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 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.
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.
Downtown Pismo Beach
If you're spending some time in Downtown Pismo Beach, Pismo Beach Pier and Pismo State Beach 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.
The Monterey Hotel
Reviewed on 25 Jul 2025
Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa
Reviewed on 23 Jul 2025
Outbound Mammoth
Reviewed on 23 Jul 2025
Flying Flags Avila Beach
Reviewed on 11 Jul 2025
Sequoia Riverfront Cabins
Reviewed on 2 Jul 2025
Silver City Mountain Resort
Reviewed on 19 Jul 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.
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 pebble beaches or simply savour its seafood restaurants.
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.
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.
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.
Cannery Row
During your trip to Monterey, you can browse for the perfect souvenirs at Cannery Row. Wander through the seaside and beautiful beaches in this family-friendly area.
- Yosemite National Park
- Monterey Bay Aquarium
- Monterey Bay
- SAP Center at San Jose
- Death Valley National Park
- Cannery Row
- Hearst Castle
- Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort
- San Jose McEnery Convention Center
- Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
- California Polytechnic State University
- General Sherman Tree
- Pismo Beach Pier
- PayPal Park
- Mystery Spot
- Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area
- California State University