It's exciting to plan an affordable vacation to California and experience all of the wonders of this state's natural, historical and cultural activities. It can be a tough process, especially if you're only focused on the most well-advertised California things to do that are often meant for big budgets.
Real, authentic California adventures can be not only affordable, but memory-making experiences. Whether visiting the state for the first time or looking for a new corner of the region to explore, we'll help you plan it with nine affordable California vacation destinations that you may not have thought about putting on your trip.
1. Hike Through the Joshua Tree National Park
- Address: 74485 National Park Drive, Twentynine Palms, CA 92277-3597
From the rock formations to the diverse plants that somehow make their home in the desert, the Joshua Tree National Park is one of the most interesting of California's landscapes. Three million people visit every year to camp, hike and explore the many sights.
Hike Ryan Mountain or Barker Dam. Explore the Noah Purifoy Outdoor Desert Museum to learn the cultural and historical significance of the area. You can even just relax and stargaze, as it's one of the most impressive areas with clear skies for miles around. As for budget-friendly things to do, Joshua Tree National Park is an excellent option.
2. Splash and Eat at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
- Address: 400 Beach Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Big-city charm is often something you may want to add to your California things-to-do list. You don't have to pay anything to explore the sand and water in this beach town. Santa Cruz is vibrant and full of traditional California sun and vibes most of the year. You don't have to plan to do anything here if you don't want to be rushed. Just pull up a spot on the beach, get into the water and relax. When you're looking for an affordable California vacation, it's hard to beat the beach.
The boardwalk itself is home to numerous things to do, including an arcade and amusement park-style rides. There's often a festival, lots of cool people to watch and food you know you shouldn't eat but have to try.
3. Surf the Year-Round Waves at Morro Rock Beach
- Address: 695 Harbor Street, Morro Bay, CA 93442
Morro Rock Beach offers miles of coastline access and some of the most consistent, year-round waves for surfing. While pros come to take on the waves, it's beginner-friendly, too. The Morro Rock is the most iconic location, but areas like Sandspit and Morro Strand State Beach are less packed and a bit easier for beginners.
There's plenty more to do as well, from relaxing in the sand to beachcombing. If you stay until sunset, the Morro Rock becomes an impressive sight. You can also use one of the fire pits provided by the city that overlooks the water to watch the sunset and the waves.
4. Explore the Small Town Vibes of Cambria
- Address: 767 Main Street, Cambria, CA 93428, for the visitor center
Cambria is a small town full of fantastic family-run cafes and small shops. You'll walk along Main Street to check out antiques, candy shops and lots of architecture from the turn of the century. Visit Moonstone Beach Drive to see the rocky shoreline and walk along the boardwalk. The Fiscalini Ranch Preserve is also stunning.
While exploring all Cambria has to offer, you'll be tempted with a fantastic plate of food from Linn's in Cambria, known for its slow-roasted pulled pork and banana cream pies. Check out Artifacts Gallery or take in a show at the Cambria Community Performing Arts Theater. It's an affordable vacation destination for its unspoiled, historical coastal community feel.
5. Make the Trek to the Hollywood Sign
- Address: 3200 Canyon Drive, Los Angeles, California, 90068
It's hard not to add the Hollywood Sign to budget-friendly things to do since it's such an iconic part of experiencing the state's culture. There's no cost to hike the trail to see it. You just need to make your way to Lake Hollywood Park, which provides the best, close-up views. You can also visit the Griffith Observatory, which is free. You'll see the sign from the front lawn. The views of Los Angeles itself are mesmerizing.
If you're looking to see more than just views, you can take a tour. There are numerous opportunities to do so. A Hollywood Sign hiking tour to the Griffith Observatory gives you behind-the-scenes footage and lots of history while doing so. If a 2.5-hour hike is too much, consider alternatives. You can book bus as well as electric bike tours to the Hollywood Sign.
6. Explore the California Science Center
- Address: 700 Exposition Park Dr., Los Angeles, CA 90037
The core exhibits at the California Science Center are free to view and it's definitely worth spending a few hours here to explore them. This is one of the largest and most hands-on science centers in the country. It's also home to NASA's Endeavour space craft. The organization has numerous additional attractions depending on the time of year and current exhibits. There's an IMAX theater with immersive shows.
The California Science Center's core exhibits are one of the best things to do in California for trips with the whole family. The displays are interactive and, while educational-based, there's a huge assortment of fun activities depending on the exhibits. And, frankly, you don't need to do the extras. The core exhibits themselves will keep just about anyone entertained.
7. Enjoy the Private Beauty of Dillon Beach
- Address: 1 Beach Avenue, Dillon Beach, California 94929
Dillon Beach is a privately owned beach in Northern Marin County. With public access and only a per-car fee to pay to access the area, you can spend your days relaxing. Surfing and tide pooling are common activities here. But, for those looking for picturesque selfies, the views of Tomales Point really make the area special.
You can certainly keep it low-key by enjoying a few hours of relaxing under the sun and digging in the white sand for shells. Or you can spend your time kayaking or fishing. Some come just for the quaint beachy towns and small dining establishments. There are numerous attractions close to Dillon Beach. Consider booking a wine tour or going horseback riding in a tour group to see the impressive views.
8. Take in the Views in Sequoia National Park
- Address: 47050 General Highways, Three Rivers, California 93271
Sequoia National Park and Kings Canyon National Park, just to the north, are impressive natural habitats everyone should visit at some point. The Sequoia National Park is home to the General Sherman Tree, the largest living tree on the planet, Congress Trail, a nearly 3-mile loop near that tree into the sequoia groves and Moro Rock, with its perfect panoramic view. There are numerous hiking opportunities, including Bettle Rock, a popular option for sunset watching and the Tokopah Falls Trail, which gives you views of a 1200-foot waterfall.
The Giant Forest Museum is an important place to stop. It provides you with not just the history of the area but also the ecological importance of the giant trees and the surrounding areas. Don't leave without first driving through the Tunnel Log, where you can drive through a fallen giant sequoia tree along Crescent Meadow Road.
9. Explore the Art in San Francisco's Mission District
- Address: Near Market Street, Church Street, Valencia Street and 20th Street in San Francisco, CA
The Mission District is one of the most vibrant and surprisingly affordable areas of San Francisco. It's an area that blends modern culture with 18th-century history. Super cool, trendy and often filled with festivals, this is a destination to visit just to people-watch on its own. But there are some fantastic things to do within the area. Enjoy a meal at locations like Tacolicious on Valencia Street. There are several small family restaurants present, some of the more trendy destinations and fun spots for ice cream and fantastic coffee.
Start with Mission Dolores Park for a good view of the city. The Mission Dolores Basilica is the oldest surviving building in the city, dating to 1776 and quite stunning itself. Then, take in some of the art here. There are murals and street art throughout the area. A walk down Clarion Alley and Balmy Alley is a good starting point, but keep in mind that this is social art and often has a political message.
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