59+ Things To Do in California That Most Locals Don’t Even Know Exist

There’s more to California than the Golden Gate Bridge and Disneyland. After moving here from Wisconsin over a decade ago, I made it my mission to uncover the quirky, wild, magical corners of the Golden State that don’t show up on postcards. From cave swimming holes to glow-in-the-dark kayaking, here are 75+ secret(ish) spots you need to experience at least once—even if you’re a local.

Bonus: I’ve mixed in free things to do in California, famous places in California, and even some of the coolest state and national parks you’ve probably never heard of.

Northern California & Sierra Gems

1. Natural Bridges Swimming Hole (Vallecito)

This might be the most magical swimming hole I’ve ever found, a cave you can literally swim through! It’s not far from my Whimsy Homes Airbnb in Arnold, which makes it the perfect home base. Bring a floatie and water shoes like Teva, and go early for that dreamy golden light inside the cave.

2. McCloud Falls (Shasta County)

There are three waterfalls here, each with their own character. I loved hiking the short trail connecting them with my friends, then ending the morning with a plunge into the cool water. It’s the kind of place that feels like a secret, even when you’re not alone.

And the Shasta area is truly one of the most magical places I’ve ever been to do. 

3. Mono Lake Tufas (Eastern Sierra)

The tufas at Mono Lake look like something from another planet. I love visiting at sunrise when the light makes them glow and the lake is completely still. They’re millions of years old and feel like an alien planet.

4. Burney Falls (Shasta County)

The first time I saw Burney Falls, I couldn’t believe it was real. The water rushes down like a veil, and even in summer, the air feels cool and misty. It’s one of my favorite places to bring out-of-town visitors who are up for a drive from San Francisco.

5. Yankee Jim’s Swimming Hole (Colfax)

Getting here requires driving a bumpy road that makes you question your life choices, but the reward is total serenity. The water is crisp, the cliffs are dramatic, and the shade from the pines makes it the perfect retreat on hot days.

6. Faery Falls (Mount Shasta)

This hidden waterfall feels like something out of a fantasy novel. The trail is short but mossy and green, and the falls themselves cascade over ancient rock. 

7. Avenue of the Giants (Humboldt)

This drive through towering redwoods always puts me in a meditative mood. I like to pull over at the lesser-known groves to walk among the giants and just listen to the forest breathe. But I never skit the Drive-Thru Tree! 

8. Emerald Pools (Tahoe National Forest)

When the sun hits these pools just right, the water glows a surreal turquoise. It’s a favorite summer hang for swimming, snacking on a rock, and daring friends to jump from the cliffs (safely, of course). I find it more fun than competing with crowds at Lake Tahoe. 

9. God’s Bath (Sierra Nevada)

This one’s a trek, but it’s one of the most epic hidden swimming holes I’ve found. Crystal clear water, carved granite tubs, and utter wilderness. Definitely bring sturdy shoes and leave no trace.

10. Black Sands Beach (Shelter Cove)

The contrast of the inky black sand and the crashing blue ocean here is stunning. It’s remote and often foggy, but that adds to the drama. I like to come here to clear my head.

11. Point Arena Lighthouse (Mendocino Coast)

Climbing to the top of this lighthouse gives you 360-degree views of jagged cliffs and crashing waves. It’s always blustery up there, but that’s part of the fun. One of my favorite coastal detours.

12. Lake Siskiyou Swing Bridge

This suspension bridge offers stunning views of Mount Shasta reflected in the water. It’s a peaceful place to linger, especially on a still morning when everything mirrors back at you.

 13. Cleo’s Bath (Pinecrest)

This hike is not for the faint of heart as there’s scrambling involved but once you reach the deep granite pool surrounded by trees, it feels like a wild spa day in the middle of the forest. I always pack a picnic for this one. Plus, it’s next door to one of my favorite campgrounds in the state, Pinecrest Lake! 

14. Trinidad Coastal Village

This charming fishing village is the perfect place for a foggy morning beach walk and some of the best fresh crab I’ve had. We stopped here on our Hwy 1 van trip a few years ago and I fell in love. The headlands trail offers postcard-worthy views around every bend.

15. Bowling Ball Beach (Mendocino)

At low tide, perfectly round boulders dot the sand like a natural art installation. It’s a bit of a scramble down, but the beach feels like a secret world.

16. Lassen National Park Cinder Cone Hike

There’s an actual volcano you can hike in California. It’s called Cinder Cone, it’s tucked away in Lassen National Park and it’s a short hike, but a rough one. My legs were very sore after climbing up here but the view was insane.

17. Calaveras Big Trees State Park

This stunning Giant sequoia state park just north of Arnold has beautiful, towering trees, calming trails and even a river you can swim in. It’s never crowded and I love hiking here year-round.

18. Glen Blair Bar – World-Famous Skunk Train (Fort Bragg)

One of my favorite California memories is taking the famous Skunk Train deep into the Redwood forest to have drinks at a secret bar, complete with a bonfire. The only way in and out is via train.

Bonus: the Christmas Skunk Train runs out of Willits and takes you to the tallest Christmas tree in the world!

19. Desolation Hotel Hope Valley (Hope Valley)

Hope Valley has some of the best fall foliage in California, and the Desolation Hotel Hope Valley glamping yurts are the best way to experience fall colors. We booked a luxury yurt and woke up to yellow aspen trees everywhere and enjoyed a private sauna before hiking.

Bay Area & Coastal Curiosities

20. Kirby Cove (Marin Headlands)

The hike down to Kirby Cove is steep but worth every step. I arrived just after sunrise and had the famous swing all to myself with the Golden Gate Bridge perfectly framed in the background. It felt like a scene from a dream.

I’ve also camped at Kirby Cove and waking up to views of the Golden Gate Bridge from my campground was insane. 

22. Marshall’s Beach (San Francisco)

This beach is tucked away and a bit of a hike down to reach, but it’s one of the best spots for intimate views of the Golden Gate. I’ve shared sunset wine here with friends more times than I can count.

21. Sutro Baths Cave (San Francisco)

There’s something eerie yet beautiful about the ruins of Sutro Baths. I love wandering through the tunnels with the ocean echoing below, it always feels like time traveling.

23. Point Reyes Bioluminescence Kayaking

Paddling under a new moon, the water began to shimmer with bioluminescence as we moved through the inlet. It was like kayaking through a sea of stars, hands down one of my favorite California experiences.

24. Pelican Inn at Christmas (Muir Beach)

Staying at the Pelican Inn during the holidays feels like stepping into a storybook. We cozied up by the fire after a foggy coastal hike and sipped mulled wine under twinkle lights and next to the fire. 

25. Sausalito Houseboats

These colorful, quirky floating homes are such a fun detour. I love to go kayaking at Sea Trek nearby, or grabbing lunch at Fish and then just wandering around the houseboats if I’m not up for a kayak session. 

26. Secret Mosaic Staircases (San Francisco)

Hunting down San Francisco’s mosaic staircases has become one of my favorite urban adventures. Each one has its own vibe and always rewards with a killer view at the top.

27. Fort Funston Beach (San Francisco)

This is my go-to beach for foggy morning walks with my friends’ pups. The cliffs are dramatic, and watching hang gliders launch overhead never gets old.

28. Hidden Vineyards in Santa Cruz Mountains

Wine tasting in the Santa Cruz Mountains always feels like a treasure hunt. I discovered a family-owned spot nestled in redwoods where I sipped Pinot surrounded by silence and trees.

29. Floating the Russian River (Guerneville)

Every summer, I pack a cooler, grab an inflatable tube, and spend the day floating down the Russian River. It’s lazy, sunny fun, and Guerneville is the perfect quirky town to start and end the day in. Don’t forget to wear reef-safe sunscreen and bring water shoes!

30. Patrick’s Salt Water Taffy (Bodega Bay)

This nostalgic taffy shop in Bodega Bay is a must-stop for me anytime I’m on the coast. They’ve been around forever, and the variety of flavors is wild (hello, buttered popcorn!). I always leave with a big striped bag of sweets for the road.

31. Sonoma County Farm Trails (Spring & Summer)

From flower fields to goat yoga and farm-fresh pies, Sonoma Farm Trails are one of my favorite local secrets. Every spring and summer, I follow their open farm weekends to discover new spots, perfect for a day trip full of fresh air and foodie finds.

32. Dixon Sunflower Fields (Central Valley)

One of the most joyful summer sights is a sea of sunflowers in full bloom near Dixon. I’ve made detours just to snap golden hour photos here, it’s like stepping into a Van Gogh painting. Remember to stay respectful and only enter designated paths!

33. Harley Farms Goat Dairy (Pescadero)

I think that this point I live at Harley Farms since I’m always driving down there to cuddle baby goats and sample the creamiest fresh chèvre I’ve ever tasted. Their garden is gorgeous in spring, and the cheese shop is dangerously addictive.

34. R&R Farms (Pescadero)

Located across the street from Harley Farms is R&R Farms, a u-pick berry farm with some of the best strawberries I’ve eaten in California. We had so much fun picking a baskey full of strawberries, then shopping their farm stand after.

Central Coast Wonders

35. Big Sur Hidden Coves

Every time I drive Highway 1, I find a new pull-off or hidden beach in Big Sur. One morning, I stumbled onto a turquoise cove and sat there in awe for an hour, just listening to the waves.

36. Carmel-by-the-Sea & 17-Mile Drive

Carmel feels like a real-life fairytale village with flower-covered cottages and secret courtyards. I love strolling the art galleries and ending the day with a scenic cruise along 17-Mile Drive, it’s coastal California at its most charming. PS they have a great wine tasting scene so make sure to stop by downtown Carmel wine tasting rooms. 

37. Pfeiffer Beach (Big Sur)

I always aim to get here for golden hour when the light shines right through the rock archway. The sand really does shimmer purple if you catch it on the right day.

38. Elfin Forest (Los Osos)

This place smells like salt and sage, and the boardwalk winds through a tiny oak forest that feels enchanted. It’s such a peaceful morning walk.

39. Avila Beach Rope Swing (by kayak)

Rent a kayak and paddle around the cliffs until you spot it: a rope swing dangling above a hidden inlet. We took turns swinging into the water and laughing like little kids.

40. Harmony Headlands Trail

This trail is an easy coastal stroll that leads to sweeping bluff views. I love coming here with a thermos of coffee and just watching the seabirds ride the wind.

41. Pirates Cove (San Luis Obispo)

There’s a little thrill in hiking down to this tucked-away cove, especially when you pass the optional nude sunbathers. It’s one of the most picturesque beaches I’ve ever found.

42. CalPoly Graveyard (San Luis Obispo)

About a mile from the campus is the CalPoly Graveyard full of wacky free and public art installations. My friend and I hiked her one day and I loved exploring these weird sculptures. We even saw a horse!

43. Oceano Dunes (Pismo)

These dunes feel like you’re in another country entirely. I’ve rolled down them like a kid and watched fog roll in over the sea, it’s like a playground for grownups.

44. Bubblegum Alley (San Luis Obispo)

There’s a little thrill in hiking down to this tucked-away cove, especially when you pass the optional nude sunbathers. It’s one of the most picturesque beaches I’ve ever found.

Southern California Secrets

45. Anza Borrego Desert Sculptures (Borrego Springs)

Driving into the desert at golden hour and seeing giant metal dragons and dinosaurs appear out of nowhere was surreal. It’s like an open-air gallery in the middle of nowhere. I spent a whole morning visiting all the art pieces before breakfast.

46. East Jesus Art Community (Salton Sea)

East Jesus is chaotic, creative, and totally unique. I wandered around snapping photos of robot sculptures and talking to artists about their work, it’s gritty but inspiring.

47. Thousand Steps Beach (Laguna)

Yes, there really are nearly a thousand steps, but what waits at the bottom is magical. Caves, tide pools, and golden sand, this is one of my favorite Southern California beach secrets.

48. Victoria Beach Pirate Tower (Laguna)

It feels like something out of a fairytale. I timed my visit with low tide and finally saw the famous tower up close, waves crashing and all.

49. Sunken City (San Pedro)

This place is like a post-apocalyptic graffiti park perched over the sea. I brought snacks, sat on the cliffs, and watched the sun dip into the Pacific.

50. Balboa Park Hidden Gardens (San Diego)

Beyond the museums, Balboa Park has secret gardens that feel like your own private retreat. Last time we were visiting San Diego, we had so much fun finding all the cats that hang out in the Balboa cactus garden. 

51. Malibu’s El Matador Beach

One of those beaches that makes you feel like you’re in a magazine shoot. I’ve spent entire afternoons exploring the sea caves and watching the sunset.

52. Slot Canyons (Anza Borrego State Park)

I’ve hiked slot canyons in Utah, but these in Anza Borrego are equally jaw-dropping, and way less crowded. Twisting sandstone corridors make you feel like an explorer. Made me feel like I was inside the movie Dune. 

53. Cabrillo Tide Pools (San Pedro)

When the tide’s out, it’s like a living aquarium. I love showing kids (and adults!) the anemones, crabs, and tiny fish hidden in every crevice.

54. Kern River Hot Springs

California has some of the best hot springs in the country, and soaking in the Kern River Hot Spring, which backs up to the river, was so dreamy. There’s multiple pools of different tempatures to choose from.

 55. Alien Rock (Landers)

Out near Joshua Tree, there’s this giant painted boulder called Alien Rock. It’s so weird and cool. I stumbled on it during a backroads drive and it felt like discovering a portal to another world.

56. Skull Rock (Joshua Tree National Park)

It’s right off the road, but it still feels like a secret when you catch it in golden hour light. The skull-shaped rock is spooky-cool, and the short trail around it is perfect for stretching your legs.

57. Indian Canyons Oasis (Palm Springs)

This spot blew me away. Just a few minutes from downtown Palm Springs, you’ll find real palm oases with streams and towering fan palms. It’s quiet, peaceful, and unexpectedly lush.

58. La Jolla Cove Snorkeling (San Diego)

I snorkeled with leopard sharks and sea lions in the warm, clear waters of La Jolla Cove. It’s such a vibrant little underwater world, and you can rent gear right on the beach.

59. Hearst Castle (San Simeon)

Okay, this one’s not exactly a secret, but it still feels surreal every time I visit. The architecture, art, and coastal views are spectacular, and the Neptune Pool is the definition of iconic.

California Hidden Gems FAQ

What is the best time of year to visit these hidden gems in California?

Spring and fall are best for hiking and waterfalls, while summer is ideal for swimming holes. Winter is great for cozy coastal escapes and snowy Sierra adventures.

Are these spots family-friendly?

Many are! Places like Burney Falls, Lake Siskiyou, and Balboa Park gardens are great for all ages. Some like God’s Bath or Pirate’s Cove require extra caution.

How do I avoid crowds at popular hidden gems?

Arrive early (before 9am), visit on weekdays, and avoid holidays. Some places like Natural Bridges fill up by mid-morning in summer.

Do I need permits or reservations?

Some areas like Point Reyes kayaking or the Wine Train require bookings. Always check trailhead signage or official park websites before you go.

What should I pack for California hikes and swim spots?

Bring water, sturdy shoes, sun protection, a towel, reef-safe sunscreen, and always a trash bag. A portable phone charger and offline maps are lifesavers, too!

What are some cool places to visit in California on a road trip?

Lake Tahoe, Joshua Tree, Santa Barbara, Death Valley, and Santa Cruz all make amazing road trip stops. This post is full of California things to do across every type of terrain and vibe.

What are fun places to visit in California for couples?

Check out the wine trail in Santa Barbara, stargazing in Joshua Tree, or coastal escapes near Big Sur and Mendocino.

What are some must-see attractions in California?

From Universal Studios and the Golden Gate Bridge to hidden tide pools and ghost towns, California blends iconic attractions with offbeat wonder.

Even after 10 years in California, I keep finding new hidden gems that blow my mind. This state is endlessly weird and wonderful, and it’s my joy to help you uncover the magic. If you have a favorite spot I missed, drop it in the comments! And if you want the best basecamp for Sierra adventures, check out my Whimsy Homes cabin in Arnold, just down the road from Natural Bridges.