Top 23 Must-Do Activities in Southern California for 2025

When it comes to California, there are many places to explore, but if it’s your first time in the Golden State, starting in Southern California is essential. The region showcases iconic cities such as Los Angeles, San Diego, and Santa Barbara, along with breathtaking natural beauty. California features iconic road trips, stunning scenery, and renowned landmarks.

The best way to experience Southern California is to rent a car, allowing you the flexibility to pull over and discover hidden gems. Southern California boasts outdoor adventures, including island visits, sea cave explorations, and seal spotting, along with desert hot springs, theme parks, and wine tastings, making it a versatile destination.

This guide outlines the best activities to help you plan your unforgettable trip to Southern California.

Creating a Southern California bucket list is crucial. With an abundance of attractions and experiences, dedicate at least a week to begin savoring the region’s offerings. People often spend months traversing the West Coast, and that’s before delving inland to destinations like Death Valley.

Before exploring the details, take a moment to review our quick guide on the most incredible experiences in Southern California.

Best of Southern California: A Quick Guide

• Must See: Joshua Tree National Park, Alabama Hills, Santa Cruz Island, LA, and Death Valley.
• Where to Stay: The Rumi ($), Tarantula Ranch Campground & Vineyard ($$), and Calamigos Guest Ranch and Beach Club ($$$). Also, explore these best all-inclusive resorts in California.
• Fun To Do: Observe sea lions at La Jolla, visit amusement parks in LA, enjoy wine tasting in Santa Barbara, and explore Newport Beach.
• Day Trips: Visit Runyon Canyon Park, tour LA and its famous Hollywood sign, experience a day trip to Las Vegas, or venture to Joshua Tree National Park.
• Must Try Foods: California sushi roll, cobb salad, fish tacos, and dishes featuring fresh avocados.

Best Things to Do in Southern California

Now that you’re aware of how to make the most of your visit to Southern California, delve into our definitive list of the top activities in SoCal. We have compiled the 23 best experiences to enhance your journey.

1. San Diego

San Diego is a must-visit on your Southern California itinerary. Boasting exceptional weather with 252 sunny days a year, it is perfect for leisurely coffee strolls through scenic parks like Balboa Park and relaxing beach days. Discover our guide to the best beaches in San Diego.

Downtown San Diego features the vibrant Gaslamp Quarter, filled with nightlife and dive bars. Surrounding San Diego county offers plenty of preserves and beaches, perfect for savoring the great weather.

Insider Tip: Don’t miss the Japanese Friendship Garden in Balboa Park.

Practical Info: Most attractions, including Balboa Park and beaches, are free, with entertainment costing around $20 a day.

2. Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is among the best national parks in the US. Its unique name derives from the peculiar-looking Joshua Trees, showcasing spindly trunks and branches reminiscent of oversized cacti. Named by Mormon immigrants in the mid-19th century, the trees symbolize a connection to the biblical figure Joshua.

Experiencing this park is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Southern California, with its captivating trees, an array of hiking trails, and stunning dark skies amplifying its appeal.

This national park is ideal for nature enthusiasts and those who enjoy exploring untouched landscapes. Adding a visit to Joshua Tree enhances your journey, whether you’re coming from LA or Laguna Beach.

Insider Tip: Plan an overnight visit to fully appreciate the breathtaking dark skies free from light pollution.

Practical Information: The Visitor Center operates daily from 8:30 am to 5 pm. The entrance fee is $15 per person.

3. Death Valley National Park

No discussion of Southern California attractions would be complete without mentioning Death Valley National Park. Though its name sounds ominous, this park is a fascinating natural wonder, showcasing extreme beauty.

Having registered the highest temperature on Earth at 134 degrees Fahrenheit, it stands as the hottest, driest, and lowest-elevation national park in the United States.

Make sure to catch sunrise at Zabriskie Point and consider Natural Bridge for its stunning hiking opportunities. Although there are many activities in Death Valley, the park’s unique extremes earn it a spot on this list.

Insider Tip: Avoid visiting during the peak summer months.

Practical Information: Check the website for park closures due to weather and safety precautions. Entrance fee is $15 per person.

4. Santa Monica Mountains

If you appreciate mountains, the Santa Monica Mountains are a coastal treasure. On certain summits, you may even catch glimpses of the Pacific Ocean. This stunning range is conveniently located within LA.

Offering over 500 miles of hiking trails, the Santa Monica Mountains also provide vital habitat for mountain lions and an excellent opportunity for wildlife sightings. Arrive early to hit the trails before the midday heat sets in.

After your hike, enjoy the vibrant city full of attractions like Santa Monica Beach and Santa Monica Pier.

Insider Tip: Bring binoculars for wildlife spotting along the trails.

Practical Information: Open 24/7 with no entrance fee.

5. Huntington Beach

Located just south of Los Angeles, Huntington Beach, also known as Surf City, is a must-visit for surfing enthusiasts. Whether you seek longboard rentals or wish to explore the International Surfing Museum, Huntington Beach has it all. Spend your mornings catching waves and afternoons learning about the surfing culture of the area.

With a strong surfing heritage, it is a prime spot for both day trips and extended stays. Surfing lovers can revel in the superb conditions for an extended period.

Insider Tip: Don’t overlook the Surfing Walk of Fame.

Practical Information: Expect to budget around $20 for sightseeing and approximately $10 an hour for board rentals.

6. Venice Beach

Visiting Venice Beach ranks high on any Southern California bucket list, particularly for bodybuilding enthusiasts. The Venice Beach Gym is at the heart of this coastal community and has been frequented by notable figures, including Arnold Schwarzenegger.

Venice Beach is renowned for its bohemian atmosphere, where you can soak in the salty California vibe, grab a smoothie, and admire the talent of local street performers.

Exploring Venice Beach can also be a budget-friendly adventure, as numerous activities are free of charge.

Insider Tip: Consider a day pass for the Venice Beach Gym for a thrilling workout.

Practical Information: Plan to budget around $15 for a day of entertainment in Venice Beach.

7. Pacific Coast Highway

Embarking on a drive along the Pacific Coast Highway in Southern California is an outstanding experience, especially if you have 4-5 days to spare. This remarkable journey spans 575 miles, extending from just north of San Francisco to San Diego, offering breathtaking views of the West Coast.

Along the way, you can stop at Big Sur and explore iconic SoCal cities like LA, Santa Barbara, and Laguna Beach. The ocean views and picturesque roadways will leave you captivated.

Look for lookout points, especially around stunning locations like Bixby Creek Bridge, and allow yourself time to stop for photos, enjoy beaches, and discover hiking trails.

Insider Tip: Plan for stops at scenic bridges, particularly near Carmel Highlands.

Practical Information: Keep in mind that you’ll only incur fuel and accommodation expenses along the route.

8. Los Angeles

Undoubtedly, Los Angeles deserves a spot on this list. As the home of Hollywood and the famous Hollywood sign, it stands as one of the most renowned cities worldwide.

LA boasts attractions like the Walk of Fame, Beverly Hills, and Universal Studios, alongside Griffith Park and Griffith Observatory. This city effortlessly merges celebrity lifestyles with the authentic American urban experience, offering a diverse range of bucket list attractions and rich cultural experiences.

It’s essential to include LA during your Southern California travels since it is among the easiest cities to fly into, making it an excellent starting point for exploring the region.

Insider Tip: Avoid the temptation of trying to see everything LA has to offer within a few days. Focus on specific areas and prioritize nearby attractions.

Practical Information: Anticipate spending around $100 a day on entertainment while visiting LA, as there is an abundance of experiences to enjoy.

9. Channel Islands National Park

Are you looking to embrace island life? Discover the breathtaking beauty of Southern California’s Channel Islands National Park, a striking archipelago of five islands featuring dramatic ridges and pristine beaches.

You can camp overnight seasonally, join a guided tour, or take a day trip to experience the park. Keep an eye out for dolphins, sea lions, and even whales. The islands also have excellent bird-watching opportunities and a unique fox population.

Channel Islands National Park offers unparalleled adventures and abundant wildlife encounters.

Insider Tip: Arrange activities such as kayaking or scuba diving for a memorable experience.

Practical Information: Ferry schedules can vary, so be sure to check individual operator websites. While there’s no entrance fee, budget around $100 for ferry costs.

10. Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is an awe-inspiring destination, offering a remarkable alternative to Redwood National Park in Northern California. The park is renowned for its giant redwoods, encompassing over 400,000 acres.

Don’t miss the General Sherman Tree, one of the largest trees globally, and enjoy the thrill of driving through the Tunnel Log. Numerous trails, such as the Redwood Canyon Trail, are waiting to be hiked.

We recommend allocating at least a full day for a visit. Ideally, allow a few days to explore thoroughly, as wandering among these majestic trees is one of the best experiences in Southern California.

Insider Tip: Plan to drive through some of the tree tunnels for added fun.

Practical Information: The entrance fee is $20 per person.

11. Palm Springs

Palm Springs, nestled in Coachella Valley, is a must-visit location, especially in April during the Coachella Festival, one of the globe’s most electrifying music festivals.

However, Palm Springs also offers a glimpse into desert city life, surrounded by the expansive Sonoran Desert. Explore numerous hot springs, hiking routes, and horseback riding trails.

In between outdoor experiences, indulge in the city’s art galleries and boutique stores, as Palm Springs exudes a luxurious, artistic ambiance.

Insider Tip: Take the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway for breathtaking views.

Practical Information: Budget $15 a day for entertainment.

12. Crystal Cove State Park

Exploring Crystal Cove State Park provides an exciting opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of Southern California. With over three miles of beach and 2,400 coastal acres for hiking and biking, it’s a perfect location for both outdoor adventures and beach relaxation.

Start your day with a hike to Moro Ridge Lookout and spend the afternoon dolphin spotting and sunbathing. Just remember to bring water and sunscreen, as the area can be quite exposed.

Insider Tip: Check out the breathtaking views from the Crystal Cove State Park Tunnel.

Practical Information: The daily vehicle charge is $15.

13. Yosemite National Park

While technically on the edge of Northern California, Yosemite National Park deserves mention for its breathtaking beauty. It’s a paradise of striking granite formations and scenic hiking trails leading to waterfalls and towering redwoods.

Given its incredible natural landmarks, it’s no surprise that Yosemite is immensely popular. Set aside at least a full day to fully appreciate the park’s wonders, or consider staying overnight to explore several hiking trails. The Half Dome and Yosemite Falls hikes are particularly renowned.

Insider Tip: Start your day early to avoid crowds.

Practical Information: The entrance fee is $15 per person.

14. Catalina Island

Catalina Island, just 22 miles off the Southern California coast, is a picturesque spot easily accessible by ferry for a delightful day trip or camping adventure.

This small island features two charming resort towns, Two Harbors and Avalon, where you can participate in scuba diving tours, rent water equipment like kayaks, and explore nearby hiking trails.

Visiting Catalina Island allows you to embrace the island life and escape the mainland hustle. If you venture out of season, you’ll often find many trails to yourself.

Insider Tip: Make sure to try the Cat Harbor Overlook Trail.

Practical Information: Expect to spend around $100 for round-trip ferry transportation.

15. Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is a picturesque coastal city nestled between the ocean and Los Padres National Forest, well-known for its thriving wine production. This charming city is definitely among the top places to explore in Southern California.

As you stroll through Santa Barbara, you’ll admire the Spanish colonial architecture throughout its downtown area, allowing ample opportunities for stunning photographs of its Mediterranean-style white stucco buildings. Be sure to visit the Old Mission Santa Barbara, established in 1786 by Spanish settlers.

Escape to the beach whenever you wish between exploring scenic streets and historical landmarks. With beautiful beaches like West Beach and Leadbetter Beach, Santa Barbara has it all.

Insider Tip: Don’t miss the innovative architecture at the MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration and Innovation.

Practical Information: Budget approximately $30 per day for entertainment.

16. Long Beach

Long Beach is a sophisticated coastal city situated just outside LA, offering a vibrant marina lined with upscale seafood restaurants. This city features fantastic shopping opportunities and a glamorous coastal atmosphere, providing more marinas than beaches.

Exploring Long Beach offers a taste of upscale urban coastal living in California. Perfect for a day out, you can hop between museums, shop, and dine while enjoying stunning marina and Pacific Ocean views.

Accessibility from LA is also excellent; you can reach Long Beach in just 30 minutes by car or take an hour-long public transport ride.

Insider Tip: Make a reservation for an oceanfront table at Parkers’ Lighthouse restaurant.

Practical Information: Expect to budget around $150 for entertainment, including dining and shopping expenses.

17. La Jolla Cove

La Jolla Cove is close enough to San Diego to fall under its widely recognized attractions. However, due to its popularity, it deserves its own section. This charming bay area is renowned for its resident sea lion population.

If you’ve never witnessed sea lions in their natural habitat, La Jolla Cove is the place to be. With plenty of opportunities to photograph these enchanting creatures from a safe distance, informative boards also share details about their behavior and safe viewing practices.

If you’re fortunate, you may even spot migrating whales during certain seasons. For animal lovers or conservation enthusiasts, visiting La Jolla Cove is an essential experience.

Insider Tip: Bring binoculars and a camera with a long-range lens to capture wildlife from a distance.

Practical Information: Free and open 24/7.

18. Santa Cruz

While Santa Cruz may not be as famous as the trio of San Francisco, LA, and San Diego, this coastal city offers an authentic, fun atmosphere worthy of exploration. A visit to Santa Cruz is undoubtedly one of the most enjoyable activities in Southern California.

With its vintage-style esplanade featuring an iconic amusement park, you can brave rides like the Haunted Castle or the Giant Dipper while indulging in classic beachfront treats like ice cream or hot dogs. Who wouldn’t appreciate a traditional beach day in Southern California? Santa Cruz is perfect for those seeking amusement park fun over surfing vibes.

Consider visiting Santa Cruz for a single day or plan a weekend escape. Regardless of your decision, your trip to Santa Cruz will be filled with fun.

Insider Tip: Make sure to sample the seafood on the Santa Cruz Wharf pier.

Practical Information: Budget $30 a day for entertainment.

19. San Juan Capistrano

San Juan Capistrano is a historic site and museum found just south of LA. This location is definitely among the best experiences in Southern California, particularly for those interested in religious history and architecture.

Founded over two hundred years ago, the mission building once played a vital role in converting the Christian faith, but its current purpose is to document California’s multicultural history and the evolution of religions.

San Juan Capistrano is not just a religious structure but a time capsule that reflects the dynamics that shaped California’s modern communities. A few hours spent here will provide a wealth of knowledge and insights.

Insider Tip: Visit the nearby Laguna Niguel Regional Park afterward for a relaxing stroll.

Practical Information: Open from 9 am until 5 pm, Tuesday through Sunday, with an adult entry fee of $18.

20. Santa Ynez Valley

If wine tasting is on your Southern California checklist, the Santa Ynez Valley should be your destination. This stunning valley is known for its vast vineyards, with countless opportunities for wine tasting and vineyard tours.

Primarily recognized for outstanding Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Syrah wines, the valley also offers horseback riding tours and hot air balloon rides. Visiting Santa Ynez Valley is a romantic and enchanting experience—truly one of the most charming activities in Southern California, making it an ideal romantic getaway in the US.

Don’t miss the chance to tour Sunstone Winery. This exquisite winery features a French-style villa with wine caves and a lovely courtyard adorned with lavender.

Insider Tip: Be sure to try local Danish pastries famous in the Santa Ynez Valley.

Practical Information: Allocate around $25 to $30 for a tasting flight of five wines.

21. Laguna Beach

Laguna Beach may be a small city, but it offers a distinctive charm. Its combination of art galleries and beautiful beaches makes it an appealing destination. Visitors can spend the morning enjoying attractions like Laguna Art A Fair or the Laguna Art Museum, then transition to relaxation by the beach in the afternoon. Notably, Laguna Beach is home to some of the best beaches in California.

With a highly walkable city center and a laid-back vibe, Laguna Beach perfectly encapsulates Southern Californian coastal culture.

This locale is favorable for budget-conscious travelers, allowing you to embrace the beaches and stroll through its boulevards while only covering food and gallery fees.

Insider Tip: Make time to explore the Laguna Boardwalk.

Practical Information: Allocate around $20 for a day of entertainment.

22. Alabama Hills

Believe it or not, Alabama Hills offers some of the best experiences in Southern California. Situated next to Sequoia National Park, this stunning mountain range features a dramatic landscape filled with sharp granite ridges and alpine meadows blossoming with flowers each spring.

If you’re eager to venture off the beaten path, consider hiking in Alabama Hills. Notable trails include the Shark Fin Trailhead and Mobius Arch Loop Trailhead, just a short drive from Lone Pine, where you can also visit the Museum of Western Film History.

Insider Tip: Explore Lone Pine’s museum for fascinating memorabilia.

Practical Information: Expect to budget around $10 per day for entertainment.

23. Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

While driving along the Pacific Coast Highway, be sure to stop at the stunning Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. This picturesque destination is a must-visit when exploring Southern California.

The 1,000-acre state park hugs the Pacific coastline, featuring breathtaking beaches, dramatic coastal roads, and lovely hikes through dense redwood forests. Don’t forget to visit McWay Falls and Partington Cove during your trip.

If time allows, we recommend camping to seize the ultimate experience, including catching breathtaking sunrise views.

Insider Tip: Aim to visit during the off-season to avoid crowds and fully enjoy the park.

Practical Information: There is no entrance fee.

Where to Stay in Southern California

Once you have a sense of the activities and sights you’d like to explore in Southern California, it’s time to decide on accommodations. The region boasts a variety of options, ranging from hostels and luxury resorts to mid-range boutique hotels.

We recommend beginning your stay in Los Angeles, as it serves as the most accessible entry point by air and allows convenient travel throughout Southern California. Several hotel options are available in cities like San Diego and Palm Springs, as well as luxurious remote bases near national parks.

Here are some of the best hotels in Southern California for all budgets:

• Luxury: Calamigos Guest Ranch and Beach Club: This 5-star property in the celebrity enclave of Malibu is a high-quality choice for luxury accommodation. Calamigos Guest Ranch and Beach Club
• Mid-Range: Tarantula Ranch Campground & Vineyard: Tarantula Ranch Campground & Vineyard offers a unique glamping experience with tiny trailer houses located just outside the boundaries of Death Valley.
• Budget: The Rumi: For budget-friendly lodging, The Rumi is a hostel located in Koreatown, Los Angeles, with low-rate dorm rooms.

Tips and Information For Visiting Southern California

Before embarking on your Southern California adventure, it’s essential to consider practical information. Knowing which famous attractions to visit is fantastic, but this section will help turn your plans into reality.

We will go over essential information, including the best time to visit and transportation options. Prepare to take some notes.

Best Time To Visit

Southern California is beautiful year-round, offering enjoyable activities and excellent weather throughout the entire year.

Many would argue that summer presents the ideal time to visit due to extended sunshine and warm temperatures. However, we recommend considering the shoulder seasons of June or October.

Visiting in June or October allows you to enjoy warm weather while avoiding the summer crowds. Moreover, you can explore desert areas without facing the risk of extreme temperatures. Notably, regions like Death Valley National Park can become dangerously hot in summer, posing serious risks to visitors. While you might manage strolling along Santa Monica Pier in high temperatures, exploring the desert should be approached with caution. Choosing shoulder months enhances your Southern California experience, providing a more enjoyable visit without overwhelming crowds and safety issues.

Getting There

The easiest access point to Southern California is to fly into the airports of Los Angeles or San Diego, particularly if traveling internationally. From there, trains, buses, and rental cars allow straightforward transportation. You can use these major cities as starting points for further exploration throughout the region.

If traveling domestically, you can also reach Southern California via Amtrak. The train links major cities such as Los Angeles with Northern California and surrounding states, offering comfortable seating and sleeper compartments for a scenic, eco-friendly travel option.

For a budget-friendly travel option, consider using Greyhound buses. Alternatively, driving on your own can be a great way to explore Southern California—be sure to check out these amazing US road trips for more inspiration.

Getting Around

Getting around Southern California is relatively easy. While flying between cities is feasible, renting a car is often the best option for most travelers.

This region is intended to be explored by car. Public transportation works well for city breaks, but to explore the national parks and remote natural areas, renting a car provides the freedom to traverse the landscape at your pace. Having your own vehicle ensures you won’t miss any of the region’s highlights.

If you prefer not to visit national parks or join group tours with included transfers, trains and buses are viable options for getting around. There’s a train linking San Diego and Los Angeles.

How Much Time Do You Need

With an abundance of activities on your Southern California bucket list, you could spend months exploring the region. As a general guideline, allocate at least two weeks for your visit.

Plan for 3-4 days per major city, suggesting a week for combined visits to San Diego and LA. To experience some coastal towns and delve into one of the two inland national parks—Death Valley and Joshua Tree National Park—consider dedicating another week to your itinerary.

Of course, if your schedule permits, extend your stay to visit national forests and lesser-known gems like Channel Islands National Park. The more you embrace Southern California, the more rewarding your experience will be.

It’s easy to grasp why Southern California shines. Not only do you enjoy iconic cities, but the region also boasts stunning natural beauty, featuring diverse landscapes from cacti and red rock deserts to legendary boulevards in LA. You will encounter some of the world’s most captivating and well-known attractions.

Why We Love Southern California

Once you’ve soaked in all that Southern California has to offer, consider heading north toward San Francisco, Redwood National Park, and Yosemite National Park. Alternatively, cross the border to explore Las Vegas or Utah and its magnificent five national parks. Southern California is a treasure trove of experiences, but it also serves as a fantastic launch point to explore additional regions within the US. Make the most of your journey!

Plan Your Next Trip To California With These Resources

• 18 Incredible Things to Do in Venice Beach, California
• 24 Unmissable Things to Do in Hollywood, California
• 28 Best Beaches in California
• The Ultimate California Road Trip Itinerary
• 12 Best All-Inclusive Resorts in California
• Exploring The Changing Landscape Of Oceanside, California

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Travel Planning Resources

Looking to plan your next trip? Utilize these reliable resources that have been tested by us.

Book Your Flights: Start your trip planning by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. It has consistently provided the best flight options.

Book Your Hotel: Discover competitive prices on hotels through these two providers. For European trips, use Booking.com; for any other location, check TripAdvisor.

Find Apartment Rentals: The best prices on apartment rentals can be found via VRBO.

Travel Insurance: Don’t hit the road without travel insurance. Here’s what we recommend:

• Safety Wing – For occasional travelers.
• Medjet – Global air medical transport and travel security services.

Book Your Activities: If you’re searching for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more, look no further than Get Your Guide.

Need additional assistance with your trip planning? Be sure to check our Resources Page, where we highlight trustworthy companies that we rely on during our travels.