Things to do in Central California

Activities, attractions and tours

Yosemite Valley showing mountains and a waterfall
Channel Islands National Park
Central California featuring general coastal views, a coastal town and landscape views
Ventura showing night scenes, dining out and outdoor eating
Ventura which includes general coastal views and surfing as well as an individual male

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Most popular experiences in Central California

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What to do in Central California


Popular places to visit

Areas of 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 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.

Downtown San Jose
Santa Cruz which includes general coastal views and views as well as an individual male

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
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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
Pismo Beach

Downtown Pismo Beach

4/5(15 area reviews)

If you're spending some time in Downtown Pismo Beach, Pismo Beach Pier and Pismo Beach Surf Shop are top sights worth seeing.

Downtown Pismo Beach
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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