8 amazing things to do this summer in California

As the third-largest state in the country, summer in California has no shortage of sights for active adventurers and art enthusiasts alike. California's national parks provide over 6 million acres to explore, with thrilling destinations like Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, while surfing havens like Venice Beach and tranquil getaways like Trinidad offer plenty of opportunities to cool off.

Then there's the quintessentially Californian activities: Explore the state's wine scene at Carmel-by-the-Sea or take a road trip down the Pacific Coast Highway. No matter what you enjoy, this summer guide to California will show you the state's best activities.

California's best summer activities at a glance

Best places to sample the tastes of summer in California: Head out to the California Wine Festival or spend the week at Carmel Culinary Week for the best in food and drink.

Top things to do for families visiting California in Summer: Go camping at Lake Tahoe or watch the surfers and street performers on Venice Beach.

Unique events in summer in California: Visit the Outside Lands Music Festival for the best in art and music.

Best things to do in summer in California outdoors: Explore the outdoors at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, or stroll the beaches of Trinidad.

1. Catch a wave at Venice Beach

When you think of summer in California, the Beach Boys' music and surfing probably come to mind. If you're visiting for your first time and want to learn to hang ten, Venice Beach is one of the best places to try it. With consistent mild waves and no underwater obstructions, the beach provides beginners with a great opportunity to learn.

When you've had your fill of the ocean, stroll down the boardwalk where you'll find everything from bodybuilders to street performers. The boardwalk is an iconic location in Venice, ideal for spending an afternoon people-watching, shopping, or just walking along the shore.

Address

1701 Ocean Front Walk, Venice, CA 90291

2. Sample California's best wines

The best way to taste flavorful California wines is to plan a trip to the California Wine Festival, a summer-long festival that begins in April and goes through October. The event starts in Dana Point in April, then travels to Carlsbad in June, Santa Barbara in July, and ends at Huntington Beach in October.

Each location holds a special Rare and Reserve tasting, allowing attendees to sample rare vintages and hard-to-find wines while listening to musical entertainers. The more casual alternative to this event is the Beachside Wine Festival, where you can taste regional wine favorites and splendid catered cuisine. Or if you prefer to go solo, head to the world-renowned Napa Valley for a self-guided wine tour along California's famous vineyards.

3. Cruise down the Pacific Coast

Stretching from Leggett to Dana Point following the gorgeous California coastline, State Route 1 is one of the most iconic road trips in the country.

Start at either end of the San Francisco to Los Angeles Pacific Coast Highway adventure, making pit stops in scenic towns like Monterey Bay, Santa Cruz, or Santa Barbara. The drive will take you over the Golden Gate Bridge, around the rocky cliffs of Big Sur, and through the streets of Los Angeles. For the full experience, don't miss sights like Hearst Castle, Santa Monica Pier, and the wineries around San Luis Obispo.

4. Discover Sequoia and Kings Canyon

The state's national parks are the ideal location for epic outdoor adventure experiences in California. While many are super busy and crowded, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks — two bordering parks — typically don't see the massive influx of visitors that places like Yosemite do. These parks are the perfect places to explore nature and experience the magnificent sequoia trees.

Follow John Muir's footsteps and saunter along the trails of these majestic forests filled with wildlife and interesting flora. At Sequoia, make sure to take the short hike up to Moro Rock for sweeping views of the park. The steep climb is worth it once you reach the top. Don't miss the General Sherman Tree, the largest tree in the world measured by volume.

Address

Sequoia National Park, California

Kings Canyon National Park, California

Opening hours

Open daily, 24 hours a day

5. Jam out at Outside Lands Music Festival

While there are multiple music festivals each summer in California, none have quite the same vibe as Outside Lands. Golden Gate Park in San Francisco transforms into a world of music, entertainment, and fabulous food each August. While the main focus is music, with over 100 performances and headliners like Doja Cat, Tyler the Creator, and Hozier, this festival also has sites dedicated to wedding ceremonies, wine tasting, and a cannabis section.

Food lovers will also appreciate the best food and drink experiences here, offering the trendiest culinary, TikTok-famous picks. The festival attracts over 75,000 visitors daily but maintains a green spirit, encouraging respect for the park and planet with refillable water stations and an emphasis on recycling.

Address

San Francisco, CA

Opening hours

Daily, 11:00 AM-10:00 PM - during event

6. Cool off at Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe is the perfect location to escape the desert heat and experience the best summer outdoor recreation activities. Set in the high mountains of the Sierra Nevada, this high-altitude lake has stunning mountain views, making it the ideal location to cool off.

An outdoor adventurer's paradise, you can play on the lake, kayak, take the jet skis or power boat for a cruise, or explore the mountains and forests with multiple hiking and biking trails. Pack up the tent, bring the fixings for s'mores, and spend the weekend camped on the serene shores of Lake Tahoe. If you're not about the roughing-it life, there are also numerous luxury resorts around the lake.

Address

South Lake Tahoe, California

7. Savor culinary delights in Carmel-by-the-Sea

With its idyllic beach and quaint small town vibe, Carmel-by-the-Sea has long been a top summer getaway along California's central coast. Each year, in late May to early June, Carmel becomes the best place to be for foodies and wine enthusiasts.

The annual Carmel Culinary Week highlights the best in fine cuisine and California's top wines. Events range from elegant soirees to laid-back family-style dining. Don't miss the Culinary Showdown where top chefs compete to create scrumptious masterpieces over open Santa Maria-style barbecues, and the audience votes for their favorite. In addition to the gastronomical delights, you'll find charming attractions in Carmel, including the historic Mission San Carlos and fabulous art galleries.

Address

Mission St, Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93921

8. Have a star-studded summer in Hollywood

No summer vacation in California would be complete without a trip to Tinseltown. Who hasn't dreamed of running off to Hollywood, making it big, and becoming a star? While you may not make the big time, you can still make incredible memories visiting the studios and sites of your favorite flicks.

Start your adventure with a stroll down the Hollywood Walk of Fame, looking for your favorite star, or visit the Hollywood Museum for a touch of nostalgia. Wander the sets of Warner Bros. or see how the magic happens at Universal Studios.

Address

6255 W Sunset Blvd #150, Hollywood, CA 90028