Muir Woods National Monument is a must-visit destination for nature lovers with its towering redwoods and tranquil trails. Afterward, head to Golden Gate Park to see its beautiful lakes, gardens, and museums.
Start the day at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve to hike on its numerous trails with stunning ocean views. Then, head to La Jolla Cove for a relaxing afternoon on the beach and a chance to see the seals and sea lions.
Admire the impressive rocks, stunning desert landscapes, and unique trees at Joshua Tree National Park. This park is perfect for hiking, cycling, rock climbing, and stargazing with its idyllic location in the Mojave and Colorado deserts.
Take a ferry to Channel Islands National Park to see breathtaking ocean views and marine wildlife such as dolphins, whales, and seals. There are opportunities for hiking, camping, and snorkeling in this remote and beautiful destination.
Witness the majestic giant sequoias and soaring peaks at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. This park offers scenic drives, hiking trails, and plenty of outdoor activities in a stunning subalpine forest setting.
Spend a relaxing morning on the beach at Santa Monica State Beach with its famous landmarks such as the pier, ferris wheel, and Muscle Beach. End the trip with a visit to Griffith Observatory to see the stars in a stunning setting and take in panoramic views of the city.
Consider renting a car for convenience and flexibility during the trip. The estimated costs of renting a compact car for 6 days are around $300 - $400, including gas and insurance. Driving is the best option since public transportation is not as efficient outside of urban areas, and most nature destinations require a vehicle.
If you have more time, add a visit to Yosemite National Park, Lake Tahoe, or Big Sur. These stunning locations add multiple options for exploration and nature immersion. If you have less time, prioritize the destinations on the list while allowing more time on the parks as they require more time for hikes and sightseeing.
California has several major airports, such as San Francisco International Airport (SFO) in San Francisco, San Diego International Airport (SAN) in San Diego, and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) in Los Angeles. These airports serve national and international flights and have various transportation options to get to the city. The distances between these airports and the city centers are around 14 miles (SFO), 3 miles (SAN), and 16 miles (LAX).