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20 Things to See and Do in Southern California
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items As a Native Californian, I love my state and all it has to offer. Here's a list of some great things to see and do while in Southern California. I listed activities that were not directly affected by the recent fires. While many of Southern Californi...
The Hollywood Sign is an iconic symbol of Los Angeles, and seeing it up close is an unforgettable experience. There are several trails that lead to the sign, but my favorite is the Brush Canyon Trail. It’s a bit longer than others, but it’s also less...
Discover The Best Hiking Paths Around the Hollywood Sign
Balboa Park is a must-visit destination for anyone heading to San Diego. This sprawling urban park is home to 17 museums, beautiful gardens, and the world-famous San Diego Zoo. Walking through the park’s Spanish Colonial Revival buildings feels like ...
Balboa Park: Home
Venice Beach is more than just a beach—it’s a cultural experience. The boardwalk is alive with street performers, artists, and vendors, making it the perfect place for people-watching. As the day winds down, find a spot on the sand to watch the sunse...
The Venice Beach Boardwalk - Los Angeles - LAParks.org
The Getty Center is a masterpiece of art, architecture, and breathtaking views. Located on a hilltop in Los Angeles, the museum houses an impressive collection of European paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. The building itself is a work of a...
Getty Museum
Temecula’s wine country is a hidden gem in Southern California. Just an hour from Los Angeles, it’s the perfect escape for wine lovers. I visited Callaway Vineyard and Winery, and it quickly became my favorite. Their tasting room overlooks rolling vi...
Cable Car Wine Tours: The Best Temecula Wine Tours
Old Town Pasadena is a delightful mix of historic charm and modern amenities. The streets are lined with beautiful architecture, boutique shops, and trendy cafes. One of my favorite spots is the Norton Simon Museum, which boasts an impressive collect...
Old Pasadena
La Jolla Cove is a natural wonder that you can’t miss when visiting San Diego. The tide pools here are teeming with marine life, from starfish and sea anemones to crabs and small fish. The best time to visit is during low tide, when you can get up cl...
La Jolla Cove
The Santa Monica Pier is a quintessential Southern California destination, and the Ferris wheel is its crown jewel. There’s nothing quite like the feeling of being at the top, looking out over the Pacific Ocean as the sun sets on the horizon. The pie...
Pacific Wheel
Driving the Pacific Coast Highway is an adventure that everyone should experience at least once. The winding road offers breathtaking views of the coastline, with cliffs, beaches, and ocean waves stretching as far as the eye can see. One of my favori...
The Classic Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip
Disneyland is known as the happiest place on earth, and it’s easy to see why. From thrilling rides to magical parades, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. One of my insider tips is to visit midweek during the off-season to avoid long lines and c...
Disneyland Park
Catalina Island is a tropical paradise just a short ferry ride from the Southern California coast. The island’s main town, Avalon, is charming and full of character, with quaint shops, beachfront restaurants, and a relaxed vibe. One of the highlights...
Catalina Island | Hotels, Restaurants & Island Adventures
The TCL Chinese Theatre in Hollywood is an iconic landmark that’s steeped in history. Walking through its ornate gates feels like stepping back into the golden age of cinema. The theater is famous for its forecourt, where you can see the handprints a...
TCL Chinese Theatre
Joshua Tree National Park is a landscape unlike any other, with its iconic Joshua trees, rugged rock formations, and sprawling desert vistas. Hiking here feels like stepping onto another planet. One of my favorite trails is Hidden Valley, which takes...
Joshua Tree - National Park Service
The Grove is more than just a shopping center—it’s an experience. With its open-air design, dancing fountain, and charming trolley, it’s a place where you can shop, dine, and relax all in one spot. The stores range from high-end boutiques to popular ...
Shopping Center in Los Angeles, California | The Grove LA
The San Diego Zoo is world-renowned for its incredible collection of animals and its commitment to conservation. Spanning 100 acres, the zoo is home to more than 12,000 animals, including giant pandas, koalas, and polar bears. One of the best ways to...
San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance | Home page
Whale watching in Newport Beach is an unforgettable experience that brings you up close to some of the ocean’s most majestic creatures. During the winter months, gray whales migrate along the coast, and you can often see them breaching or spouting. I...
Newport Beach Whale Watching Tours | Newport Landing in Southern California
Mission San Juan Capistrano is a beautifully preserved piece of California’s history. Founded in 1776, the mission is known for its stunning architecture, serene gardens, and rich cultural significance. The mission also hosts events throughout the ye...
Daily Tours - Mission San Juan Capistrano
Huntington Beach, also known as Surf City USA, is a haven for surfers of all skill levels. The waves here are consistent, making it a great spot for beginners and pros alike. If you’ve never surfed before, there are plenty of surf schools offering le...
Huntington Beach Pier Southside Surf Report & Forecast - Surfline
The Queen Mary is a historic ocean liner that’s permanently docked in Long Beach. Stepping aboard feels like traveling back in time to the golden age of transatlantic travel. The ship is filled with elegant Art Deco details, and you can explore every...
The Queen Mary
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is a breathtaking escape into Southern California’s rugged wilderness. The park, the largest in the state, is known for its stunning desert landscapes, slot canyons, and unique metal sculptures scattered throughout the ...
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park