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.
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.
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.
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.
Golden Rectangle
If you're spending some time in Golden Rectangle, Carmel Plaza and Carmel Beach are top sights worth seeing.
South San Jose
Southern region of San Jose, California, featuring a mix of businesses, green spaces, and parks. Explore trails like Coyote Creek and Guadalupe River, or visit parks such as Almaden Quicksilver County Park. Easily accessible via VTA stations and highways.
Reviewed on 7 April 2025
Reviewed on 6 April 2025
Reviewed on 6 April 2025
Reviewed on 2 April 2025
Reviewed on 7 April 2025
Reviewed on 23 March 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
San Jose McEnery Convention Center
During your trip, find out what's happening at San Jose McEnery Convention Center, a top convention center in San Jose. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the top-notch restaurants while you're in the area.
- Yosemite Valley
- Yosemite National Park
- Monterey Bay Aquarium
- Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
- Monterey Bay
- Death Valley National Park
- Santana Row Shopping Center
- Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort
- San Jose McEnery Convention Center
- Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
- WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca
- Hearst Castle
- SAP Center at San Jose
- 17-Mile Drive
- Carmel Beach
- California Polytechnic State University
- Cannery Row
- Fisherman's Wharf
- Mammoth Mountain
- Capitola Beach
- General Sherman Tree
- CSU San Jose State University
- Santa Clara University
- Winchester Mystery House
- Pismo Beach Pier
- Yosemite Falls
- PayPal Park
- Gilroy Gardens Family Theme Park
- Mystery Spot
- Lovers Point
- Pebble Beach Golf Links
- Westfield Valley Fair Shopping Mall