9 Of The Best Nature Escapes With Enchanting Views To Explore In California
From beautiful smooth sand beaches with bright turquoise water to snow-capped mountain peaks and endless desert views, we've gathered up our top picks we think you'll love. Whether you'd rather be lounging with a cocktail in hand, adventuring up the side of a mountain (or maybe both), there's something for every type of traveler here. Let's check out the most beautiful places in California.
Artist’s Palette: Death Valley
Price: $25 park entrance fee
Location: Artist’s Drive, CA
Why You Should Go: You can drive through 9 miles of beautiful rainbow-colored mountains.
Thousand Steps Beach
Price: Free to visit
Location: 31972 Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, CAWhy You Should Go: You can swim in beautiful ocean pools and explore a beach cove.
Alabama Hills
Price: Free
Location: Alabama Hills, CA
Why You Should Go: You can hike amidst stunning rock formations that literally look out of this world.
Emerald Pools
Price: Free
Location: Emerald Pools Trail, Nevada City, CA
Why You Should Go: You can swim in amazing clear blue pools. Chances are, you'll get it all to yourself.
La Jolla Shores
Location: San Diego
Price: Free
Why You Should Go: You can swim or snorkel with leopard sharks in the beautiful waters of La Jolla Shores.
Seven Sisters Waterfall
Location: Murray Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, CA
Price: $9 per adult
Why You Should Go: You can swim in a secret swimming hole surrounded by massive, shaggy palm trees.
Mist Trail
Price: $30 park entrance fee
Location: Mist Trail, Yosemite National Park, CA
Why You Should Go: This short hike will give you the most gorgeous views of rainbow waterfalls and the surrounding Yosemite Valley.
Gaviota Hot Springs
Price: $2 for parking
Location: Gaviota Park Boundary, Goleta, CA
Why You Should Go: You can soak in relaxing turquoise blue hot springs that feels like a jungle oasis.
Pfeiffer Beach
Price: $10 cash park entrance fee per vehicle
Location: Pfeiffer Beach, Big Sur, CA
Why You Should Go: You can explore an actual purple sand beach in California.
When a state is this diverse, how do you possibly narrow down the best spots? Our answer is taking a road trip and find your favorites.
We strongly advise that before you go swimming or visit any location, you check the most recent updates on potential hazards, security, water quality, and closures. If you do plan to visit a location, respect the environment.