Central California, CA
Travel 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 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.
Westside Santa Cruz
Westside Santa Cruz is known for its stunning beaches, and with sights like Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Monterey Bay, you won't get bored spending a day wandering around this part of Santa Cruz.
Downtown Monterey
The beaches and seaside views 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.
Yosemite West
Just outside Yosemite National Park, this unincorporated community offers resort homes and access to several hiking trails, including Deer Camp Trail and Alder Creek Trail. Explore the historic Henness Ridge fire lookout tower and admire Alder Creek Fall.
Downtown Pismo Beach
While visiting Downtown Pismo Beach, you might make a stop by sights like Pismo Beach Pier and Pismo State Beach.
Eastside Santa Cruz
Eastside Santa Cruz is known for its beaches, and you can plan a trip to Monterey Bay and Twin Lakes State Beach while you're in town.
Reviewed on 28 April 2025
Reviewed on 28 April 2025
Reviewed on 28 April 2025
Reviewed on 25 April 2025
Reviewed on 27 April 2025
Reviewed on 15 April 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 thrills at Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and find out why people love this theme park in Santa Cruz. Attend a sporting event in this walkable area, or seek out the biking trails.
Monterey Bay Aquarium
Take the family to visit the sea life at Monterey Bay Aquarium and find out why this is a popular attraction in Monterey. Stroll along the area's marina, or simply savor its seafood restaurants.
Santana Row Shopping Center
You can browse for souvenirs with a trip to Santana Row Shopping Center, a favorite 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.
San Jose McEnery Convention Center
Learn about the events happening at San Jose McEnery Convention Center during your trip to San Jose. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the top-notch restaurants while you're in the area.
- Yosemite Valley
- Yosemite National Park
- Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
- Monterey Bay Aquarium
- Monterey Bay
- Santana Row Shopping Center
- Death Valley National Park
- Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
- 17-Mile Drive
- San Jose McEnery Convention Center
- SAP Center at San Jose
- Carmel Beach
- WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca
- Hearst Castle
- Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort
- California Polytechnic State University
- Cannery Row
- Mammoth Mountain
- Capitola Beach
- General Sherman Tree
- Fisherman's Wharf
- Pismo Beach Pier
- Winchester Mystery House
- CSU San Jose State University
- Mystery Spot
- Gilroy Gardens Family Theme Park
- PayPal Park
- Yosemite Falls
- Santa Clara University
- Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
- Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area
- Half Dome