California holidays

Where to stay in California

Los Angeles

Los Angeles offers diverse neighbourhoods and attractions. For a luxurious stay, consider Beverly Hills, famous for its high-end shops and dining. For beach lovers, Santa Monica offers a relaxed vibe with its iconic pier and beachfront hotels. Downtown LA is ideal for those seeking a mix of culture, nightlife, and history. Explore deals on holidays to Los Angeles for a vibrant and exciting stay.

San Francisco

San Francisco’s unique neighbourhoods cater to various tastes. Fisherman’s Wharf is great for families and tourists, with easy access to Alcatraz and Pier 39. Union Square is perfect for shopping enthusiasts and foodies. For a more relaxed and scenic stay, consider the Marina District. Find cheap holidays to San Francisco and enjoy the city's unique vibe.

San Diego

San Diego offers beautiful beaches and family-friendly attractions. The Gaslamp Quarter is known for its vibrant nightlife, while La Jolla provides stunning coastal views and upscale dining. Mission Bay is ideal for water sports enthusiasts and families. Discover holidays to San Diego for a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure.

Napa Valley

Napa Valley is perfect for wine enthusiasts and those seeking tranquillity. Yountville and St. Helena are close to world-renowned wineries and gourmet restaurants. Calistoga offers hot springs and spa resorts. Explore deals on holidays to Napa Valley and experience luxury and relaxation in the heart of wine country.

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park provides breathtaking scenery and outdoor activities. Stay in Yosemite Valley for proximity to landmarks like El Capitan and Half Dome. Wawona offers a quieter experience with historic charm. Book hotels in Yosemite and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this iconic park.

Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe is a year-round destination offering skiing, hiking, and stunning lake views. The North Shore is quieter, while the South Shore is lively with casinos and nightlife. Incline Village offers luxury accommodations and outdoor activities. Look for cheap holidays to Lake Tahoe for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.

Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara, known as the American Riviera, boasts beautiful beaches and upscale dining. Stay near State Street for shopping and dining or choose the beachfront for ocean views. Montecito offers luxury resorts and serene surroundings. Find deals on holidays to Santa Barbara and enjoy a luxurious coastal retreat.

Palm Springs

Palm Springs is famous for its mid-century modern architecture, hot springs, and vibrant arts scene. Downtown Palm Springs offers boutique shopping and dining, while the nearby desert resorts provide a relaxing escape. Discover holidays to Palm Springs for a stylish and sunny getaway.

Explore these diverse destinations and make the most of your California holiday by choosing the perfect place to stay based on your interests and preferences.

How to reach California

Flight time: Flights to California from London take about 11 hours. Major airlines such as British Airways, Virgin Atlantic and American Airlines offer direct flights to Los Angeles from London. Direct flights to San Francisco and flights to San Diego are also available.

Transfer time:

• From Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), you can reach downtown LA in about 30–45 minutes by taxi or ride-sharing services, depending on traffic. The FlyAway bus service offers a more budget-friendly option, taking approximately 1 hour.

• San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is connected to the city by the BART train, which takes around 30 minutes to reach downtown.

• From San Diego International Airport (SAN), the city centre is a mere 10-minute drive away by taxi or shuttle bus.

Price:

• A taxi from LAX to downtown LA costs $55–$75.

• The FlyAway bus costs $9.75 per person.

• BART tickets from SFO to downtown San Francisco are around $5.35 one way, and a taxi ride can cost $50–$65.

• In San Diego, a taxi to the city centre will cost around $20–$25.

Weather and best time to visit California

March to May: Spring is always a pleasant time to visit California. The weather is mild, with temperatures ranging from 15 to 25°C – perfect for exploring cities and enjoying outdoor activities without peak-season crowds. Rainfall is minimal, with 8 to 10 hours of sunshine daily.

June to August: Summer is the peak tourist season, especially in coastal areas and national parks. Temperatures in coastal cities like San Francisco stay around 20 to 25°C, while inland areas like Los Angeles and Sacramento can reach up to 35°C. Summer is best for beach holidays and outdoor festivals, but expect higher prices and larger crowds.

September to November: Autumn offers a pleasant climate with temperatures between 20 and 30°C. The crowds thin out, making it an ideal time to visit popular attractions and enjoy wine tasting in Napa Valley. Rainfall remains low, and you’ll get 7 to 9 hours of sunshine daily.

December to February: Winter in California varies greatly. Coastal areas remain mild, with temperatures around 15 to 20°C. Mountain regions like Lake Tahoe experience snowfall, making them ideal for winter sports. Rainfall increases, particularly in the north, but there are still plenty of sunny days.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: English is the primary language spoken, though you’ll also hear Spanish, especially in Southern California.

• Local habits and customs: Californians are known for their laid-back and friendly attitude. Tipping is customary, typically 15–20 percent in restaurants.

• Currency: The currency is the US Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted.

• Getting around: Public transport varies by city. Los Angeles has buses and a metro system; single fares are around $1.75. San Francisco’s Muni buses, trams and BART trains are efficient, with single rides costing about $2.75. San Diego’s trolley and bus services cost around $2.50 per ride.

• Electricity and plug types: The standard voltage is 120V with a two-pin plug type. Travellers from the UK will need adaptors.

• Time zone: California is in the Pacific Time Zone (PT), 8 hours behind GMT.

Best things to do in California

California is a land of endless possibilities, from its stunning coastlines to its bustling cities and tranquil deserts.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Golden Gate Bridge: This iconic symbol of San Francisco offers spectacular views from multiple vantage points, including the Golden Gate Welcome Center, Crissy Field and Fort Point.

• Griffith Observatory: Located in Los Angeles, this observatory provides exceptional views of the city skyline, the Hollywood Sign and the stars through public telescopes.

• Yosemite National Park: For unparalleled natural beauty, visit Glacier Point in Yosemite. This spot offers panoramic views of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome and the High Sierra.

The best districts

• Santa Monica: This beachside district in Los Angeles is known for its vibrant pier, sandy beaches and bustling Third Street Promenade. Discover the best deals on holidays to Santa Monica.

• Haight-Ashbury: Famous for its role in the 1960s counterculture movement, this San Francisco neighbourhood is filled with eclectic shops, vintage clothing stores and colourful murals.

• Gaslamp Quarter: Located in San Diego, the Gaslamp Quarter is the city’s historic heart, featuring Victorian-era buildings, lively bars, restaurants and nightclubs.

Parks and gardens

• Golden Gate Park: This massive urban park in San Francisco spans more than 400 hectares of green space and is home to the Japanese Tea Garden, the California Academy of Sciences and Stow Lake.

• Balboa Park: Balboa Park in San Diego is home to the San Diego Zoo. Visitors can also look forward to lush landscapes and Spanish-style architecture.

• Griffith Park: One of the largest urban parks in the United States, Griffith Park in Los Angeles offers kilometres of hiking trails, the Los Angeles Zoo and the Griffith Observatory.

Historic monuments

• Alcatraz Island: Take a ferry to this infamous former prison in San Francisco Bay. The tour provides a fascinating insight into the lives of its notorious inmates and the island’s history.

• Hearst Castle: Located on California’s central coast near San Simeon, this opulent estate was built by newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst. Tours showcase the lavish rooms, beautiful gardens and impressive art collection.

• Mission San Juan Capistrano: Known as the "Jewel of the Missions," this historic site in Orange County offers a glimpse into California’s Spanish colonial past.

Day trips in the area

• Napa Valley: Just a short drive from San Francisco, Napa Valley is famous for its world-class wineries and stunning vineyard landscapes. Enjoy tastings, gourmet dining and tours.

• Big Sur: Drive along the scenic Pacific Coast Highway to Big Sur, where dramatic cliffs meet the ocean. Hike through the redwoods, visit McWay Falls and take in the coastal views.

• Joshua Tree National Park: Located near Palm Springs, Joshua Tree is known for its unique desert landscapes, striking rock formations and namesake Joshua trees. It’s a paradise for hiking, rock climbing and stargazing.

Activities for families in California

California is an ideal destination for families, offering a variety of activities for all ages and interests.

• Theme parks: Disneyland in Anaheim is a must-visit for families, with its magical rides and characters. Universal Studios Hollywood offers thrilling rides and behind-the-scenes tours of movie sets. Legoland California in Carlsbad is perfect for younger children, with interactive exhibits and fun rides.

• Aquariums and zoos: The Monterey Bay Aquarium is renowned for its marine life exhibits and stunning ocean views. The San Diego Zoo and Safari Park offer exciting animal encounters and expansive habitats. The Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach showcases the diverse marine life of the Pacific Ocean.

• Museums: The California Science Center in Los Angeles features interactive exhibits and the Space Shuttle Endeavour. The Exploratorium in San Francisco offers hands-on science and art exhibits.

• Beaches: California’s coastline offers plenty of family-friendly beaches. Santa Monica Beach has a lively pier with amusement park rides. La Jolla Shores in San Diego is great for swimming and snorkelling. Huntington Beach, known as Surf City USA, is perfect for a day of sun and surf.

Free things to do in California

California holidays offer a wealth of free activities, making it possible to enjoy the state without spending a fortune.

• Free events: California hosts various free cultural events and festivals throughout the year. The Los Angeles County Museum of Art offers free admission on the second Tuesday of each month. San Francisco's Stern Grove Festival features free concerts in the summer. The Rose Parade in Pasadena is a New Year’s Day tradition with spectacular floats.

• Free museums: Many museums in California offer free admission on specific days. The Getty Center in Los Angeles has free entry and stunning art collections. The California Academy of Sciences in San Francisco offers free admission on select Sundays. The Annenberg Space for Photography in Los Angeles is always free.

Discover the beaches of California

Santa Monica Beach

Santa Monica Beach is one of California's most iconic beaches, offering a perfect blend of sun, sand, and entertainment. The famous Santa Monica Pier features an amusement park, aquarium, and numerous restaurants. The beach is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and beach volleyball. The adjacent Ocean Front Walk is popular for biking, rollerblading, and people-watching.

Explore deals on holidays to Santa Monica for an exciting beach getaway.

Venice Beach

Venice Beach is known for its bohemian spirit and vibrant boardwalk. Visitors can enjoy street performers, artists, and vendors along the Ocean Front Walk. The Muscle Beach outdoor gym, skate park, and numerous eateries add to the eclectic atmosphere. The beach itself is perfect for swimming, surfing, and soaking up the California sun.

Malibu

Malibu is home to some of California’s most beautiful and exclusive beaches. Zuma Beach is a favourite for swimming, surfing, and picnicking, offering wide sandy shores and excellent facilities. El Matador Beach, with its dramatic rock formations and hidden coves, is ideal for photography and romantic walks. Malibu Lagoon State Beach, also known as Surfrider Beach, is famous for its long right-hand break, making it a hotspot for surfers.

Discover holidays to Malibu for a luxurious beach experience.

Laguna Beach

Laguna Beach is renowned for its picturesque coves, tide pools, and vibrant arts scene. Main Beach is the central hub, featuring a boardwalk, basketball courts, and stunning views. Crystal Cove State Park offers hiking trails, historic beach cottages, and underwater parks, perfect for diving and snorkelling. The town’s art galleries, festivals, and restaurants add to its charm.

Explore deals on holidays to Laguna Beach for a perfect coastal retreat.

Huntington Beach

Known as Surf City USA, Huntington Beach is famous for its consistent waves and surf culture. The beach stretches for miles, offering plenty of space for swimming, sunbathing, and beach sports. The Huntington Beach Pier is a landmark where visitors can enjoy dining, shopping, and watching surfers.

Book holidays to Huntington Beach for an ultimate surf adventure.

Enjoy the diverse and beautiful beaches of California, each offering its own unique charm and activities!

Local dishes in California

California is a culinary paradise, offering diverse dishes and beverages influenced by its multicultural population.

Some typical dishes

• Clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl: This creamy soup filled with tender clams is served in a bowl made from San Francisco’s famous sourdough bread.

• Cioppino: A hearty seafood stew originating from the city’s Italian-American community, made with a mix of seafood and cooked in a tomato and wine broth.

Meat dishes

• Tri-tip steak: A speciality of Santa Maria, this triangular cut of beef is seasoned with a dry rub and grilled to perfection.

• California-style barbecue: Influenced by a mix of Mexican, Western and Southern flavours, visitors can enjoy slow-cooked meats like ribs and brisket, served with a tangy barbeque sauce.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Dungeness crab: Fresh from the Pacific Ocean, this local delicacy is often served steamed and with melted butter.

• Fish tacos: Originating from Baja California, these tacos typically come with grilled or fried fish and are topped with fresh salsa, cabbage and a creamy sauce.

Street food

• Meat tacos: Influenced by the state’s large Mexican population, street tacos filled with carne asada, carnitas or fish are a popular and delicious option.

Sweets and desserts

• Ghirardelli chocolate: San Francisco is home to the famous Ghirardelli Chocolate Company. Be sure to try their chocolate squares or a hot fudge sundae at their flagship store.

• It’s-It ice cream sandwiches: A San Francisco classic, these treats feature vanilla ice cream sandwiched between two oatmeal cookies dipped in dark chocolate.

Local drinks

• California wines: California boasts an excellent selection of local wines from the Napa and Sonoma valleys. Try a crisp Chardonnay or a robust Cabernet Sauvignon.

• Craft beer: California is known for its thriving craft beer scene – sample brews from renowned breweries like Sierra Nevada, Stone Brewing and Lagunitas.

• Anchor Steam beer: Brewed in San Francisco since 1896, this locally crafted beer is a refreshing choice for beer enthusiasts.

Sports in California

California offers a diverse range of sports activities and events, catering to enthusiasts of all levels and interests.

Surfing

With its extensive coastline, California is a surfer’s paradise. Iconic spots like Huntington Beach, Malibu, and Santa Cruz attract surfers from around the world. These beaches offer consistent waves suitable for both beginners and experienced surfers. Many locations also provide surf schools and rental shops, making it easy to get started.

Hiking and Outdoor Adventures

California's varied landscapes provide excellent opportunities for hiking and outdoor adventures. Yosemite National Park features renowned trails like the Mist Trail and Half Dome. The Pacific Crest Trail, which runs through the state, offers challenging routes for serious hikers. For a more relaxed experience, the coastal trails in Big Sur and the scenic paths in Lake Tahoe are ideal for all skill levels.

Skiing and Snowboarding

The Sierra Nevada mountains are home to some of the best skiing and snowboarding destinations in the country. Resorts like Mammoth Mountain and Lake Tahoe's Squaw Valley offer world-class facilities and a range of slopes for all abilities. The ski season typically runs from November to April, providing ample opportunities for winter sports enthusiasts.

Cycling

Cycling is a popular activity in California, with diverse routes ranging from coastal paths to challenging mountain trails. The state's extensive network of bike trails includes the scenic Pacific Coast Highway and the challenging climbs of the Sierra Nevada. Cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles also offer urban cycling tours, allowing riders to explore the sights at a leisurely pace.

Water Sports

In addition to surfing, California’s waterways are perfect for various water sports. Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular in areas like Lake Tahoe, Monterey Bay, and the Sacramento River. For those seeking more adrenaline, white-water rafting is available in the American River and Kern River.

Team sports and spectator events

California is home to numerous professional sports teams, including the Los Angeles Lakers (basketball), San Francisco Giants (baseball), and Los Angeles Rams (American football). Attending a live game offers an exciting way to experience the local sports culture. Additionally, the state hosts major events such as the annual Rose Bowl and the US Open of Surfing.

Golf

California boasts some of the country’s finest golf courses, many of which are set in stunning locations. Pebble Beach Golf Links on the Monterey Peninsula is world-famous for its breathtaking coastal views and challenging course. Other notable courses include Torrey Pines in San Diego and Riviera Country Club in Los Angeles.

From surfing the waves to hiking the mountains, California offers an array of sports and activities to keep you engaged and active throughout your stay.