Central California Travel Guide
Tourist Guide
Visit Central California
Where to stay in Central California
Downtown San Jose
Known for its fascinating museums and great live music, there's plenty to explore in Downtown San Jose. You can visit top attractions like SAP Center at San Jose and San Pedro Square, and jump on the metro at Santa Clara Station or St James Station to see more of the city.
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.
Westside Santa Cruz
Travellers to Westside Santa Cruz praise its stunning beaches. If you've got some more time to explore, be sure to stop by Monterey Bay and Pacific Avenue.
Downtown Monterey
The pristine beaches and popular aquarium are top of the list for many visitors to Downtown Monterey. A stop by Monterey State Beach or Golden State Theatre might round out your trip.
Mammoth Village
While Mammoth Village isn't home to many top sights, Village Gondola Station and Sierra Star Golf Course are some notable places to visit nearby.
South San Jose
Consider exploring the abundant dining options in South San Jose. If sightseeing is on the list, Almaden Plaza is a top attraction. Hop on the metro at Blossom Hill Station (VTA) or Snell Station to see more of the area.
Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay
Breakfast menu was good, cooked well and quality was awesome.
Reviewed on 26 Nov 2025
The Monterey Hotel
Cute hotel, very helpful staff
Reviewed on 26 Nov 2025
Spyglass Inn
Loved when you walk in the room is super clean. Love that I had acces to fire pit outside and enjoyed it. Reception very friendly gave me a list of restaurants to enjoy. My stay was wonderful.
Reviewed on 26 Nov 2025
Sequoia Riverfront Cabins
The staff was amazing. He gave us a great recommendation for dinner. Very polite and friendly. His dog was great also. 😀
Reviewed on 18 Nov 2025
Flying Flags Avila Beach
We came to celebrate my husband’s birthday and instantly fell in love with this campsite—we didn't want to leave after just two days! The experience was incredibly peaceful and restorative, offering stunning views of the bay covered in gorgeous ocean fog, set to the sound of birds singing. The facilities ...
Reviewed on 9 Nov 2025
Avila Pismo RV Resort and Campground
Staff was very helpful
Reviewed on 23 Nov 2025
Check Central California hotel availability
Popular places to visit
Yosemite Valley
Explore the great outdoors at Yosemite Valley, a popular spot to commune with nature in Yosemite National Park. Amble around the area's riverfront or seek out its hiking trails.
Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort
Hit the slopes at Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort, a top ski area in Mammoth Lakes. Wander the lakeside or discover the mountain views in this quaint area.
Monterey Bay Aquarium
Take the family to visit the sea life at Monterey Bay Aquarium, and find out why this is a top attraction in Monterey. Stroll along the area's beautiful beaches or simply savour its seafood restaurants.
Mammoth Mountain
Explore the great outdoors at Mammoth Mountain and enjoy the mountain views during your trip to Mammoth Lakes. Stroll along the lakeside in this family-friendly area or seek out the ski slopes.
Winchester Mystery House
Learn about the local history of San Jose when you spend time at Winchester Mystery House. Experience the fascinating museums and great live music in this family-friendly area.
Hearst Castle
You can learn about the history of San Simeon with a stop at Hearst Castle. Wander the area's seaside or simply enjoy one of its top-notch restaurants.
- Yosemite National Park
- Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort
- Death Valley National Park
- Monterey Bay
- Monterey Bay Aquarium
- SAP Center at San Jose
- Hearst Castle
- Cannery Row
- Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
- San Jose McEnery Convention Center
- Pismo Beach Pier
- PayPal Park
- Black Oak Casino
- General Sherman Tree
- Dodge Ridge Ski Resort
- California Polytechnic State University
- Silicon Valley
- Sequoia National Parks Ash Mountain Entrance
