California is so much more than Hollywood and San Francisco. Don’t get me wrong, these are great places but you’re like me and you’re itching to get away from the tourist crowds and really dive into what makes California special, I’ve got some spots you’ve got to check out.
I’m talking about places that’ll make your jaw drop, but you won’t have to elbow your way through a sea of selfie sticks to enjoy them. These hidden gems in California are perfect for nature lovers who want to experience the real, wild beauty of the sunshine state without feeling like they’re at Disneyland – secret beaches, hidden forests, and tiny towns that seem frozen in time. Places where you can actually hear yourself think! And the best part? Most tourists have no clue these places exist.
Discover the California that locals love, away from the masses of tourists.
Hidden Gems in California
Lassen Volcanic National Park
Lassen Volcanic National Park is a hidden gem in Northern California that is not as crowded as other natural wonders such as Yosemite or Lake Tahoe. It has stunning volcanic landscapes, crystal-clear alpine lakes, and vast wilderness areas to explore.
I visited Lassen Volcanic National Park in summer and it quickly became one of my favourite spots. You can drive through the park once the snow clears from the high elevation roads that connect the northern and southern regions of the park. Along the way, you can go on hikes, chill by the lakes, and admire towering volcanic formations.
A highlight of my trip was hiking the Bumpass Hell Trail, a popular route for those who want to see the hydrothermal sites in action. The scenery along the trail was amazing, and despite it being August, I could still see remnant snow in the distance.
In addition, you can enjoy a picnic at Emerald Lake or Helen Lake, or take a relaxing walk through Kings Creek Meadow. In the northern part of the park, Manzanita Lake offers a scenic kayaking spot with views of Lassen Peak and Chaos Crags. If you’re camping nearby, I recommend coming back to the lake for some stargazing.
With so much to see and do, you could easily spend 2 days here. If you plan take on more challenging hikes like Lassen Peak or Cinder Cone, you might want to add an extra day.
Overall, Lassen Volcanic National Park is a great choice to get away from the summer crowd. Whether you’re into hiking, camping, or just want to enjoy a relaxing drive through the park, this hidden gem in California is worth a visit.
Farallon Islands
Located about 30 miles off the coast of San Francisco, the Farallon Islands are a hidden gem that beckons adventure travellers with their raw, untouched beauty and thrilling wildlife encounters. These rugged, remote islands offer an experience like no other for those willing to venture beyond the typical tourist trails.
A quick Google search will present you with a couple companies that offer day trips by boat for traveling out to the island, but know that you will not be getting onto the island as it is a protected wildlife refuge.
Also called the “Devil’s Teeth” due to their jagged peaks, the waters surrounding them are a prime spot for whale watching, including grey whales, humpbacks, killer whales and even the elusive blue whale can be seen breaching the surface. You’ll also see a combination of seal and sea lion species frolicking about.
If you’re more of a bird enthusiast, the Farallon Islands are a veritable paradise, hosting the largest seabird breeding colony in the continental United States. And in the fall, you may be fortunate enough to catch a glimpse of a great white shark, as they are known to feed here during a brief pause of their migration.
Note, the species present are seasonal, so it’s good to do a bit of research if you’re hoping to catch a glimpse of a certain animal. However, if you’re indifferent, you won’t be disappointed!
This unique experience offers adventure travellers a rare opportunity to connect with nature in its most untamed form. Whether you’re observing the incredible wildlife, exploring the rugged landscapes, a visit to the Farallon Islands promises an unforgettable adventure.
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park is a lesser known State Park in the Bay Area and a hidden gem way to see Redwood trees while in California. I visited this park on a Pacific Coast Highway road trip, after hearing about it from a ranger at another nearby State Park.
Near the Visitor Center, we were greeted by a slice of one of the Redwoods with timestamps showing it was older than year 1 on the modern calendar! We did the Redwood Grove Loop trail, which is an easy, short path through the ancient forest. On this trail we saw beautiful (and of course tall!) Redwood and Douglas Fir trees, and I was blown away by the size of each tree. The route also pointed out significant details about how Redwood trees grow and adapt, and I even stepped inside one of the hollow Redwoods, called the Fremont Tree. Make sure you grab one of the pamphlet guides available at the start of the Redwood Grove Loop trail to learn about 15 spots along the forest – and return the guide once you’re done!
In addition to the loop trail we did, there are also many more hikes to choose from, ranging between easy, moderate, and strenuous routes. Other Redwood groves in the area, like Big Basin Redwoods State Park, are recovering from the 2020 wildfires, so Henry Cowell Park is an amazing choice to see Redwoods and learn the history of the area. It’s a great stop for a day on its own, and can be combined with nearby day trips on the central California coast, including seeing elephant seals and visiting the Santa Cruz beach.
Lompoc
Lompoc, located along the central coast, is a hidden gem in California. Most people have not heard of this area, and it is often overshadowed by other central coast locations and Napa Valley. Here, visitors can spend a fun weekend wine tasting, grabbing some great food, and spending time outdoors.
For those interested in state history, head to La Purisima Mission State Historic Park. This is home to one of the California missions and established in 1787.
No visit to Lompoc is complete without visiting some wineries. For those who want a one stop shop, head to the Lompoc Wine Ghetto. Here you can find several tasting rooms. My favourites here include Ampelos Cellars, Sweetzer Cellars, and Zotovich. For those who want a winery experience, head to Spear Vineyards and Winery, my favorite in the area.
Other fun things to do in Lompoc include the Lompoc Museum, where you can learn about the history of the area. Wander the downtown area to check out the Lompoc Murals. If you visit during the springtime, head out to the flower fields to see some amazing fields in bloom.
For a super unique experience, check out the Vandenberg Space Force Base. At certain times of the year, they hold special events and launch rockets. You can see their launches from all over Lompoc but you will get the best views from the beach.
Some of my favourite places to eat include capulin Eats and Provisions, La Botte Italian Restaurant, and Toro Loco. Lompoc is great to visit any time of the year and it is such a fun weekend escape from hectic cities.
Devils Postpile National Monument
Devils Postpile National Monument is a geologic wonder. The area includes the stunning lava columns of the Postpile, lovely Rainbow Falls, and a network of hiking trails, creeks, and meadows. Devils Postpile lies just a half-hour drive from Mammoth Mountain Village in Mammoth Lakes on Highway 203 and you will want to plan a visit. You can also reach Devils Postpile if you are driving along 395 in the Eastern Sierra region.
The Postpile is a gigantic formation of hexagonal columns made of cooled basalt lava. While I had read about it and looked at pictures, I was not prepared for the sight of these dark columns soaring 60 feet into the air. I wandered along the base of the Postpile and gazed up at the different angles of posts displayed majestically against the deep blue sky. I spent a long time taking in this mind-boggling formation.
Next, I climbed the short Loop Trail up to explore the tops of the columns. The hexagonal, flat lava not only is fascinating, but it also is a great place to stand and take in the surrounding mountain views.
Once I marvelled at the Postpile, I was ready to hike. The area offers about eight miles of trails that range from easy to strenuous. The popular trail to Rainbow Falls is five miles out and back. You can also go an additional 1.3 miles out and back to reach the Lower Falls.
I opted for the hike to Minaret Falls, a 1.4-mile scenic trail that heads uphill from the Postpile, across a creek, and to a small waterfall. I loved this time in nature, but it was hot and the trail offers little shade. Be sure to take plenty of water and use sunscreen.
If you prefer a less strenuous hike, choose the Agnew Wildflower Loop. This half-mile meadow trail takes you through fields of cheerful wildflowers. I stopped here for lunch at the picnic tables lining the meadow.
Devils Postpile and surroundings are typically open from mid-June through mid-October. The Reds Meadow Shuttle runs from Mammoth here but check the schedule because days and hours are inconsistent.
Whether your day here includes hiking or you simply take in the awesome Devils Postpile, I guarantee you will long remember the amazing sights in this unusual National Park destination.
Carpinteria
Carpinteria is one of those places most people don’t know about, even if they live in California. You might notice a sign on the 101 heading to Santa Barbara, but this low-key, authentic California beach town is definitely a hidden gem.
Carp is the perfect place to spend days on the beach, take long walks, and chat with the neighbours. If you like exploring, there’s always something interesting to see. One of my favourite spots is the Salt Marsh Nature Park. You can get up close to some unusual birds. Animal lovers will also like checking out the seal rookery from Carpinteria Bluffs Nature Preserve. At certain times, you can see up to 100 seals on the beach, but you have to view them from the coastal trail above their protected habitat.
If you are traveling with kids, one of the best things to do in Carpinteria is check out the tide pools on Carpinteria State Beach. I saw a baby octopus there! This wide sandy beach is called the world’s safest beach because of the lack of rip currents. Splash around in the water, play volleyball, or take a long walk, especially at sunset.
On Linden Avenue, you’ll find plenty of cute shops, including Robitaille’s, the local candy store, and great restaurants. There are also multiple places to enjoy happy hour. I like Sunburst Wine Bar (which also has great burgers) and Teddy’s By the Sea. It’s hard not to fall in love with this unassuming, laid-back beach town, where you can relax and have a great time.
Alabama Hills
With a name like Alabama Hills, you may not expect to find this outdoor wonderland in California. But the natural beauty and uniqueness of this recreational area make it one of the most underrated hidden gems in California.
Nestled at the base of the Sierra Mountains, Alabama Hills is a hiking and camping area full of mesmerizing rock formations and panoramic vistas. It’s also the filming sight of dozens of movies, including Iron Man, Gladiator, Star Trek, and Tremors! You can take a self guided tour on the main park road to view the marked filming locations in person.
Alabama Hills is located just outside the small town of Lone Pine, California, a popular base for all things outdoors in the Sierras. There are no entrance fees, and the area is open year round. Leashed pets are also welcome at Alabama Hills.
The best things to do at Alabama Hills are hiking, camping, sightseeing, and photography. There are several hiking trails, including some that are family friendly! These include trails to landmarks such as Mobius Arch, Shark Fin, Eye of Alabama, Nightmare Rock, Elephant Rock, and Cyclops Skull!
Camping in Alabama Hills is primitive and undeveloped, which means no electricity or running water. But the payoff is the ultimate off the grid experience in seclusion!
While hiking and camping are the biggest attractions, scenic driving, sightseeing, and photography are easy and convenient to accomplish as there is just one main park road that you can traverse at your own pace. It is nearly impossible to get lost and easy to navigate!
Hearst Castle
Hearst Castle is not only one of California’s hidden gems but also a hidden castle. Tucked away in San Simeon, CA, it overlooks the Pacific Ocean near Paso Robles, one of California’s premiere wine producers. All this makes for an enchanting landscape around the castle. Even its nickname, “La Cuesta Encantada,” is Spanish for The Enchanted Hill.
Hearst Castle’s history begins as a residence for newspaper titan William Randolph Hearst, who was not only very wealthy but also friends and host to some of the most notable names of his time, such as Charlie Chaplin, Cary Grant, the Marx Brothers, Jean Harlow, Clark Gable, Winston Churchill, and Charles Lindbergh.
The Hearst Castle estate consists of a main twin-towered building, three guesthouses, and 127 acres of gardens, fountains, and pools. Once a bustling residence, it has now been transformed into a California State Park open to visitors. One of its most impressive features is its pools. Built in an era when a pool symbolized luxury, the Neptune Pool and the Roman Pool, modelled after ancient Roman baths, are exquisite.
My top tip for visiting Hearst Castle is to do some research before visiting on what you’d like to see as they offer several tours focusing on different features of the estate, such as the Grand Rooms Tour, Upstairs Suites Tour, Designing the Dream Tour, Hearst and Hollywood Tour, and more. You must take a tour to see Hearst Castle, so I advise taking at least two tours. This way, you can get a good feel for the place. Hearst Castle tours range from about 60 minutes to 2 hours, so a visit can fill at least half a day.
Before your tour, I recommend watching the 40-minute film ‘Hearst Castle: Building the Dream’ for a comprehensive overview of the castle’s construction. It’s best to do this before your tour. A bus takes you from the visitor centre to the castle, so arrive a little early for your scheduled tour to avoid missing the bus.
Kelseyville
Bordered by the more famous counties of Napa and Sonoma, the towns of Lake County remain relatively undiscovered, and that certainly is the case with Kelseyville.
So, if you’re like me and seek a more laid-back, less touristy getaway, you’ll love visiting Kelseyville as much as I did. In fact, many of the best things to do in Lake County are in this small town. And when I say “small,” I’m talking an Old West downtown about a half mile from end to end. Yet, I still found plenty to do right in the heart of town.
As a chef, I’m always interest in the local food, beer, and wine scenes. Since Kelseyville holds an annual Beer, Wine, and Swine Festival, I had a feeling it would live up to my standards, and it did. As far as food goes, there’s a great sandwich shop, pizzeria, and casual Mexican restaurant, but my favourite for dinner was The Saw Shop. Dancing with the locals in the backyard was a definite highlight too.
We enjoyed live music and craft beers at the nano-brewery, Kelsey Creek. Across the street, we stepped into the Fore Family Wine Room and enjoyed a refreshing glass of their Sauvignon Blanc while relaxing on comfy couches. Of course, most of the wine tasting rooms are at vineyards just a short drive from the downtown strip. Mercantile, Chacewater Winery, and Lajour each have great wines and ambiance, and we hit them all by the end of the weekend. Cheers!
Avila Beach
Avila Beach is one of the best hidden gems on California’s Central Coast. This quaint and beautiful beach town remains a pristine location without many tourists. It is my favourite beach town and the perfect getaway for a relaxing vacation on California’s Central Coast.
One of my favourite sections of Avila Beach is where Front Street, the main oceanfront street, becomes a pedestrian-only area that is closed off to vehicles. There are several restaurants and cafes with outdoor seating to visit. I recommend starting your day here, as the ocean view is spectacular, and then going for a stroll on the boardwalk.
A stroll along the boardwalk is a must and is very enjoyable. The view is spectacular, and the sound of the ocean waves reaching the shore is very soothing. I also enjoy going for a daily swim as the water is relatively calm and not too cold during the summer months. And since Avila Beach is not a very touristy location, the beach is not very crowded.
Avila Beach is more than a quaint beach town. There are many activities to do in and around Avila Beach. I enjoy riding my bike along the boardwalk and on the Bob Jones Trail, which is also perfect for hiking. Avila Beach is also within driving distance of one of my favourite spots, the Avila Hot Springs. I enjoy visiting the hot springs, soaking in their mineral spring hot tub, and getting a well-deserved massage. Avila Beach is also close to popular and busier towns like Pismo Beach and San Luis Obispo. Avila Beach is one of the best beach towns along California’s Central Coast
Newport Beach
As someone who has recently moved to Southern California, Newport Beach has become my ultimate hidden gem. Tucked away on the coast of Orange County, about an hour outside of LA, it is a charming city that offers both a laid-back beach vibe and a more posh and sophisticated atmosphere that will make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
While people have heard of Huntington Beach, Venice Beach, and La Jolla, Newport Beach doesn’t always come up in discussions about where to go. In my opinion, that’s a shame because Newport boasts some of the best beaches in all of California, stretching on for miles. The beaches are exceptionally clean and well-staffed with lifeguards throughout the summer, making it a great place to surf if you’d like to give it a shot!
One of my favourite things to do in Newport Beach is visit Balboa Peninsula, where you can stroll along the iconic Balboa Pier, Southern California’s answer to Coney Island. At the pier, you’ll find the Balboa Fun Zone, where you can ride the ferris wheel or indulge in a famous frozen banana (I usually get mine dipped in dark chocolate and Heath).
Newport Beach is also a paradise for nature lovers. The Upper Newport Bay, known as the Back Bay by locals, is a protected estuary with fantastic hiking trails and year-round birdwatching. Crystal Cove State Park features tidepools to explore, while Corona del Mar State Beach offers breathtaking sunset views. There truly is something for everyone in Newport Beach!
Channel Islands
Channel Islands National Park is one of the least visited national parks in the United States, especially in California, which is surprising given that it is just a few hours from Los Angeles! However, this national park is well worth a visit. Channel Islands is known for its fantastic coastline, unique wildlife, and remote setting. Unlike other islands near Southern California, the Channel Islands were formed due to volcanic activity, making the coastlines, flora and fauna, and soil unique. The Channel Islands were declared a national park in 1980, and since then, there have been increasing efforts to save the unique species that call these islands home.
During a day in Channel Islands National Park, you have a lot of great outdoor activities to choose from! One of the most popular things to do is join a guided kayaking tour, snorkel, or go hiking to enjoy the coastal views. Whether on the water or hiking, make sure you take time to search for the unique wildlife! Channel Islands is home to several endemic species, such as the island fox, island spotted skunk, island deer mouse, and several species of birds.
To get to the Channel Islands, you must take a ferry leaving from Oxnard or Ventura with Island Packers. It’s definitely recommended to book about a month in advance to ensure you can secure the ferry times and kayaking tour you prefer! There’s no shortage of great views on any of the five islands, but the easiest to visit for a short time are Anacapa or Santa Cruz. You’ll love this hidden gem in California and all the unique things to explore here!
Carlsbad
With miles of pristine coastline, Carlsbad has some of the best beaches in North County, San Diego. Yet, the city of Carlsbad is often an overlooked hidden gem in California. Here are some of the many reasons you should visit Carlsbad, California on your next vacation.
Carlsbad offers sunny skies and temperate weather which makes it the perfect setting for a variety of outdoor activities. From scenic hiking trails, surfing, and water sports in the Agua Hedionda lagoon, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy in Carlsbad.
During spring, travellers can visit the Carlsbad Flower Fields. Here you can wander among fifty acres of ranunculi flowers in a kaleidoscope of colours. The Flower Fields offers tractor rides, a sweet pea maze, playground, and more. In addition, brilliant fields of flowers are a stunning backdrop for photos. This is one of the best things to do in Carlsbad!
Another popular attraction is Legoland California. Families can enjoy thrilling rides, live entertainment, and creative LEGO figures. Then, cool off at Legoland Water Park or visit Sea Life Aquarium.
Next, explore Carlsbad Village. This charming downtown area is a hub of activity with innovative restaurants, bars, and shopping. Some favourite activities include renting e-bikes to cruise the boardwalk or exploring the local cuisine on a food tour.
Last, but not least, Carlsbad has other unique things to do. Try shucking and tasting oysters at a Carlsbad Aquafarm tour. For something creative, try glass-blowing at Barrio Glassworks. Plus you can search for over 30 murals hidden throughout downtown Carlsbad.
As you can see, Carlsbad is truly one of California’s hidden gems that offers delicious restaurants, beautiful beaches and unique attractions.
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I’ve heard of a couple of these places but haven’t been any! Every time I hear about them I think I absolutely have to go there. Thanks for the reminder and introduction to some new ones!
I’m a native an never heard of Alabama Hills! Will check it out for sure – lots of wonderful places. But….next time you visit make sure to see Death Valley. It’s a Must See for all the French visitors we know.
I love to find out about hidden gems — avoid the crowds and still see and experience really interesting things.
So many cool spots- many of them look like Europe esp with the flowers gardens and islands.
Awesome list and I wanted to visit both Devil’s Postpile and Alabama Hills while exploring Highway 395, but it was unsafe and closed due to the snow late March. I still need to visit a lot of the places on your list and I’m a Los Angeles native lol! California is filled with hidden gems!