one of the finest homes in America is that of William Randolph Hearst, The Enchanted Hill, or Hearst Castle in San Simeon, California. Hearst Castle is a visual delight, overlooking the Pacific Ocean. I loved the 127 acres of pristine grounds and outdoor sculptures, swimming pool, fountains, and gardens even more than the house itself, but a tour is well worth your time and money. Hearst Castle features a twin-towered mansion that is over one hundred years old.

Hearst Castle is four hours from LA and San Francisco.

2. See The Best Chinatown

San Francisco has the best Chinatown in the country. Between great food stands and grocers, there are also unique things to see, such as the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory and many places of worship. The Tien Hau Temple was my fave. Be on the lookout for the cool pagoda arch, Dragon Gate, and Grant Avenue, the most photographed part of town.

A great way to explore Chinatown is with Linda Lee, offering three-hour tours and plenty of historical and fun facts about this remarkable California address. 

3. Relax At Rancho Mirage Spa

Just the mention of Palm Springs, you have to think of luxury rides, high-end shopping, world-class resorts, and total self-indulgence. You can save a few dollars by staying in Rancho Mirage, the closest town to Palm Springs. The spas in this indulgent part of California are fantastic!

Treat yourself to a detoxifying mud wrap, signature firming and lifting facial, and deep-canyon therapeutic massage before soaking in the serene spa pool and enjoying the jaw-dropping scenery. The Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa is my pick for spas and accommodations. 

4. Admire The Trees In Muir Woods

Muir Woods is a place to go for great hikes, beautiful photographs, and to be in tune with nature amidst dozens of redwood trees. These redwoods are unlike anything I’ve ever seen; one hits 258 feet high. You can even pose for your pictures inside the trunks—they are that big. This old-growth forest was named a National Monument (US National Park Service). 

Muir Woods was founded and dedicated to the father of the National Parks, John Muir. Other trees in the natural setting include big leaf maples, tanks, Douglas fir, ferns, and mushrooms. 

5. Stroll Forest Lawn Cemetery

Pay your respects to Walt Disney, the creator and brainchild of Mickey Mouse, and everything Disney when you visit his gravesite in the famous Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Glendale. It’s fun to see the cool trinkets left by Walt’s many fans inside his courtyard. 

To get to Walt’s gravesite, follow signs to the Freedom Mausoleum. When facing the Freedom Mausoleum, his grave is to the left of the entrance. Other celebrities buried here are Brittany Murphy, Jimmy Stewart, Paul Walker, and Elizabeth Taylor.

6. Photograph The Venice Canals

The Venice Historic District is a beautiful part of the city with modern luxury homes that sit alongside four small, picturesque man-made canals. Developer Abbot Kinney built this beautiful part of the town back in 1905. In this stretch, most houses have boat docks with some form of boat or gondola, which looks stunning on the water.

Tip: Find one of the canal bridges to walk onto for the best photo ops.

7. The Hollywood Bowl: A Definite Fun Thing To Do In California

California’s Hollywood Bowl is one of the most prestigious venues globally and the premier live music venue for Southern California. The arched-band shell venue will hold 17,500 guests for musicals, concerts, sing-alongs, and much more. 

You can purchase regular seats, garden and terrace boxes, and even lawn seats to save money. No matter where you choose, you can see what’s going on from the ginormous screen across the stage.

FYI: Waiters bring you purchased or pre-ordered food and drinks if you are sitting in the boxes.

8. Tour Mission San Juan Capistrano

Mission San Juan Capistrano is the most famous jewel of the California missions. This historical attraction in the heart of the city by the same name is number seven of twenty-one missions built throughout the state. Missionaries stayed here on their way to spread Christianity to the native peoples of California. 

Mission San Juan Capistrano is a Historic Landmark, chapel, museum, and botanical gardens. 

Swallows migrate 6,000 miles from Goya, Argentina, to the mission, and a huge celebration takes place for nearly 90 years. Be sure to take a docent-led tour to entirely understand what you see and the mission’s significance.

9. Play On Laguna Beach

Laguna Beach is a great area to enjoy the sun and fun in one of California’s most popular and beautiful locations. Laguna is known for its bohemian chic artsy style and feel, art galleries, beaches (8 miles of coastline), and fantastic outdoor attractions. Don’t be surprised to see picture-perfect locals and celebs hanging out in this luxurious address.

The famed lifeguard stand of Laguna Beach has been in several tv shows and movies. At the same time, the dramatic cliffs and hills make for a fantastic backdrop. A few movies filmed in Laguna Beach include Dead to Me (Netflix), The O.C., Laguna Beach (MTV), A Few Good Men, and A Star Is Born. 

Famous people such as John Wayne, Humphrey Bogart, Jay Leno, Diane Keaton, Chuck Norris, and Vanna White have lived here at one time or another. Laguna Beach has been a famed artists’ colony for over 100 years.

10. Visit The Reagan Library

Celebrate the life and presidency of Ronald Reagan at the library of the same name in Simi Valley, California. The presidential library has a wealth of exhibits, memorabilia, and pictures sharing Reagan’s eight years of presidency, movie career, and life. You can even board and explore Air Force One, which carried President Reagan 660,000 miles, a bonus attraction.

President Reagan and First Lady Nancy are both buried at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library site. Be sure to get your picture made in the Oval Office.

11. Ride The Rides At Knott’s Berry Farm

Buena Park is home to the oldest theme park in the country. Knott’s Berry Farm is a blast and much more than I ever imagined. You can enjoy thrilling roller coasters and rides, plus meet Snoopy and the Peanuts Gang. 

Then, enjoy Old West Ghost Town, with costumed interpreters that add a high level of fun. Afterward, sink your teeth into delicious eats at one of Knott’s Berry Farm’s 38 onsite food and drink stands and restaurants.

Eat something huckleberry. Knott’s Berry Farm started as a restaurant serving the huckleberries grown on the property.

12. Have A Luxury Santa Barbara Stay

Santa Barbara is a luxurious, laid-back town with lovely resorts, excellent local restaurants, and an overlook of the Pacific Ocean. A walk on the beach allows you to capture fantastic scenery, such as the Bacara Resort pictured here.

The three infinity-edge pools were our favorite offering on the property. Watch out for the tar pits on Carpinteria State Beach—it’s killer getting it off. Olive oil or dish soap works best.

Note: Bacara Resort is now a Ritz Carlton property. There is no surprise since the service and accommodations were at that level when we visited years ago.

13. See The Famous Pier 39 Sea Lions

Pier 39 in San Francisco is home to the iconic sea lions. Chances are you will smell them before seeing them, but they are adorable to watch. Dozens of chubby sea lions clump together and frolic in and out of the water, often asserting their dominance to see who gets to stay on the slight amount of room on the floating buoys. They are a hoot to watch!

14. Overnight In Pebble Beach

Pebble Beach is the name that refers to four acclaimed, world-class Monterey golf resorts and three impressive luxury hotels. To say you’ve golfed at Pebble Beach is quite an accomplishment.

We stayed at the Inn at Pebble Beach, a remarkable upscale property with incredible ocean views, the Spanish Bay bagpiper, cozy fireplaces, and award-winning hospitality. This area is part of the majestic Del Monte Forest. I recommend seeing, shopping, and dining at all three properties, and the Spa at Pebble Beach is a must. 

15. Go To Disneyland

Anaheim, California, is home to the world-famous Disneyland. This 65-year-old park is filled with fun and adventure, from the Haunted Mansion to it’s a small world, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, and oodles of things in between. Watch for selfie photo-ops with Mickey, Minnie, Pluto, Goofy, and many of their pals. 

Simply walk across the street to Disney’s second park, California Adventure. It is equally as wonderful, with great rides and attractions like Soarin’ Around the World, Toy Story Midway Mania, and Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree.

16. Sail On The Chardonnay

The Chardonnay Sailing Charters in Santa Cruz is an excellent way to explore the picturesque Monterey Bay. Sailing out of the Breakwater Cove Marina, we cruised for two hours of sheer bliss while we enjoyed the scenery, music, and nibbling on hors d’oeuvres. Drinks are included.  

The Chardonnay Sunset Sail is magnificent, but there are two other tour options.

17. Indulge In A Ghiradelli Sundae

If you haven’t been to Ghiradelli, let me say that it is right up there with the best ice cream shops in the country. You will find the Original Ghiradelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop at Ghiradelli Square in San Francisco. Indulge in a finger-licking-good Salted Caramel Brownie Sundae, Nob Hill Chill, or Twin Peaks (with fabulous marshmallow creme).

Calories don’t count, right, because you are on vacation? 

18. Visit Alcatraz Island

Alcatraz Island is one of California’s most visited attractions and is part of the National Park Service. You can take the ferry to see the San Francisco Bay landmark venue, where you can hop off to tour or see it firsthand from your boat. 

Alcatraz Island, also known as “The Rock,” was a lighthouse, military fort, and prison. It was also a federal prison from 1934 until 1963.

19. Take A Warner Brothers Tour

We’ve taken the Warner Brothers Studio Tour twice and been highly impressed on both occasions. Part of the fun is having an entertaining guide; the other half is reliving your favorite TV and movie moments at the places they were filmed. 

Tour famous sound stages, hear personal accounts of stars filming on the lot, and even catch a glimpse of celebrities as you make your way across the studio in a snazzy tram

On our visit, we wore the Sorting Hat from Harry Potter, saw the last episode of The Drew Carey Show being taped, found sets from Hart of Dixie and Growing Pains, and photographed cars from dozens of Hollywood fame. Much of the tour is phone and camera-free, so know this before you go. 

20. Drive PCH

Driving along the Pacific coastline on PCH (Pacific Coast Highway) is one of the best in the whole country. While PCH (656 miles) runs from north to south, Leggett to Dana Point, our favorite part is the picturesque 17-mile drive through Pebble Beach and Pacific Grove.

Here, you’ll have a good idea of the incredible drive, with mansions, scenic attractions, famed golf courses, and Del Monte Forest as your backdrop.

Driving PCH affords great photo-ops along the way, with magnificent crashing waves against the rocky terrain and layers of different blue water shades against the horizon. It is a thing to remember for a lifetime. My daughter and I did it all a few years ago and stopped at least a dozen times for photos. Note: Cell service is nonexistent on some parts of the drive.

21. Visit Coastal Monterey

Monterey is a coastal California city famous for fishing, beaches, the shops of Cannery Row, and Old Fisherman’s Wharf. John Steinbeck wrote about Monterey County in several books (Cannery Row, Sweet Thursday, East of Eden, and Tortilla Flat) and a beautiful bronze bust dedicated to him in Steinbeck Plaza.

The wharf was an old wholesale fish market, now a commercial visitor attraction. You’ll find candy, jewelry, souvenir stores, and incredible family-friendly things to see and do in this fun town. You can also book a fishing or sailing adventure, whale watching, and bay cruises.

We recommend you enjoy a meal at Old Fisherman’s Wharf, a bowl of Clam Chowder, the freshest you’ll ever have. Down the street is the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium, a must for sealife fans.

22. Cruise Newport Harbor

Seeing the Newport and Balboa Piers and cruising the harbor are must-dos in this part of California. My family first visited Newport because it is where The OC was filmed. You can take a boat tour of Newport to see the iconic and famous homes and hear the upscale area’s exciting history. 

Before or after, enjoy playing at the Balboa Fun Zone, an old-school amusement park. You’ll find the 1936 Ferris wheel at the fun zone, used for one of our favorite Ryan and Marissa scenes from The OC. 

23. Take A Food Tour in Oakland

Oakland, California, has an epic food tour that will knock your socks off. Put on your comfy walking shoes and hit the town running with visits to Jack London Square and several local eateries.

On my tour, our group sampled delicious Everett & Jones barbeque, local donuts, pizza, and craft beer from Drake’s Dealership while listening to stories of area history and folklore.

24. Visit The Iconic Hotel Del

The Hotel Del Coronado in San Diego is one of the most iconic hotels in the country. Besides being a magnificent beachfront property, the Hotel Del is where many famous movies were recorded and where celebrity romantic interludes took place. Even if you aren’t staying there, stop by for shopping, sightseeing, and to eat a meal on the pristine property. 

Did you know that the Hotel Del is now a Curio Collection Hilton property?

25. Find Romance In Carmel-by-the-Sea

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a dreamy location in Northern California where romance meets fairytales. Sip wine from the local purveyors, visit the Carmel Mission, take a trip to the beach, or dine at excellent restaurants with superb menus.

A few of our favorites are Katy’s, Vesuvio, and Casanova. Hofsas House is a gorgeous place to stay in Carmel for your getaway or vacation. 

26. Go Behind-The Scenes At The San Diego Zoo

The world-famous San Diego Zoo sets the standard for zoos worldwide with its conservation and animal care programs. You can see an incredible offering of exotic animals worldwide, including pandas, Amur leopards, and 15,000 other animals. 

If you feel like a splurge, do the five-hour VIP experience to get up close and personal with camels, koala bears, and whatever animals interest you. You can enjoy the fun from your armchair by watching the San Diego zoo’s koala, hippo, and penguin cams.

27. See The Hollywood Sign

Hollywood is the city of dreams for many and the sight of many incredible attractions. One of the most recognized is the iconic 45-foot-tall, 350-foot-long Hollywood Sign that originally spelled out Hollywoodland back in the day. You can get a good view of the sign for your photos from Griffith Park or the corner of Windsor and 5th Street.

28. Drink Holman Ranch Wines in Carmel

The beautiful Holman Ranch Estate Vineyard & Winery in Carmel Valley is a California vineyard that has been producing exquisite estate-grown varietals since 1928. Not only can you experience Holman Ranch wines and their Chardonnay and Pinot Noir labels, plus boutique wines, but you can also stay at the unique property with views of the Santa Lucia Mountains. 

Choose from the 14 rustic guest rooms and enjoy the sprawling property, game room, stone terrace, and inner courtyard. 

29. Visit Haight-Ashbury

Haight-Ashbury is home to hippies, or at least in the 1960s and 70s when love-ins were popular. The Haight is now famous for vintage clothing boutiques, record shops, and dive bars.

I like going there for the cool street murals and eclectic businesses; the Victorian homes are fantastic. Be sure to look for the Grateful Dead House.

30. Play At The Santa Monica Pier

I can’t say enough about how fantastic the Santa Monica Pier is. While it may be a tourist trap to some, to me, it screams California in every way. Whether you eat a fantastic seafood meal from The Lobster at the entrance of the pier or partake in the arsenal of fun rides, games, and carnival eats, everyone in the family is sure to have a good time at this California landmark.

31. Have A Habit Burger

Forget In and Out Burger; the Habit Burger Grill is by far better tasting. This California fast-food restaurant features amazingly juicy chargrilled burgers. Add a side of perfectly-seasoned, crisp French or sweet potato fries, onion rings, or tempura green beans to complete your meal. 

Not a beef fan? How about an ahi tuna or chicken sandwich or veggie burger? The Habit has been in business since 1969.

32. Take In Venice Beach

Cheesy, touristy, and downright bizarre is how I describe Venice Beach, and I visit every time I’m in the area. Venice Beach is filled with all things that might invoke the term redneck, but in a fun-filled, grungy way that is eye-opening. Don’t miss the bodybuilders, pot shops, t-shirt stands, skatepark, and street performers.

Fun Fact: Until 2017, you could visit the Venice Beach Freakshow, which was in a class of its own.

33. See The Elephant Seals of Big Sur

Big Sur Beach is full of hundreds, if not thousands, of big, fat elephant seals. The Piedras Blancas elephant seal rookery spreads over miles of shoreline along California’s scenic coast. Seeing the seals are really fun, but hearing them singing, yelling, fighting, whatever they are doing, is even better.

There are hundreds of them, too. I could sit for hours and watch them frolic and hop across the sand, clumsily hauling their several thousand-pound bodies.

34. Stroll The Hollywood Walk Of Fame

Hollywood’s legendary Walk of Fame features stars awarded to those achieving success in one (or more) of the five possible categories. Categories are television, motion pictures, recording, radio, and live performance.

Walk the 15 blocks of Hollywood Boulevard (and three blocks of Vine), comprised of 2690 stars to see your favorites, including Walt Disney, Daniel Radcliffe, Tim Allen, Drew Barrymore, and Buzz Aldrin, to name a few. 

Fun fact: Gene Autry is the only person on Hollywood’s Walk of Fame that met all five categories.

35. Ride The Roaring Camp Railroad

Located in Felton, the Roaring Camp Railroad is a family-friendly tourist attraction with good, clean fun. Board the steam train for a 3.25-mile jaunt through the redwood forests, admiring Bear Mountain from the top.

When you return, visit the general store, tour the museum, and take photos at the picturesque covered bridge before indulging in a buffet-style chuckwagon bbq with live music.

36. Explore San Fran’s Fisherman’s Wharf

San Francisco’s Fisherman’s Wharf is a place everyone should see at least once and where the local fishermen market their catch. Restaurants use those ingredients to whip up the best crab and clam chowder you’ve ever had—try it in a signature bread bowl.

You’ll taste the best sourdough at Boudin Bakery, baking magic since 1849, in many different-sized and shaped loaves. Conveyor belts even run around the shop carrying the loaves as they cool.

You’ll find some legendary businesses in this part of town, like Ghiradelli and, of course, the adorable sea lions. Fisherman’s Wharf also offers views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz.

37. Visit The Carlsbad Conservatory Of Flowers

The most famous resident of Golden Gate Park is the Conservatory of Flowers, a botanical garden and greenhouse that houses rare and exotic plants. The wooden conservatory was finished in 1879 and is the oldest building in the state park. 

With construction completed in 1879, it is the oldest building in the park, now the third most visited park in the country. Designations include the California Historic Landmark and National Register of Historic Places, to name two. Exhibit rooms range from aquatics to lowlands and highlands to potted plants. The water Lilies and lotus pants are my favorites.

38. Shop The Grove

One of the best shopping destinations is The Grove in Los Angeles, a multiplex of high-end shops and famous boutiques with an incredible selection of clothing, accessories, and trendy items. Our favorite residents are American Girl Place, Madewell, See’s Candies, and Nordstrom.

Also at The Grove is LA’s legendary Farmer’s Market, a sprawling market with incredible eateries, gourmet grocers, and shops. Come hungry; you’re going to want everything you see and smell. 

39. Stop By Marina Del Rey

Marina Del Rey is a gorgeous seaside town with vibrant blooms, waterfront dining, and hotels. You can also get out on the water in various ways, with fishing and sailing being the most popular. I’ll admit I went there because the country-music great, George Strait, sang about it.

40. See The Carlsbad Flower Fields

I lucked into seeing the colorful and eye-catching Flower Fields on a visit to Carlsbad, California, one year. The stunning views and bright blooms are among the most extraordinary things you can see or do in this quaint North San Diego town. Fifty acres come to life during this annual 40-year tradition.

Seeing the American Flag of Flowers was my favorite part of the event, while the little ones will enjoy the antique tractor wagon tours, Sweet Pea maze, and Santa’s Playground.

41. Go To The Oakland Zoo

The Oakland Zoo is a special place to enjoy animal encounters and learn about conservation. You can also ride the ADA-accessible gondolas from the central zoo to the California Trail for the impressive city and mountain views. Plan to spend two to three hours minimum here. 

The Oakland Zoo, established in 1922, contains elephants, bison, black and Grizzly bears, and jaguars, to name a few. Amphibians, birds, reptiles, and invertebrates also have unique features and educational sections at the zoo. 

42. Attend An International Film Festival in SLO

The San Luis Obispo International Film Festival, in its 29th year, runs like a well-oiled machine. Visit a host of theaters (Fremont and The Palm) and venues in neighboring seaside towns to see incredible movies during a six-day annual event showcasing classic and contemporary screenings.

The festival will pick a winner for the King Vidor Award for Excellence in Filmmaking, a tribute to an industry professional who has made a notable artistic contribution to the industry.

43. Eat Goodies From Porto’s Bakery

You’ve had the rest, now have the best—pastries, that is. Portos Bakery & Cafe is a vast Cuban bakery chain in Southern California with six locations. Anything pastry-related that you can think of is offered in this world-class eatery. You can also order your drink of choice ranging from teas, coffee, and smoothies to soda, juice, milk, and mojito fusions. 

44. Attend An Event At The Staples Center

The STAPLES Center, opened in 1999, is Los Angeles’ contribution to the sports and entertainment center of the world. Yes, world. The STAPLES Center has hosted Taylor Swift, Kane Brown, and Bruce Springsteen. It is home to the LA Clippers (hockey), LA Kings (basketball) games, and some minor league teams. The STAPLES Center has also hosted the Grammy Awards 19 times. Pre-COVID, the STAPLES Center hosted 250 events annually and saw four million guests each year. 

A statue dedicated to Kobe Bryant will stand in front of the venue in the future. 

45. See San Fran’s Painted Ladies

If you see the colorfully painted houses throughout San Francisco that make your jaw drop due to intricate detail and beauty, you’ve found the famous Painted Ladies. The Victorian and Edwardian houses are noticeable by the three or more paint colors that embellish their innovative architectural features and dramatic windows. Many homes were built in the late 1800s and have been renovated for nearly 50 years.

Prices run the gamut from two to five or six million, many in need of repair, and pay tribute to the California Gold Rush.

46. Admire San Diego’s Skyline

San Diego has a gorgeous skyline and waterfront views that are often overshadowed by more popular California coastal towns. I love the city and think taking a Hornblower cruise is one of the best ways to capture its eloquence and magnificent photo-ops.

If you are in town on a Sunday, you can board the Hornblower San Diego Champagne Brunch cruise, which is really fun and packed with delicious food and drinks.

47. Have A Beach Bonfire in Santa Cruz

The city of Santa Cruz, California, is home to eye-catching sunsets, killer beaches, and the historic amusement park (SC Beach Boardwalk) right on the water’s edge. Residents and tourists take advantage of the sprawling beach, with picture-perfect views, to camp, sunbathe, frolic, and have bonfires.

On my visit, I was fortunate to participate in one with the California tourism board, complete with S’Mores. Santa Cruz has a vibe that I didn’t associate with California. I would visit this area again and again.

Where To Stay in California

We have stayed at some amazing properties on our California visits. A few of our favorites are:

• Waterfront Hotel, Oakland
• Shutters on the Beach, Santa Monica
• Montage, Laguna Beach
• Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach, Dana Point

• The Inn at Spanish Bay, Pebble Beach
• Inn at Pasatiempo, Santa Cruz
• The Ritz Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara
• Claremont Club & Spa, Berkeley
• Four Seasons Residence Club Aviara, North San Diego
• Omni La Costa Resort & Spa, Carlsbad
• Chamberlain, West Hollywood

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