When I first set foot in Southern California, the sun-kissed beaches and laid-back vibe instantly drew me in. From the riches of Malibu to the liveliness of Los Angeles, every corner of SoCal seemed to whisper excitement and adventure. Over the years, I’ve returned time and again, each visit revealing more of its magic. And trust me, the allure of Southern California goes far beyond its coastal glamour.
Stretching from LA to San Diego, SoCal is more than just its iconic Hollywood sign or the glitz of Beverly Hills. It’s a melting pot of cultures, where the aroma of food trucks meets the sophistication of wine country. The Pacific Coast Highway, with its breathtaking ocean views, serves as a ribbon tying together diverse landscapes, from the desert beauty of Palm Springs to the coastal charm of Laguna Beach.
I’ve surfed the early morning waves in Huntington Beach, hiked the rugged trails of Joshua Tree, and indulged in San Diego’s food scene. Each experience, whether it was watching a sunset over the Santa Monica Pier or discovering a hidden gem in the heart of LA, left a mark that will never leave.
For those ready to dive into the diverse beauty of this region, I’ve curated a list of the most amazing things to do in Southern California. Drawing from my own adventures and recommendations from locals, this guide is your ticket to experiencing SoCal like a true insider. Let’s dive in!
#1 tip to save money on your trip to SoCal
Before diving into all the best spots in Southern California, let’s first cover some quick tips that will save you time and money on your trip.
- FLYING: If you haven’t already, I HIGHLY recommend signing up for Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going). This year alone, I’ve flown to San Diego roundtrip from Boston for $195 thanks to their free email alerts. The premium and elite version are even better!
- Food: Save by grabbing meals or ingredients from local grocery stores like Ralphs or Trader Joe’s. They offer fresh produce, ready-to-eat meals, and a variety of snacks that won’t break the bank.
- Transport: Get the Southern California CityPASS, which offers discounted tickets to major attractions like Disneyland and Universal Studios. If you’re exploring multiple cities, renting a car might be more cost-effective than relying on public transport.
Southern California might be known for its glitz and glamour, but with a little savvy, you can enjoy its beaches, theme parks, and vibrant cities without blowing your budget. Touch down in SoCal and let the adventure begin!
Top things to do in Southern California
Activities in Southern California come in all shapes and sizes. Below you will find the top SoCal attractions that will blow your mind.
To help you get started, here’s a quick overview of some highlights:
- Best city to visit: San Diego
- Best nature spot: Joshua Tree National Park
- Best beach: Malibu’s Zuma Beach
- Best hotel: Terranea Resort
- Best for shopping: Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills
- Best winery: Temecula Valley Wine Country
- Best for food & nightlife: Los Angeles
- Best festival: Coachella Valley Music & Arts
- Best museum: The Getty Center
Now without further ado, here are my top 17 things to see and do in Southern California.
1. Ride the iconic Santa Monica Pier rollercoaster
Santa Monica is more than just another beach town in California; it’s a vibrant blend of surf culture, historic charm, and urban sophistication. Nestled between the sprawling city of Los Angeles and the vast Pacific Ocean, Santa Monica has always held a special allure for me.
One of the city’s crown jewels is the iconic Santa Monica Pier. Steeped in over a century of history, this pier isn’t just a place to enjoy ocean views or grab a bite. It’s a living testament to Southern California’s love affair with seaside amusement. And at the heart of it all is the rollercoaster, which glides through the air at 35 mph.
Beyond the rollercoaster ride, there’s plenty of other fun activities in Santa Monica. Stroll along the Third Street Promenade, indulge in fresh seafood at a beachside cafe, or simply watch the sunset paint the sky from the pier’s edge. It’s a place where every visit feels like a mini-vacation.
So, if you’re in Southern California, make your way to Santa Monica. Whether you’re riding high on the rollercoaster or soaking in the beach vibes, it’s an experience that embodies the spirit of this sunny region.
2. Go camping in the Mojave Desert
The first time I set foot in the Mojave Desert, I was struck by its vastness. Stretching over 47,877 square miles, the Mojave is not just any desert; it’s a world of its own. With its iconic Joshua Trees, unique wildlife, and starlit nights, it’s a place that captures the heart of every traveler seeking a genuine Southern Californian experience.
But what truly sets the Mojave apart is its silence. Away from the bustling cities of Southern California, the desert offers a serene escape where the only sounds you’ll hear are the rustling of the wind and the distant calls of desert wildlife. It’s a place where you can truly disconnect, reflect, and be one with nature.
Camping here is an experience like no other. As the sun sets, the desert transforms. The sky, painted with hues of orange and pink, gradually gives way to a blanket of stars, so clear and numerous that you’d think you’re in a planetarium. And as you sit by your campfire, the cool desert breeze reminds you of the vastness and beauty of the world around you.
But the Mojave isn’t just about the nights. Its days are filled with adventures too. From hiking trails that take you through canyons and over sand dunes to spotting unique flora and fauna that have adapted to this harsh environment, there’s always something to explore.
So, if you’re looking for an authentic Southern California experience, head to the Mojave. Bring your camping tent, your sense of adventure, and let the desert work its magic. Trust me, it’s a trip you won’t forget.
3. Eat delicious food and surf at Huntington Beach
Looking for Southern California vacation ideas? Huntington Beach is a gorgeous beach town in Orange County. It definitely deserves a visit when you’re in Southern California.
Stroll the beaches and piers, and you will find no shortage of dining venues, shops, and other unique attractions. Referred to as the “Surfing Capital of the World,” Huntington Beach Pier is a terrific place to watch professional surfers in action. It is here, where the U.S. Open of Surfing is held each year.
If you’ve ever wanted to learn surfing, what better place to do so than the surfing capital itself?
Whether you’re looking for relaxation or adventure, you’ll find that a visit to Huntington Beach is among the top things to do in Southern California.
4. Check Out the San Diego Zoo
The world famous San Diego Zoo is one of the top bucket list attractions in Southern California.
Located in San Diego’s Balboa Park, the San Diego Zoo is home to over 3,500 animals, including the Giant Panda. It’s set on 100 acres of land, so you should expect to spend 4-5 hours to explore the whole zoo. It’s truly the perfect family activity, where you can easily spend half or even a full day and not run out of things to see!
If you want to save money on the zoo admission and avoid the long lines, purchase your tickets online in advance. It’s worth the hefty price tag for the diverse range of animals and unique attractions, including the Skyfari Aerial Tram!
5. Hike the Santa Monica Mountains
Looking to go hiking in Southern California? You won’t want to miss the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area.
Not far from urban jungle of Los Angeles and the beaches of Malibu is this oasis in the mountains. The Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area is home to countless miles of hiking trails and other unique sights and attractions that are among the best in Southern California.
A short 10-minute walk from Santa Monica Beach, the Los Liones Trail is a must if you’d like to experience the best this park has to offer. It’s around 3 miles in total, not very rugged, and provides sweeping vistas of the coastline and the skyscrapers. Bring along extra water, hiking boots, and begin hiking early in the morning to stay clear of the crowds. It’s truly the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
From views of the coastline to that of the Los Angeles Skyline, you’ll have plenty of reasons to hike the Santa Monica Mountains. It’s no wonder hiking here is among the best things to do in Southern California.
6. Shop ‘til you drop at Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills
Okay so you don’t have to shop here, because it’s incredibly expensive, but at least stop by for a bit and do some people-watching. Perhaps you will even spot your favorite celebrity!
Rodeo Drive is a two-mile long street Beverly Hills that’s known for its ultra-luxury designer stores. It’s where the rich and famous go, or at least their ‘people’ who do the shopping for them!
Even if you don’t intend to shop here (I don’t blame you!), it’s still one of the top things to see and do in Southern California.
Want to stay here? Read next: Coolest Airbnbs in Beverly Hills, California!
7. Hike or bike along the Long Beach Bike Path
Located near Long Beach, California, this pedestrian bike path is just 3 miles long. It’s a terrific activity for those seeking ocean views and a soothing sea breeze.
The Long Beach Bike Path is perfect for those seeking a fun and not too strenuous summer activity. The path is totally flat and rarely crowded, providing endless sights of beautiful blue water! Additionally, if you continue cycling past the trail for another mile or so, you will enter the stunning Shoreline Village!
8. Visit Solvang, a slice of Denmark in Southern California
Imagine stumbling upon a quaint Danish village, complete with windmills, half-timbered houses, and streets lined with Danish bakeries, right in the heart of Southern California. Sounds like a dream, right? Welcome to Solvang, a unique pocket of Europe nestled amidst the rolling hills of the Santa Ynez Valley.
From the moment I set foot in Solvang, I felt transported. The town’s architecture, inspired by traditional Danish styles, stands in stark contrast to the typical Californian landscapes. Everywhere you turn, there’s a nod to Denmark, from the iconic windmill landmarks to the statues of famous Danes.
But what truly captivated me about Solvang was the food. The smell of freshly baked aebleskivers (round Danish pancakes) lingers through the air, drawing you into cozy bakeries. Pair them with a cup of strong Danish coffee, and you’ve got the perfect morning treat. And don’t even get me started on the butter cookies and smørrebrød (open-faced sandwiches)!
Simply wander the streets, soaking in the European ambiance and you’ll see why Solvang is a must-visit.
9. Dine and shop at the Shoreline Village
Situated near downtown Long Beach, Shoreline Village is the perfect way to spend a sunny afternoon. It’s a Southern California attraction like no other – for families and couples alike.
This seaside village, found next to famous Aquarium of the Pacific, is filled with colorful shops and trendy restaurants. Add to that stunning harbor views, tuck shops, scenic cruises, and an excellent beachfront biking course, and you’ll have yourself an entire day of fun activities.
Tip: Be sure to visit Parkers’ Lighthouse at night for the best city skyline views!
The assortment of dining establishments, cruise tours, and tourist attractions can be found in other coastal destinations in the region. However, Shoreline Village’s charming ambiance and vibrant buildings make visiting here one of the best unique things to do in Southern California.
Looking to visit Southern California? Check out these amazing Airbnbs that will blow your mind!
10. Visit Disneyland: One of the best things to do in Southern California for families
Disneyland is dazzling any time of year. It goes without saying that this is one of the coolest things to do in Southern California, but for those who haven’t been, here’s what makes it so special:
Built in 1955, Disneyland was the world’s first Disney theme park. It was designed by Walt Disney, whose futuristic ideas and fantasies were put into action in the form of a 160-acre amusement park. Now, there are 2 parks to enjoy, Disneyland Park and California Adventure Park, which draw 18 million visitors a year. This makes Disneyland the second most visited theme park after Disney World in Florida.
Be sure to take advantage of all the rides that Disneyland has to offer, including Space Mountain, Splash Mountain, It’s a Small World, Soaring Around the World, and the Indiana Jones Adventure. There’s truly so much to do here, particularly if you’re a family with younger children. So you won’t run out of unique attractions!
Today, there are several newer and bigger Disney theme parks sprawled around the world. But this is the original, which is why it definitely merits a visit among the top things to do in Southern California.
11. Experience the desert life at Joshua Tree National Park
Located in southeastern California, Joshua Tree is one of the most unique national parks in the US.
It’s named for these rare and beautiful trees, but there’s also a dreamy desert oasis, mountains, and gold mining ruins to discover here.
Stay in a unique Airbnb or go glamping, and you’ll be on your way to checking off all these best things to do in Southern California!
12. Explore the Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve
Southern California attractions truly don’t get any better than this one near LA.
California’s state flower, the California poppy, can be viewed from many unique places around the state. However, none is more dazzling than the Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve, one of the best hidden gems in Southern California.
Visit between February and May, and you’ll be treated to an array of yellow, red, and orange colored flowers. It’s located in Los Angeles County, just over an hour north of LA. Things to do in Socal truly don’t get any better than this!
13. Become young again at Legoland
Located between San Diego and Anaheim, Legoland in Carlsbad is definitely one of the best attractions in Southern California.
Legoland offers more than 60 rides, shows, and attractions, all geared for families with young children. The Legoland California Hotel and Resort is one of the coolest stays in all of Southern California, as it also has an aquarium and water park.
For adults, Miniland USA is a must-see. It’s one of the most unique attractions at Legoland, showcasing lego designs of well-known areas and real-life tourist attractions from seven locations around the United States. They were built using 32 million Lego bricks, featuring iconic places like the Golden Gate Bridge, Washington DC, New York’s Grand Central Station, Mardi Gras, and so on. You will feel like you’ve seen the whole country all in a matter of minutes!
14. Visit the Griffith Observatory – Unique Things to do in Southern California
Take a walk around the Griffith Observatory, one of the most best tourist sights in Southern California. It lies inside Griffith Park on the south-facing slope of Mount Hollywood.
With sweeping views that will make your jaw drop, the Griffith Observatory is a popular place to visit from Los Angeles. In addition to seeing LA’s endless skyline and the Pacific Ocean, you’ll also catch a glimpse of the famous Hollywood Sign.
Apart from the vistas, enjoy the scientific exhibits that the observatory has to offer. Learn about science and space through devices like telescopes and other interactive exhibits. It won’t be long when you begin pondering the meaning of life and the infinite possibilities of our universe.
If you enjoy astronomy and stargazing, you’ll see why the Griffith Observatory is one of the best gems in Southern California.
Planning to visit? You won’t want to miss these beautiful and unique Airbnbs in Southern California!
15. Hike with your friends at the Crystal Cove State Park
This hidden gem in Orange County’s Laguna Beach provides scenic panoramas and a good day’s worth of exercise. For the outdoorsy types, this is definitely one of the coolest Southern California things to do. It’s truly a top retreat in the region, and it’s easy to see why.
Crystal Cove is a lovely state park with over 3 miles of shoreline and 2,000 acres wilderness. Climb up lofty hills for wide-ranging views of the surrounding landscape and sea that are certainly worthy of the effort!
Additionally, there’s a beautiful stretch of beach, which isn’t as crowded as the more prominent beaches in the area. Cap off the day by relaxing here and perhaps have a barbeque as you take in the breathtaking coastal landscapes of Southern California! This is truly one of my favorite nature spots in SoCal, hands down.
16. Watch sea lions in action at La Jolla Cove: A top thing to do in Southern California
La Jolla Cove is a peaceful beach surrounded by two sandstone cliffs. It’s among the most beautiful beaches and photography spots in San Diego. As such, it also deserves a mention among the best things to do in SoCal.
Soaking in the pristine coastline is not the only thing you will find interesting at La Jolla. You can also witness big sea lions gracefully sunbathing on the rocks. There are many of them out in the morning hours. Grab a bite to eat in La Jolla (Caroline’s Seaside Cafe is a local gem) and take part in other activities like swimming, kayaking, and scuba diving. You’ll never want to leave!
17. Experience LA’s live music scene
It’s no secret that LA, and the Southern California region in general, is known for having an amazing live music scene.
If you have a favorite musical artist, chances are they’ve held a concert in LA before. If concerts and music festivals are your thing, come here and take advantage. You likely won’t want to leave!
Check out music venues like the Hollywood Bowl or The Greek Theatre, and you’ll see why LA is such a hub for musicians!
18. The Escape Game Rancho Cucamonga
Looking for fun things to do in Southern California? At The Escape Game, you’ll have 60 minutes to solve clues and overcome challenges in order to escape befthore time runs out.
This activity in SoCal is perfect for friends, families, and even coworkers. You’ll all be working together as a team to search the room for clues and solve puzzles in order to complete your mission.
With several immersive themes to choose from, you could find yourself locked in prison, on an underwater voyage, or even on a time traveling train! Whichever theme you choose, The Escape Game Rancho Cucamonga is sure to be a memorable adventure for your team.
19. Wrap up your trip with a hike at the Runyon Canyon
Runyon Canyon is yet another amazing spot to visit in Southern California. The sights of Los Angeles, the Hollywood Sign, and the Santa Monica Mountains are nothing short of extraordinary. You will need to bring your video camera for this one!
Runyon Canyon Trail is under 3 miles, offering some of the best hiking you’ll find in the greater LA area. It’s a relatively easy trek, so if you want something more challenging, do some jogging up the hills instead.
For a more soothing experience, cost-free yoga is offered here every day at the Runyon Canyon Yoga. Rest on the lush green grass and let the gentle breeze sooth your soul.
Tip: Drop by on a weekday if you want some peace and seclusion (weekends and public holidays are on another level!).
Unique Things to do in Southern California
Southern California has it all: sandy beaches, infinite outdoor adventures, entertaining and family-friendly tourist attractions, waterfront activities, and cultural attractions. So, if you haven’t been there yet, make it the number one priority on your USA travel bucket list. If you’re already there or are still planning, we hope this article helps you plan the perfect vacation!
Planning to visit So Cal? Read next: Best Airbnbs in Southern California: Rustic cabins, Beach Houses + More!
For further reading: 9 Top Airbnbs in Muir Woods, California
