Central California Travel Guide
Tourist Guide





Visit Central California
Where to stay in Central California

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 Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Monterey Bay.

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 San Pedro Square and St. Joseph Cathedral Basilica, 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.

Downtown Monterey
The pristine beaches and popular aquarium are top of the list for many visitors to Downtown Monterey. A stop by Golden State Theatre or Munras Avenue might round out your trip.

Downtown Pismo Beach
If you're spending some time in Downtown Pismo Beach, Pismo Beach Pier and Pismo Beach Surf Shop are top sights worth seeing.

Eastside Santa Cruz
Travellers come to Eastside Santa Cruz for its beaches, and you can see top attractions like Monterey Bay and Twin Lakes State Beach while you're in town.

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Reviewed on 27 Jun 2025

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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.

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
Enjoy the exciting rides at Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and see why everyone loves this theme park in Santa Cruz. Attend a sporting event in this walkable area or seek out the cycling trails.

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 seaside or simply savour its seafood restaurants.

Santana Row Shopping Center
You can find the perfect gifts to bring home with a trip to Santana Row Shopping Center, a favourite shopping spot in San Jose. Attend a sporting event or discover the mountain views in this family-friendly area.

17-Mile Drive
After visiting 17-Mile Drive, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Skyline Forest. Wander the beaches and seaside while you're in the area.

Hearst Castle
You can learn about the local history of San Simeon during your trip to a top site such as Hearst Castle. Wander the area's seaside or simply enjoy one of its top-notch restaurants.
- Yosemite National Park
- Monterey Bay Aquarium
- Monterey Bay
- Death Valley National Park
- Hearst Castle
- Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
- Cannery Row
- San Jose McEnery Convention Center
- California Polytechnic State University
- SAP Center at San Jose
- Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort
- Pismo Beach Pier
- PayPal Park
- Mystery Spot
- General Sherman Tree
- Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area
- California State University
- Avila Hot Springs