17 Underrated California Destinations You Haven’t Heard of (But Should)

Everyone knows California for the Hollywood sign and beautiful beaches, but there’s a whole side of the state that rarely makes travel lists. Forget the Golden Gate Bridge and Disneyland; California is one of the best adventurous states because of its surprising desert oases hidden near unsuspectingly beautiful mountain towns.

I’ve driven through almost every part of the Golden State while van living for years. If you’re ready to explore a California you’ve probably never seen, here are 17 underrated Destinations in California waiting to be added to your bucket list.

1. Bishop

Bishop might just be one of California’s best-kept secrets, especially for those who love the outdoors. Hidden in the Eastern Sierra region, this town is famous for its access to top-notch bouldering and climbing spots, especially at the Buttermilks.

Many places along Highway 395 are the places I return to when I want to show friends the real beauty of America. The nearby ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest is home to trees that have been standing for over 4,000 years. And if you’re willing to drive an hour south, Alabama Hills may be one of my favorite places in the world.

2. Avalon

You might recognize Avalon as the main hub on Catalina Island, but it’s often skipped by those who think they’ve “seen” California. Just about an hour’s ferry ride from the mainland, this laid-back spot is perfect for snorkeling, diving, and ocean kayaking. The water here is clearer than you’d expect, so close to Los Angeles.

The Catalina Casino (not actually a casino) is an Art Deco icon. Walk through local art galleries and quaint shops in town. There’s no need for a car here, as golf carts are the main mode of transport.

3. San Luis Obispo

San Luis Obispo, or SLO to locals, is a college-town energy near a beautiful region of the Californian coastline. Often making it on lists of the “Happiest City in America,” check out the quirky Bubblegum Alley to the historic Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, which dates back to 1772.

Thursday nights see a bustling farmers’ market, and SLO is a quick drive to several vineyards without the Napa crowds. Nearby, Morro Bay and Montana de Oro State Park are some of the most beautiful places in California.

4. Morro Bay

You’ll know you’re at Morro Bay when you see the massive landmark rock jutting out of the ocean near the harbor. Morro Rock, a 576-foot volcanic plug, is visible from just about everywhere in town.

The local harbor teems with otters, seals, and seabirds. Kayaking, sailing, and fishing are popular activities, and the town’s seafood scene is unmatched.

Nearby, Montana de Oro is one of the most beautiful state parks I’ve seen in the country, especially if you make it for the sunset.

5. Cambria

This artsy seaside town is a favorite for strolls and beachcombing, where polished pebbles glint in the sun along the shore. Nearby, you’ll find a mix of antique stores, artist studios, and quirky galleries in the town center.

Cambria’s food scene isn’t bad, either; try the local olallieberry pie. Its proximity to Hearst Castle (only six miles away) makes it a good stop on the way up the coast.

6. Capitola

This colorful beach town near Santa Cruz has colorfully painted buildings that look like a scene from Puerto Rico.

Capitola Beach is one of Cali’s best coastal towns. The streets are dotted with boutiques and cafés with plenty of character. Capitola Wharf is a fun place with scenic views across Monterey Bay.

7. Point Lobos State Nature Reserve

Dubbed the “crown jewel” of California’s state park system, Point Lobos has some of the best coastal views you’ll find anywhere. The park is home to hidden coves, sea lions basking on rocky shores, and trails that lead through enchanting Monterey Cypress groves.

Divers call it one of the world’s top underwater habitats. At over 1,300 acres, the views alone are worth the trip.

8. Bodie Ghost Town

Bodie is one of the best-preserved ghost towns in the country. With around 200 buildings left standing, it looks like a Hollywood movie set that was simply left behind.

Once a booming mining town with 10,000 residents, Bodie is now eerily quiet. Visitors can wander through the old schoolhouse, saloons, and even peek inside some of the homes. The park’s slogan says it best: “A town frozen in time.”

Be ready for a bumpy ride; the last few miles to get there are dirt roads.

9. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Lassen Volcanic National Park is California’s version of Yellowstone, complete with boiling springs, steaming fumaroles, and an active volcano all in one place. Mount Lassen last erupted in 1915, but its hot springs and fumaroles still bubble with life today.

Bumpass Hell, the park’s largest hydrothermal area, is a highlight, with boardwalks that let you safely explore these steamy features. For hikers, the Lassen Peak Trail is a worthy hiking challenge to a 10,457-foot summit with views that stretch for miles.

Due to snowy conditions for much of the year, most of the park is closed for nearly six months.

10. Channel Islands National Park

Think of Channel Islands National Park as California’s little-known Galápagos. This chain of five islands, located off the Southern California coast, is home to over 2,000 plant and animal species, 145 of which are found nowhere else.

Accessible only by boat, it’s a paradise for adventurers who love snorkeling, kayaking, and hiking. There’s no cell service or paved roads. Watch for the island fox, a mini-canine that’s unique to the islands.

11. Pinnacles National Park

Pinnacles National Park is California’s newest national park, and it’s got something most others don’t: rock spires formed by ancient volcanoes.

Located east of Salinas, the park has rare talus caves with resident bat colonies to explore. It’s one of the few spots in the country where you might catch a glimpse of the endangered California condor.

Hiking through Pinnacles means winding trails, shaded creeks, and the dramatic backdrop of the spires.

12. Anza-Borrego State Park

Anza-Borrego is the largest state park in California, covering over 600,000 acres of desert landscape. It’s not all sand, though. Spring rains bring vibrant wildflower blooms, drawing nature lovers from all over.

Thanks to local artist Ricardo Breceda, metal sculptures dot the desert, including a 350-foot serpent. Hiking trails lead to hidden palm oases and impressive rock formations, and there are plenty of open areas for stargazing.

13. Julian

Julian is where Californians go to escape the city and indulge in fresh mountain air and famous apple pies. This tiny mountain town has historic buildings and a classic small-town feel.

Fall is apple season, and Julian’s apple pies are legendary. Some bakeries even ship pies across the country. The Julian Pioneer Museum teaches you about the town’s gold rush history, while nearby hiking trails in the Cuyamaca Mountains are perfect for a day outdoors.

14. Santa Ynez Valley

Wine lovers, take note: the Santa Ynez Valley is one of California’s hidden wine country gems, with over 120 wineries and vineyards to sip without getting too tipsy. The valley includes unique towns like Solvang, with its Danish-inspired architecture, and Los Olivos, where tasting rooms line the streets.

Beyond the wine, the valley is known for rolling hills and farm-to-table dining. It’s a popular weekend escape for Californians, but it still feels like an under-the-radar spot.

15. Mendocino County

Most people think San Francisco is already northern California, but then they plan their road trip and realize there’s a whole lot more north of the city. Mendocino County is one such spot, located about three hours from San Francisco.

Rugged cliffs, redwood forests, and scenic vineyards make it a dream for outdoorsmen. Mendocino itself is a small town with Victorian architecture. The coastal views are jaw-dropping, especially at Mendocino Headlands State Park.

16. Crescent City

Way up near the Oregon border, Crescent City is the gateway to the majestic redwoods. Home to Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, it has some of the tallest trees on Earth, with trails that let you wander among these giants.

Crescent City’s lighthouse, Battery Point, is perched on a small island you can walk to at low tide. Although the town itself is not the most stand-out, the seaside is, and you can take a day playing around the Smith River nearby.

Sea lions and harbor seals often hang around the shore, and if you time your visit right, you might spot a pod of migrating gray whales.

17. Nevada City

A former gold rush town, Nevada City is packed with preserved Victorian buildings and a revived arts community. Main Street is lined with unique shops, cafés, and art galleries where hippies have set up shop.

During the holidays, the Victorian Christmas celebration lights up the town with carolers and festive decorations. Outside of town, the nearby Yuba River has pristine swimming holes and hiking trails.

MY FAVORITE TRAVEL RESOURCES

✈️ Find amazing guided tours and experiences with Viator to maximize your time! 🏘️ Plan ahead and secure your accommodation with Booking.com in advance. 🧾 Rent a car with Discovercars in advance and get the best prices for your day trip adventures.