Let’s face it… sometimes, we all have that urge to visit quieter, lesser-frequented spots than the usual destinations. If you’re the kind of traveler who prefers exploring hidden gems, California is sure to please your adventurous heart. The state is home to some pretty unique places you should visit!
California is a vast and diverse state, with plenty of opportunities to discover secret spots that are off the beaten path. From secluded beaches and hidden hot springs to lesser-known national parks and charming small towns, there’s no shortage of hidden gems to explore. So, if you’re up for an adventure and want to experience the true essence of California, be sure to venture beyond the usual tourist destinations and discover some of the state’s best-kept secrets.
Whether you’ve already visited the Golden State’s main destinations, like the San Diego Zoo or Death Valley, or you simply prefer getting off the beaten path a bit, here are some of the most unique places to visit when visiting California!
The Most Unique Places to Visit in California for the Ultimate Road Trip
Unique Places To Stay In California
California is home to some of the most unique and interesting places to stay in the world. From treehouse rentals to historic lighthouses, there’s something for everyone. If you’re a nature lover, you might want to check out the amazing treehouse rentals in places like Big Bear, Santa Cruz, or Sonoma County. Waking up surrounded by trees and birdsong in Northern California is a magical experience that you won’t forget anytime soon.
For a touch of glamour, you could try glamping in a luxury tent in Yosemite or a yurt in Big Sur. These accommodations offer all the comforts of a hotel room. But, with the added bonus of being surrounded by nature. If you’re looking for something truly unique, why not stay in a castle? The Hearst Castle in San Simeon and the Castle Green in Pasadena are both stunning options. They’ll make you feel like royalty. And if you’re a water baby, you might want to consider staying on a houseboat on Lake Shasta, Lake Oroville, or even Lake Tahoe. Whatever your preferences, California has something special to offer. Now let’s talk about some of the unique places to visit!
Solvang
Reminiscent of Denmark, a visit to Solvang will make you wonder if you were magically transported to the other side of the Atlantic. Imagine windmills, rural Danish cottages lining the streets, and all sorts of quaint little bakeries and restaurants offering delicious treats to please your sweet tooth. Besides pleasing your foodie’s heart (do try out the fresh bear claw and the Danish kringle), wine tasting is also a big thing at Solvang. With picturesque vineyards lining the outskirts of town.
Another quirky activity, if you’ve got a bit more time to spare during your visit, is driving out of town to the nearby Ostrichland. Which is a farm that’s home to ostriches and emus and the perfect way to cap off visiting one of the most picture-perfect small towns!
Galleta Meadows at Borrego Springs
Scavenger hunts are not fun. And Galleta Meadows is probably the ultimate place for one! One hundred thirty gigantic crafted metal sculptures depicting all sorts of creatures are spread over the town of Borrego Springs. And even though some of them can measure up to 10 feet tall, it can be pretty hard to spot them in the middle of the desert. It’s only a 2-hour drive from San Diego!
Among the sculptures, you’ll find dinosaurs, elephants, sloths, fantastic creatures, and gigantic insects. So you’re very likely to find your favorite animal during the search. Drive around in your car or rent an e-bike to cover as much ground as possible. And keep track of how many you can find!
Malibu Creek State Park
If a day or two spent amidst nature sounds like your kind of gig, Malibu Creek State Park is the perfect place in Southern California for you. Set a mere 25 miles from downtown Los Angeles, this park offers some of the best vistas of the city and the Pacific Ocean below.
Located in the Santa Monica Mountains, this state park boasts amazing hiking and biking trails. All of which come with incredible views every inch of the way. Do watch out for wildlife, as these mountains are home to coyotes, deer, rattlesnakes, and mountain lions!
In case you’re keen on more adventures, you can also rock climb, explore the terrain on horseback, or kayak down its waters. Camping is also a big thing here. So spending the night is a marvelous option if you want to truly experience this gem of a park.
Lassen Volcanic National Park
Lassen Volcanic National Park is one of California’s biggest hidden jewels. Despite its stunning natural beauty and unique features, many California residents are not aware of its existence.
One of the most fascinating things about Lassen is that it is located in a seismically active area. As a result, visitors have the opportunity to witness sulfur vents and bubbling mud points emerging from the ground. These features are similar to those found in Yosemite National Park, but Lassen offers a great alternative for those who prefer to avoid crowds.
Overall, Lassen Volcanic National Park is a must-see destination for anyone who loves nature and wants to explore the wonders of California’s natural landscape.
Pinnacles National Park
Pinnacles, which recently got its national park status in 2013, is another prime spot to visit if a hidden, off-the-beaten-track gem is what you’re after. Like Lassen, not many people know Pinnacles exist. This makes it the ideal spot for those wanting to enjoy the best of Cali’s nature without having to share it with crowds of visitors.
Sitting on top of the San Andreas Fault and two and a half hours away from San Francisco, Pinnacles is home to some wacky-looking rock formations. And two caves that you can explore to your heart’s content. Cave exploring here is not very difficult. Which makes it a great family-friendly activity for those who are traveling with kids.
Rock climbing is another favorite activity here. And you’ll find options that range from beginner lessons to multi-day adventures if you’re looking for a way to challenge your mountaineering skills!
While exploring Pinnacles, make sure to be on the lookout for Condors. It’s one of the best places in the US to spot them in their natural habitat. While they’re a critically endangered species, sightings are very common thanks to the park’s reintroduction program.
Capitolia
If you think Santa Cruz is pretty, Capitolia will get your jaw dropping right to the ground. This colorful seaside town is a haven for photographers. As the town is lined by clusters of picture-perfect houses colored in every shade of the rainbow.
Moreover, Capitolia boasts super laid-back vibes that brim that summer vacation feeling. And despite its discreet status, it still has a ton of activities scheduled on its calendar to keep visitors and locals alike entertained all day long.
Besides enjoying the beach during the day (New Brighton State Beach is a great spot), this cute seaside village offers plenty of eateries, shopping, and a ton of seasonal events like the Capitola Art & Wine Festival. Movies and the Beach, and the Twilight Concert Series!
Best Time To Go To California
The best time of year to visit California depends on what you’re looking for. If you’re hoping to hit the beaches and soak up the sun, the summer months of June through August are your best bet. These months are typically warm and dry, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, surfing, and other water activities. However, be prepared for crowds and higher prices during their peak season.
The spring and fall months of March through May and September through November are ideal for outdoor activities. During these months, the weather is usually mild and comfortable. This makes it the perfect time to hit the trails and enjoy the natural beauty of California. The winter months can also be a great time to visit California, especially if you’re a fan of skiing and snow sports. Just make sure to pack accordingly and plan ahead for any weather conditions or seasonal events that might affect your trip.
Visit California now and experience the ultimate road trip adventure!
From treehouse rentals to historic lighthouses, and luxury tents to houseboats, there’s no shortage of amazing experiences to be had in California.
Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or just looking for a one-of-a-kind adventure, California has it all. And with so many diverse landscapes and attractions, you’re sure to find something that speaks to you. So why not cross off this bucket list item and hit the road? Explore all that this amazing state has to offer. I promise you won’t be disappointed.
Have you ever been to any of these unique California destinations? If so, which one was your favorite? Let me know all about your time there in the comment section below!
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