Best time to visit California depends on what activities you would like to experience. The quiet and uncrowded period from January to March can be perfect for a trip, particularly if you are into winter sports and whale watching. Movie addicted will be happy to catch Academy Awards in wintertime. April and May invite you to California's fantastic national parks to discover powerful waterfalls, winding hiking trails, and hypnotizing poppy blooming. The packed period between June and August is perfect for a beach holiday, rafting or kayaking on crystal clear waters of Lake Tahoe or watching Perseid Meteor Shower. Moro Rock and Mount Shasta are here for you during hot and sunny summer. Balmy weather in September–October and spectacular foliage create a perfect backdrop for the grape harvest. November and December are all about Christmas spirit and changeable weather. New Year's Eve Fireworks, Boat Parades and SnowGlobe Festival will impress you to the moon and back.
After winter rains dry hills burst with new life striking with billions of technicolor orange poppies
One of the driest places on the planet occasionally gets covered with color
One of the few deserts in the world that comes to life in spring
One of the most scenic coastal areas in Big Sur
Yosemite Glaciers, symbols of the changing world, may disappear completely within just a few decades
Driving along a large number of picturesque roads with stops near the highlights and most unique spots can be a perfect vacation plan
Waterfall droplets and the full moon create gorgeous lunar rainbow displays
Photographers spend days here trying to catch all of that fragrant tenderness with their cameras
A curious optical phenomenon occurs quite rarely and only in special locations. If you are in the right time and in the right place, just look up to the sky
Enjoy watching the beauty and hearing the roar of this jaw-dropping, massive and powerful falls
Yosemite is a paradise for wildflower enthusiasts
If you are looking for a stunning coastal scenery, you are on the right path
An enormous drain hole which looks a portal into another world is especially impressive during the rainy season
Beautiful coastline, amazing forests, and gorgeous mountains—Big Sur has it all
Delicate sakura opens the tree blooming season in the Golden State
The absolutely best way to get around Yosemite Valley is by bike
Oysters are consumed in San Francisco and other cities on the California's coast in accordance with “R” myth that determines the oyster season
The power of water carved a heart in a solid stone. Such natural sites inspire and give hopes
One of the best hidden treasures of the Orange County
These seals with elephant noses roam the ocean searching for food, and go ashore to breed and molt
Visit the most sinister attraction in San Francisco Bay
Take in the unique surroundings of the unusual spot of Death Valley National Park
A great way to relax during hot summer days
The finest way to warm oneself up on a chilly summer day is to eat a portion of American clam chowder
One of the most scenic mountain drives on the West Coast
Magical sparkling scenery and a wide range of activities attract people to Lake Tahoe each winter
One has to try hard to take a picture of a hummingbird—it moves so fast that sometimes it's better just to sit back and enjoy
Ride through towering old-growth redwoods of Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park
A strenuous canyon hike to a few beautiful waterfalls
Take a deep breath and start one of the most beautiful hikes to the top of this bald granite rock formation with stunning views of Sequoia National Park
This unique manmade underground world features fruit gardens and amazing stonework
Huge spherical stones lining the beach make it unique and beautiful
A hidden gem of Northern California
You'd never think sand dunes can have so many unique secrets kept inside
Amazing swells, great weather conditions, and various opportunities on dozens of ideal surfing beaches are waiting for you in the Golden State
The hottest place on Earth features lots of unique spots and this is one of the most bizarre places to visit
You'll find no better way to discover America than this lengthy hike across 15 states, from the Atlantic to the Pacific. For such a long journey, one needs at least a year of time reserved
A small desert oasis was a popular hippie hangout
Picturesque scenery, varied terrain, and gentle weather conditions attract cyclists to the Golden State
It is possible to go skiing and surfing in Los Angeles on the same day
From North to South, California observes the giant marine creatures migration every year
Colorful Martian landscape was created by centuries of erosion
Visit the largest lake in California located in the desert. The Salton Sea was created due to extreme natural forces and has been changing from year to year, and may disappear in the nearest future
It is believed that the Bald Eagle symbolizes strength, courage, freedom, and immortality
An elaborate film set built in the 1940s in the desert as a Wild West facade for several Western films
The road reveals scenic landscapes of the northern part of the large national park
This waterfall is as hard to find as its name suggests
Watch the sea of clouds from one of the most beautiful camps in California
Alpine scenery is just an hour away from downtown Los Angeles
The skies get filled with beautiful winged creatures
Some enthusiasts try to reach the summit of the highest mountains in the world, but how about the smallest?
The red carpet is rolled out, and movie stars are ready to pose in front of the cameras
Experience the beautiful desert without crowds
California's rivers are strong, fast, and full of water flow
Just choose the right season and the right spot to enjoy your favourite water activity in the Sunny State
This remote canyon in the Santa Ana Mountains is popular with hikers and black magic followers
A very Californian desert attraction
A beautiful beach overlooking Malibu
Come and see unique brown pelicans in their natural habitat
This favourite place for rock climber training offers over 8,000 routes
The most famous Victorian home on the West Coast
A beautiful and popular site in El Dorado county
Art can have various forms, and the residents of San Luis Obisco have found a new one
This three-day event can be the most romantic escape filled with the taste of good wine, spectacular flights, and pleasant time
You have never been so close to the formidable American armed forces
For just a few days each year, this waterfall is illuminated by the sun and becomes one of Yosemite’s most amazing spectacles
Houses around Naples Island are known to put on the best displays in Southern California
Celebrate Uncle Sam at the 4th of July Block Party with live music, greetings, and fireworks
The largest in the US, this colourful Mexican festival celebrates the awakening of nature
The only jazz festival in Southern California
The Fair has been attracting people for over 150 years. Come and join this spectacular celebration
Yellow fruit of ancient ginkgo trees: aromatic or stinky – you are to decide
The tastiest time of the year in Los Angeles
Feel the scale of the largest living trees on the planet
Mid-October is the only time to experience a crystal hunt at this unique lake
Stars begin to fall in the middle of summer—get ready to make some wishes
One of the most beautiful holiday traditions in California
Witness breathtaking New Year's celebration with spectacular waterfront fireworks at midnight
Dog surfers from all over the country gather along the Imperial Beach and Huntington Beach shoreline to take part in surfing competitions and win the first prize. You should witness it in order to believe it
A fun day on the beach with hundreds of cute short-legged dogs
This spectacular boat show is a great Christmas time family event
If you are looking for some amazing moves on waves, this event is definitely for you
Stroll the village lanes brimming with people and handicrafts demonstrating Renaissance times
Tens of thousands of North American monarchs head to California for their honeymoon, and wedding night falls on Valentine's Day
Go back to Victorian London at the historic Cow Palace Exhibition Halls
See the weirdest vehicles along the varied track or join the kinetic sculpture race and have fun
A community-driven world class reggae festival
Spend a few days of your life in a "Mad Max" movie setting
Winter wonderland does exist in Southern California, you'll find it in Orange County
Visit the home of giant sequoias and discover the biggest among the biggest by sheer volume
If you think that tricycle bikes are designed for 3-year-old kids only, you are wrong. Even an adult can have fun riding it if one knows where and when to try it. Annual tricycle races down the curviest street in the world welcome enthusiasts to San Francisco
Streets and pubs of San Francisco are taken by joyful drunken Santas
The tallest waterfall in the park, Yosemite Falls is one of its iconic landmarks
Check out the grandest view in all the West
Cinco de Mayo introduces the best of Mexican culture preserved in San Francisco
Enjoy the sparkling lights of hundreds of beautifully decorated vessels. There's always the chance to participate in a parade with your own boat or as a passenger too
Christmas nightly entertainment in the Zoo is for the whole family: thousands of garlands and Santa Claus
Ocean is an artist able to turn rubbish into treasure—check out smooth rubies, sapphires and other jewels that used to be pieces of broken glass
The world's top cyclists cover hundreds of kilometres of spectacular roads and grueling passes; you'll see fascinating sprints and dramatic finishes
Winter in California can reveal some real magic of light
The vineyard beds decorated with mustard blooms form a huge bright yellow spot among the dull winter colours
One of Pacific Grove's most prominent sights
One of the biggest and most popular music festivals is a chance to meet all stars in one place
Admire bronze and amber foliage throughout the Golden State
One of the most unique art events in the world with plenty of art treasures to observe
Visit iconic falls when they show their full power, fed by melting snow and ice
Everybody loves when a cute ladybug lands on one's palm. What about hundreds of thousands at once? This can happen near San Francisco in California
If you are a true comic fan this event should be number one on your list! Step into the world of fiction, act like your favourite hero, and meet your idols
One of the most spectacular, adventurous, and popular hiking trails in Yosemite draws crowds of visitors every day during the high season
A beautiful holiday tradition which brings the Christmas spirit to the Bay area
Beauty varies. Even the ugliest living being can make someone happy
A summer celebration full of carnival rides, lawn concerts, adorable animals, and funnel cakes
Top names of jazz gather together in one place to share their talent among real fans. Don't miss one of the greatest jazz events in the world!
One of the most awaited events in the whole world. It's always exciting to watch the ceremony online, but being a part of it and seeing all your favourite stars passing by right in front of you is a unique experience
Feel some Western charm at Santa Clarita valley recreating the atmosphere of its cowboy past
Every spring over a million purple blossoms drape from the tangled branches, and you can visit the place only during the annual Wistaria Festival
Try avoiding busy weekends and school holidays to enjoy shorter queues in the day full of rides and fun
An all-star jazz festival held in an iconic location
From monster trucks to camel races and stunning music performances to remarkable food, there's so much more to do at the fairground
Weird limestone creations that emerge from the lake surface attract naturalists and curious tourists. Are they natural, or is it another art installation?
An old travelling stones mystery still keeps people puzzled
A great energetic way to explore the city
Every year, on April 20 or 4/20, thousands flock to Sharon Meadows to celebrate cannabis culture
The biggest television event of the year
A huge number of varied beaches with white sands and clear waters give you the chance to choose a perfect spot within the coastline of the Golden State
People come to Japantown to celebrate spring’s arrival and the joys of life in a Japanese way
Strawberry pizza anyone?
A fun 5K race that will wake up your inner child
These coastal dunes are a site of interest for several unique reasons. Find out why!
The absence of snow is not a reason to give up this Christmas fun—skating outdoors
Visit the first permanent mountain top observatory in the world
A maritime extravaganza by the beach is one of the best in California
A signature holiday event of Palm Springs and Coachella Valley
The highest highway pass in California and Sierra Nevada Mountains
The striking colours of volcanic ash dunes are especially spectacular during glow hour
Examine your stamina during one of the hardest races in the world
Visit one of the best museums in San Francisco for free
This music festival in Napa Valley combines amazing performances with culinary shows
Thousands dream to participate in this prestigious marathon in Los Angeles
Grape harvest season in SF comes along with beautiful yellow foliage and pleasant temperatures
The longest-running film festival in America
Groove to the sweet vibes of roots reggae and world music
Spiced with local humour, Easter in San Francisco definitely stands out in the crowd
One of the largest celebrations of Mexican culture north of the border
A must-do event for a true jazz enthusiast in Yountville
These species of shark are peaceful and calm creatures that love summer and enjoy warm waters
Meet some A-list stars and attend exciting presentations and special events followed by glamourous night parties
A great place to celebrate the harvest season is Full Belly Farm where the fun never ends, especially for kids
Huge and spectacular LGBT weekend with over 40 years of history
Dressed like Santa, surfers raise money for people living with autism
Great lineup in the middle of Mojave desert
A dazzling celebration of America's independence around the scenic Lake Tahoe
Watch Napa Valley come to life with the thrill and rush of the harvest
Kick off the holiday season and get lost in the world’s largest corn maze
Immerse yourself in a festive Christmas atmosphere
The Bay Area’s newest popular holiday tradition
Beautiful lakes nestled in scenic High Sierra mountains
A great outlook at the eastern Sierra Nevada
A beautiful drive in Sierra Nevada mountains
Celebrate New Year's Eve with a cold, fresh mountain view, perfect powder, your favorite snow activities, and the world's best musicians—all in one place
A unique chance to explore a large lava tube formed thousands of years ago
Discover what California’s best fest can bring
Bay area event, with an eclectic lineup of diverse musicians
A popular holiday event draws spectators from all over Silicon Valley
Unbelievable surfing in California's heartland along with beach fun, music and parties
The biggest event in Los Angeles Koreatown
Amusement parks, scary attractions and amazing costume parties throughout the state
Witness a beautiful holiday transformation of the city when entire neighborhoods dress to impress
Testigo de la impresionante celebración de Año Nuevo con espectaculares fuegos artificiales frente al mar a medianoche
Watch a fascinating natural phenomenon in California's parks and deserts
If you are a tennis fan, this is your chance to see favorite players up close
The spiky peel of the cactus pear covers surpeisingly tasty melon-like juicy pulp
The largest specialty food and beverage show on the West Coast
A magical light display in Los Angeles County
One of most famous trails of Yosemite Park
A perfect way to relax and enjoy the beauty of the surrounding nature
One of the most popular golf events in the world annually takes place in Northern California. The perfect green fields with a stunning ocean overview welcome top pros, as well as amateurs and a large number of celebrities
Everyone who loves music is waiting for this glamorous event to see the best shows and performances, best singers, and great bands
One of the longest living organisms on our planet can be found in the high mountainous regions of California
Check out these fascinating racing competitions and one of the largest bike expos in the US—this event is a real celebration of cycling
These unique symmetrical columns created by the forces of nature attract people from all over the world
This kingdom of birds is a delight to any nature fan
Seven dazzlingly beautiful lakes in a single-day hike..let's go?
Sumergirse en un ambiente festivo de Navidad
One of the most enjoyable and fun water activities is popular all along the California coastline
Crystal clear waters near the island of Santa Catalina with its rich underwater world are perfect for diving
From Mexico to Canada or reverse, a crest of mountains follows along the western states of the USA, washed by the Pacific waters—it's one of the world's most scenic natural corridors
With spectacular State Capitol Finish this marathon features an easy downhill course and can help you to qualify for the Boston Marathon
Ten days to get the best of Oakland's restaurant scene
Prepare to be stunned by beautiful vistas of Lake Tahoe
With dozens of trails and lakes, this area is a hiker's paradise
The first sign of spring on the Pacific Coast
This majestic mountain draws lots of hikers, climbers, and mystics
Large animals, dense, and stocky with low and strong limbs, live in the mountains in the vicinity of Los Angeles
A three-day celebration of garlic and other delicious foods
The largest military air show in the country
An old Californian end-of-summer tradition
Winter holidays in the desert can be fun!
¡Las vacaciones de invierno en el desierto pueden ser divertidas!
Flower Tet Festival and other festive events
Learn about Asian cultures and try delicious foods during the colorful celebration
As ocean waters warm up, white sharks start their annual migration between Mexico and Southern California
Dance, party and socialize at this boutique music festival
Stand atop an active volcano with the largest lava dome on Earth
A beautiful chain of lakes high in the Sierra Nevada Mountains
An oasis nestled among rocks and beautiful granite slabs
A popular climbing spot in Sierra Nevada Mountains
One of the biggest high-elevation meadows in the Sierra Nevada Mountains
A popular hiking destination in Sequoia National Park
The largest entertainment event in San Joaquin Valley
The three-day running festival with multiple options with stunning views
The most scenic run in the whole United States
How about celebrating Independence Day in Santa Cruz style?
Experience winter fun in Southern California
Las casas alrededor de la isla de Nápoles son conocidas por poner en las mejores exhibiciones en el sur de California
Discover the top six places to visit during NYE in The Golden State
Un evento popular de vacaciones atrae espectadores de todo Silicon Valley
Testigo de una hermosa transformación vacacional de la ciudad cuando los barrios enteros se visten para impresionar