The Four Main Geographic Regions of California

1. North Coast – Oregon border to San Francisco Bay; redwoods, rugged coastline, cool marine climate.
2. Central Valley – Vast alluvial plain between Sierra Nevada and Coast Ranges; Sacramento & San Joaquin Valleys; agricultural powerhouse.
3. South Coast – Santa Barbara to Mexican border; Mediterranean climate, beaches, Los Angeles, San Diego metroplexes.
4. Sierra Nevada – 400-mile granitic spine; Mt. Whitney (14,505 ft), Yosemite, Sequoia/Kings Canyon; alpine to foothill zones.

These regions define California's climate, economy, ecology, and culture.