3 Lesser Known And Unique Spots In California You Must Visit

Iconic attractions, from the Big Sur to Sacramento, Los Angeles, and the Golden Gate Bridge, lure a large population of tourists from around the globe to California. For instance, in 2022, California received 4.45 million international visitors and ranks as the third most visited state in the USA, according to Insider Monkey’s recent survey. While it’s natural to top your bucket list with the most popular sites, exploring hidden gems in the Golden State can elevate your vacation experience. Perhaps you’re searching for a destination that’s without crowds. Or you want to go sightseeing off the beaten paths, free from passionate selfie takers. California has unique, lesser known destinations that feature natural wonder, wacky photography spots, and activities that prove the West is best for your adventures. If you plan to try something exceptional and unforgettable on your next California trip, below are 3 hidden gems you must explore.

48 miles north of Mammoth Lakes in the Sierra region, sits the Ghost Town of Bodie (best mining location of the 1870s). Here, you’ll get a fascinating image of California’s Wild West, as you explore what’s left of the town that turned from being vibrant to a place preserved in a state of ‘arrested decay’. No one inhabits the place, making it the top ghost town in the country. As you stroll the town, you’ll notice bars, barbershops, a schoolhouse, church, saloons, and a prison with untouched furniture. You may experience an eerie feeling like many visitors and think the area is haunted, but this could be because of high elevation. When visiting Bodie Ghost Town, plan to stay for 2-3 hours and bring a physical map, food, and water. Also, make plans for a side trip to Mono Lake, another hidden treasure along the way, where you’ll discover unique tufa towers in the salty water, baby blue shrimps, and watch millions of migrating birds.

A few minutes from San Francisco, you’ll find Sausalito, a picturesque seaside city that resembles a Mediterranean fishing town. This secret gem features breathtaking vistas of the Bay, art galleries, boutiques, and stunning houseboat communities. Whether you’re a foodie or just have a knack for delicious food, you can have a fine dining experience at exquisite waterfront restaurants or casual cafes. Want to rest after a day of fun activities? There are plenty of Sausalito hotels that provide accommodation that blends with your taste and budget. Just research your hotel options, from luxe hotels to cozy BnBs, vacation homes and book early. Exciting things to do in Sausalito include walking along the Bridgeway Promenade, taking in fantastic sights of Angel Island Park State and the San Francisco Bay. Head to Rodeo beach for a picnic with your dog, try stand-up paddle boarding, meet rescued animals at the Marine Mammal Center, hike in the Marin Headlands, visit Point Bonita lighthouse, and explore the Gallery Sausalito & Working Art Studio.

Seeking a respite from busy, noisy big cities to somewhere serene with unlimited adventure waiting? Shasta County should be next on your travel list. Its crystal blue water lake (Shasta Lake) with a backdrop of mountains and tree-lined shore makes the county beautiful. There are other small creeks, lakes, rivers, and streams spread across Shasta. Your vacation here involves hiking, water skiing, camping, windsurfing, horseback riding, and fishing. For the more adventurous tourists, there’s hand gliding, kayaking, and whitewater rafting. If you’re not interested in outdoor activities around Shasta Lake or Lassen National Park, you could visit museums like the Shasta Courthouse Museum or Turtle Bay Exploration Park.

Planning a vacation in California will probably revolve around big name attractions like Big Sur, Napa Valley, and LA. But what if you explored lesser known places that offer unforgettable adventure? Think of the seaside town, Sausalito, Bodie Ghost Town, and Shasta County. These hidden gems offer an escape from the hustle in busy cities, allowing you to enjoy natural beauty, thrilling adventures, and delicious foods.