The Best Southern California Vacation Spots to Visit

During the beautiful summer months, there are many Southern California vacation spots that are worth visiting. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo, check out these 6 spots.

Are you looking to visit California for the first time, or are you on the prowl for a fun, long-weekend getaway in your favorite go-to destination? Regardless, you are sure to find something exciting and enjoyable in one of the many vacation spots in Southern California.

Let’s see, there is a coastline so breathtaking that it ends up on many bucket lists. Then, there are:

• Theme parks
• The beach
• The fame in Hollywood
• Incredible hiking trails
• Extraordinary scenery

 

How to Decide Where to Visit in Southern California

If you are looking for things to do indoors and outdoors, you’ve come to the right place. Now, you must decide which city you will visit in this region.

Of course, you could always take advantage and take a private jet across Southern California and see more than one!

Below are the top 6 vacation spots in Southern California that you do not want to miss.

 

1. Burbank

Being so close to Hollywood, it should not surprise you that Burbank is home to the headquarters for many big names like:

• Warner Bros. Entertainment
• Nickelodeon Animation Studios
• The Walt Disney Company
• The Burbank Studios
• Cartoon Network Studios

At the same time, Burbank is so popular among travel-savvy individuals because there are far fewer tourists than its surrounding areas – and far more locals.

What does that mean for you?

You can immerse yourself in the local culture. Enjoy shopping, dining, and exploring without being one of many tourists. In other words, see the real Burbank without having to experience all that comes with tourist traps and other gimmicks.

Burbank is the real deal.

 

2. San Diego

What is the first thing you think of when you hear San Diego?

San Diego is full of so many things to do. Perhaps a visit to the popular San Diego Zoo may top your list. Or, how about stopping by the USS Midway Museum. Then again, we’ve got Legoland, SeaWorld, and even the San Diego Zoo Safari Park.

For those not interested in the crowds and attractions, settling down on the sand at a quiet beach could be the cherry on top of your getaway.

San Diego is full of fun things to experience, sights to see, and lots of shopping and dining to do. Day and night, you will find what you are looking for. Whether you are traveling alone or with the family, there is something to enjoy here.

 

3. Monterey

A little drive to the north will bring you to Monterey, one of the most popular Southern California vacation spots for tourists and locals alike.

While this may be considered by some to be in central California, it is not far out of SoCal. This city is definitely not one that you will want to miss. Well-known for being a great mix of arts, culture, and marine life, you will find plenty of things to do in Monterey. From museums and art displays to theatre and aquatic centers.

Here are a few of the most popular hot spots in Monterey:

• Walk through many any art gallery in Carmel-By-The-Sea
• Monterey Bay Aquarium
• Fisherman’s Wharf
• Pacific Monarch Butterfly Grove Sanctuary
• Spend the day on one of the many local beaches

And that is not all. There is so much to do here that you may even need more time. Monterey is easily accessible both as a destination and as a city.

 

4. Orange County

Looking to take a family trip and have a little amusement park fun? If this sounds like your cup of tea, perhaps you will want to add Orange County, California to your destination list.

This area will keep even the youngest kids busy. And, with Disneyland and Knotts Berry Farm, your family will make memories to last a lifetime.

Not traveling with the fam? No problem. You will still have a wonderful time here in Orange County. There are golf courses, shopping, dining, beaches, mountain hiking, biking trails, and more to take advantage of.

The scenery here in Orange County is gorgeous and there are adventures you can have both night and day. It is a definite place to add to your list of future destinations.

 

5. Santa Barbara

Imagine enjoying a city in California with majestic mountains as a backdrop. The Santa Ynez mountains provide great views from nearly anywhere in Santa Barbara. But that is not all.

Unlike the hustle and bustle of other SoCal cities, Santa Barbara provides you with seaside escapes that you can spend the day getting lost in.

Here you will find vineyards, wellness areas, luxurious resorts, spas, shopping, dining, and more. If you are looking for a place to break away from the norm, Santa Barbara is it.

• Take in the historic architecture found here.
• Delight in all that Stearns Wharf has to offer.
• Explore the natural beauty of fig trees, waterfalls, and botanical gardens that make this city thrive.

Santa Barbara is a breath of fresh air for anybody who needs one.

 

6. Santa Monica

If you head west of Los Angeles, you will run straight into Santa Monica. This coastal city has enough character to make itself famous. Definitely, a place to enjoy the sun, sand, and surf so be prepared.

Of course, though, there are many other things to do. Lots of dining, shopping, rides, and wellness areas.

Considering Santa Monica as your Southern California vacation spot? Then there are a few things that you absolutely will not want to miss.

• Visit Santa Monica Beach. Go paddleboarding, surfing, or swimming. Ride down the bike path. And, catch a glimpse of the original Muscle Beach.
• Make a point to head to Santa Monica Pier. Here is where you will find lots of things to do, such as shopping, an arcade, fishing, and dining – even an amusement park (named Pacific Park) and an aquarium.
• Visit museums and art galleries. Did you know that Santa Monica is home to over 75 museums and galleries? Unless you walk incredibly fast or have a very lengthy stay, you likely won’t be able to visit all 75, but you can pick out a few that strike your interest most.

 

What Other California Vacation Spots Will You Visit?

Southern California gives off a vibe like no other place in the world. Laidback and full of life, you are sure to find something magnificent when you come here.

Which city will you visit?