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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California certainly isn't lacking in natural beauty, and if you want to experience a stunning alpine lake without crowds, skip Tahoe and head here instead.
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Not far from L.A. is a lake that offers nature lovers a wide range of outdoor activities, including kayaking, boating, fishing, hiking, and camping.
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This gorgeous wildlife preserve is a triumph of preservation and commitment, with rolling hills and fascinating wildlife in the wilds of California.
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This Northern California wildlife haven is an easy drive from Sacramento and rewards visitors with trails, creek views, and a chance for animal sightings.
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Escape the crowds of Lake Tahoe and get out into the county, where award-winning wines, fascinating history, and gorgeous trails are waiting.
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There are a few great reasons why Lake Tahoe sees as many visitors as it does. But if you're in the mood for something less busy, head to this nearby lake.
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Head to this suburb of Stockton, California, that's known for its fishing opportunities, delicious and diverse restaurants, and pretty green spaces.
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About an hour from San Francisco, this nature preserve is home to seasonal waterfalls and several quick hiking trails that make it ideal for a day trip.
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This scenic lake escape is a reservoir between Sacramento and Yosemite National Park boasting camping, swimming, fishing, and wildlife watching.
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Though it's been closed for years, this pristine lake in California is expected to open sometime in 2027 after receiving massive renovations.
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The most polluted national park isn't the Everglades or Yosemite, but instead a popular California staple traditional known for its mountain views.
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