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Looking for fun places to visit in Southern California? SoCal is packed full of coastal cities, hiking trails, theme parks, beautiful beaches, national parks, unique shopping, and glorious views. Fabulous weather makes the outdoor Southern California lifestyle accessible all year long.
No matter what you are looking to do, Southern California will deliver. Here are a few of the best places to visit when adventuring around the lower half of our marvelous golden state.
Santa Barbara
They call Santa Barbara the "American Riviera" for a good reason. It offers a one-of-a-kind European ambiance with a secluded and sophisticated feel. Just ask the numerous A-list stars that call it home. Right now, Santa Barbara is experiencing a bit of a renaissance. Classic fine dining is taking a back seat to the millennial-inspired once industrial wine and restaurant district known as the "Funk Zone."
Dining and style aside, the classic bones of this charming vacation destination remain. You'll enjoy views of Channel Islands National Park, the beauty of the Santa Ynez Mountains, the fruits of the nearby Santa Ynez Valley wine country, and the timeless beauty of Mission Santa Barbara. If you are traveling with children, you cannot miss the MOXI children's discovery museum or the Sea Center on the pier. If you aren't quite ready for the Amalfi Coast or French Riviera, take a stab at Santa Barbara and you'll quickly realize you're right where you need to be.
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Santa Monica Pier
If you find yourself looking to escape the traffic jams of Downtown Los Angeles, head west towards the Pacific Ocean to Santa Monica. Start with a stroll down the infamous Third Street Promenade to watch the street performers. Grab a cocktail or appetizer at Elephante before walking towards the iconic Santa Monica Pier.
You may not be able to see the famed Hollywood sign or Universal Studios Hollywood from this coastal city, but this West Coast version of Coney Island has fun things around every corner. Enjoy the Playland Arcade, carnival games of Pacific Park, and catch the Pacific Wheel at sunset for a birds-eye view of this coastal gem in Los Angeles County. If you are visiting Southern California with kids, check out the nearby Tongva Park, which doubles as a life-sized art gallery.
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Disneyland Resort
Don't forget Disneyland (the world-famous amusement park) is also located in Southern California's Orange County. However, it is no longer your parents' Disneyland. The resort has evolved into a sprawling city of its own with Downtown Disney (a dining, shopping, and entertainment district) cutting between the two separate theme parks. Disneyland Park is filled with magic from your classic Walt Disney movies, while the new kid on the block, Disney's California Adventure offers more thrill rides centered around Pixar and Marvel themes.
Don't miss the sunset in Radiator Springs as the neon lights begin to glow and the classic Sh-Boom (Life Could Be a Dream) plays as the sun goes down. A perfect time for a short rest while enjoying one of California Adventure's craft beer offerings. The park hopper ticket is ideal and will let you enjoy the best of the two amusement parks in one day. It is sure to be a busy day, but nonetheless an experience that should not be missed and one of the best places to visit in Southern California!
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SHOP SOZY
Idyllwild
Just south of the San Bernardino National Forest in Southern California, this little town in the San Jacinto Mountains has some serious character. Nature lovers will appreciate the abundance of hiking trails and wildlife, while art buffs flock to this mountain town to inspire and create. A day out in Idyllwild is sure to include funky art galleries, live music, and wonderful food.
Don't miss the art gallery/restaurant Aroma Cafe for lunch. Stop by Candy Cupboard for the best treat, a homemade ice cream bar rolled in fudge, covered in the toppings of your choice. Take your kids to the Idyllwild Nature Center for a great afternoon of hiking and learning about the area. Catch some live music in the town square before heading to Ferro for a dinner. Long story short, Idyllwild is one of the best places to visit in Southern California if you are looking for good eats, good music, and good times.
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Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree National Park is a unique place everyone should visit in Southern California. There are miles of Joshua Tree-lined open roads, changing landscapes, adventurous hikes, and cozy enclaves hidden throughout the park. Check out Cap Rock for an easy 1/2 mile nature loop with a little bit of everything. Spend the afternoon rock climbing and exploring and then watch the sky melt to cotton candy pink at sunset. Exceptional stargazing keeps this Southern California National Park open 24 hours a day. Roast some smores under the stars at one of the eight campgrounds in the park or head to Pioneer Town for some live music at Pappy and Harriets after your visit. Summer temperatures are similar to the 110-120° at Death Valley National Park. Always plan accordingly. Cell service is non-existent and water is not available in the park.
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Palm Springs
The allure of this Southern California desert gem was created in the 1950s, however, Coachella spawned a renewed interest in the desert for younger generations. Local businesses are now wise to the bohemian vibe that pays the bills. As a result, budding new restaurants, bars, and pool parties await. However, don't let yourself forget about the world-class golf courses and classic family attractions, like the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway and Living Desert Zoo and Gardens. Don't let the heat discourage you, as there is always a pool to be found. Stay at the La Quinta Resort to experience one of the 41 pools on property and some incredible Sangria. And drop by these cute cafes to get your coffee fix. Palm Springs is one of Southern California's best places to visit.
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Cleveland National Forest - Laguna Mountain
Everybody needs a mountain escape and this National Recreation Area on Laguna Mountain is a beautiful Southern California destination. At over 5,500 feet in elevation, you'll find relief from the heat and enjoy the forest scenery and expansive views of the Anza-Borrego Desert. Nature lovers can enjoy the Sunset Trail by hiking or mountain biking for a little bit of everything- forests, meadows, and vibrant wildflowers. And if you want to really connect to nature try tree bathing and really immersing yourself in the forest.
Up for more adventure? Head across the highway to walk along the PCT and summit Garnet Peak. Take in the desert views of Anza-Borrego, Palm Springs, and the Salton Sea. Two campgrounds provide ample amenities for tent and RV camping, as well as everything the exhausted PCT backpacker needs. Although located in San Diego County, there is only one store and restaurant on the mountain.
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Torrey Pines State Reserve
Coastal hiking through sandstone canyons to a beautiful beach? Yes, please. Torrey Pines State Reserve is located in San Diego County just north of La Jolla Cove. Enjoy the coastal breeze and marvel at the hang gliders as you explore the many hiking trails throughout the 1,750-acre reserve. The variety of trails makes this a great stop for families in Southern California. Pick up sandwiches from Board & Brew (a San Diego favorite) on your way and enjoy a picnic on the beach before putting your toes in the sand to walk back to your car. If the tide is low, make sure to explore the tidepools on flat rock. After your hike, enjoy a cocktail on the patio overlooking the golf course at The Lodge Torrey Pines.
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Balboa Park
San Diego's Balboa Park is home to several world-class cultural attractions, like the Old Globe Theater, Air & Space Museum, Fleet Science Center, and the renowned San Diego Zoo. The 1200-acre park is a mecca of art, architecture, museums, and walking trails. Wander the Japanese Friendship Garden in spring to see the cherry blossoms pop and stop into Panama 66 for a preview of San Diego's craft beer scene. Explore the park to take in the incredible architecture and come across some of its top attractions - the Moreton Bay Fig Tree, Cabrillo Bridge, and of course, the San Diego Zoo. Kids will love the miniature train and carousel outside of the Zoo as well. Finish your evening on the patio of the Prado restaurant with a specialty margarita and an order of calamari fries. A day exploring Balboa Park is a day in Southern California well spent.
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Catalina Island
Ready for an iconic Southern California ferry boat ride? Outside of a helicopter ride, that is the ticket to Southern California's most secluded vacation destination. Kick-off your trip by taking the Catalina Express from Long Beach, San Pedro, or Dana Point (Orange County). Once you arrive in Catalina and depart the boat, the beautiful beaches surrounding you instantly transform you to island mode.
As you dock in this Southern California island gem, your attention is first drawn to the iconic Casino building. Shortly afterward, you realize golf carts have replaced cars and now you're in a new world. There are plenty of restaurants and bars (enjoy fresh seafood at Bluewater Grill and funky island cocktails at Luau Larry's), but the adventure has always been the calling when it comes to Catalina. Hiking, backpacking, horseback riding. scuba diving, ziplining, and buffalo watching are just a few of the highlights Catalina delivers.
Historically home to the Wrigley Family and Chicago Cubs spring training, this island paradise packs a punch and will leave you wanting more time to explore all the landscape has to offer. Whether you only want to relax and sip a cocktail at the Descanso Beach Club or take on an overnight backpack trip to Two Harbors, Catalina Island has a plan for you. Hands down, Catalina is an amazing vacation destination that is surprisingly overlooked when it comes to Southern California's hot spots. Let's change the narrative and visit Catalina Island every chance we get.
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