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California
Seldom is the American Dream more evident than in the 'Golden State' of California. The relaxed outdoor lifestyle depicted in its very own movie industry is matched by an optimism and carefree attitude that filters down from native Californians to visitors. Whether you're strolling the wealthy streets of Beverly Hills or exploring San Francisco's hippie enclave of Haight-Ashbury, California's cities have something to offer everyone. The remarkable coastal scenery of Highway 1, the humbling vast wildernesses of its national parks, the theme parks of Anaheim and L.A., and the spectacular wine growing regions of Sonoma and Napa - they all combine to make California a truly incredible destination.
Oregon
Crescent City Redwood
National Park
Idaho
When to Visit
California covers a wide variety of climatic zones so the best time to travel depends predominantly on your itinerary. North California has shorter summers with swimming confined to the peak months of June to August however the farther south you travel the longer the season. Many of the National Parks are at their quietest during the height of both the summer and winter months which is ideal if you want to avoid some of the crowds. However some areas of the parks may be inaccessible in winter because of heavy snow although these months are perfect for wildlife enthusiasts when grey whales migrate south from Alaska.
Yreka
Mt Shasta
Alturas
Eureka Redding
Lassen Volcanic NP
Utah
California
Chico Fort Bragg Yuba City South Lake Tahoe
Nevada
Santa Rosa Sonoma
Mt Tantalpais
Davis Napa Oakland
Sacramento Stockton Sonora Modesto
Special Events
Yosemite National Park
San Francisco
Fremont San Jose Santa Cruz Monterey Carmel
Bi g Su r
Mammoth Lakes Bishop
Kings Canyon NP
Merced Mariposa Fresno
Salinas
Sequoia NP
Death Valley National Park
Visalia Delano Bakersfield Santa Maria Barstow
Las Vegas
Hearst Castle
San Luis Obispo
Arizona
Santa Barbara
Pacific Ocean
Channel Islands National Park
Los Angeles Long Beach Palm Springs
Joshua Tree National Park
The diversity of California's population has resulted in an exciting annual calendar of social events, some unique to the state and a testimony to its complex cultural mix. Time your visit to coincide with one of these festivals. Chinese New Year - late Jan or early Feb with the most extensive celebrations found in Los Angeles or San Francisco. Whalefest - January. Music and art in Monterey to celebrate the grey whale's migration south. Cinco de Mayo - 5th May. Celebrations among Mexican populations particularly in San Diego, Los Angeles and San Francisco. San Francisco Examiner Bay to Breakers - May. The largest, craziest foot race in the world. Gay Pride Parade - late June. Attracts thousands of revellers in San Francisco. Hallowe'en - 31 Oct. Celebrated throughout the US but San Francisco in particular hosts outrageous costume parades and parties.
San Diego
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