California - Islands

Evergreen forests draping the Siskayou Mountains

By Dana Cape 2 months ago

This Cozy Gateway To California's Marble Mountains Is An Outdoor Playground Far From The Tourist Trail

There are remote towns in nature, and then there are the places that let you step back in time a few decades and forget you even own a cell phone.

Palm trees at the Lost Palms Oasis in Joshua Tree National Park

By Taylor Dixon 2 months ago

This Secret Joshua Tree National Park Entrance Boasts A Rich Palm Forest And Unique Desert Hikes

While it is often overlooked, this entrance to Joshua Tree National Park offers visitors a chance to explore the beautiful palm-filled landscape.

Daytime cityscape of Los Altos, California

By Lauren Kershner 2 months ago

California's Wealthiest Suburb In 2025 Is A Tree-Lined Haven Packed With Boutiques, Cafés, And Small-Town Charm

This Silicon Valley suburb, boasting a charming downtown and a straight-out-of-Paris chateau, was named California's most affluent suburb in 2025.

Hansen Dam Aquatic Center in the San Fernando Valley

By Kristin Conard 2 months ago

One Of America's Largest Swimming Pools In LA Doubles As A Fun 'Float-In' Movie Theater

Enjoy a movie while you float in water at this outdoor theater in Los Angeles that also happens to be one of the county's largest swimming pools.

Aerial view over vineyards in Healdsburg, California.

By David McElhinney 2 months ago

A Unique Zen Center Retirement Community In Northern California Wine Country Offers A Path To Nirvana

If you're looking to live out your golden years in a state of calm, this luxurious, Zen-focused retirement community near Napa Valley is just for you.

Yellow-headed blackbird at Meiss Lake in Butte Valley Wildlife Area

By Olivia Typaldos 2 months ago

This Underrated Region Near The California-Oregon Border Is Brimming With Wildlife And A Scenic Lake

Hike, hunt for waterfowl, or see the miraculous quantity of bird species at this underrated, under-the-radar wildlife area in Northeastern California.

rocky pine lakeside view in oakhurst, california

By Sarah Joseph 2 months ago

Nestled In Yosemite's South Is One Of America's Friendliest Cities With Cozy Cabins And Craveable Bites

Yellowstone National Park is a must-visit for any outdoorsy person, but if you don't want to camp near the grounds, a cozy cabin offers comfort and views.

Cars drive on a motorway in Southern California

By Judith Barnes 2 months ago

Situated Between LA And Bakersfield Is California's Dazzling Reservoir For Old-Fashioned Summer Recreation

For the perfect summer escape, located between L.A. and Bakersfield, head to this scenic reservoir for fun activities like tubing, wakeboarding, and swimming.

Gnarled bristlecone pines on the Methuselah Trail

By Stephen Hanson 2 months ago

One Of The Best Hikes In The World Is A Quiet, Ethereal Trail Through California's Ancient Bristlecone Pines

Some hikes feature jaw-dropping vistas, while others offer up unparalleled insights into natural history. This world-famous hike in California does both.

A quiet landscape in the Garden of Eden, Santa Cruz

By Bridget Gleeson 2 months ago

California's Secret 'Garden Of Eden' Swimming Hole Is An Emerald Forest Pool Hidden In The Santa Cruz Redwoods

This natural pool is so good, it's almost biblical (if you can find it). Hike past California redwoods to enjoy the secluded beauty of the Garden of Eden.

Rocky coastline with houses and palm trees in San Diego

By Jenna Kelley 2 months ago

The Disturbing Reason Tourists Need To Stop Petting Sea Lion Pups At California's Iconic Cove (Even If They Like It)

While it might seem irresistible to give that cute sea lion pup a cuddle, not only is it illegal, but it's endangering the pups at this famous California beach.

Marshes and waterways at Seal Beach National Wildlife Refuge in California

By Kate Mothes 2 months ago

California's Coastal Wildlife Refuge Near Los Angeles Is An Underrated Beachy Gem To Spot Marine Life And Birds

Enjoy the Pacific Coast’s intriguing aviary wildlife in their natural beachy habitat at an under-the-radar refuge just a few hours south of Los Angeles.

Modesto, California, skyline with trees lining its street during sunrise

By Anahid Akkam 2 months ago

Sandwiched Between San Jose And Yosemite Is California's Scenic City With Unique Museums And An Unsung Wine Scene

If you're seeking a laidback California getaway with easy access to world-class wine and museums, head to a charming city just two hours from San Francisco.

A smiling leashed dog on a trail hiking towards the beach.

By Annette Richmond 2 months ago

This Wine Country Coastal Gem Has Been Named 'Best California State Park For Dog-Friendly Adventures'

Looking for a new destination to bring your pooch? Consider branching out to this Californian wine country escape that polled well for a dog-friendly getaway.

Two hikers in safety gear overlooking Seven Teacups water basins

By Jessica Fisher 2 months ago

A Secret California Canyon Hike To Unique Granite Bowls Is As Dangerous As It Is Jaw-Droppingly Gorgeous

If you crave challenging canyoneering treks, there's a jaw-dropping canyon hike in California's Sequoia National Park might just be your cup of tea.

Water slides emptying out into large pool

By Jessica Fisher 2 months ago

This High-Desert California Destination Thrills With Hiking Trails, Sizzling Street Food, And A Waterpark

North of Los Angeles lies a town where you can find the family-friendly DryTown Water Park, sizzling street food, and great hikes through the California desert.

By Jessica Fisher 2 months ago

Northern California's Secret Punchbowl Waterfall Swimming Hole Is A Cool Oasis To Swim In The Sun

These falls in Northern California offer a punchbowl waterfall swimming hole oasis that's the perfect place to unwind away from the crowded Mount Shasta.

Exterior of Stanford Inn by the Sea in Mendocino looking out toward the Pacific Ocean at sunset

By Rebecca High 2 months ago

California's Unique Magical Vegan Resort On The Mendocino Coast Has Mystical Awakenings On The Menu

Dietary restrictions aren't an issue in this California resort, which adopted a vegan sensibility for a unique lodging experience on the western coast.

Capay Valley field and hills with one lone tree

By Erynn Ruiz 2 months ago

Hidden Outside California's Bay Area, This Scenic Valley's Wineries And Restaurants Make For An Idyllic Escape

Cali has no shortage of beautiful vineyards and wineries, but this underrated locale outside the Bay Area is a must-visit!

The quaint concession stand at Gardena Cinema in the city of Gardena

By Nola Sarkisian-Miller 2 months ago

Los Angeles' Last Family-Owned Theater Is A California Vintage Single-Screen Gem With A Lovely Community Focus

There is a lot of charm to be found at this historic vintage movie theater in California, owed in large part to owner Judy Kim.

Palm-lined street in La Quinta at sunset

By Jessica Stewart 2 months ago

California's 'Gem Of The Desert' Is A Charming Beauty That Hosts One Of America's Best Annual Art Fairs

With creative events happening year-round, including one of the best art fairs in the U.S., La Quinta is a charming and fun desert escape in California.

Palm trees at Cottonwood Springs in Joshua Tree National Park in California.

By Annette Richmond 2 months ago

One Of Joshua Tree National Park's Best-Kept Secrets Is A Lush Desert Spring To Hike, Camp, And View Wildlife

Among the numerous beautiful areas of Joshua Tree National Park is an underrated desert oasis that offers a historic hike and views of wildlife.

San Francisco's Chinatown with cars, lanterns, and Chinese store signage

By Natasha Bernstein 2 months ago

America's Oldest Chinatown Is A Diverse West Coast Charmer With A Plethora Of Renowned Food, Shops, And Fun

If you're intrigued by Chinese American history, delicious food, and vibrant streets bursting with color, visit this iconic Chinatown on the West Coast.

moutntain town of Ojai, California with gorgeous scenery

By Kelley Dukat 2 months ago

A California Mountain Town's Art Festival Takes Place In A Park Surrounded By Breathtaking Scenery

Enjoy live music while admiring the work of dozens of artists at this annual California festival, which takes place in a charming park with mountain views.