California Travel Stories

Sep 16, 2024 • 15 min read

If you're visiting San Francisco for the first time, it can be hard to narrow down where to start your tour of the city. This is what you need to know.

Sep 10, 2024 • 11 min read

The Golden State is known for its wealth of golden sands. Start planning your visit now with our list of the top 10 best beaches in California.

Jun 4, 2024 • 13 min read

Lonely Planet staffers share some of their favorite US destinations.

Apr 29, 2024 • 7 min read

These two winemaking regions of California have much to recommend them. So we invited two writers to make the case for each.

Jan 25, 2024 • 13 min read

From Yosemite to Joshua Tree, California boasts more national parks than any other state, as well as a bevy of national forests, seashores and monuments.

Sep 14, 2023 • 6 min read

California's sun-drenched parks, beaches and cities are a huge draw for tourists but where to begin? Here's what you need to know before you go.

Sep 14, 2023 • 5 min read

California has a lot to offer travelers and unfortunately, the price tag to match. But there are ways to visit on a budget if you know how!

Sep 14, 2023 • 11 min read

California may be besotted with cars but that's not the only way to see the Golden State. Here's everything you need to know about getting around California.

Sep 13, 2023 • 4 min read

From avoiding the crowds to getting the best budget deal, here's what's happening through the seasons in California.

Sep 11, 2023 • 8 min read

From cosmopolitan cities to epic natural wonders, California has it all, and the state's best places appeal to travelers of all sorts.

Sep 10, 2023 • 4 min read

These ultimate California road trips take you from sea to mountains and through desert and redwoods.

Sep 8, 2023 • 8 min read

California’s best hikes cover dramatic coastlines and peaks, cascading waterfalls and the world’s tallest trees.

Apr 11, 2023 • 8 min read

We turned to the Ingalls, an LA-based family of travelers, for the best stops on a California road trip for everyone

Apr 11, 2023 • 6 min read

Michael Washington, founder of the USAL Project, helps guide us on an exploration of the state's outdoor adventures

Apr 11, 2023 • 8 min read

Transit advocate Annmarie Wong helps guide us to some of the coolest cities – both well-known and off the beaten path

Apr 11, 2023 • 7 min read

Lonely Planet Creative Director Annie Greenberg helps us plan the perfect culture-focused California road trip

Apr 11, 2023 • 9 min read

Chef Sandy Ho helps guide us to some of the most interesting, flavorful, and diverse options for dining in California

Dec 8, 2022 • 5 min read

With some of the best ski resorts in the country, it’s time to discover why winter in California might just be the best time to visit.

Jun 13, 2022 • 5 min read

In California luxury camping is not an oxymoron. Here are a few of the best properties that combine access to nature with the best creature comforts.

Jun 2, 2022 • 10 min read

Sample the finest waves in North America with this guide to the top places to surf in California, from San Diego to the redwoods.

May 13, 2022 • 8 min read

The best places in California to pitch up and fall asleep under the stars to the sound of crashing waves.

Mar 14, 2022 • 11 min read

California’s nine national parks represent the state’s multifaceted, beautiful puzzle. Here's how you can visit them all.