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Fall in Southern California: Great Places to Visit

This article details the best places to visit during the fall in Southern California!

When it comes to the fall season, I am sure Southern California is not the place that comes to mind.

We do not have an abundance of colorful foliage, seasonal orchards, and chilly days.

But, make no mistake.  There are many places in Southern California that can give you a good dose of autumness.

The area has places where apples rule, vines give up their fruits, ancient traditions are celebrated and the desert welcomes you with its best weather.

Here are some incredible places to visit during the fall in Southern California.

Note: Southern California can be defined in different ways but for this article purposes we will consider the following counties: Santa Barbara, Ventura, Los Angeles, Orange, San Diego, San Bernardino, Riverside, Imperial.

Oak Glen

Oak Glen is the quintessential fall escape for residents of Los Angeles, Orange, and Riverside counties.  Families flock to the area, mostly during weekends, to eat all things related to apples, pick fruit, run around mazes, enjoy the foliage and listen to live music.

You can see the area by driving from farm to farm on the Oak Glen Road, a loop located against the San Bernardino National Forest.

Start the day by having apple pancakes at Apple Annie’s Restaurant.  On the bakery side of the establishment, you will find apple bread, apple empanadas, apple dumplings, the famous 5-pound apple pie, and other goodies.  Do not forget to stroll around Oak Tree Mountain.

Then, it is time to pick apples, pears, and pumpkins at one of the farms such as Snow-Line Orchard, Los Rios Rancho, Stone Pantry Orchard, Willowbrook Apple Farm, Heritage Orchard, or Rileys Farm.

If you are not interested in picking fruit, you can still visit the farms and take a look at their offerings.  They sell fruit, fall vegetables, apple cider donuts, honey, jams, jellies, and all sorts of gourmet products for sale.

Also, some of these farms have pumpkin patches, corn mazes, petting zoos, horseback rides, wagon rides, and opportunities to press your own cider.  And, talking about cider, do not forget to visit the Oak Glen Cider Company.  Or, be ready to stop when you see signs saying “apple cider sold here.”

If you want to stretch your legs (or burn calories after eating so much), stop by the Oak Glen Preserve or Wildwood Canyon State Park.

Julian – Fall in Southern California

Julian is one of my favorite small towns in California.  I am not kidding when I say that I dream about this place.  Why?  It is all about the pie.  And, I am talking about apple pie!

Yes, the apple pie is reason enough to drive to this town nestled on the mountains of San Diego County.  I am not even a pie person but I am crazy about the offerings in the town.  The pastry is buttery and flaky and the filling has the right balance of sweet and tart.

There are many pie flavors such as classic apple, dutch apple pie (my favorite), apple berry, apple cherry, apple peach, pecan, cherry, rhubarb, and blueberry.  You can order a slice (or buy the whole thing) and have it with cinnamon ice cream and even melted cheddar cheese.

Things to do in Julian, San Diego, California, Apple

You can find the delicious pies at the Julian Pie Company, Mom’s Pies, and Apple Alley Bakery.  I have tried them all and they are all good.  Of course, there are way more apple-related goods for you to pig out to your heart’s content.  I bet you to try as many things as possible.  Do not forget to try the cider at the town’s cider house.

Between eating pie, you can visit the Pioneer Museum, Eagle Mountain Mining Company, Volcan Valley Apple Farm, and Apple Starr Orchard.  Adult libations can be found at the Menghini Winery, Volcan Mountain Winery, Julian Beer Company, and Nickel Beer Company.  There are additional wineries, cideries, and taprooms at nearby Winola Junction.

You can extend your stay by including outdoor paradises such as the Volcan Mountain Wilderness Preserve, William Heise County Park, Lake Cuyamaca, and Cuyamaca Rancho State Park.

Read More: Things to Do in Julian

Apple pie signs, Julian, California

Calabasas

If we are talking about fall, I cannot leave out the city called “Pumpkin” in Spanish (calabaza means pumpkin or squash).

Leaving the name aside, I am including the city on the list because it hosts a big fall festival (October) and can be used as a base to explore the Santa Monica Mountains. That’s right, fall is a great time to hike because of the mild temperatures.

For example, you can head to the historic King Gillette Ranch (yes, it was owned by one of the razor company owners), a park featuring a Spanish revival mansion, pond, creek, terraces, bridges, and hiking trails (Gillett Ranch Loop, Gillett Ranch Summit to Inspiration Point, Las Virgenes View).

In the vicinity, you can visit the Malibu Creek State Park, a place used to film several movies and TV shows.  The park offer camping, hiking, picnicking and fishing opportunities.

North of Calabasas, there are more hiking trails at the Chesebro and Palo Comado Canyon and Upper Las Virgenes Canyon Open Space Preserve.  

A more serene setting is waiting for you at the Malibu Hindu Temple, a marvelous set of structures dedicated to the Hindu god Venkateswara.

Also, you can access scenic Mulholland Highway from the King Gillette Ranch area.

Take a break from all the activity by visiting one of the shopping centers along Calabasas Road (El Camino Shopping Center, The Commons, Parkway Calabasas).  Consider eating at restaurants such as Pedales Fork, Sagebrush Cantina, or Lovi’s Delicatessen.  If you have time, pay a visit to the Leonis Adobe, one of the oldest buildings in Los Angeles.

Botanical Gardens

Southern California may not be big on fall colors but that doesn’t mean that we do not have reds, oranges, and yellows at all.

One way to find pretty fall displays is by heading to your nearest botanical garden.  There are always flowers blooming and non-native species will show their best autumn hues.

Check out one of the following gardens in the areas:

  • Santa Barbara Botanical Gardens
  • Ventura Botanical Gardens
  • South Coast Botanical Gardens (Palos Verdes)
  • Los Angeles County Arboretum (Arcadia)
  • Descanso Gardens (La Cañada Flintridge)
  • The Huntington Library
  • Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden (Claremont)
  • Niguel Botanical Preserve
  • Fullerton Arboretum
  • San Diego Botanical Garden (Encinitas)
  • UC Riverside Botanic Gardens
Old Town San Diego

Big Bear – Fall in Southern California

Gorgeous Big Bear Lake is one of Southern California’s most popular mountain escapes.  This is an all-season resort ideal for all sorts of groups.

The cool thing is that you can see some fall colors in the area.  You can do this by driving around the lake and stopping at all the main viewpoints (Boulder Bay Park, Grout Bay Recreation Ares, North Shore Recreation Area, Juniper Point).  I also recommend taking a ride aboard the Miss Liberty Paddlewheel or Time Bandit Pirate Ship.  Those rides are so fun and the views are phenomenal.

Another way to see the forest surrounding the lake is on foot or bike.  The following trails are considered easy:

  • Alpine Pedal Path (2.5 miles, one way)
  • Woodland Interpretative Trail (1.5 miles, loop)
  • Towne Trail (2.5 miles, loop)
  • Champion Lodgepole Trail (0.6 miles, one way)

Of course, the Castle Rock Trail is the most popular in the area.  This 2.4 miles, round trip hike is considered intermediate to difficult.  However, the top of Castle Rock (the end goal) affords panoramic views of the lake and surroundings.  Every drop of sweat is worth the effort!

Big Bear hosts a huge Oktoberfest Celebration. Festivities include German bands, DJs, tons of sausage varieties, strudel, German dumplings, dance groups, contests, costumes, children activities, and copious amounts of beer (wine too).

In town, make sure to have a great meal at places like Fire Rock, Copper Q, The Old German Deli, and Amangela’s.  I completely adore the food served at Himalayan.

Read More: Weekend Guide to Southern California

Lake Arrowhead

Big Bear seems to get all the attention while Lake Arrowhead stays as a “day trip from Big Bear.”

However, it is hard to compete with Lake Arrowhead’s raw beauty.  Everything about this place is gorgeous!

To start with, the Arrowhead Village has several buildings with a half-timbered/Bavarian architectural style.  Those give the area a unique European air.  Keep getting into the mood by having breakfast at Belgium Waffle Works.

Explore the lake by walking the North Shore or South Shore Trails.  This will allow you to explore the different bays in the lake and other smaller lakes (Papoose Lake, Grass Valley).

For other hikes, you will have to drive a bit away from the lake.  Here are some recommendations:

  • Heaps Peak Arboretum Trail (0.7-mile loop, easy)
  • Seeley Creek Trail (1 mile, easy)
  • Exploration Trail (4.5 miles, one way, moderate)

Nearby Lake Gregory (another beautiful lake in the area), offers 2.5 miles, easy nature loop.

Lake Arrowhead can be explored aboard the Arrowhead Queen, a paddle wheeler offering 45-minute tours.  Animal lovers should head to Wildhaven Ranch, a wildlife sanctuary that rehabilitates injured bears, raccoons, mountain lions, and birds.

For a delicious meal, make sure to check Cedar Glen Malt Shop, Papagayos, and Hortencias (a Mexican restaurant in a stunning location).

Keep in mind you are very close to the Rim of the World Scenic Byway, a road connecting the major towns in the San Bernardino National Forest.

Lake Arrowhead, San Bernardino, California, Los Angeles

Idyllwild – Fall in Southern California

It is time to move from the San Bernardino National Forest to the San Jacinto Mountains.  In there, you will find the Idyllwild, a small town ideal for those who want to escape the big cities.

Most activities around here involve chilling out in a cabin, walking around town, and hiking.  Seems like the most family-friendly (meaning easier) trails are the Ernie Maxwell Scenic Trail (2.6 miles, one way) and Deer Springs Trail (3.3 miles, one way). Do your research before heading to a trail since some require a permit and others go through tribal land.

Another option is to visit the Idyllwild Nature Center and explore its 4.5 miles of easy trails, picnic spots, and educational displays.

Lake Hemet, another hiking and fishing paradise is located within close distance.  Lake Fulmor Day Use Area is located to the north.

Dining recommendations include Mile High Cafe, Cafe Aroma, and Higher Grounds.  Make room on your schedule to visit the Middle Ridge Winery Tasting Gallery.

Palm Springs

It makes total sense to jump from Idyllwild to Palm Springs since the San Jacinto Mountains are located “behind” the city and are one of the mountain ranges that form the Coachella Valley.

Palm Springs is a superb fall getaway because the weather is at its best during this time of the year.  It is not infernally hot or chilly.  Plus, you do not have the high winds of spring.

So, pack your luggage and head to this desert oasis.  By the way, the entire Coachella Valley is wonderful during fall.

There is a lot to do in Palm Springs.  It is a place that never gets old.

If you want to eat, drink and shop, stop by Downtown (or Downtown Palm Desert).  That is the happening place to be and there are plenty of cool places (cafes, patios, rooftops) to spend some time.

Trio Restaurants, Uptown Design District

If you are into architecture and design, check out the shops located Uptown, do a self-guided Modernist tour or book a specialized tour.

Outdoor types have plenty of options.  You can hike at the Indian Canyons, Coachella Valley Preserve or Tahquitz Canyon (there is a waterfall at the end of the canyon).  Organized tours can take you to hard to reach spots and to the notorious San Andreas Fault.

Those who are chasing fall colors may observe some at the upper station of the Palm Springs Tramway.  Even if the leaves are not changing, the views of the valley floor from the top are incredible.

Planning for day trips is a fascinating option too.  You will have problems deciding among Joshua Tree National Park, Big Morongo Preserve, Whitewater Reserve, and the Salton Sea.

And, whatever you do, do not miss trying a date shake.  They are sold in many places but my favorite version is sold at the Shield Dates Garden in Indio.

Read More: Things to Do in Palm Springs

Day Trips from Palm Springs

Coachella Valley Preserve

Antelope Valley

The Antelope Valley is located in the northern, desertic area of Los Angeles County.  The main population centers are Palmdale and Lancaster.

The area does not seem to get a lot of attention.  I do not understand why since it has a lot to offer.  As a matter of fact, Downtown Lancaster is a California Cultural District.  In that part of the city, you will find tons of colorful murals, an art museum, historic buildings, and restaurants serving delicious food.

The Valley has (or it is close) to three sub-AVAs (American Viticultural Areas): Sierra Pelona, Leona Valley, and Antelope Valley of the High Desert.  Therefore, there are several wine tasting rooms in Lancaster and around Agua Dulce.

Hikers can visit the Saddleback Butte State Park, Devil’s Punchbowl County Park, Prime Desert Woodland Preserve, or the Indian Museum State Historic Park.

For fruit picking, go to Brian Ranch Airport U-Pick Orchard.  They sell products made on-site, have a pumpkin patch, and even offer ultralight airplane flights.

Read More: Things to Do in Lancaster

Santa Ynez Valley

The Santa Ynez Valley is located about 30 miles north of Santa Barbara.  You may not be aware but the valley is one of the premier wine regions in California.

And, yes, fall is harvest time and you can expect the vine leaves to change colors.  Many turn into hues of yellow and crimson.  Entire fields seem to get “on fire.”

There is a lot to do in this area.  I have been going for years and it is impossible to get bored.  On the east side of the valley, you will find the towns of Solvang (California’s Little Denmark), Santa Ynez, Buellton, and Los Olivos.  All these towns have wine tasting rooms but Los Olivos revolves almost 100% around wine.  With about 30 tasting rooms in town,  this is the place for die-hard wine fans.

In the west part of the valley, you will find the towns of Lompoc and Los Alamos.  These two cannot be more different.  Lompoc is kind of the most developed town in the area.  Los Alamos is a row of buildings in the middle of nowhere.

But, Lompoc has a place called the Wine Ghetto.  There are over a dozen tasting rooms in an industrial setting.

Scattered around the Valley, you have many estates and vineyards open to the public.  Popular tasting routes include the Santa Rita Hills and Foxen Canyon Trail.

Driving between places, you will have the opportunity to appreciate the landscape.  If you want to get deeper into the area, make sure to read my article about the backroads of the Santa Ynez Valley.

I recommend having breakfast in Solvang (Paula’s Pancake House, Solvang Restaurant) or Buellton (Ellen’s Pancake House, Pattibakes).  Or, opt for having something light at one of the town’s Danish bakeries.

With a full belly, stroll around town and go crazy taking pictures.  You can start wine tasting once the clock says it is 11:00 a.m.  You can do this in Solvang or move to Los Olivos. To reach Los Olivos from Solvang, you will have to drive through Alamo Pintado Road.  There are excellent tasting rooms on that road too.

On another day, explore Buellton or Lompoc  Going to an actual vineyard is recommended since it is just a different vibe.  And, whatever you choose to do, do not miss having a meal at Industrial Eats.

Read More: Things to Do in Solvang

Things to Do in Los Olivos

Things to Do in Buellton

Things to Do in Lompoc

Temecula – Fall in Southern California

Temecula is located in Riverside County, about 90 miles from Los Angeles.  Therefore, it is a popular weekend getaway for those living in the big city.

Because of that, it is a good idea to visit during the week or avoid the most popular wineries during the weekends.  There are plenty of small/mid-size tasting rooms offering yummy wines in gorgeous settings.

As mentioned, fall is grape harvest time.  As a consequence, the season is jam-packed with activities and special events.

Start your day by visiting Old Town.  Front Street is brimming with restaurants, shops, and cafes.  Standouts include Penfold’s, Public House, Crush & Brew, and Devilicious Eatery.  Foodies should not miss the Temecula Olive Oil Company, House of Jerky, and Temecula Valley Cheese Company.

If you are around on a Saturday, do not miss the morning farmers market in Old Town.

For wine tasting, you are spoiled for choice.  Wineries are located east of town mainly along Rancho California and De Portola Roads. 

Wilson Creek (try the Almond Champagne), Callaway, Europe Village, Ponte, and Miramonte are some of the most popular tasting rooms. Churon is located inside a building built to resemble a French chateau.  Oak Mountain offers great views of the surrounding area and tasting in a wine cave.  Fazeli is another place I like a lot.

If you want to stay in wine country, Carter State, South Coast Winery, and Europe Village offer stunning lodging options.  You can stay at a vacation rental too.

If somebody in your party is not a big fan of wine, Temecula has awesome options when it comes to beer.  There are more than 10 breweries in the area.  Some to visit are Aftershock, Refuge, Garage, Ironfire and Electric.

For cocktails, visit the Kalifornia Distillery or Galway Spirits.

San Diego’s Wine Country

I have yet another wine country suggestion.

If I mention the Santa Ynez Valley and Temecula, I have to mention San Diego’s Wine Country too.  I am sure a lot of people do not even know such a place like this exists in San Diego.

Well, this idyllic place is centered around Escondido, a city located about 30 miles from Downtown San Diego.  

Orfila, Cordiano, Espinosa, Altiplano, and Rancho Guejito are acclaimed for their wines (and beautiful properties).

Keep in mind the San Diego Zoo Safari Park is located nearby.  Other outdoor activities can be practiced at the Elfin Forest Recreational Preserve, Lake Poway, and Mount Woodson.

San Diego has more beer than wine fame.  Those who want to explore this side of the area will find plenty of breweries in Escondido and next-door neighbor San Marcos. 

Another wine area to visit in San Diego is the Ramona Valley.  This rural area is full of rolling hills, green pastures, and farmland.  It is not that developed or well-known but it is definitely a hit for those who are looking for quietness and a more intimate experience when it comes to tasting wines.

Around Ramona, you have options such as Turtle Rock Ridge, Pamo Valley, Chuparosa, and La Finquita.

Julian is not that far from Ramona. So, you can have two fall getaways in one.  If you do not have time to make it to Julian, Santa Ysabel is home to a branch of the Julian Pie Company. 

Ojai

When it comes to Southern California fall getaways, we cannot leave Ojai from the list.

In this article, I have highlighted mountain and wine-related getaways.  Well, Ojai is a mix of those two elements.  There are a lot of places to wine taste.  Plus, there is easy access to many trails in the Los Angeles National Forest.

The charming town has nice places to check out such as Bart’s Books, Treasures of Ojai, Porch Gallery, Rainbow Bridge Natural Food, and Libbey Park.  You can walk to the Ojai Vineyard Tasting Room, Majestic Oak Vineyard, and Casa Barranca.

Outside town, I recommend visiting the Beatrice Wood Center for the Arts, Boccali’s Pizza & Pasta (has a pumpkin patch during fall), Ojai Valley Olive Oil Company, and Old Creek Ranch & Winery.

Drive past Boccali’s to reach a scenic point from where the Ojai Valley is seen.  A lot of people go to the Meditation Mount to see the town’s famous pink sunsets.

When it comes to hiking, one option is to get to know the lands protected by the Ojai Valley Land Conservancy.  Preserves include:

  • Valley View – Located Downtown, it has popular trails like Foxen Canyon.
  • Ojai Meadows, 
  • Ventura River
  •  Cluff Vista Park

Another option is to hike Shelf Road, a 3.5 miles, flat trail bordering the southern part of the Valley View Preserve.

Or, head to Los Padres National Forest.  Here are some recommended trails:

  • Piedra Blanca
  • Rose Valley Falls – 12 miles from Ojai, 0.5 miles, one way
  • Cozy Dell
  • Agua Blanca
  • North Matillija

If you want to relax, book a hiking and wine tasting tour with Trails by Potter or an off-road adventure with Cloud Climbers Jeep Tours.

Read More: Things to Do in Ventura County

Things to Do in Ventura

San Diego for Dia de Los Muertos

Even though Halloween is fall’s most popular festivity, I have never been fond of it.  However, my Latin side loves the Day of the Dead (Dia de los Muertos) celebrations.

If you cannot fly to Oaxaca City or Patzcuaro to celebrate, Old Town San Diego is a great option.  The entire area transforms to honor the ones that are no longer with us.  Activities include altar viewing, live mariachi music, face painting, plays, dancers, costume contests, parades, stilt walkers, and food stations.

In the county, Dia de Muertos activities take place in Sherman Heights, North Park, Encinitas, Oceanside, and Rancho Guajome.

To get spooky vibes, tour the Cosmopolitan Hotel (Old Town) or Whaley House.

More of Southern California

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Ultimate San Diego Bucket List

150+ Places to Go in Orange County

200+ Places to Visit in Santa Barbara

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Read More: Drive Around Lake Tahoe Bike Across the Golden Gate Bridge By Luda from Adventures with Luda If you’re traveling to San Francisco and looking for a fun (and adventurous) activity, rent a bike and get to pedaling across the Golden Gate Bridge! I recommend this for three main reasons: you’ll see amazing views of the San Francisco bay, work off some calories (psst - Japantown has some pretty great restaurants!), and you can explore other cities. There are plenty of places to rent a bike, but I recommend picking a company in the Fisherman’s Wharf neighborhood since it’s closest to the Bridge. The 20-minute bike ride over to the starting point will take you through some fairly flat streets, and you can stop near Crissy Field if you’d like to take a few photos of the waterfront. When biking across the Golden Gate Bridge, it’s important to note that there are two sidewalks: one is for pedestrians, and the other is for bikers. If you don’t know which one to take, just take a look at where everyone else is going or ask one of the employees at the concession stand. If you’re flexible on timing, you can bike all the way across the bridge and explore the neighboring town of Tiburon. This cozy little town is famous for its quirky boutiques, grassy parks, and scenic waterfront. If you plan to make the trip to Tiburon, ask the bike rental employee for a bicycle lock, as there are plenty of bicycle “parking” near the waterfront. Read More: Los Angeles to San Francisco Drive Book a Spot at the Sonoma Wine Trolley By Taima from Poor in a Private Plane If you are looking for a unique way to discover Sonoma then check out the Sonoma Wine Trolley. The tour begins in downtown Sonoma which is a great place to grab a bite before starting your wine adventure. Grab a bite at Sunflower Cafe and then make your way to Sonoma Plaza where you will board your wheels for the day. The wine trolley is a replica of a vintage California Street Cable Car used in San Francisco in the early 1900s. It’s an excellent way to experience Sonoma Valley in the open air trolley. The tour will take you to four different wineries with a stop for lunch. At one of the wineries you will be served a picnic lunch catered by The Girl and The Fig, one of the best restaurants in Sonoma. Once you have visited all four wineries the tour will drop you back off at Sonoma Plaza where you will have your pick of places to have dinner before turning in for the night. Whether it is your first time visiting Sonoma or you’re looking for a new way to experience Sonoma, the Sonoma Wine Trolley is a truly unique and fun experience. Photo by Taima Taste Craft Beer at the Russian River Brewery By Derek from Robe Trotting Napa and Sonoma valleys are rightly world-renowned for the vineyards, but one of my favorite stops in Sonoma valley was actually one of the best craft breweries in the world. Russian River Brewing Company has become world-famous for its Pliny the Elder and Pliny the Younger IPAs, hailed by many aficionados as the best beers in the world (Pliny the Younger is brewed once a year and is an especially hot ticket to enjoy). But they offer more than just IPAs, as their sours (named Consecration, Supplication, and Temptation) are world-class. Russian River now offers two locations in Sonoma Valley, including their original taproom in Santa Rosa and a new brewery and brewpub in Windsor. The Santa Rosa location can get packed in evenings, but they offer excellent pizzas and wings to pair with the beers. The Windsor location has a little less traffic and offers a broader menu, plus you can take a tour of their brewery. Visit the Mystery Spot By Rosie from Popcuria The Mystery Spot is a fun and quirky addition to any California trip and a great activity for all ages. This classic roadside attraction is now a California Historical Landmark and worth a stop on any drive up Highway One. Tucked away in the redwoods just outside of Santa Cruz, CA, the Mystery Spot is home to strange gravitational anomalies that will make you question your own eyes. Take the Mystery Spot’s guided tour and experience this supernatural phenomenon for yourself. Your tour will take you on a whimsical walk through the redwoods where the basics of physics do not seem to apply. Within the confines of the Mystery Spot, balls roll up hill instead of down and your friends and family appear taller and shorter than in real life. Take Instagram-worthy shots of your friends leaning off tables at unnatural angles inside the Spot’s topsy-turvy house. Snag the Mystery Spot’s bumper sticker at the end of your tour to commemorate your time at this iconic roadside pitstop. Read More: Santa Cruz Boardwalk in Pictures Hold a Baby Goat and Eat Cheese By Constance from Adventures of Panda Bear Harley Farms in Pescadero, CA is goat dairy farm located off of the northern California coast between Half Moon Bay and Santa Cruz. The farm has a variety of animals including chickens, a donkey, guardian llamas, Anatolian shepards, and of course, goats. All of the animals on the farm are working animals, the goats, in particular, provide milk for goat cheese. The farm’s dairy produces a variety of award-winning goat cheeses ranging from plain to cranberry walnut and garden chive, and more. The cheeses alone are well worth the visit! The best thing about visiting Harley Goat Farms is their baby goats. Take a farm tour during the spring months after the baby goats, or “kids” as they’re called, are born. Then, you’ll be able to see and hold a baby goat! The farm tour is also super informative and you’ll learn a lot about how to hold a baby goat, the farm’s operations, animals, and their cheese. The highlight of it all are definitely the baby goats, they are too cute! Stop by a Hot Spring By Athul from Our Backpack Tales Surrounded by the Sierra Nevada Mountains and the Glass Mountain Ridge in California is the Crowley Hot Springs also known as Wild Willy's Hot Springs. You can reach the trail close to US 395 by taking the Benton Crossing Road. The Crowley Hot Springs are open 24 hours a day and it is absolutely free. From the parking lot, you can see an elevated wooden walkway. A short walk of around 0.32 km through the beautiful backdrop of mountains is an amazing experience. The walkway slopes slightly downward and ends almost abruptly by the pools. It is about 10 feet wide and 3 feet deep, and you can easily take a dip in it! This hot spring contains one small and one large pool. The temperature in these pools can vary from 95 to 105 degrees. The bigger pool can accommodate a dozen of people but the small pool can accommodate some. The area surrounding the pool is stunning with mountains and grasslands in the backdrop. There are few option for camping in the surrounding area. These hot springs are in a fragile ecosystem so all should follow leave no trace behind policy to keep them clean. Things to Do in California - Central California Here are some of the things you can do around California’s Central area. If you ask me, this is one of the most thrilling parts of the state. Drive Around Big Sur By Dhara from It's Not About the Miles Driving the Big Sur stretch of the Pacific Coast Highway between Carmel and Ragged Point should be high on your list of things to do in California. Considered one of the most scenic coastlines on the planet, the drive gives you the opportunity to enjoy magnificent views of the Pacific Ocean and the rugged Central California coastline. Just a little over 75 miles in length, Highway One hugs the water for most of this route. Where it does not, for short stretches, you will drive through towering redwoods or bucolic countryside. There are numerous pullouts where you can park and enjoy the views at leisure, and take lots of photos. Some of the best places to stop on the Big Sur Coast drive include Point Lobos State park, just south of the quaint village of Carmel-by-the-Sea, the very wild Garrapata State Park, with hiking trails if you want to stretch your legs, and the historic Bixby Creek Bridge, considered an engineering marvel. Drive the road in late spring after the rains are over, and you will see gorgeous wildflowers along the road. The hills are green at this time as well, and look gorgeous against the blue of the ocean. Ride a Buggy at the Oceano Dunes By Sharon from Daily Dream 360 If you are looking for a little adventure on the beach, you may want to consider a dune buggy ride at Oceano Dunes State Park, which is located 3 miles from Pismo Beach. This activity is a great add-on when visiting the San Luis Obispo region of California. You will find plenty of Dune Buggy rental companies just outside the state park entrance. Once you complete a vehicle orientation, you'll be driven to the site within the state park and get set up with your vehicles. Your tour operator will offer directions, a map and will guide you to the area where you are allowed to drive your buggy. The park has a designated area for off-road vehicles and several restrictions with regards to speed. What I loved about the Dune Buggy ride was that I was able to choose my level of thrill. Some of the Sand Dunes were very high, and there was a high risk from coming down from a dune and getting stuck before moving back up another. For thrill-seekers, there is plenty of challenging dunes to conquer. For those less adventurous, there were some smaller hills and the very scenic ride along the ocean. Photo by Sharon Read More: Things to Do in Pismo Beach Things to Do in Avila Beach Things to Do in California - Southern California This is the part of the state I call home. After more than 15 years living here, I am still discovering new places. Check out the super fun recommendations below! Road Cycle in Santa Barbara County By Clare from Epic Road Rides If you fancy a spot of road cycling, Santa Barbara County in southern California, is a fantastic place to do it. It's a beautiful region that’s warm and sunny for much of the year. Winters tend to be short and mild. Head to the Santa Ynez valley and you’ll find quiet rolling roads that take you through gorgeous vineyards and pretty ranches with wide open fields dotted with well-groomed horses. In the village of Solvang, you’ll find an excellent bike shop that can fit you out with everything you need (you can rent too) and set you off to explore the countryside. There are around 120 wineries in this area, clustered around the pretty towns and villages of Solvang, Los Olivos and Santa Ynez. Many cyclists take the opportunity to combine cycling with a wine tour as many of the wineries open their doors to people who want to come and learn about wine and enjoy some wine tasting. Exploring by bike is the best way to really get to know a region, and I highly recommend the Santa Ynez Valley! Photo by Clare Read More: Things to Do in Solvang Mountain Bike at Snow Summit By Heather from That OC Girl If you thought Big Bear’s Snow Summit was only for winter, you got it wrong. In the summertime, the ski lifts at Snow Summit are transformed into mountain bike lifts, taking you up to an elevation of 8,000 feet and dropping you into the coolest downhill bike park in Southern California. Snow Summit has around 18 miles of mountain bike trails, including trails for the beginner all the way to the most advanced riders. The beginner level trail “Going Green” is the longest in the park at 2.5 miles, and is the most basic of all. It’s a great idea to start with this trail to get warmed up! The blue-rated trails are the most fun; this is where you can really let loose and sharpen your skills. The trails rated as black diamond are the most difficult trails in the park. You will find built-in features like jumps and berms, but most of the time you can bypass those features if you are not up for the challenge. Get some practice in at the Base Area to improve your skills before attempting those difficult trails! Day or season passes are available and the park is open to all – kids and adults! Open and closing dates. Photo by Heather Read More: Big Bear Weekend Guide Dive the Channel Islands By James from Travel Collecting One of the top things to do in California is to dive the Channel Islands. There are eight Channel Islands off the coast of Los Angeles and Santa Barbara. Five of them make up the Channel Islands National Park. The largest, Catalina Island, has places to stay and shore dives as well as boat dives are available. However, you can take day trips straight from just north of LA (Ventura Harbor) to Anacapa Island and just south of LA (San Pedro) to dive sites around Catalina. Dive boats also leave from Santa Barbra to the northern islands, though these are further offshore. The main attraction is diving the Californian giant kelp forests. Kelp stretches from the sea bed up more than forty feet to the surface, creating a magical forest to swim through. Winding your way through a thick screen of golden kelp is an incredible experience. The kelp is home to cheeky seals and sea lions that zoom out of nowhere and right up to your mask, as well as bright orange garibaldi fish. This was one of my favorite dives from the many I have done around the world. It also makes a nice contrast to the other more urban things you can do in Los Angeles. Hike to the Hollywood Sign By Caroline from Pictures and Words Few things scream LA more than the glitz and glamour of Hollywood and the movie industry. One of the coolest things to do in California is to hike up to the Hollywood sign, one of the most iconic sights in LA. Technically, the sign itself is blocked off (and don’t even try to jump the fence) so you are hiking to right behind and above the sign. Still, this is the closest you can get to the sign being able to get so up and close to the iconic monument is such a cool experience! The hike starts inside Griffith Park, from where you can take the Brush Canyon trail. It is a 6.5 mile out and back hike, and is rated moderate difficulty with an 1100 foot elevation gain. Allow about 2 1/2-3 hours to complete the hike. Also be aware that there is hardly any shade on the trail and it tends to get really hot, really fast, so be prepared and carry lots of water with you. Read More: One Day in LA: Itinerary for First-Time Visitors 2 Days in Los Angeles: Downtown-Based Itinerary Self-Guided Multicultural Tour of Los Angeles By Team Hazard Rides Again LA is incredibly diverse. There are people here from every corner of the Earth and LA is happy to give each culture its due. Tim and I once went to 3 cultural events in a single weekend – and we weren't even trying hard. On Friday night we went to a chamber music concert at the big Downtown Library. On Saturday night we were in Hollywood to see Amadou and Mariam, a blind couple from Mali who rocked the Afro-pop scene at the El Rey Theater. And on Sunday we were in Chinatown for a big cultural celebration. There is no single recipe for doing a cultural tour of Los Angeles. There are just too many options. But here are some places to look so you can put together your own multicultural tour of Los Angeles. There are neighborhoods throughout the city like Little Tokyo, Olvera Street, Little Ethiopia, Little Bangladesh and Chinatown, just to name a few. Some of them are a bit touristy, but still fun and there are also many unnamed enclaves where various cultures flourish. They often hold festivals as well. And Long Beach seems to have a festival for something every other week. Keep an eye on local calendars. There are also exhibits and performances exploring different cultures all over town. The Craft and Folk Art Museum on Wilshire almost always has something culturally unique going on, as does the Fowler Museum on the UCLA Campus. You can also check out the USC Pacific Asia Museum in Pasadena. Again, to name just a few. Then there are the performances, like Amadou and Mariam we mentioned above, or Prince Diabate whom we saw in some tiny club in Santa Monica. One of the best places to look for these more eclectic events is the LA Weekly. LA's multiculturalism is one of its most awesome features and it's something not to be missed if you're visiting the city. It's easy to stack events that are near you or that suit the dates of your visit. It's LA. There's always something going on! Hike in Joshua Tree National Park By Julie from Family Travel Lifestyle While California is famous for National Parks like Yosemite and the Redwoods, one of our lesser-known parks, Joshua Tree, offers fantastic hiking in a unique desert environment. Located in southern California – just east of Palm Springs, and less than a 3-hour drive from San Diego – Joshua Tree offers numerous trails at every level of hiking. What I love about Joshua Tree is that it isn’t as crowded as many other parks and it’s smaller which means you can do a one-day visit and still get in some great hikes and really feel as though you saw the park. Also, this park offers a lot of loop trails, which I tend to prefer to the ‘out and back’ trails. One of the most popular and can’t-miss trails in Joshua Tree is the Skull Rock loop. It’s pretty easy, good for all levels including children, and you get to see the famous and giant Skull-shaped boulder. There’s a great kids’ nature walk called the Discovery Trail that’s less than a mile if you have really little ones. The bigger hikes offer a great variety of sights. There are several hikes up to different peaks, with outstanding views of the mountains and desert. You can hike out to a palm tree oasis or walk through the boulders and include a little scrambling on your hike. The one thing to watch out for is the heat – it’s no joke at Joshua Tree, so come prepared and enjoy! VIsit the Sunny Jim Sea Caves By April from SoCalFunFamily La Jolla is known for the locals who hang around the beach. And no, I am not talking about the hodads, you know, non-surfers, but the friendly seals lounging right there on the sand. It’s also known as an incredibly fun family area, for its good food, and having the coolest sea caves. However, there is only one cave you can explore without a kayak. And that cave is only accessible through Sunny Jim’s Cave Store. From the exterior it looks just like any other beach themed gift shop, but upon further review you might see the long dark tunnel leading what looks like directly into the ground. This is the access to Sunny Jim’s Sea Cave, which was dug out in 1902. To reach the bottom you will pay $5 for adults, and $3 for children, walk down 145 dark, narrow stairs and come out on a damp wooden platform to take in the waves and views from below. This hidden gem is a unique experience if you are in the area. But, make sure to mingle with the locals on the shore below and check out the free, smaller caves right there as well. Read More: One Day in San Diego Pedal Boat At Lake Murray By Martina from Stack Your Dollars One of the best and most relaxing things to do in sunny San Diego is to take a ride on the water at Lake Murray. On a hot day, getting on a pedal boat is a great way to get a nice breeze and cool off. You’ll also be putting those leg muscles to work and getting in some fun exercise! Lake Murray is a 171 acre reservoir with a 3.2 mile shoreline; it can be found on the border of San Diego, La Mesa, and Santee. To rent the pedal boat, you have to go into the concession stand by the parking lot. It costs about $15 to rent per hour, with an additional $15 for a deposit. The boat fits about 3 adults or 2 adults and 2 children. This low-cost activity is a great way to get out and have fun. It allowed my family to stick to our very frugal budget. If you would prefer, there are also kayaks, canoes, row boats, and motor boats. However, the pedal boat is my favorite because it also has a canopy to block the sun! Whale Watch in Newport Beach By Rebecca from KwaFare One of the most thrilling outdoor experiences you can have in California is to get up close and personal with some of the largest animals on earth. Whale watching in Southern California can put you right in the migratory path of humpback, minke, fin and gray whales. Even orcas are spotted from time to time, as well as sperm whales and blue whales, the largest animal to have ever lived. An excellent spot for whale watching is Newport Beach, which is only about an hour from LAX airport or downtown Los Angeles. Newport Beach is a cozy community where you’ll find Balboa Pier and Island and some great beaches. My go to whale watching company here is Davey’s Locker. And for good reason. First, they regularly have sales for their whale watching tours on Groupon. So, for about the price of a movie ticket you can take a front row seat to these magnificent creatures for over a couple of hours. But what I really enjoy is hearing the excitement of the crew every time we get to see a whale out at sea. This testifies to just how electrifying it is to witness these deep sea giants in their natural habitat. Despite how many times they get to see them, every time it’s a thrill. And the thrill is definitely contagious. You just never know what you are going to see when you get out on the boat. However, if you want to up your chances of sighting whales go out during their migration times. In general, winter and spring are great times to see gray whales, humpback and minke whales. And summer and fall are ideal for blue whales, finbacks, orcas and sperm whales. So whether you find yourself in the middle of a pod of hundreds of dolphins or next to an enormous blue whale, this is one of those things to do in California that is not to be missed! Visit the Center of the World By Theresa from The Local Tourist Just inside the border in the southeast corner of the state, you can put your toes on the officially designated Center of the World. Felicity, California, is home to the Museum of History in Granite and the Center of the World and is a destination worth a visit that's a whole lot less kitschy than it sounds. In 1985, Jacques-André wrote a children’s book titled “Coe: The Good Dragon at the Center of the World.” Somehow, this Frenchman and Father of American Parachuting convinced the Imperial County Board of Supervisors and Institut Géographique National, the French Mapping Agency, that property he owned in Imperial County should be declared the Center of the World. You can visit this town, population two, and not only make a wish inside a pyramid but also browse granite tablets etched with history. They're designed to last 4,000 years and the goal is that they'll preserve the entirety of humanity for millennia to come. It's a quirky destination with a noble promise, and should definitely be on any southern California itinerary. ATV in the Imperial Sand Dunes By Kay from The Awkard Traveler It isn't general knowledge, but California has sand dunes. Some of the best California sand dunes are found in Southern California. Specifically, the Imperial Sand Dunes State Park right near the border of Mexico. Winter is arguable a better season to visit, especially when summer temperatures can easily reach over 110F. But that also means winter is the most busy time to visit. So, pick your poison. From San Diego, the drive is about 2.5hours, 2 hours from Palm Springs, and 3 hours from Los Angeles, making the Imperial Sand Dunes an easy day trip if you do not want to stay nearby. However, there are camping and RV options at the state park! To enter the park, permits are required from October 1 through April 15 each year. Permits are $35 per week in advance and $50 per week if purchased onsite. Season permits are $150. America the Beautiful National Park pass also counts for this park. Once you are all settled into the park, you're ready to ride! But before you get into your off-highway vehicle (whether it is ATV or a bike, or other), make sure to remember the basics. Wear a protective helmet, pay attention to "closed to vehicle signs," and tall visible red flags are REQUIRED on your vehicle for visibility and safety! There you have it! Tons and tons of ideas on things to do in California. Hope you find this article useful when planning your next getaway! More of California Los Angeles Ultimate Bucket List Weekend Getaways from Los Angeles Ultimate San Diego Bucket List 150+ Places to Go in Orange County Places to Visit in Santa Barbara What are your favorite things to do in California? Let me know in the comments section below. Pin “Things to Do in California” for later!, Pigeon Point LighthouseThings to Do in California: Golden State Best Silverwood Lake in San Bernardino County, California Lakes in Southern CaliforniaLakes in Southern California: Ideas for your Next Gateway! McArthur-Burney Falls, Places to Visit in California: Bucket List for TravelersPlaces to Visit in California: Bucket List for Travelers Planning a Trip to California, Lone Cypress at 17-mile Drive, MontereyPlanning a Trip to California: Cost-Saving Tips

Comments

  1. Shalzmojo says

    Apple picking, apple pies to be had and a temple dedicated to a Hindu god!! Southern California sure is eclectic 🙂 What a thoroughly researched post on all the places to enjoy seeing the Fall in this region – I would surely love to visit someday.

    Reply

  2. Agnes says

    Love Julian! We try to go every year…not really for the apple-picked but for all of that yummy PIE. Pie crawl! There’s quite a few on here that we still need to visit. I see you, fall!

    Reply

  3. Nina Out and About says

    I definitely would have thought of SoCal as a great fall destination place, but wow did you prove me wrong. The apple pie alone was enough to draw me in, but I think the views of Big Bear really solidified it for me.

    Reply

  5. Robert Harris says

    Really helpful read! Those are some amazing destinations. Green Valley lake is another great spot. Also known as “best-kept secret in the San Bernardino Mountains,” it is amazing during fall.

    Reply

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