Few states are as beautiful as California. It boasts a staggering array of natural wonders, from the shoreline of the Pacific Ocean to the redwood forests in the north and the golden desert sands in the south. Three world-class cities--Los Angeles, San Diego and San Francisco--hold the majority of its population, each with unique attractions and events.
California offers no shortage of things to do. Camping enthusiasts can visit Yosemite National Park, the shoreline of Big Sur or the moonlit deserts of Joshua Tree. San Francisco has Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge, as well as first-rate concerts and museums. Los Angeles has plenty of museums, as well as the glamour of Hollywood and the magic of Disneyland. San Diego boasts one of the world's greatest zoos and beaches that rank among the world's best.
Determine the distance between your destinations. California is a large state--the third largest in the Union and bigger than some countries. It takes two hours to drive from San Diego to L.A. and seven to drive from L.A. to San Francisco ... assuming there is no traffic. Draw up an itinerary based on the proximity of your destinations and the amount of time you have. For a seven-day vacation, you likely can split time between Northern and Southern California--three days in L.A. or San Diego, three days in the Bay Area or farther north, and one day's transit time. If you only have a few days, consider one or the other.
Consider your mode of transportation getting to California and while you are there. California hosts numerous airports (four major ones in the L.A. area and three in the Bay Area). San Francisco has a good public transit system--the BART--but those in L.A. and San Diego are more limited. Renting a car may be a better option. Traffic in major cities can be extremely bad, so be sure to leave lots of travel time.
Check websites for admission prices to attractions. If your budget is stretched thin, consider some of California's less expensive attractions. Plan for a day at the beach (which is usually free) or drive up the Pacific Coast Highway and take in the gorgeous shoreline rather than spending money on another museum or theme park. Disneyland averages about $70 a day per person, and the San Diego Zoo is about half that. A number of parks and recreational sites are inexpensive: Most state beaches will charge only for parking, and Yosemite averages about $20 per carload. San Francisco charges a toll for northbound passengers across the Golden Gate Bridge, but southbound is free, and you can walk or bike across it on nice days.
Look for places off the beaten track in California. Laguna Beach in Orange County hosts a wonderful series of tide pools featuring natural wonders. If wildlife interests you, visit the Living Desert near Palm Springs, an oasis dedicated to the preservation of desert animals. Napa and Sonoma valleys are known for wine tasting but consider visiting the Russian River Valley near Healdsburg. It contains excellent wineries and isn't overrun by tourists.
