About California
California is a land of staggering diversity and iconic experiences, stretching from the misty redwood forests of the north to the sun-drenched beaches of the south. It's a state defined by innovation, from the tech giants of Silicon Valley to the cinematic magic of Hollywood. Nature lovers are drawn to its world-famous landmarks: the granite cliffs of Yosemite Valley, the ancient giants of Sequoia National Park, and the dramatic coastline of Big Sur. Urban explorers can lose themselves in the vibrant neighborhoods of San Francisco, the glamour of Los Angeles, or the craft beer scene of San Diego. California's cultural tapestry is rich, influenced by its Spanish mission history, the Gold Rush, and continuous waves of immigration, creating a unique fusion evident in its world-class cuisine, from Napa Valley wines to authentic Mexican food. Whether you're driving the legendary Pacific Coast Highway, hiking in the Sierra Nevada, or catching a wave, California offers an endless sense of possibility and adventure.
Things to do in California
Wine Tour Pros - Sprinter Van Wine Tour: Up To 14 Guests
Napa & Sonoma, California
From GHS 14,587
5.0 (42)
Los Angeles Luxury Private Tour For Up To 7 Passengers
Los Angeles, California
From GHS 11,209
5.0 (41)
Half Day Whitewater Rafting Trip Trinity River
California, USA
From GHS 1,392
5.0 (35)
Semi Private Tour to Sequoia National Park with Lunch
Fresno, California
From GHS 3,367
5.0 (32)
Sequoia National Park Adventure from Tulare
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park, California
From GHS 3,355
5.0 (25)
Zip Zoom Ziplines at La Jolla Indian Adventure Park
California, USA
From GHS 1,669
5.0 (18)
Full Day Whitewater Rafting Trip Trinity River California
California, USA
From GHS 1,751
5.0 (14)
Mount Shasta Guided Tour
California, USA
From GHS 2,525
5.0 (12)
Olive Oil, Cheese, and Wine Tasting with Local Expert
California, USA
From GHS 1,448
5.0 (12)
San Francisco Indoor Skydiving with 2 Flights & Personalized Certificate
San Francisco, California
From GHS 1,403
5.0 (11)
Self-Guided Walking Tour in Chinatown
California, USA
From GHS 57
5.0 (10)
Wine Tour Pros - Wine Tour in Napa Valley: SUV For Up To 6 Guests
California, USA
From GHS 9,964
5.0 (9)
Old Town Eureka's Hidden Gems: History & Street Art Walking Tour
California, USA
From GHS 1,111
5.0 (8)
Private Sailboat Charter on San Francisco Bay
California, USA
Hwy 140 Route Glacier Point and Yosemite Valley Small Group Tour
Yosemite National Park, California
From GHS 2,245
5.0 (7)Travel Tips for California
Getting Around
A car is highly recommended for exploring beyond major city centers, especially for coastal drives, national parks, and wine country. Major rental companies are available at all airports. Public transit varies: San Francisco has extensive systems (BART, Muni), Los Angeles has a growing metro and bus network, but service can be limited elsewhere. Ride-sharing apps (Uber, Lyft) are ubiquitous in cities. Amtrak trains connect major cities along scenic routes like the Pacific Surfliner. Domestic flights are efficient for covering long distances within the state (e.g., San Francisco to Los Angeles).
Best Time To Visit
Spring (April-May) and Fall (September-October) offer the most consistently pleasant weather statewide, with mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and clear skies. Summer (June-August) is ideal for coastal regions but can be extremely hot inland and in deserts. Winter is perfect for skiing in the Sierra Nevada mountains. Southern California beaches are enjoyable year-round, though ocean water is coldest in winter and spring.
Local Customs
California is generally casual and informal in dress and attitude. Tipping is customary and expected: 15-20% in restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, $2-5 per night for hotel housekeeping, and 15-20% for taxi/ride-share drivers. Environmental consciousness is widespread; recycling is common. Punctuality is appreciated but a slight casual delay ('California time') is sometimes joked about. Be respectful of diverse cultures and communities. In natural areas, practice 'Leave No Trace' principles.
Safety Information
Exercise normal precautions. In major cities like San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Oakland, be aware of your surroundings, especially at night, and secure valuables to deter petty theft and car break-ins, which are common in tourist areas. Avoid leaving any items visible in a parked car. Wildfires are a significant seasonal hazard (late summer/fall); heed evacuation orders and check air quality reports. Earthquakes can occur; familiarize yourself with 'Drop, Cover, and Hold On' procedures. When swimming, heed rip current warnings at beaches. Scams are generally similar to other major tourist destinations—be cautious of overly aggressive street vendors or unsolicited offers.
Health Information
Medical facilities in California are world-class, especially in major metropolitan areas. No special vaccinations are required for entry. Travelers should ensure they have comprehensive health insurance, as U.S. medical costs are extremely high. Common health concerns include sun exposure and dehydration, particularly in desert regions like Death Valley. In wilderness areas, be aware of ticks (which can carry Lyme disease) and, rarely, hantavirus. Tap water is generally safe to drink. Pharmacies (CVS, Walgreens) are widely available for over-the-counter needs. For serious emergencies, dial 911.
Languages Spoken
EnglishSpanish
Quick Facts
Currency
United States Dollar (USD)
$
$
Timezone
America/Los_Angeles -08:00 (GMT) / America/Los_Angeles -07:00 (GMT during Daylight Saving Time)
Calling Code
+1
Electricity
Driving Side
Right
Population
39.0 million
Area
423970 km²
Government
Representative democracy within a federal republic; operates under a state constitution with an elected Governor and bicameral State Legislature.
ISO Code
CA