Highlights
- Spectacular landscapes and breathtaking views
- Famous surf beaches
- World-renowned wine regions
- Family-friendly destination with numerous theme parks
California Travel Guide
From the breathtaking views along the Pacific Coast Highway to the waves of Venice Beach, from the towering redwoods of the national parks to the vibrant streets of San Francisco and Los Angeles, California is a larger-than-life playground. Surf, road trips, hikes, Napa Valley wines, and the magic of Disneyland Resort—adventure awaits at every turn.
Top cities to visit
San Francisco
Wrapped in morning fog and cooled by the Pacific breeze, San Francisco slowly reveals its spectacular hilltop views. Ride its cable cars up steep streets, admire colourful Victorian houses and the Golden Gate Bridge, then explore vibrant neighbourhoods, lively waterfront piers, and the famous Alcatraz prison.
Los Angeles
Los Angeles, nicknamed the City of Angels, is a symbol of the American West Coast. It is a place where iconic beaches, palm trees, California sunshine, and cinema come together. Stroll the Hollywood Walk of Fame, shop on Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills, then unwind to the sound of the waves in Santa Monica and Venice Beach.
San Diego
The young and dynamic city of San Diego charms visitors with its sunny climate, legendary beaches, and ocean-inspired lifestyle. La Jolla, the lively vibe of Pacific Beach, the nightlife of the Gaslamp Quarter, and the cultural treasures of Balboa Park come together to create a vibrant yet laid-back West Coast escape.
Santa Barbara
Sitting between the ocean and the mountains, Santa Barbara embodies casual elegance. Stroll down State Street and enjoy its Spanish Colonial architecture with whitewashed walls and red tile roofs, unwind on sun-drenched beaches, and breathe in the ocean air along the iconic Stearns Wharf.
Carmel-by-the-Sea
Carmel-by-the-Sea is an enchanting village along the Pacific coast known for its romantic, bohemian spirit and storybook architecture. Coastal trails, gourmet dining spots, intimate art galleries, and sunlit beaches framed by majestic pines and cypress trees make it a truly magical seaside escape.San Francisco
Wrapped in morning fog and cooled by the Pacific breeze, San Francisco slowly reveals its spectacular hilltop views. Ride its cable cars up steep streets, admire colourful Victorian houses and the Golden Gate Bridge, then explore vibrant neighbourhoods, lively waterfront piers, and the famous Alcatraz prison.Los Angeles
Los Angeles, nicknamed the City of Angels, is a symbol of the American West Coast. It is a place where iconic beaches, palm trees, California sunshine, and cinema come together. Stroll the Hollywood Walk of Fame, shop on Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills, then unwind to the sound of the waves in Santa Monica and Venice Beach.San Diego
The young and dynamic city of San Diego charms visitors with its sunny climate, legendary beaches, and ocean-inspired lifestyle. La Jolla, the lively vibe of Pacific Beach, the nightlife of the Gaslamp Quarter, and the cultural treasures of Balboa Park come together to create a vibrant yet laid-back West Coast escape.Santa Barbara
Sitting between the ocean and the mountains, Santa Barbara embodies casual elegance. Stroll down State Street and enjoy its Spanish Colonial architecture with whitewashed walls and red tile roofs, unwind on sun-drenched beaches, and breathe in the ocean air along the iconic Stearns Wharf.Carmel-by-the-Sea
Carmel-by-the-Sea is an enchanting village along the Pacific coast known for its romantic, bohemian spirit and storybook architecture. Coastal trails, gourmet dining spots, intimate art galleries, and sunlit beaches framed by majestic pines and cypress trees make it a truly magical seaside escape.
Useful information
Official language(s)
The official language of California is English. It is the language used in everyday life and for tourism services. Spanish is also widely understood.
Flight duration
Direct flight: 6h30
Connecting flight: 8 to 12 hours (depending on connection times)
Time zone difference
California time zone: UTC-8
3h behind Quebec (EST)
3h behind Quebec (EDT)
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted everywhere in California. Travellers may want to carry some cash for small businesses, street food vendors, local markets, or tips.
Tips
In California, tips are an integral part of employees’ income. In restaurants, 15–20% of the total bill is recommended if service is not already included. For taxis, 10–15% is customary.
Safety
California is a safe destination. Travellers should follow standard safety measures in major urban centres. During outdoor activities, it is important to follow the local rules and be mindful of environmental conditions and wildlife.
Before any foreign trip, visit the Government of Canada’s United-States Travel Advice page to find out about the current situation in the country.
Top things to do and see
Hike in Yosemite National Park
Drive along the Pacific Coast Highway, and explore Big Sur
Have fun at Disneyland Resort and Universal Studios Hollywood
Visit Napa Valley wineries and vineyards
Explore Alcatraz Island and its former prison in San Francisco
Hidden gems to discover
Lassen Volcanic National Park
Lassen Volcanic National Park is a hidden gem in Northern California. Dominated by Lassen Peak, it features fumaroles, hot springs, bubbling mud pots, and volcanic landscapes. Surrounded by pine forests, alpine lakes, and sweeping panoramas, visitors can hike, observe wildlife, and enjoy the peace and quiet of nature.
Newport Beach
Newport Beach is a California gem known for its casual yet chic atmosphere. With golden beaches, water sports, the Balboa Pier, Balboa Island accessible by ferry, and the natural beauty of Crystal Cove State Park, the city is the perfect setting for a memorable seaside getaway.
Glass Beach near Fort Bragg
On the rugged north coast of California, Glass Beach in Fort Bragg reveals a shoreline unlike any other. Waves have transformed discarded glass into smooth, jewel-like pebbles, called sea glass, that mingle with rocky cliffs and hidden inlets, forming a striking and almost surreal landscape.
Six Flags Magic Mountain
Located near Los Angeles, Six Flags Magic Mountain is one of California’s most iconic theme parks. Renowned for its roller coasters and adrenaline-pumping thrills, it features more than 100 rides and attractions designed for families and visitors of all ages.
Lassen Volcanic National Park
Lassen Volcanic National Park is a hidden gem in Northern California. Dominated by Lassen Peak, it features fumaroles, hot springs, bubbling mud pots, and volcanic landscapes. Surrounded by pine forests, alpine lakes, and sweeping panoramas, visitors can hike, observe wildlife, and enjoy the peace and quiet of nature.
Newport Beach
Newport Beach is a California gem known for its casual yet chic atmosphere. With golden beaches, water sports, the Balboa Pier, Balboa Island accessible by ferry, and the natural beauty of Crystal Cove State Park, the city is the perfect setting for a memorable seaside getaway.
Glass Beach near Fort Bragg
On the rugged north coast of California, Glass Beach in Fort Bragg reveals a shoreline unlike any other. Waves have transformed discarded glass into smooth, jewel-like pebbles, called sea glass, that mingle with rocky cliffs and hidden inlets, forming a striking and almost surreal landscape.
Six Flags Magic Mountain
Located near Los Angeles, Six Flags Magic Mountain is one of California’s most iconic theme parks. Renowned for its roller coasters and adrenaline-pumping thrills, it features more than 100 rides and attractions designed for families and visitors of all ages.
Keep in mind
Climate variations are significant between Northern and Southern California and between the coast and inland areas: San Francisco is known for its damp, cool air; desert regions can be unbearably hot in summer; and the southern coast remains warm and pleasant year-round.
Traffic is heavy in major urban centres, so patience is required.
Top pick
“As a lifelong Disney fan, visiting Disneyland Resort in California was so much more than a getaway. Standing where Walt Disney once stood and seeing the bench where the idea of Disneyland was born was incredibly moving. Every detail reflects his vision and creativity. You instantly reconnect with your inner child, creating unforgettable memories while paying tribute to the man who started it all.”
Marie-Andrée MarcouxTravel Counsellor, Gatineau Travel Centre
Local food and gastronomy
Clam chowder in a bread bowl
Clam chowder is a California classic. This creamy soup made with clams, potatoes, onions, celery, and bacon is served in a round bread bowl. Rich and comforting, it is best enjoyed warm.
Avocado toast
Simple yet delicious, avocado toast features slices of fresh avocado layered over toasted bread and seasoned with salt, pepper, lemon, and olive oil. Variations are endless—poached egg, cherry tomatoes, radishes, nuts, microgreens, or smoked salmon—a healthy favourite enjoyed for breakfast or brunch.
Cobb Salad
The Cobb Salad was created in Los Angeles in the 1930s. Generous and colourful, it is a mix of crisp lettuce, grilled chicken, avocado, bacon, hard-boiled eggs, tomatoes, blue cheese, and a red wine vinaigrette. Fresh and satisfying, it’s a healthy favourite enjoyed across California.
Baja-style fish tacos
Originally from Mexico, Baja-style fish tacos have become a California favourite. Grilled or fried white fish tucked into soft tortillas and topped with cabbage, salsa, sour cream, and fresh cilantro deliver bright, balanced flavours. They are best enjoyed by the seaside or from local food trucks.
Napa and Sonoma wines
Wines from Napa Valley and Sonoma are known for their rich aromas. Red wines reveal notes of red and dark fruits with hints of cocoa, vanilla, and spice, whereas white wines express tropical fruits, apple, pear, and citrus. Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, or Merlot—each bottle showcases California’s terroir.
Clam chowder in a bread bowl
Clam chowder is a California classic. This creamy soup made with clams, potatoes, onions, celery, and bacon is served in a round bread bowl. Rich and comforting, it is best enjoyed warm.
Avocado toast
Simple yet delicious, avocado toast features slices of fresh avocado layered over toasted bread and seasoned with salt, pepper, lemon, and olive oil. Variations are endless—poached egg, cherry tomatoes, radishes, nuts, microgreens, or smoked salmon—a healthy favourite enjoyed for breakfast or brunch.
Cobb Salad
The Cobb Salad was created in Los Angeles in the 1930s. Generous and colourful, it is a mix of crisp lettuce, grilled chicken, avocado, bacon, hard-boiled eggs, tomatoes, blue cheese, and a red wine vinaigrette. Fresh and satisfying, it’s a healthy favourite enjoyed across California.
Baja-style fish tacos
Originally from Mexico, Baja-style fish tacos have become a California favourite. Grilled or fried white fish tucked into soft tortillas and topped with cabbage, salsa, sour cream, and fresh cilantro deliver bright, balanced flavours. They are best enjoyed by the seaside or from local food trucks.
Napa and Sonoma wines
Wines from Napa Valley and Sonoma are known for their rich aromas. Red wines reveal notes of red and dark fruits with hints of cocoa, vanilla, and spice, whereas white wines express tropical fruits, apple, pear, and citrus. Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, or Merlot—each bottle showcases California’s terroir.
Good to know
- Some national parks and attractions, such as Alcatraz, are extremely popular, so buying tickets in advance is strongly recommended.
- Renting a car is the best way to enjoy the coastal scenery and travel from one city to another.
What to bring back?
Ghirardelli chocolates from the Ghirardelli chocolate shop in San Francisco
A souvenir license plate
An item featuring the Dodgers, the legendary baseball team from Los Angeles
Handcrafted saltwater taffy candies
A souvenir from a Disneyland Resort shop
Frequently asked questions
Spring, from March to May, and fall, from September to November, are the best times to visit California. The weather is mild, the scenery is stunning, and it is less crowded than in summer. It is the perfect time to explore iconic cities, drive along the Pacific Coast, or discover the national parks.
To get around California, renting a car remains the most practical and flexible option. It is ideal for driving along the Pacific Coast, exploring Big Sur, Yosemite, Napa Valley, or the inland roads with the freedom to stop wherever you like. In major cities such as Los Angeles and San Francisco, public transportation is efficient, including streetcars, buses, and BART. For covering long distances in a short amount of time, affordable domestic flights are frequent and convenient. Finally, shuttles and organized tours are perfect for visiting national parks or wineries without driving with the added benefit of guided experiences.
10 to 14 days is the ideal amount of time to visit a few cities, enjoy the beaches, explore wineries, and see national parks without feeling rushed.
- Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival, in April, in Indio. One of the most famous music and arts festivals in the world, it brings together international artists and spectacular art installations in the California desert.
- Napa Valley Wine Auction, in June. One of the most prestigious wine events in the United States, it brings together renowned winemakers and food and wine enthusiasts for exceptional tastings. It is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy a refined experience and discover the excellence of local wines.
- San Francisco Pride, in late June. One of the largest LGBTQ+ festivals in the world, it celebrates diversity, equality, and freedom of expression. Spectacular colourful parades, concerts, and cultural events take place throughout San Francisco.
Getting ready for your trip
Travel Insurance
Travel in complete peace of mind.
Passport photos
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International Driving Permit
Useful for driving abroad.
Visa
Online application service.
Country entry requirements
Double-check the rules before you travel.
Travel items
Suitcases, anti-theft bags, and more!
TripTik Travel Planner
Create your personalized travel itinerary.
Tourist documentation
Road guides and road maps.
These destinations could easily become your next favourites
The world is full of wonders waiting to be discovered. After exploring the beauty of California, let yourself be captivated by new places that promise unforgettable experiences.
