With luscious winds, gorgeous beaches, and favorable weather throughout the year, Southern California is the place to be for holiday goers.
But there’s more to SoCal than just beaches and sunny weather.
Whether you’re traveling with the family, your partner, or alone, there are some must-see attractions that you might not have known existed in Southern California. The problem is that there are so many!
So we’ll now highlight the top ten things we think are worth doing when you visit The Golden State.
Balboa Park
If you want to soak up the rays in a different setting to the beach, why not venture on down to Balboa Park?
It’s a historical location founded in 1868. Plus, there are 1400 acres to explore, a whopping 19 gardens, and 17 museums to check out – more than enough for a day trip.
Griffith Observatory
Another historical attraction you can visit is Griffith Observatory, which opened in 1935.
It’s worth venturing up there just for the incredible views of California at dawn or sunset. But, of course, you’ll have a great view of the stars at night as well. There are also exciting exhibits and a beautiful park to stroll around.
Santa Monica Pier
Santa Monica Pier is a must-visit attraction if you’re heading down to SoCal.
Opened in 1909, the pier continues to draw in holidaymakers with various shops, restaurants, and arcades. And then there’s the Pacific Park amusement park if you fancy a thrill or two!
Cabazon Dinosaurs
Cabazon Dinosaurs is a great stop-off roadside attraction to explore and have a picnic if you have kids.
You’ll be able to munch on sandwiches right next to a 150-foot long Brontosaurus. Or maybe you’ll appreciate being closer to the 65 foot tall T-Rex there?
Malibu Wine Safaris
Do you love wine and animals? If you do, then head on down to the Malibu Wine Safaris to indulge in both of your passions.
In an open-top vehicle, you can explore the sprawling 1,000-acre Saddlerock Ranch to appreciate all the exotic animals that graze there. And then, to finish up, wine tasting is on the menu at their winery!
La Jolla Cove
If you are going to hit the beach, one of the most impressive and scenic ones in San Diego has to be La Jolla Cove.
It’s small, rugged, amazing for photography, and best suited to visit at dawn to experience its beauty. Plus, you’ll get the chance to view lions basking on the rocks.
Runyon Canyon Park
Head to Runyon Canyon Cove for fresh breezes and a dose of sunshine. Plus, you might even spot a celebrity or two – as they are known to frequent this park.
It’s an excellent place for running, strolling, relaxing, and soaking up those killer views if you’re on a California staycation.
The Grove
If you need a little Cali retail therapy, The Grove is where it’s at.
A multitude of popular brands has shops here. Also, there’s plenty of food and entertainment to enjoy for a day away from the sun.
In-N-Out Burger
When in Cali, go get an In-N-Out Burger – and you won’t regret it!
Head to the Baldwin Park location to see their first restaurant. It was actually the first drive-through restaurant in the world, and their burgers are renowned.
Solvang
Solvang is a one-of-a-kind sort of place, known for its Danish styling and architecture.
It’s like stepping into a kind of Nordic Europe in the past, with horse-drawn carriages and old-world pubs. Plus, there’s a Hans Christian Anderson Park.
A Southern California Vacation
Whether you’re having a vacation or staycation in the beautiful region of Southern California, be sure to consider our ten things to do.
Thanks for stopping by, and be sure to check out our blog for more interesting reads.