Going back to Cali? How to plan the perfect vacation in California

There are so many reasons why Vancouverites love to visit California. We dream of the beach culture, the perfect sunny weather, the wine tours, the theme parks, the arts culture and the music festivals. California is home to legendary beaches, stunning nature and some of the world’s most iconic landmarks. Cali also boasts a world-class arts and entertainment culture, holding some of the world’s most popular music festivals and art experiences.

We’re fortunate to live so close to this top tourist destination, and since the most popular time to visit Cali is in the Spring and Summer, many of us are planning our getaways as we speak. There are amazing sights to see in California, and we don’t want you to miss out on any of them. Here are some tips on how to plan the perfect Cali trip:

Plan to expand your horizons

The great thing about travel is that there’s always an opportunity to see something truly unique – something that is unlike anything you’ve ever experienced before. California has a lot to offer when it comes to this. You could visit a historic landmark that would help you realize how grateful and free you are, or take a historic tour. This often requires research and planning, but is well worth it.

Visiting Alcatraz Island is a must if you’re in San Francisco. It’s home to the world’s most notorious prison. The abandoned Alcatraz prison was where Al “Scarface” Capone once served time, among many other notorious inmates.

If you’re looking to expand your horizons in terms of both art and history, The Dark and Wounded is known for its dark and emotional art exhibits held at various historic venues in California. The Dark and Wounded is the ultimate unique and intimate experience, as well as a world-class art experience.

Experience world-class beach culture

California is home to some of America’s best beaches. The state’s legendary beaches include Venice Beach, Newport Beach, Laguna Beach, Malibu Beach, Huntington Beach and many others. You’ll need a car: you’re going to want to see all these beaches.

The beach culture thrives in part because of the youthful surf culture in California. The cities of California keep their beaches in pristine condition, and beach life is one of the best experiences the state offers.

Venice Beach is one of the best beaches in Cali to witness all of the wonderful ingredients of beach culture work their magic. A visit to Venice Beach is where you’ll see the infamous Venice boardwalk lined with colourful shops and restaurants. The beach is filled with sun-kissed locals playing beach volleyball while cyclists and skateboarders whiz past you along the boardwalk. Aspiring artists will play music for you, and freestyle rappers will ask you for your name so they can rap about you. All in all, it’s nothing but good vibes at Venice Beach.

See breathtaking natural wonders

The nature of California will take your breath away. The state is home to beautiful natural wonders such as natural bridges, hidden coves, pristine lakes, waterfalls, gorgeous hiking and even black sand beaches.

Depending on which of the state’s cities you’re visiting, research the national parks in the area and be sure to see some mind-blowing nature while you’re in Cali. We recommend seeing Yosemite National Park, best known for its stunning waterfalls.

Wine and dine

California is home to some of our nation’s best vineyards and restaurants. It’s also one of the few states where there’s a high likelihood you’ll spot a celebrity dining at a nearby table.

You’ll want to plan ahead and make reservations. The ingredient-rich state is a foodie’s paradise, with world-class restaurants, stunning views and menus prepared by world-renowned top chefs.

The wineries are also some of the nation’s best. If you’re in San Francisco, top wine-growing destinations include Napa Valley, Sonoma Valley and many others. In the Los Angeles area great wineries include the San Antonio Winery and The Malibu Estate, Rosenthal.

Entertainment

Whether you’re enjoying street performers at Santa Monica’s infamous Third Street Promenade, witnessing some great theatre or going to see Imagine Dragons at the Bottle Rock Festival in Napa Valley, there’s always something great to see in California.

The state also boasts some of the world’s best theme parks, such as Disneyland and Six Flags, as well as prime amusement parks such as Universal Studios. Visitors to the sunny state can even get free tickets to be guests on their favourite talk shows. The endless entertainment options prove why the state is so famous for its world-class entertainment culture.

What are some of your favourite things to see in California?