2024 California Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in December)

From LA Buzz to Huntington Beach Bliss

#100WaysOfTravel I recently embarked on an unforgettable adventure in Los Angeles and Huntington Beach! The journey began with a thrilling visit to Dodger Stadium, where I cheered on the Dodgers amidst a sea of passionate fans. Next, I strolled through Beverly Hills, soaking in the luxury and stopping at the iconic hotel from "Pretty Woman." The adventure continued at Huntington Beach, where I basked in the sun, watched playful seals, and was amazed by sightings of dolphins and a majestic blue whale. This trip perfectly blended the vibrant energy of LA with the serene beauty of the California coast—truly a dream holiday!

Driving on the West Coast of the United States: Experience the California style and natural charm with a panoramic view!

☀️The sunny California coastline, the winding Highway 1, the charming beaches and the vast Pacific Ocean, this is the dream place in the hearts of countless travelers. A self-driving tour of the West Coast of the United States is not only a close contact with natural beauty, but also a wonderful journey to explore diverse cultures and historical customs. Recommended classic routes: 🛣Highway 1, San Francisco → Monterey → Carmel → Big Sur → Solvang → Santa Barbara → Malibu → Los Angeles. Highway 1 is one of the most famous self-driving routes in the United States, connecting San Francisco and Los Angeles. The total distance is about 840 miles. The recommended travel time is 10 days. Recommended attractions along the way: 🦞San Francisco Fisherman’s Wharf: This is one of the most popular tourist attractions in San Francisco. Fisherman's Wharf is famous for its abundant seafood and beautiful ocean views. Visitors can taste fresh crabs, clam chowder, and visit the sea lions on Pier 39. 🎨American Palace of Fine Arts: The Palace of Fine Arts was built during the Panama Pacific International Exposition in 1915 and has now become one of the landmark buildings in San Francisco. The elegant Romanesque domed building is surrounded by a tranquil lagoon, perfect for walking and photography. 🌉Golden Gate Bridge: As one of the most famous landmarks in San Francisco, this suspension bridge spans the Golden Gate Strait with a total length of about 2.7 kilometers. The Golden Gate Bridge is not only a marvel of engineering, but also a great place to take photos and enjoy the view. 🏛San Francisco City Hall: This magnificent building is the political center of San Francisco, and its towering dome is one of the largest in the world. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the historic building and municipal functions. 🌆Twin Peaks: This is one of the highest points in San Francisco. From here you can overlook the panoramic view of the entire city, especially at sunset, the scenery is breathtaking. 🏕Seventeen Mile Bay: This scenic private toll road winds along the Pacific coastline, with multiple viewpoints along the way where you can see the blue sea, sky, cliffs and luxurious beachfront villas. 🏞Big Sur: The coastline here is considered one of the most beautiful in the world. Big Sur Beach Park offers spectacular ocean views, hiking trails, and camping spots. ⛲️Beverly Hills: This is one of the most luxurious neighborhoods in Los Angeles, known for its lavish shopping streets and celebrity homes. Visitors can shop on Rodeo Drive or take a tour of celebrity homes. 🏖Santa Monica Beach: Home to the famous Santa Monica Pier and Ferris Wheel, it is a great place for relaxation and entertainment. The beautiful views of the beach and ocean make it a great location for photos. 🎢Universal Studios Los Angeles: This is one of the most famous theme parks in the world, where visitors can experience immersive movie special effects and exciting rides. 🛸Griffith Observatory: This observatory not only provides the opportunity to observe the stars, but also overlooks the entire city of Los Angeles. Its location and facilities make it a great place for both education and entertainment. 💫Hollywood Walk of Fame: This is one of the most symbolic landmarks in Hollywood. The names of hundreds of stars are engraved on the Walk of Fame, making it a must-see for movie lovers. 😊Through the West Coast self-driving tour, you will be able to deeply experience the natural beauty and unique cultural customs of the West Coast of the United States. Whether it is the prosperity of the city or the magnificence of nature, it will bring you an unforgettable self-driving experience. 📆Preparation before departure Before traveling to the United States for a self-driving trip, you need to make some necessary preparations. First, make sure you have a valid driver's license and bring an English translation of your driver's license. At the same time, the driver also needs to hold a passport and an international credit card. In addition, you also need to download some useful applications such as Google Maps, Roadtrippers, GasBuddy, etc. to navigate, plan routes and find gas stations.

Culinary Odyssey: Savoring Sunshine Coast to Gold Coast with nellyslife__ ☀️👯♀️

The brilliance of Sunshine Coast, the urban allure of Brisbane, and the irresistible oceanic charm of Gold Coast – all distilled into an unforgettable culinary expedition orchestrated by the incomparable nellyslife__. ☀️👯♀️ From the delicate art of savoring Brisbane's best-kept gastronomic secrets to luxuriating in the sun-soaked embrace of Gold Coast's coastal splendor, this sojourn emerged as a vividly woven tapestry spun from the threads of flavors and friendship. The cities' vivacity and energy effortlessly mirrored the warmth and camaraderie of a cherished friend, rendering every delectable bite and shared moment eternally memorable.

Sequoia, a land of Giants

Sequoia is a land of giants. Huge mountains, rugged foothills, deep canyons, vast caverns, and the world’s largest trees exemplify the diversity of landscapes, life, and beauty here. It is located in California, USA. I visited this place in winter. #mountain #winter #california

The Coffee Company -Westchester Neighbourhood

Location: The Coffee Company at Westchester Neighbourhood LA Address: 8751 La Tijera Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90045, United States (Right next to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)) We visited this Neighbourhood while we had a stop over at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). The Neighbourhood is about 15mins walk from our hotel and there is designated Pedestrian pathway to get there hence overall a safe walk. We chanced upon a coffee place that has been around since 1978 right along the main street. Both the exterior and interior has been filled with green making this place very welcoming. The restaurant serve a variety of brunch item such as pancakes, crepes, toast etc. A must mention is the champagne on their menu for those who desire them. Overall food is average but the service and experience are worth the visit. #createwithtrip

7-11 at Westchester Neighbourhood

Location: 7-11 located at Westchester Neighbourhood LA Address: 9210 S Sepulveda Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90045, United States (Right next to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)) We visited this Neighbourhood while we had a stop over at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). The Neighbourhood is about 15mins walk from our hotel and there is designated Pedestrian pathway to get there hence overall a safe walk. We chance upon a 7-11 located at a corner and to our surprise the snacks and drinks selection is extremely extensive. Not only do they offer the usual gulp, slushie and coffee, you can find pizza, bread, hotdogs and even cookies. There is even a promotion for pizza if you get at between 3 to 6pm. #createwithtrip

The Book Jewel at Westchester Neighbourhood

Location: The Book Jewel at Westchester Neighbourhood LA Address: 6259 W 87th St, Los Angeles, CA 90045, United States (Right next to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)) We visited this Neighbourhood while we had a stop over at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). The Neighbourhood is about 15mins walk from our hotel and there is designated Pedestrian pathway to get there hence overall a safe walk. We also found a hidden gem that not only sell book but is a spot where the local community have book launch and meet the author. Apart from books, there also have a selection of toys for children as well as board game, gift sets and a sofa next to the fire place for you to browse some of their books. #createwithtrip

Westchester Neighbourhood LA

Location: Westchester Neighbourhood LA Address: Right next to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) We visited this Neighbourhood while we had a stop over at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). The Neighbourhood is about 15mins walk from our hotel and there is designated Pedestrian pathway to get there hence overall a safe walk. Despite being next to airport, you will find plenty of store such as Target, trader's Joe, Kohl, Rose etc. There is also abundance of dining options from IHOP at the extreme end of the street to food truck located at each corner. If you are looking for a quick bite or drink, there is a well stocked convenient store 7-11 providing you with Just what you might need there. #createwithtrip

RMS Queen Mary

The RMS Queen Mary is a gigantic ocean liner that used to sail the waters between America and Great Britain. She was retired in the 1960s, but instead of scrapping her for parts, the California government decided to turn her into one of their most unique attractions. Today, the RMS Queen Mary functions as a hotel, museum, restaurant and shopping plaza that bobs right in the harbor of Long Beach. There are lots of things to see on the ship. From ballrooms to workout rooms, there’s a little something for everyone. You could eat, shop and tour this massive 1,000-foot vessel for an entire weekend without seeing everything that it has to offer. To experience the best of California, you need to know how to plan a trip with the right accommodation. Choose the RMS Queen Mary for fun and function under a single roof. When you’re done fluffing the pillows under your porthole window, you can hit the deck for all kinds of seaside adventures. Address: 1126 Queens Hwy, Long Beach, CA 90802, United States

Bavel

Serving food from across the Middle East, from Israel to Tunisia to Yemen, Bavel feels bright, fresh, and unique. The vibe will remind you of the grandeur of the spa at La Mamounia, the legendary hotel in Marrakech. Don't skip the signature dish—the malawach, essentially a Middle Eastern roti, which is served with grated tomato, dill crème fraîche, soft-boiled egg, and an oh-so-Californian strawberry zhoug. People talk a lot about the meaty dishes, but we love the mushroom skewers just as much. Don’t forget to order the silken hummus with duck nduja—and some desserts, of course. #café

Best Western Escondido Hotel

Best Western Escondido Hotel is ideal for anyone wanting to take full advantage of the area. The hotel provides you with convenient features, including a 24-hour front desk, luggage storage, and Wi-Fi in the rooms and public areas. The hotel is tastefully furnished, with air-conditioned bedrooms and reasonably-priced suites that are nice for families. Before starting your day, enjoy a complimentary breakfast at the hotel’s cafe. You can unwind after a day of activities at the out #summervacation#beachvacation#hikingtrails#hotelstay#urbanexplorer

Tall tall trees

Big Basin Redwoods State Park is the oldest State Park in the country and here is where you will find the Waddell Creek Watershed. This area was formed when the rim was uplifted and the centre eroded, leaving the beautiful bowl shaped area you can see today. #summervacation#beachvacation#hikingtrails#hotelstay#urbanexplorer

Sturtevant Falls

Sturtevant Falls are located in the foothills of the Angeles National Forest. The falls themselves are fifty foot in height and look exceptionally beautiful due to the moss and algae that grows on the cliff. This makes the colours you see as the water runs distinctive and mesmerizing. #summervacation#beachvacation#hikingtrails#hotelstay#urbanexplorer

South Coast Plaza, Costa Mesa, Californi

South Coast Plaza is the most lucrative shopping mall in Costa Mesa, California in Orange County. It is the largest mall on the west coast with sales of over 1.5 billion dollars which is highest in the United States. The mall boasts over 250 internationally recognized retail shops including Macy's, Sears, Nordstrom, Bloomingdales, and Saks Fifth Avenue. Highly recommended to locals and tourists alike! 😌 #summervacation#hotelstay#urbanexplorer

We stumbled upon Bird Island when visiting Point Lobos in California. As the name suggest, it is full of birds, mainly pelicans, but there were also many harbour seals on its beaches. #beautifulsunsets #birdisland #pelicans #california #beautifulsunsets#seasidephotoguide#naturalwonders

the best hikes in the u.s[maine to CA]

1. Appalachian Trail, Shenandoah National Park just 75 miles from the hustle and bustle of Washington, D.C, and more than 500 miles of hiking trails. The park consists of 200,000 acres of protected lands that are home to deer, songbirds, and a clear, star-speckled night sky. 2. Halema'uma'u Trail, Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park just let u getting up close and personal with the extreme heat of a volcano.  3. Billy Goat Trail, Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park Here, hikers can experience the raging Potomac River and the rocky crags of Great Falls.  4.Chautauqua Trail, Chautauqua Park It offers views of the Flat Irons and Boulder, before moving onto more challenging trails. 5.South Rim Trail, Grand Canyon National Park there are easy vista point hikes at the canyon’s edge (like the South Rim Trail) and expert-only hikes from rim to rim. The canyon provides stunning views for miles above the rim and sights that must be seen at the base, where the Colorado River rages through.

#happynewyear

#holidayvacation Exciting, beautiful, breathtaking scenery unlike any other! Always fascinating and fun to discover and take in everything around you. Historical buildings and timeless landmarks and boardwalks full of all walks of life.

Amazing spot to go hiking 🥾 you might be aware of people that are trying to take pictures as well! #hiking #sandiego #awesomepic #instagramworthydestinations #mynovgetaway#thanksgiving

We just completed our 2nd jump in California, amazing how different it was compared to the first time a year ago. I felt calm and aware, it was great! Can’t wait for the next time.

How can I miss the California Legoland driving from San Diego with a baby to the West Coast of the United States? The Lego theme park for kids is the first choice for California family fun, with Disney and Universal Studios in Los Angeles. The three-legged play makes the children enjoy the fun. Legoland has more than 50 rides, programs and attractions, and the park design is very reasonable. You can play all the projects without going back, and all the facilities are creative enough for the children to use their brains. Entertaining and entertaining, the sense of participation is very strong, and the family has returned to the childlike to spend a wonderful time here.

San Francisco's special gameplay, sitting in the shuttle bus between urban buildings brakes is my favorite name, in fact, is the cable car. If you haven't sat in a cable car, don't say you have been to San Francisco! He has been tirelessly driving in San Francisco for more than 100 years, witnessing the bustling and embarrassing city. It is best to get on the train from the departure station of Market Street, so that you have the opportunity to occupy the handle position on both sides of the car. Although the speed of the cable car is not fast, but in the city of San Francisco, the shuttle bus, you stand on one side of the carriage and tighten the railing, as if riding a roller coaster! Especially when you are cornering, if you don't pay attention, you will really get rid of it. Every time the cable car passes through a junction, you will hear the master ringing the bell on the car, and the Dangdang special has a sense of crossing. There are 3 lines in the , and I recommend taking the Powell&Hyde Line or Powell&Mason Line lines through Union Square, Cable Car Museum, Lombard Street, Fisherman's Wharf, etc. From the departure station of Market Street, you can buy a one-way ticket directly on the bus, but it must be cash, so prepare the change in advance. In the 15 years, 6 dollars, 16 years into 7 dollars, is also rising prices. Of course, if you are too loved and want to sit a few times, you can also buy a one-day ticket in advance. PS: During peak hours, the starting station can be queued for 1 hour. In the evening, there are fewer people, and you can experience the bright night of San Francisco!

Southern California, with a Mediterranean climate, is mild and rainy in winter. The maximum temperature is often above 20 degrees. This year is no exception. The two harbours of Catalina Island are probably the most beautiful in California, with each tent facing the sea and stretching all the way to the beach on a green hillside. In the early spring, wild flowers bloom and water activities are already colorful. This is a paradise without winter.

When you come to San Francisco, you must call the Golden Gate Bridge. The bridge is located on the Golden Gate Strait of San Francisco, one of the world's most famous bridges, and a landmark in San Francisco. The 2.7-kilometer bridge spans the entire San Francisco Bay and the Pacific Ocean's Golden Gate Strait, and is an important transportation hub connecting San Francisco and the northern city. There are also American blockbusters such as "Rise of the Orbs" and "X-Men", all of which have been photographed here. The feeling of being there is really different. The steel frame on the north side of the bridge is suitable for taking panoramic views of the bridge. The bright red color cannot resist its style even in foggy days. The south side is more suitable for photographing local close-ups such as the water surface and the bridge due to the angle and height. The bridge has three better observation points, Fort Point, on the south side of the bridge, Vista Point near Sasalito, and Battery Spencer on the north side of the bridge. . The bridges seen by different viewing platforms are different. If you have plenty of time, rent a bicycle or walk the bridge and feel the beauty of the bridge. Tips: 1, the bridge is free to pedestrians and the bridge can be walked. If you need to buy the Jinmen Bridge electronic vehicle pass ticket online in advance, it will be particularly troublesome and will not accept on-site cash purchase tickets.

When it comes to San Francisco in the United States, the first thing that comes to mind is the landmark building, the Golden Gate Bridge. Even the end of the movie "Bumblebee" is based on the Golden Gate Bridge, and the filming place is where visitors can come, and it has become one of the most famous places to enjoy the Golden Gate Bridge. This best photo point is on the top of Marin County, north of the bridge. From here, you can see not only the panoramic view of the Golden Gate Bridge, but also the entire San Francisco city skyline in the distance. Whether it's sunrise or sunset, it's a great place to enjoy the scenery.

As a girl who grew up in California, when I eat California's unique burger, I have to take a group photo to show my respect. Haha in&out is really the best restaurant near my house. [Sneak] [Sneak ] (Yes, only our flat-chested girls can wear a suit without wearing underwear [], envy? Hahaha)

San Francisco is the port city of the Pacific coast of California, the second largest city in California after Los Angeles, the largest financial center in the western United States and an important high-tech R&D and manufacturing base. San Francisco is located on the west coast of the United States, at the northern tip of the peninsula between the Pacific Ocean and San Francisco Bay. In the mid-19th century, San Francisco was rapidly developing in the gold rush. The overseas Chinese were called "Golden Mountain" and later changed to "San Francisco". . San Francisco is the most densely populated area of Chinese Americans. It is also home to the world's famous high-tech industrial park Silicon Valley. It attracts countless high-tech talents and tourists from all over the world.

It seems that every coastal city has a place called "Fisherman's Wharf". I don't think there are three fisherman's wharfs I've been to, and the name Fisherman's Wharf is a household name in San Francisco. Almost all tourists come to San Francisco. Going to the place, because not only can you enjoy great seafood, but there are also many specialty shops to visit. This was once a fishing port. It was a place for Italian fishermen. Later, the amount of catch was reduced. After commercial packaging, it gradually developed into tourism. When you come to San Francisco, you will definitely regret if you dont come to Fishermans Wharf. This unique leisure and cultural location has many surprises waiting for you to dig. The Fisherman's Wharf is made up of dozens of digitally marked terminals, each with different characteristics, the most famous of which is Pier 39. There are a variety of rides, restaurants and shopping centres. Walking along the street, you will always meet the performances of street artists, these are the art of life. A group of sea lions gather on the floating planks of the dock. It is said that this is because after the 1989 San Francisco earthquake, many squid appeared in the waters around the pier, which also attracted the patrons. Every time the boat sails in and out, the sea lions will welcome you, and you will never be tired. It is a group of lazy and nosy guys. It is precisely because of these sea lions that Fisherman's Wharf is even more famous and has become a famous tourist attraction in San Francisco.

Exploring California’s Majestic Mountains: A Nature Lover’s Guide

#northamericatrip California’s mountains are a playground for adventurers, offering everything from towering peaks to serene alpine lakes. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker, a camper, or just looking for scenic drives, the Golden State’s mountain ranges have something for everyone. Start with the Sierra Nevada, home to the iconic Yosemite National Park and its world-famous granite giants like El Capitan and Half Dome. Here, you’ll find waterfalls, lush meadows, and countless hiking trails, from easy strolls to challenging summits. Nearby, the Lake Tahoe Basin offers year-round fun, with water sports in summer and skiing in winter. For those seeking solitude, head to the Eastern Sierra, where gems like the Big Pine Lakes and Mount Whitney—the tallest peak in the contiguous U.S.—await. Trails here lead to turquoise lakes, ancient bristlecone pines, and dramatic high-altitude landscapes. The San Gabriel Mountains near Los Angeles provide a quick mountain escape for city dwellers, with popular hikes like Mt. Baldy and scenic drives along the Angeles Crest Highway. Farther south, the San Jacinto Mountains boast tranquil forests and breathtaking views, accessible via the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. Don’t forget the Cascade Range, where Mount Shasta dominates the skyline. This volcanic peak is a bucket-list destination for climbers and a serene spot for lakeside relaxation. No matter where you go, California’s mountains promise adventure, inspiration, and awe-inspiring natural beauty. Pack your gear, lace up your boots, and get ready to explore the heights of the Golden State!

Big Pine Camping & Hiking: Your Ultimate Eastern Sierra Adventure in California

#northamericatrip Located in California’s Eastern Sierra, Big Pine is an outdoor lover’s paradise, offering jaw-dropping mountain views, glacier-fed lakes, and some of the best hiking and camping opportunities in the region. Whether you’re pitching a tent under the stars or lacing up your boots for a trek, here’s everything you need to know for an unforgettable adventure. Camping in Big Pine • Big Pine Creek Campground: This popular spot offers campsites with stunning views, picnic tables, fire pits, and easy access to trailheads. Reserve early during peak season. • Bristlecone Pine Forest Campgrounds: For something truly unique, camp near the world’s oldest trees, the ancient bristlecone pines, located just a short drive from Big Pine. • Dispersed Camping: Prefer solitude? The surrounding Inyo National Forest offers plenty of free, dispersed camping options, but be prepared to pack out everything you bring in. Hiking Highlights • Big Pine Lakes Trail: This iconic trail is the crown jewel of Big Pine. The 16-mile round-trip trek takes you past seven stunning turquoise lakes, fed by glaciers from the towering Palisade Crest. You’ll swear you’ve stumbled into a postcard. • North Fork Trail: If you’re short on time, this 9-mile trail is a great way to see some of the lakes and incredible views without tackling the full route. • South Fork Trail: A quieter alternative, this trail offers views of meadows, waterfalls, and glacial streams. Tips for Your Trip • Pack layers—it can be warm during the day but chilly at night, even in summer. • Bring plenty of water or a filter for streams along the trails. • Start your hikes early to avoid afternoon thunderstorms and to secure parking at trailheads. Big Pine is a gateway to unparalleled alpine beauty, perfect for campers and hikers looking to experience the magic of the Sierra Nevada.