Real Travel Tips from a California Local Who’s Been Everywhere (Seriously)
Welcome to Whimsy California, your insider guide to the most magical, off-the-beaten-path, and unforgettable places in the Golden State.
If you’re dreaming of soaking in hidden hot springs, exploring tiny beach towns, or sipping wine in a vineyard you won’t find on TripAdvisor, you’re in the right place.
Why I Created Whimsy California
I’m Kara Harms, a San Francisco-based travel creator and founder of the lifestyle blog Whimsy Soul. Over the years, I’ve built a community of curious travelers and creative souls who love beauty, personality, and adventure, whether that’s through fashion, wellness, or travel.
But California? That’s where my heart is.
After living here for over a decade and exploring this state top to bottom from the Redwood Coast to the deserts near the Mexico border, I realized I needed a space just for California. A place to go deeper. A place to share the kind of local tips, secret finds, and thoughtful itineraries I couldn’t fit on my main blog.
Whimsy California is that space.
What You’ll Find on Whimsy California
Whimsy California is your trusted resource for authentic California travel guides written by a local, not a robot. Every destination, tip, and itinerary is based on my personal experience living in San Francisco and exploring California for over a decade with my husband, Robin, and my friends.
This isn’t a copy-paste list of the same 10 places everyone recommends. It’s a curated, detail-packed guide to help you travel like a local and discover the real California.
Here’s what you can expect:
Firsthand California Travel Guides
From Northern California to SoCal, you’ll find honest, practical travel guides for real people including solo travelers, couples, families, and locals seeking weekend inspiration.
Hidden Gems & Underrated Towns
Discover off-the-beaten-path destinations in California, like quirky roadside attractions, small towns worth a detour, secluded hikes, and under-the-radar coastal gems.
Seasonal Trip Ideas
Plan your travel around the best seasons in California. Find guides for where to see wildflowers in spring, fall foliage road trips, cozy winter cabin stays, and summer escapes to the coast or mountains.
The Best Places to Stay in California
Find personally vetted California hotels, Airbnbs, boutique inns, and one-of-a-kind stays. From hot tub cabins in the redwoods to stylish desert rentals and dog-friendly coastal cottages, I share only the places worth your time and money.
Curated Itineraries & Weekend Getaways
Explore California weekend getaway ideas, 3-day road trip itineraries, and day trips across every region, from wine country to the desert to secret swimming holes in the mountains.
Outdoor Adventures for Every Level
Find the best California hiking trails, scenic lookouts, hot springs, swimming holes, and national and state parks, from beginner-friendly nature walks to more rugged adventures. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls or just want fresh air and epic views, I’ve got you covered.
A Love Letter to California
California is unlike anywhere else in the world. It’s a state of contrasts with redwood forests and sandy beaches, hot springs and snowy mountains, desert art towns and world-class cities. It’s also home to diverse cultures, deep history, and tight-knit communities that make every destination unique.
I started Whimsy California to help travelers connect with the real California, the kind you feel in your bones, not just see through a screen. This site is for the curious, the road-trippers, the beauty-seekers, and anyone who wants to explore this state with more intention and joy.
Whether you’re planning your first California trip or looking for a fresh adventure close to home, this site is here to inspire and guide you with heart, depth, and practical tips you can trust.
– Kara Harms