20 Best Things To Do In SoCal That Will Enhance Your Experience

Here’s the truth: you don’t just visit SoCal, you let it mess with your head a little in the best way. One minute, you’re hiking up to a canyon view that looks fake, and the next, you’re eating tacos on the beach while someone skates past blasting Fleetwood Mac. Then you blink and suddenly you're in a desert art installation wondering if it’s 2025 or 1971. That’s Southern California. It bends time, flips your mood, and keeps you guessing.

From late-night taquerias to cliffs that drop into the ocean like a dream, SoCal gives you way more than sunshine and palm trees. It gives you options. You want chaos? It’s there. You want stillness? Just turn the corner. Out of all the places to go in Southern California, the real magic is that it never feels like a checklist. It feels like a vibe you can stretch into whatever you need it to be.

So, whatever kind of traveler you are—chill, thrill, weird, wild—there are things to do in SoCal that’ll fit you like it was made just for you. Pack your bags and let’s check them!

1. Disneyland Resort, Anaheim

No visit to Southern California feels complete without stepping into the magic of Disneyland Resort. Often called The Happiest Place on Earth, Disneyland has been enchanting generations of families, dreamers, and thrill-seekers since 1955. But beyond the classic attractions like Space Mountain or Pirates of the Caribbean, there’s a rhythm to the park that seasoned locals know well.

If you want to avoid long lines and sticky summer heat, plan your trip during the off-season—think midweek in late January or early February. These quieter months not only mean smaller crowds but also allow for more interaction with characters, better restaurant availability, and shorter wait times. During peak seasons (like summer and holidays), consider investing in the Disney Genie+ system—it’s worth it to breeze through popular attractions and maximize your time.

And let’s not forget about Downtown Disney, a vibrant, no-ticket-needed promenade filled with themed shops, live music, and dining options ranging from quick bites to upscale cuisine. Grab a beignet at Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen Express, or unwind with a cocktail at Ballast Point Brewing Co. as the sun sets.

Visiting during fall or winter? The Oogie Boogie Bash and Holiday Time at Disneyland transform the park into an immersive seasonal wonderland. Halloween brings spooky projections, parades, and character meet-and-greets, while December lights up with nostalgic charm—from twinkling lights on Sleeping Beauty Castle to the multicultural celebration of ¡Viva Navidad!.

2. Hollywood Walk of Fame, Los Angeles

It might sound touristy, but trust me—there’s something oddly satisfying about finding your favorite celebrity’s name embedded in terrazzo and brass on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Stretching more than 15 blocks along Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street, this legendary strip pays homage to over 2,700 stars from film, music, radio, and television.

That said, the magic of this neighborhood goes beyond the stars on the sidewalk. After your stroll, head uphill to the Griffith Observatory. It's one of L.A.’s most iconic viewpoints—and it’s completely free. Inside, you'll find interactive exhibits about space and science, and outside, panoramic views of the Hollywood Sign and Los Angeles basin that’ll make you feel like you’re standing in a movie scene. If you time your visit for golden hour, you'll catch one of the most cinematic sunsets in California.

Feeling adventurous? Lace up your sneakers and tackle one of the nearby hiking trails. The Mt. Hollywood Trail offers a moderate climb with plenty of scenic payoff—perfect for photographers and nature lovers alike.

3. San Diego Zoo, San Diego

Tucked into the heart of Balboa Park, the San Diego Zoo is more than just a world-class animal sanctuary—it’s a full-on safari experience in the middle of the city. Spanning 100 acres, this expansive zoo houses over 3,500 animals, including endangered species like the Amur leopard and California condor.

Arrive early for a better chance to see the animals when they’re most active (and before the mid-morning crowds roll in). A 35-minute guided bus tour is the perfect way to get your bearings and prioritize which habitats you want to dive into later—whether it’s the lush Rainforest Aviary or the polar bear plunge.

But don’t rush off after your zoo adventure. Balboa Park itself is an oasis of gardens, Spanish-Renaissance architecture, and cultural gems. With over a dozen museums—including the San Diego Museum of Art and the Natural History Museum—plus scenic walking paths and the serene Japanese Friendship Garden, you could easily spend an entire day here and still feel like you’ve only scratched the surface.

4. Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica

Few places capture the essence of SoCal's beach culture like the Santa Monica Pier. With its vintage charm, lively boardwalk, and solar-powered Ferris wheel spinning above the Pacific, it’s a nostalgic playground for families and couples alike. Ride the roller coaster at Pacific Park, challenge yourself at classic arcade games, or simply sit with an ice cream cone and soak in the ocean breeze.

But the magic doesn’t end at the pier. Walk inland a few blocks and you’ll hit Third Street Promenade, a pedestrian-friendly zone buzzing with street performers, indie boutiques, and alfresco dining. Grab a locally roasted coffee, browse vinyl at a record shop, or catch a street musician who might just be the next big thing.

If you're into wellness, wander down to the Original Muscle Beach or join a pop-up yoga session by the sea. Rent a beach cruiser and coast along the Marvin Braude Bike Trail, which links Santa Monica to the artsy enclave of Venice Beach.

5. Laguna Beach: Art, Nature, and Hidden Coves

Laguna Beach isn’t just a postcard-perfect coastal town—it’s a soulful blend of creativity, nature, and barefoot luxury. Tucked between dramatic cliffs and tidepools teeming with life, Laguna is home to some of the most breathtaking hidden beaches in SoCal.

Locals will point you toward Thousand Steps Beach, a semi-secluded spot reached by—you guessed it—a long staircase. The reward? Powdery sand, turquoise water, and rugged sea caves are perfect for exploration at low tide. It’s a photographer’s dream and a peaceful escape from the more crowded shoreline.

Art lovers will find their rhythm here, too. From quirky galleries and murals to major festivals like the Sawdust Art Festival and the Pageant of the Masters (where living actors recreate famous works of art), the town's artistic spirit is palpable year-round.

Don’t miss a sunset stroll through Heisler Park, a cliffside trail dotted with sculptures, lookout points, and benches that invite you to linger just a little longer.

6. Venice Beach: Quirky, Iconic, and Full of Energy

Venice Beach is where California’s counterculture still dances to its own beat. This isn’t your polished beach town—it’s a whirlwind of art, grit, and expression. The boardwalk bustles with energy: street performers juggling flaming batons, artists selling psychedelic prints, and skateboarders pulling tricks under the California sun.

At the center of it all? Muscle Beach, an open-air gym where bodybuilders have trained since the days of Arnold Schwarzenegger. It’s pure people-watching gold.

But just a few blocks inland lies a totally different side of Venice. The Venice Canals, inspired by Italy’s own, offer a quiet escape with arched footbridges, storybook homes, and tranquil waters. It’s a perfect place to walk off your boardwalk churro and get a taste of old-school L.A. charm.

7. Spend a Day at El Matador State Beach (Malibu)

Tucked away beneath towering cliffs off the Pacific Coast Highway, El Matador Beach is a slice of Malibu that feels worlds away. Known for its sea caves and jagged rock formations, this beach is a favorite for engagement shoots, travel photographers, and anyone chasing a quiet sunset with dramatic flair.

It's not the easiest beach to access—you’ll need to navigate a steep trail and stairs—but the payoff is pure coastal magic. Visit during golden hour for the best light, and bring your camera. Whether you're walking barefoot through seafoam or gazing through a sandstone archway, it's cinematic beauty at its best.

If you have more time, hike Point Dume for sweeping ocean views and a chance to spot migrating whales in winter. Then head inland for wine tasting at Malibu Wines or a laid-back picnic among the vineyards.

8. Coronado Island: A Family-Friendly Beach Escape

Crossing the bridge to Coronado Island feels like entering a storybook. With wide, sparkling beaches and a relaxed, family-friendly vibe, it’s the kind of place where memories feel easy and unhurried.

Coronado Central Beach is perfect for kids, thanks to its gentle surf and golden sand. Bring a bucket for sandcastles or rent bikes to explore the flat, scenic pathways.

The island’s crown jewel is the Hotel del Coronado, a Victorian-era beach resort that’s played host to presidents and movie stars. During the holidays, the beachside ice rink creates a surreal yet delightful scene—ice skating with a view of the Pacific.

After your beach day, stroll through Orange Avenue, the island’s charming main street dotted with cafés, boutiques, and old-fashioned ice cream parlors.

9. Hiking in Joshua Tree National Park

Out in the high desert, where the Mojave and Colorado ecosystems collide, lies the otherworldly landscape of Joshua Tree National Park. With its twisted namesake trees, boulder-strewn valleys, and sky full of stars, this place is a spiritual retreat for adventurers and creatives alike.

Hidden Valley Trail is a great starting point—a short, scenic loop through a natural rock enclosure once used by cattle rustlers. If you’re up for a challenge, hike the Ryan Mountain Trail for panoramic views that stretch across the desert floor.

Bring plenty of water, and if you're staying overnight, the stargazing is some of the best in the country. Whether you’re photographing Milky Way skies or strumming a guitar by the fire, Joshua Tree invites you to slow down and breathe.

10. Big Bear Lake: Year-Round Mountain Fun

Big Bear Lake is SoCal’s year-round playground. In winter, it transforms into a snow-draped wonderland with skiing and snowboarding at Bear Mountain and Snow Summit. Even if snow sports aren’t your thing, snowshoeing, sledding, or sipping cocoa by the fire are equally rewarding.

When the snow melts, Big Bear shifts into summer mode. Rent a kayak, cast a fishing line, or take a lakeside hike. One of my favorite spots is the Castle Rock Trail, a short but scenic trek with boulders to climb and sweeping views of the lake.

Wrap up the day in Big Bear Village, where cozy restaurants, mom-and-pop shops, and twinkle-lit streets offer small-town charm in the heart of the mountains.

11. Channel Islands National Park: The Galápagos of North America

If you're craving real solitude and raw beauty, hop on a ferry to Channel Islands National Park. Known as the “Galápagos of North America,” these five isolated islands are home to plants and animals found nowhere else on Earth.

Santa Cruz Island is a great intro—it’s the largest and most accessible, with hiking trails that wind past cliffs, wildflowers, and fox sightings. The Scorpion Canyon Loop offers ocean views that feel more Mediterranean than Californian.

Water lovers will want to kayak around Anacapa’s sea caves or snorkel the kelp forests near Santa Rosa Island. With no restaurants or hotels on the islands, a visit here is all about self-sufficiency, and that’s exactly what makes it magical.

12. Torrey Pines State Reserve: Coastal Hiking at Its Best

When it comes to ocean-view hiking, Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is hard to beat. Perched on the coastal bluffs north of La Jolla, this reserve offers several trails that weave through fragrant sagebrush and rare Torrey pine trees, found in only two places on Earth.

Start with the Guy Fleming Trail, an easy loop with postcard-worthy overlooks. Want something with a bit more grit? The Razor Point Trail leads you to rugged viewpoints and even a chance to descend to the beach below.

Time your visit for golden hour and you’ll be rewarded with a kaleidoscope sunset melting into the sea—pure California magic.

13. Salvation Mountain: A Desert Art Wonderland

Located near the surreal shores of the Salton Sea, Salvation Mountain feels like stumbling onto a mirage made of color and devotion. This one-of-a-kind folk art installation was the life's work of Leonard Knight, a man driven by a message of universal love. With nothing but adobe clay, straw, and countless gallons of donated paint, Knight transformed a dusty desert hill into a kaleidoscopic spiritual canvas.

Walking through the technicolor maze of tunnels, verses, and heart-shaped murals, you can feel the energy that went into every brushstroke. It’s bold and bizarre in the best way—somewhere between an open-air church and a dream sequence. The vivid colors pop even brighter in the late afternoon light, casting long, surreal shadows across the painted hillside—perfect for photographers, introspective wanderers, and anyone craving something completely different.

Make time to explore the nearby East Jesus art collective, where upcycled sculptures rise from the sand like something out of Mad Max meets Burning Man. The entire Slab City area, an off-grid desert community where artists and nomads live outside conventional systems, offers a raw, unfiltered view into a world powered by creativity and survivalist spirit. It's not polished, but that’s what makes it unforgettable.

14. Ojai: A Peaceful Escape for Nature Lovers and Wellness Seekers

If Los Angeles is all hustle, Ojai is the exhale. Nestled in a sun-drenched valley framed by the Topatopa Mountains, this small town is the definition of a slow-travel haven. Ojai blends earthy luxury with community-driven values, drawing wellness seekers, artists, and travelers looking to reconnect with nature or with themselves.

Start your day with a meditative hike through the Ojai Valley Land Conservancy, where trails weave through wildflower meadows and oak woodlands. The views stretch across the valley, especially golden at dusk when the mountains blush pink—locals call it the “Pink Moment,” and it’s nothing short of spiritual.

The town pulses with creativity. From galleries to co-ops, you’ll find local painters, ceramicists, and makers selling handcrafted goods. The Ojai Farmers' Market is a weekend ritual, offering everything from organic avocados to small-batch kombucha. And if relaxation is your goal, book a treatment at one of the town’s boutique spas or yoga retreats—many of which focus on sustainability and holistic healing.

Want to toast to the moment? Stop by a local winery for a tasting of organic, biodynamic wines, many made from grapes grown right in the valley. Ojai’s gentle pace and grounded charm make it a rare gem in a state that rarely slows down.

15. The Secret Swing in Elysian Park: A Hidden View of LA

Elysian Park might be one of the oldest parks in Los Angeles, but tucked high on one of its hidden hills lies a secret that feels like childhood rediscovered—a lone wooden swing overlooking the city. Known simply as the Secret Swing, this unmarked spot offers one of the most stunning and surprisingly serene views of downtown, with Dodger Stadium nestled below and the skyline stretching to the Pacific.

The hike to the swing isn’t long, but it’s steep and a bit off-the-grid. That’s part of the fun; it feels like an urban treasure hunt. There are no signs, no railings, just you and the wind and that first exhilarating push off the ground as the city sways beneath your feet.

While you’re there, take a moment to enjoy the rest of Elysian Park’s trails and grassy knolls. It’s one of those rare places in LA where you can hear birds instead of traffic. Bring a picnic, bring a journal, or just bring a few minutes to unplug.

16. Anza-Borrego Desert State Park: Wildflowers and Stargazing

You don’t just visit Anza-Borrego Desert State Park—you experience it. Spanning over 600,000 acres, this is California’s largest state park, and it delivers a raw, alien beauty unlike anywhere else in the state.

Hike through slot canyons that twist and narrow like nature’s own obstacle course, or explore hidden palm oases that seem to materialize out of mirage. If you visit between February and April, you might catch the rare super bloom, when the desert erupts in a painter’s palette of wildflowers. It’s fleeting, but unforgettable.

Don’t miss the Sky Art Sculptures near Borrego Springs—massive metal installations scattered across the desert, featuring dinosaurs, sea serpents, and more. It’s like an outdoor museum dropped into the sand, perfect for surreal road trip photos.

After dark, Anza-Borrego becomes a certified Dark Sky Park, meaning the stargazing here is nothing short of stellar. Bring a blanket and let the cosmos humble you.

17. Kayak Through the La Jolla Sea Caves

Forget the kayak tours you’ve done before: La Jolla’s Sea Caves are next-level. Just a few strokes from shore, you’ll find yourself paddling alongside leopard sharks, past towering bluffs, and into natural sea caves carved by time and tide.

Each cave has its personality. Some feel like open-air amphitheaters, echoing with the cries of seabirds. Others are narrow and dramatic, the walls close enough to touch. Local guides often toss in fun stories about pirate legends or point out Garibaldi fish, sea lions, and even the occasional dolphin pod.

It’s a workout, yes, but it’s also pure adventure, and way more intimate than any aquarium visit. Bring your GoPro, a waterproof phone pouch, and a healthy dose of curiosity. And yes, you might get soaked. But that’s part of the fun.

18. Palm Springs and Coachella Valley: Mid-Century Marvels and Desert Beauty

Palm Springs is where desert minimalism meets mid-century modern flair, and it's become a pilgrimage site for everyone from design geeks to poolside loungers. About a two-hour drive from LA, it makes for the perfect weekend escape—or longer, if you fall under its sunny spell.

Start your day with a sunrise hike in Joshua Tree or a gondola ride up the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, where the temperature drops and hiking trails stretch through alpine forests. Then dive into town for an architecture walk featuring iconic homes like the Kaufmann House or Frank Sinatra’s desert hideaway.

If you time your visit with Modernism Week in February, you’re in for a feast of vintage fashion, furniture, and throwback glamour. But Palm Springs isn’t just about the past—it’s also about the pause. Soak in natural mineral hot springs in nearby Desert Hot Springs, or sip on craft cocktails poolside with the San Jacintos as your backdrop.

It’s desert chic at its finest—warm, stylish, and a little weird in all the right ways.

19. Take a Dip in Deep Creek Hot Springs (San Bernardino Mountains)

Looking for a hot spring experience that’s as raw as it is rewarding? Deep Creek Hot Springs in the San Bernardino Mountains delivers—just be ready to earn it. Depending on your route, the hike in can range from 3 to 6 miles round trip, but once you dip into those steamy, mineral-rich pools surrounded by boulders and sycamore trees, you’ll forget the sweat it took to get there.

Each pool has its vibe, some are shallow and hot, others cooler and deep enough to float. The scene is a mix of hikers, locals, naturists (yep, clothing is optional), and curious travelers all coexisting in this secluded canyon oasis.

20. The Desert Route: From LA to Salvation Mountain

This one’s for the wanderers—the playlist curators, road trippers, and anyone itching for open highway and weird roadside wonder. The Desert Route from LA to Salvation Mountain is a journey through the fringes of California’s personality, where dusty landscapes hide stories in their stillness.

Start your trip east past Palm Springs, then dip down toward the Salton Sea, a saline lake with an eerie, post-apocalyptic charm. The smell might surprise you, but so will the reflection of mountains in the water, and the flocks of migrating birds overhead.

Next stop: Salvation Mountain, a riot of color and spiritual messaging that rises from the sand like a psychedelic shrine. Spend some time soaking it in, then continue into Slab City, a lawless, electricity-free patch of desert where creativity blooms without rules. Art installations, makeshift homes, and desert dwellers create a community unlike any other.

End your trip with a detour to Anza-Borrego for wildflowers and stargazing, or spend the night under a sky so dark, it feels like the universe cracked open just for you. It’s not your average road trip—but it might just be your most memorable one.

Conclusion

Southern California offers a captivating blend of experiences, from sun-kissed beaches and iconic attractions to rugged desert landscapes and hidden local gems.

What makes this region truly special is its diversity. One day, you could be hiking among the striking rock formations of Joshua Tree National Park, and the next, soaking in the artistic energy of Ojai or uncovering a quiet cove in Laguna Beach. With year-round sunshine, a rich cultural mix, and endless landscapes to explore, Southern California invites you to experience it all at your own pace.

If you're feeling inspired to plan your adventure, Karta has amazing deals on California vacation rentals to help you turn that daydream into reality.

FAQs

1. What is Southern California known for?

Southern California is famous for its stunning beaches, year-round sunshine, and vibrant entertainment industry, particularly in Los Angeles and Hollywood. It’s also known for world-class theme parks like Disneyland, diverse landscapes that range from deserts to mountains, and laid-back coastal towns.

2. Is Southern California worth visiting?

Absolutely! Southern California offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and exciting activities.

3. How far is San Diego from Los Angeles?

San Diego is approximately 120 miles south of Los Angeles, and the drive takes around 2 to 2.5 hours depending on traffic. The scenic route along the Pacific Coast Highway offers beautiful coastal views if you want to make it a leisurely road trip.

4. When is the best time to visit Southern California?

The best time to visit Southern California is during spring (March to May) or fall (September to November). The weather is mild, and there are fewer crowds compared to the busy summer months. These seasons are ideal for outdoor activities, from hiking to beach trips.

5. What are some hidden gems in Southern California?

Some hidden gems include Salvation Mountain in the desert, the serene town of Ojai for wellness retreats, and Anza-Borrego Desert State Park for wildflower blooms and stargazing. Don’t miss the Secret Swing in Los Angeles' Elysian Park for a panoramic city view.