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California is one of the leading tourist destinations in the United States and across the globe. The state is lush in amusement parks, beaches, gorgeous cities, and natural wonders. For nature enthusiasts, they can explore arrays of mountains, forests, national parks, deserts, and coastal lines. Here are top-rated places that you can visit to discover what California has in store for you.

1. Golden Gate Bridge

Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco at Sunset.

Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco at Sunset. Photo by PhotoQuest7 from Sacramento, California.

Located in San Francisco, California, the Golden Gate Bridge dates back to 1917. The engineer behind its construction was Joseph Strauss. The American Society of Civil Engineers proclaimed the bridge as one of the wonders of the World. Golden Gate Bridge has an average length of about 1.7 miles. Its height is approximately 746 feet, while its width is 90 feet.

The iconic bridge stands over the magnificent blue waters of San Francisco Bay. You would appreciate viewing the spot at sunset or night. The Golden Gate Bridge features an orange frame that hits the water at night, creating a spectacular scene. You can drive past the bridge, walk, or bike across it.

2. Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park is a sight to behold from a distance. The rock formations, dunes, mountains, a lake, and salt fields design a unique landscape. In 1933, the park became a national monument in the United States. Typically, Native American cultures lived in the spot as hunters and gatherers about 10,000 years ago.

Death Valley has the best panoramic views from:
โ€ข Dantes View
โ€ข Badwater Basin
โ€ข Stovepipe Wells
โ€ข Zabriskie Point

Alternatively, you can drive to the place with your 4WD vehicle. Popular activities on the site include hiking, viewing magnificent nature, and paddling in Badwater Lake.

3. Yosemite National Park

Home to bounteous arrays of animal species, Yosemite National Park, is a must-see destination. In 1890, John Muir and his colleagues joined efforts to pave the way for the parkโ€™s establishment. The park boasts of deers, bobcats, mountain lions, red foxes, toads, and a range of bird species.

There is a waterfall that complements the valley. The highlight is that you can always maintain unforgettable memories with a feature wall from https://www.photowall.com/ca-en. Place the photo wall in your bedroom or living room to reminisce the moments.

Fun activities at Yosemite National Park include:
โ€ข Hiking
โ€ข Camping
โ€ข Animal and bird watching
โ€ข Seeing giant sequoia trees

4. Laguna Beach

Laguna Beach forms an incredible spectacle with rock arches, cliffs, tide pools, and caves. It is one of the most captivating coastlines in California. Tongva people and Paleoindians first inhabited the beach before the 1870s. After the Mexican-American War, Laguna Beach became part of the US in 1887. By 1927, the California State fully incorporated the beach as a city in Orange County.

Fascinating things to try at Laguna Beach are as follows:
โ€ข Watch the breathtaking sunset
โ€ข Take a stroll through the beach
โ€ข Swim in the turquoise waters
โ€ข Play volleyball or football at the sandy beach
โ€ข Cruise through the ocean

5. Point Lobos State Reserve

Point Lobos State Reserve is the ideal place to visit if you desire to lay your eyes on a scenic spot. The gorgeous coastline and rugged coastline are top things to explore in the area. Point Lobos has a rich history thatโ€™s worth mentioning. In 1851, Americans, Chinese, Japanese, and Portuguese lived in the area. Also, Rumsien Indians inhabited the spot doing activities like shipping, whaling, abalone harvesting, and granite quarrying.

Today nature lovers visit Point Lobos State Reserve for the following:
โ€ข Hiking
โ€ข Viewing sea animals and wildlife
โ€ข Swimming
โ€ข Checking out a whaling museum
โ€ข Taking peaceful walks

Point Lobos State Reserve hosts California wildflowers that oversee the beaches and cliffs. In late spring, the flowers blossom, creating the best view that accentuates the landscape.

6. Redwood National Park

As the name suggests, the national park is home to redwood trees that live for close to 240 million years. Such trees are the tallest, growing up to 350 feet. Besides that, oak woodlands, prairies, and rivers thrive in the Redwood National Park. Whatโ€™s more appealing is the 40-mile coastline which makes the spot a special place to discover.

Redwood National Park constitutes other parks, including:
โ€ข Jedediah Smith State Park
โ€ข Prairie Creek State Park
โ€ข Del Norte State Park

The park qualifies for short hikes and scenic drives to appreciate the natural wonders. Redwood National Park is a 6-hour drive away from San Francisco.

7. Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe is 21 miles long, with jewel-colored waters dominating it. The north and south shores are the perfect spots to explore. Whatโ€™s more, Lake Tahoe features fantastic beaches to swim in and relax after a tiresome day. You can reach the place via a car or plane, depending on your budget.

Exciting activities that you can look forward to are hiking, playing, and boating. There are tons of mountain sceneries to enjoy as you sip a drink.

 

About the Author

Rebecca is a content writer who enjoys travel.

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About the Photo

The photo in the header above is of Vernal Falls, a 317-foot waterfall on the Merced River in Yosemite National Park, California, USA. Image by David Mark from Pixabay

About the Author

Rebecca is a content writer who enjoys travel.

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Check out these 7 breathtaking adventures to take in California, USA!

Check out these 7 breathtaking adventures to take in California, USA!

Check out these 7 breathtaking nature adventures to take in California, USA!

Check out these 7 breathtaking nature adventures to take in California, USA!

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