Central California

Travel Guide
Channel Islands National Park
Prepare to be awestruck by the national parks, scenic byways and beautiful towns in this region of diverse and wondrous natural scenery.

Choose one of Central California’s spectacular national parks or simply drive down Highway 1 along the coast to sample some of its astonishing scenery. Iconic landscapes, lively oceanfront towns and big wildlife make this one of California’s most enticing regions.

Much of Central California’s history is tied up with the gold rush in the mountains. Visit the ghost town in Bodie State Historic Park to experience what life was like for prospectors in the region.

Set out on the hiking trails through breathtaking Yosemite National Park, famed for its soaring peaks and pine forests. Climb to the top of iconic Half Dome and take photos of the panoramic vistas of this spectacular landscape.

Gaze upwards at the mighty trees of Sequoia National Park. Some of the plants here are more than 3,000 years old. Pinnacles National Park isn’t as famous as some of Central California’s big hitters, yet it promises fields that come alive in spring with colorful wildflowers.

Brave the scorching hot deserts of Death Valley National Park. The second-hottest place on Earth offers curious sights such as the Devil’s Golf Course, a salt pan with jagged saline formations.

Travel down the coast for other scenic sights. Big Sur and Channel Islands National Park are both stunning places to hike, boat and drive. Visit the McWay Falls and tranquil Pfeiffer Beach in Big Sur or paddle in a kayak around the dramatic coastline.

Watch for wildlife in Moss Landing, where you can meet a colony of sea otters. Monterey, a stylish town with an acclaimed aquarium, is one of the best places to see whales.

The Central Valley, occupying a large, flat and rural swath down the middle of the state, contains its own charms, including the lively city of Fresno. Stroll through the Forestiere Underground Gardens or cool off from the heat in Island Waterpark.

Fly into San Francisco International Airport then travel south to hit the coast or east to visit the Sierra Nevada mountains. Central California often becomes oppressively hot in summer, especially in places such as Death Valley. Visit in spring or fall for milder temperatures in the plains and deserts.

Where to stay in Central California

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Downtown San Jose

3.5/5(5 area reviews)

Known for its fascinating museums and great live music, there's plenty to explore in Downtown San Jose. You can visit top attractions like SAP Center at San Jose and San Pedro Square, and jump on the metro at Santa Clara Station or St James Station to see more of the city.

Downtown San Jose
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Yosemite West

You'll enjoy the waterfalls and riverfront in Yosemite West. You might want to make time for a stop at Yosemite National Park or Sierra National Forest.

Yosemite West
Carmel which includes street scenes, signage and a city

Downtown Monterey

4/5(31 area reviews)

The pristine beaches and popular aquarium are top of the list for many visitors to Downtown Monterey. A stop by Golden State Theatre or Munras Avenue might round out your trip.

Downtown Monterey
Santa Cruz which includes water sports

Westside Santa Cruz

4/5(31 area reviews)

Travellers to Westside Santa Cruz praise its stunning beaches. If you've got some more time to explore, be sure to stop by Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Monterey Bay.

Westside Santa Cruz
Carmel which includes a house, autumn colours and a sunset

Golden Rectangle

5/5(11 area reviews)

While visiting Golden Rectangle, you might make a stop by sights like Carmel Plaza and Carmel Beach.

Golden Rectangle
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Eastside Santa Cruz

4/5(1 area review)

Travellers come to Eastside Santa Cruz for its beaches, and you can see top attractions like Monterey Bay and Twin Lakes State Beach while you're in town.

Eastside Santa Cruz
Casa Munras Garden Hotel & Spa
Casa Munras Garden Hotel & Spa
3.5 out of 5
700 Munras Ave, Monterey, CA
The price is RM1,037 per night from 31 Mar to 1 Apr
RM1,037
per night
31 Mar - 1 Apr
Stay at this spa hotel in Monterey. Enjoy free WiFi, a full-service spa, and a fitness center. Our guests praise the pool and the restaurant in our reviews. ...
9/10 Wonderful! (1,341 reviews)
"What a special place to stay - so comfortable and safe."

Reviewed on 26 Mar 2024

Casa Munras Garden Hotel & Spa
Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay
Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay
4 out of 5
Two Portola Plaza, Monterey, CA
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is RM1,232 per night from 7 Apr to 8 Apr
RM1,232
per night
7 Apr - 8 Apr
Stay at this spa resort in Monterey. Enjoy 2 restaurants, 2 bars/lounges, and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the restaurant and the bar in our reviews. ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (1,903 reviews)
"Property has the best location! Two minute walk to the Wharf and literally some of the best dining right down the street. The rooms are nice and clean and so is the property. We used the hot tub every night and met so cool people also enjoying the hot tub. We’ll definitely be staying here again and ..."

Reviewed on 25 Mar 2024

Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay
The Ranch at Death Valley – Inside the Park
The Ranch at Death Valley – Inside the Park
2.5 out of 5
Highway 190, Death Valley, CA
The price is RM1,463 per night from 11 Apr to 12 Apr
RM1,463
per night
11 Apr - 12 Apr
Stay at this golf resort in Death Valley. Enjoy free WiFi, 3 restaurants, and a golf course. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
7.8/10 Good! (1,943 reviews)
"Dining options are few and far between. No take out at the restaurant. and no seating without reservations. Buffet was expensive but food was ok."

Reviewed on 28 Mar 2024

The Ranch at Death Valley – Inside the Park
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Fern River Resort
Fern River Resort
3 out of 5
5250 Highway 9, Felton, CA
Stay at this 3-star beach cabin in Felton. Enjoy free parking, a private beach, and WiFi. Popular attractions Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Mystery Spot are ...
9/10 Wonderful! (347 reviews)
"Very clean and quiet resort with excellent and easy checkin/out process. We’d definitely go again."

Reviewed on 10 Mar 2024

Fern River Resort
Pacific Plaza Resort
Pacific Plaza Resort
3.5 out of 5
444 Pier Avenue, Oceano, CA
Stay at this 3.5-star beach condo in Oceano. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and laundry facilities. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (772 reviews)
"The condo was beautifully decorated and very clean. Will stay here again!"

Reviewed on 18 Mar 2024

Pacific Plaza Resort
Convict Lake Resort
Convict Lake Resort
3 out of 5
2000 Convict Lake Road, Mammoth Lakes, CA
Stay at this 3-star cabin in Mammoth Lakes. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a terrace. Our guests praise the clean rooms in our reviews. Popular attractions ...
9/10 Wonderful! (214 reviews)
"Near a beatiful lake"

Reviewed on 27 Mar 2024

Convict Lake Resort
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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