The West Coast is home to some of America's most iconic national parks, with plenty of fantastic cities and towns that serve as bases for your explorations.
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This pristine lake sits in the shadow of some of the most impressive and photogenic peaks in all of the Sierra, a fitting reward for the challenging hike.
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This relaxed coastal city topped a 2025 ranking for friendliness, with welcoming locals, sunny beaches, vibrant neighborhoods, and an easygoing West Coast vibe.
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Wine lovers should head to this highly touted resort in Napa Valley that features a Charlie Palmer restaurant, weekly wine tastings, and a concierge.
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Seafood lovers can rejoice that every restaurant on our list ranks highly on Google and offers crispy, golden-brown treats from the sea (and lots of sides).
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Looking beyond San Francisco? These Bay Area suburbs share the qualities that make them ideal for a weekend escape, with memorable food, scenery, and charm.
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This secluded wilderness in Southern California is a haven for wildlife and hikers with panoramic views and remote campsites near abandoned settlers' homes.
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This Sacramento nature escape offers travelers scenic river views, abundant native wildlife, tranquil woodland trails, and engaging educational experiences.
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For those looking to golf at cheaper-than-usual prices, this one underrated golfing locale in California might just be what the doctor ordered.
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It's not hard to forget about Lake Tahoe when there's a similarly striking lake in Napa Valley that makes a great trip for anglers and hikers alike.
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Despite the lack of crowds and good striper fishing, you probably haven't heard of this reservoir, and that's part of the point — no one else has either.
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Yosemite National Park might get most of the attention, but this spectacular alternative nearby offers a quieter experience with jaw-dropping sunsets.
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If you can't face the Tahoe crowds but need your alpine lake fix, the Golden State has lot of options for you, especially if you're willing to hike in.
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Don't miss the thriving Japantown neighborhood of San Jose, where you can learn about its history, find great restaurants, and catch fun festivals.
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Sequoia National Park is home to the largest trees in the world. Stand in awe underneath the park’s biggest giants that are accessible by trail.
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An underrated California county is chock-full of family-friendly attractions built for fun and outdoor recreation, perfect for relaxation.
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This little-known nature preserve offers easy access to hiking, biking, or horseback riding along a trail with impressive Bay Area views.
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This rugged California escape rewards adventurous travelers with sweeping mountain panoramas, remarkable wildlife, and challenging but rewarding trails.
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While most travelers think of the 90-mile stretch of Big Sur, California, as an exciting road trip, an underrated alternative offers incredible rural sights.
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This little-known alpine lake lies off a 5-mile backpacking trail and requires a permit for camping, all of which ensures a quiet evening of mountain solitude.
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If you're making a list of lakes to visit and you're looking to avoid the most popular (and crowded) tourist spots, don't worry, you have some great options.
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Don't leave your dog behind when you go searching for the perfect fishing spot at this canine-friendly California park, which is also great for disc golf fans.
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From a free boat tour to an historic drive with epic views, here are seven affordable things to do around Lake Tahoe, where you won't be crowded by tourists.
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Nestled in the Central Valley of California, you'll find a charming city with a splash pad and eateries that showcase the best of international cuisine.
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Festival season is well and truly underway in the Golden State, and LA's summer schedule is packed with fabulous extravaganzas, no matter your vibe.
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As natural wonderlands like Lake Tahoe become increasingly popular, travelers are opting for smaller and dynamic outdoor getaways like this one.
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If you love history or visiting spooky places, you'll have fun exploring these quarries that once helped shape the U.S. and now stand deserted.
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