Things to do in Central California
Activities, attractions and tours
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Most popular experiences in Central California
Tours & day trips
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San Francisco: One day Yosemite and Giant Sequoias Tour
Private & custom tours
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4-Hour Private Tour in Hidden Hot Springs Outside Death Valley
Adventure & outdoor
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Dune Buggy, UTV or ATV Experience at Pismo Beach
Food, drink & nightlife
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Napa Valley & Sausalito Day Tour from San Francisco
Classes & workshops
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Monterey Bay: Sunset Catamaran Sailing Cruise
What to do in Central California
Popular places to visit
Yosemite Valley
From Yosemite Falls to Half Dome and El Capitan, you can see some of the most stunning scenery in the world from Yosemite National Park’s central valley.
Yosemite National Park
The hiking trails, waterfalls and mountains full of diverse wildlife make this national park one of the country’s most picturesque.
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
Enjoy the exciting rides at Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and see why everyone loves this theme park in Santa Cruz. Attend a sporting event in this walkable area or seek out the cycling trails.
Monterey Bay Aquarium
Perched on the edge of the Pacific Ocean, you’ll find a spectacular window into life both above and below the waves.
Santana Row Shopping Center
You can find the perfect gifts to bring home with a trip to Santana Row Shopping Center, a favourite shopping spot in San Jose. Attend a sporting event or discover the mountain views in this family-friendly area.
Hearst Castle
You can learn about the local history of San Simeon during your trip to a top site such as Hearst Castle. Wander the area's seaside or simply enjoy one of its top-notch restaurants.
17-Mile Drive
Discover palatial mansions, lush golf courses and a wild stretch of coastline inhabited by sea lions on a road often dubbed one of the world’s most scenic drives.
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
Be humbled by nature at its most impressive in these two breathtaking national parks, home to some of the largest living things on this planet.
San Jose McEnery Convention Center
Learn about the events happening in San Jose McEnery Convention Center during your trip to San Jose. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the top-notch restaurants while you're in the area.
Areas of Central California
Downtown San Jose
Known for its fascinating museums and great live music, there's plenty to explore in Downtown San Jose. You can visit top attractions like San Pedro Square and St. Joseph Cathedral Basilica, and jump on the metro at Santa Clara Station or St James Station to see more of the city.
Westside Santa Cruz
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.
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.
Downtown Monterey
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 Pismo Beach
If you're spending some time in Downtown Pismo Beach, Pismo Beach Pier and Pismo Beach Surf Shop are top sights worth seeing.
Eastside Santa Cruz
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.
