California Holidays

California Overview

California is the ultimate destination for sun-seekers, adventure lovers, and anyone who fancies a little bit of everything, from iconic landmarks to stunning nature.


Highlights

  • Endless Sunshine - With over 300 days of sunshine a year, California offers year-round warmth, perfect for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

  • Diverse Landscapes - From the sandy beaches of Southern California to the majestic Sierra Nevada mountains, there's no shortage of stunning natural beauty.

  • Cultural Hotspot - With major cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco, California is a melting pot of cultures, arts, and entertainment.

  • World-class Wine - Wine enthusiasts will be spoiled for choice with the state's top-notch wine regions, from Napa Valley to Sonoma.


Getting around California

California is massive, so getting around can be a bit of a mission – but a fun one! For city hopping, you’ve got some cracking options. In the major cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego, public transport is available, but let’s be honest, California is road-trip central. Hiring a car and cruising along the iconic Pacific Coast Highway is a proper good way to take in the state's stunning coastline. For those who fancy taking it easy, there are plenty of flights between cities, and the Amtrak train system offers scenic routes through some of California’s most beautiful spots.


Things to do for families in California

California is a family playground like no other. The kids (and the young at heart) will be spoiled for choice with the amount of fun-filled activities. No trip to California is complete without a day at Disneyland in Anaheim, where magic meets nostalgia, and rides meet childhood dreams. If you're after a bit of nature, Yosemite National Park is perfect for family hikes, waterfall-watching, and spotting wildlife. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is another top-tier spot for families, offering a glimpse into the underwater world of California's coastline. And don’t forget about the San Diego Zoo, one of the most famous zoos in the world, where your little explorers can meet animals from all over the globe. Whether it's roller coasters, animal encounters, or outdoor adventures, California offers a 10/10 experience for families.

Things to do for couples in California

California's dreamy landscapes and romantic vibes make it the ultimate destination for couples. Start your trip with a getaway to Napa Valley, where the two of you can sip on fine wines while overlooking sprawling vineyards. For those who prefer a bit of adventure with their romance, take a sunset hike in Joshua Tree National Park – the vast desert landscapes and star-filled skies are a stunning backdrop for some quality couple time. If you're after something more boujee, head to Santa Barbara, where swanky beachfront resorts, candlelit dinners, and leisurely beach strolls set the scene for a perfect romantic escape. Fancy something quirky? Take a couple’s road trip down Route 66, stopping off at vintage diners and charming small towns along the way. Whatever your style, California’s got the perfect date itinerary waiting.

Things to do for groups in California

Whether it’s a group of friends or a big family reunion, California is a whopper of a destination for group adventures. The beaches of Malibu and Venice are perfect for chilled-out days in the sun, with surfing lessons, volleyball games, and lively boardwalks full of food, art, and entertainment. For the thrill-seekers, Six Flags Magic Mountain offers adrenaline-pumping rides that’ll leave your group buzzing. Wine tours in Sonoma or Paso Robles are also a bangin’ option for groups who want to sip, chat, and relax in beautiful settings. And if your group fancies something a bit different, why not rent an RV and take a mahoosive road trip through the national parks? From Death Valley to Sequoia National Park, there’s no better way to bond than an adventure through California’s diverse landscapes.

Things to do for foodies in California

Calling all foodies – California is your culinary playground! The Golden State is a proper melting pot of flavours, with everything from Michelin-starred restaurants to laid-back food trucks. Start your journey in San Francisco, where you can feast on everything from fresh sourdough bread to sizzling seafood at Fisherman’s Wharf. In Los Angeles, hit up the trendy food markets like Smorgasburg or Grand Central Market, where international flavours collide. Tacos are practically a religion in California, so don’t miss the chance to munch on some of the best Mexican street food outside of Mexico. And for the ultimate farm-to-table experience, head to the Napa Valley and Sonoma wine regions, where you can enjoy top-tier food paired with world-class wines. Whether it’s a high-end dining experience or a laid-back food truck crawl, California’s food scene will have your taste buds popping off!

Popular California hotels

View destination on a map

Reviews

At On the Beach, we’ve sent many satisfied customers on California Holidays for a bit of sunshine. But don't just take our word for it, read some of their 5-star reviews below.

Trustpilot 4 stars: Great