The Hidden Spots in California to Visit This Summer

California has long been established as one of the most sought-after places to visit in the U.S. Known for its glittering coast, numerous attractions, and renowned sports teams, California is the PLACE TO BE this summer. However, there are several locations that don’t follow the typical tourist regime. Hidden gems in California are hard to come across, but twelve places, in particular, may pique your interest: spanning across northern and southern California, these hidden gems are a must-visit as you enjoy your summer vacation.

12. Terranea Resort

Spanning 102 acres, in Palos Verdes, California, Terranea Resort was founded in June 2009. You can visit Terranea on a day trip to enjoy the several renowned restaurants on the property and to take a hike on the Terranea Discovery Trail. Another option is to stay at the resort overnight and have access to the several pools on the property, take in the stunning cliffside views, or simply relax at the Terranea Spa. Whatever you choose to enjoy at Terranea Resort, the experience will not disappoint. 

(Image courtesy of Terranea Resort-www.terranea.com) 

11. The San Diego Zoo

While the San Diego Zoo is slightly more well-known than other locations on the list, the experience is a must-do this summer. As one of the largest zoos in the world, the San Diego Zoo offers numerous lush environments for the Zoo’s animal inhabitants. Among the most popular animals to visit at the zoo include gorillas, Galapagos giant tortoises, and African penguins. Unique compared to most zoos, many of the enclosures in the San Diego Zoo are separated by moats and vegetation instead of fencing, which provides a more naturalistic and comfortable environment for the animal inhabitants. The San Diego Zoo is home to over 3,700 rare and endangered species and is truly a memorable experience. Don’t pass up the chance to visit the San Diego Zoo if you have the opportunity!

(Image courtesy of the San Diego Zoo https://zoo.sandiegozoo.org/plan-your-visit)  

10. Napa Valley Vine Trail

While Napa Valley is typically seen as wine country, it can be kid/teen friendly as well. The Napa Valley Vine Trail is a 47-mile multi-use path that goes through the heart of Napa. Founded in 2008 by the Napa Valley Grapegrowers, the Napa Valley Vintners, and the Land Trust, the Napa Valley Vine Trail offers a positively stunning view of Wine Country. Hop on a bike, walk or run if you choose, but don’t miss out on the opportunity to explore the glorious views and cuisine Napa has to offer.

(Image Courtesy of https://www.napavalley.com/blog/napa-valley-bike-tours/) 

9. Solvang

Known for its Danish-style architecture, the city of Solvang was founded in 1911 by three Danish immigrants who bought over 10,000 acres of land in the Santa Ynez Valley, which is part of Santa Barbara County. Often called the “Danish Capital” of America, there are endless things to do in Solvang, such as visit the Elverhøj Museum of History and Art, gaze at the beautiful live oak trees in Hans Christian Andersen Park, or go eat at the numerous Danish bakeries in town. Solvang will immerse you in the culture of Denmark, an experience not easily forgotten.

(Image courtesy of https://travellemming.com/things-to-do-in-solvang/) 

8. Big Sur

Big Sur is a stretch of coast between Carmel and San Simon known for its amazing views, camping sites, and restaurants. In Big Sur, there are numerous beautiful places to hike along trails, and can range from easy to advanced. Whether you choose to visit the breathtaking coastal cliffside views of Big Sur or choose to shop and dine at the well-known restaurants and stores Big Sur has to offer, the experience will be unforgettable.

(Image courtesy of https://indiecampers.com/blog/7-best-attractions-in-big-sur-california/) 

7. San Onofre

San Onofre State Beach, located in San Clemente, California, is home to some amazing surfing, tidal wetlands, and fun campsites! Next to Camp Pendleton Marine Corps Base, San Onofre was opened to the San Onofre Surf Club with the approval of the Marine Corps in 1952 and eventually became open to a wider community. Known for the amazing surfing experience, if you like camping, the beach, and most especially catching some great waves, San Onofre is the place to be this summer.

(Image courtesy of https://www.calparks.org/blog/big-win-parks-san-onofre-state-beach-saved-forever) 

6. Monterey Bay Aquarium

Monterey Bay is a nonprofit public aquarium located in Monterey, California. Open to all ages, Monterey Bay Aquarium is the second-largest aquarium in the world. Opening on October 20th, 1984, the aquarium receives nearly 2 million visitors each year. Some popular animals to see in the aquarium include sea otters, the giant Pacific octopus, jellyfish, and even orca. It takes an average of 3-4 hours to view the 200+ marine life exhibits, so make sure you set some time aside in your vacation to come visit this beloved aquarium.

(Image courtesy of Monterey Bay Aquarium https://www.montereybayaquarium.org/visit/exhibits) 

5. The Huntington Library 

The Huntington Library, which opened in 1919 after Henry E. Huntington opened his personal collection of literary works to the public, is an art museum that features numerous botanical gardens in San Marino, California. One of the most popular sections of the library, the Library Exhibition Hall, houses numerous rare works and materials, including one of the two Gutenberg Bibles in the library’s possession. The Hall also includes a manuscript of the Canterbury Tales by Geoffrey Chaucer and a typed draft of Octavia Butlers’ Parable of the Sower. The rare literary works are not the only thing to see at the library, however: the several botanical gardens located within the library are not to be missed. If you enjoy learning more about history and walking through lush gardens as you take in the remarkable views, then the Huntington Library is the perfect place to visit this summer!

(Image courtesy of CBS News https://www.cbsnews.com/losangeles/news/guide-to-the-huntington-library-botanical-gardens/) 

4. Hearst Castle

Built in 1919 for William Randolph Hearst, a well-known publisher at the time, Hearst Castle is a historical estate in San Simeon. Famous for its 165 rooms and 127 acres of land, Hearst Castle was first open to the public in 1958 after Hearst’s death in 1951. It is now owned and operated by the California State Park System. Don’t miss this amazing opportunity to visit one of the most well-known and breathtaking castles in California.

(Image courtesy of https://visitsansimeonca.com/what-to-do/the-foundation-at-hearst-castle/hearst-castle-4/) 

3. Carmel-by-the-Sea

Carmel-by-the Sea is a small village/beachfront on the Monterey Peninsula. Known for its white sand beaches, Scenic Road, and its picturesque village charm, Carmel-by-the-Sea is the perfect place to kick back and relax this summer. Fun fact: Carmel-by-the-Sea actually has a municipal code that bans high heels taller than 2 inches in height unless the wearer has a permit. Celebrity residents of Carmel include Clint Eastwood, who was once Carmel’s mayor, and before their deaths, Betty White and Doris Day also resided there. News reports now claim that Brad Pitt also plans to move to Carmel, so if you are looking to simply kick back and relax in a picturesque village town or see some celebrities, then this is the place for you!

(Image courtesy of https://www.carmelcalifornia.com/) 

2. Sunflower Caffe, Sonoma 

Located in Sonoma, Caffe, the Sunflower Caffe is a locally-sourced breakfast and lunch cafe located in the Sonoma Plaza. Known for its simple yet delicious food, the Sunflower Caffe uses salt from the San Francisco Bay, milk from Sonoma County pastures, and locally pastured eggs. According to the Sunflower Caffe Website, the Sunflower Caffe building is a historic landmark once owned by a man named Salvador Vallejo, who eventually lost the building in a poker game, hence the cafe itself. If you enjoy simple, yet rich cuisine and a memorable experience in the beautiful Sonoma County Plaza, make sure to stop at the Sunflower Caffe this summer!

(Image courtesy of https://californiathroughmylens.com/sunflower-cafe-sonoma/) 

1. Sea Glass Beach

Located in Fort Bragg, California, Sea Glass Beach earned its name due to the abundance of sea glass in the area due to years of dumping garbage just north of the beach. While Sea Glass Beach doesn’t follow the typical tourist routes, it is undoubtedly one of the most memorable experiences one could have this summer. Upon stepping foot on the beach, you will find tons and tons of sea glass pieces, all different colors, and shapes. The beach will not only bring you a plethora of sea glass, however. When visiting the beach, you can also experience amazing sunset views and hiking opportunities. Make sure you set time in your summer to visit Sea Glass Beach!

(Image courtesy of https://www.surfertoday.com/environment/what-is-glass-beach) 

All of these places are amazing spots to visit over the summer! Make sure to stop by if you have time!