California Travel Guides

California is full of so much natural diversity! From major cities such as Los Angeles and San Francisco, to incredible national parks like Yosemite, California truly has a bit of everything. In fact, California even has the most national parks in the country at nine.

It’s hard to decide where to begin when it comes to California travel, there is SO much to see and do. A few of the best things to do in California include driving Route 1 and seeing Big Sur, taking a tour of Alcatraz Island in San Francisco, exploring the remote Death Valley, hiking in Yosemite, and much more.

So far, I’ve written about the Southern California National Parks - I hope these guides help you plan an epic California road trip.

What do I need to know about traveling to California?

  • Gas tends to be really expensive in California (averaging the most expensive in the US). Make sure to budget accordingly.

  • In cities like Los Angeles, the traffic really is as bad as they say. Allow extra time in getting around.

  • California is stunningly beautiful! In most areas I’ve visited, everything is so lush and green. It’s such a treat to explore the various regions around the state, especially along the coast.

California National Parks

These Southern California national parks are each unique in their own way! Read my guides to Joshua Tree, Death Valley and the Channel Islands to plan an epic trip.

Let's stay in touch!

Join the Lost with Lydia email list to get monthly travel guides and tips!

More Western US Travel Guides