10 Underrated Places to Visit in California
California, on the West Coast, is one of the most visited destinations in the United States. Millions of Americans and foreigners pour into the Golden State each year to catch the waves, beaches, and redwood forests that California has to offer. Understandably, the majority of these people focus on locales like Los Angeles and San Francisco, but other parts of California are sorely missed and overlooked. Discover the most underrated places to visit in California.
San Luis Obispo
San Luis Obispo is best known for hosting the California Polytechnic State University, but just outside the town are some of the most stunning landscapes that California has to offer. Just a short drive from Morro Bay, there is so much to do in this often-forgotten part of the state.
Kayaking, hiking, and winetasting are just a few of the great activities available. Generally quiet and peaceful, San Luis Obispo is a tranquil part of California that most people never get to see. The Bishop Peak Trail in particular is highly rated.
Cuyama Valley
Located roughly between Bakersfield and Santa Maria, Cuyama Valley is another beautiful attraction that California has to offer. New Cuyama, a nearby town only home to around 700 people, will have all that you need in order to explore the surrounding countryside.
Going for long walks and hikes, such as the Caliente Mountain Ridge Trail, is sure to give visitors a chance to see a completely new side of California. Far away from the bright lights of the city, Cuyama Vallery is like taking a time machine back to what California was like during the days of the Old West.
Laguna Beach
Laguna Beach is a small oceanside city that is located just south of Los Angeles. Usually passed by in favor of the other more well-known beaches within LA, Laguna Beach is a great place to go if you want to experience a big city with a small-town feel.
The downtown village of Laguna Beach is filled with quaint shops and galleries. Tons of outstanding cafes and restaurants are also available. Nick's Laguna Beach is a local favorite. Many of them serve fresh seafood that is caught locally. The boardwalk is also known to host various festivals and is usually filled with tons of captivating street performers too.
Mammoth Lakes
Mammoth Lakes is the perfect place to go for any outdoor adventure who is looking to stray off the beaten path and try something new. Found in eastern California, Mammoth Lakes is just one of the many hidden gems California has hiding within it.
Popular with mountain bikers and hikers, during the winter Mammoth Lakes is transformed into a bustling ski village. If you want to go when it's quiet, try to aim for the Fall. This is just before Mammoth Lakes gets snow and just after many of the summer tourists leave.
Santa Ynez Valley
The Santa Ynez Valley makes for the ideal road trip with family and friends. The long winding roads that snake across the countryside make for some of the most picturesque views in the entire state. There are numerous tours available for those wanting a more in-depth experience.
Known for its abundance of wineries and restaurants, touring the Santa Ynez Valley is great for those wanting to take a relaxing drive around the lesser-traveled destinations in California. Only a few hours north of Los Angeles makes getting here quite easy even for those traveling internationally. If you are wanting to experience something new, stop by Ostrichland. It is a one-of-a-kind place that allows guests to get up close and personal with these magnificent creatures.
Channel Islands National Park
Perhaps one of the best-kept secrets in California, the jaw-dropping Channel Islands can be found only a short boat ride west of Los Angeles. Only accessible by ferry, guided tours around the islands and park make for the perfect day trip away from the big city.
The islands are home to all kinds of wildlife. Dozens of various bird species nest on the island throughout the year and large aquatic life like humpback whales and bluenose dolphins are known to swim around its shores.
Fort Bragg
Best known for being home to a military installation that houses American Special Forces, outside of the military base is some of the most stunning scenery in the United States let alone California. Located in Northern California, the landscape is completely different from down south.
The long coastline in Fort Bragg is home to incredible beaches and lookouts that peer out for miles into the Pacific Ocean. The famous Glass Beach is the ideal place to go to soak in all the natural beauty that Fort Bragg has available. The nearby DC Trails are another underrated spot to get in touch with the local scenery.
Point Reyes
Another hidden treasure of Northern California, Point Reyes, is a small town just a short drive from San Francisco. Numerous walking paths take visitors around the cliffs that loom over the beaches there. The most well travel path along this area is the Tomales Point Trail.
One spot in particular hosts a charming lighthouse that has quickly become the setting to take memorable pictures. It also serves as a great place to bird-watch and observe other local wildlife. Point Reyes is a perfect day trip outside of the city.
Cayucos
Just north of Morro Bay is the quiet town of Cayucos. Located within the San Luis Obispo region, it is the ideal spot for a relaxing walk along the beach. The weather is pleasant all year round, making it a fantastic place to experience small-town life in California.
A handful of beach resorts have been built here as well making it one of the best destinations for a quick weekend holiday. No matter if you stay for days or only a couple of hours, Cayucos is going to make a long-lasting impression. The Cayucos Pier is a popular stop for the locals. Another great place to check out is the Cayucos State Park or tour the various murals around town.
Pescadero
Just outside of San Jose is the tranquil town of Pescadero. This small town has long been a well-kept secret by locals but it has recently started to get more recognition for its charm and beauty. Large open meadows and serene beaches make Pescadero stand out.
For those wanting to get in touch with the great outdoors, there are various campsites located around the area. Standout places to visit include Pigeon Point Lighthouse and Butano State Park. Staying the night here is sure to be one of the more memorable moments during any trip to California.
California is one of the most popular destinations in the United States for a reason. With nearly endless things to do and see, it is no wonder why many people come and visit each year. If you ever find yourself in California and want to see something new, there are plenty of underrated places outside the large tourist traps that are worth your attention.
