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California Tourism
P.O. Box 1499
Sacramento, CA
95812-1499

California Travel Guide

California... find yourself here!


California's vacation and entertainment choices are boundless. With its rich mixture of cultures, natural resources, renowned museums, world-famous cuisines, and varied landscapes, California is the perfect vacation escape. Families and friends; adventurer and romantic getaway; sports and recreation, and much more.

As you travel around California, you'll be struck by the state's astounding cultural diversity and sense of prosperity. You'll experience delicious foods and joyous traditions brought from Maine, Mexico, or the banks of the Mekong. You'll walk streets that resonate with the music and poetry of foreign tongues. In cities, you'll find jazz clubs reverberating with African-American music. You'll see walls, flowers, and clothing ablaze in brilliant colors. Still held precious here, these threads of life, once lived in other places, now make up the vibrant tapestry of California.

You will also be struck by California's natural beauty; towering forests and incredible mountains are just hours away from beautiful beaches and deserts. From the Gold Rush days of 1849 onward, people came from the far reaches of the earth dreaming of California's fabled riches, gentle climate and stunning beauty.

California Regions

Central Coast - A tranquil expanse between Los Angeles and San Francisco, the romantic and fairytale-like Central Coast is often called California's Middle Kingdom. Dramatic seascapes and coastal resorts, together with the pastoral atmosphere of its inland agricultural communities, make this region an idyllic destination. Read more >

Central Valley - California's agricultural bounty flows from the Central Valley, one of the most productive farming areas in the world. This thriving region includes a wealth of culturally diverse communities, historic sites, exceptional outdoor recreation, abundant wildlife, and the California Delta - a unique 1,000-mile waterway fed by five major rivers. Read more >

Deserts - California deserts are a study in contrasts: soft sand dunes and deeply eroded cliffs, golden poppies and spiny cacti, creeping tortoises and soaring eagles, and snow-capped mountains. The Deserts' silent and austere beauty, studded with glittering yet relaxing resort cities, offers the ideal spot for re-energizing your senses. Read more >

Gold Country - This region offers remnants of its wild days when the 1849 Gold Rush triggered the largest human migration ever known. Explore Sacramento, the state capitol, and follow the miners' saga along historic Highway 49. Pastoral towns, recreational and cultural activities, this region is filled with "golden" opportunities. Read more >

High Sierra - The incomparable Sierra Nevada is the backbone of this region. Natural attractions stagger the imagination - from emerald-hued Lake Tahoe, to sparkling Mammoth Lakes and towering Mt. Whitney. With three of the nation's most treasured national parks, the High Sierra is truly an expression of American wilderness.
Read more >

Inland Empire - The Inland Empire offers the best of both worlds - modern valley cities rich in culture and history, and nearby mountain communities with a wealth of recreational opportunities. With its soaring mountains, alpine lakes, historic sites , lush vineyards and colorful entertainment, the Inland Empire is a year-round destination. Read more >

Los Angeles County - Ever since filming in Los Angeles in 1913, the world has been fascinated by moviemaking and Hollywood's great dream factories. Where else can you go snowboarding in the morning and catch a wave in the afternoon, or hike deep into the wilderness just off a busy freeway? Read more >

North Coast - The North Coast stretches over 400 miles of rugged coastline from San Francisco to primeval redwood forests at the border. Inland you'll find lush vineyards and quaint villages filled with antique shops. Three national parks and numerous state parks provide unlimited opportunities for hiking, camping and fishing. Read more >

Orange County - Since the opening of Disneyland in 1955, Orange County has blossomed into the ultimate family vacation destination. With its sunny beaches, luxurious resorts, theme parks and unlimited opportunities for shopping and dining, Orange County is a magical place for all. Read more >

San Diego County - With its rich Hispanic heritage, temperate climate, deep-sea harbors, sandy beaches and a variety of fun-filled attractions, San Diego County is quintessential California. From golfing and wine tasting to deep-sea fishing and whale watching - to exploring the deserts and mountains, the possibilities are endless in Sand Diego County. Read more >

San Francisco Bay Area - From bustling cosmopolitan cities to quiet coastal retreats, the San Francisco Bay Area is incomparable. First-class attractions, celebrated wineries, cultural diversity, remarkable skylines and breathtaking views make this region one of the world's most popular destinations. Read more >

Shasta Cascade - The Shasta Cascade is one of the country's most beautiful and unspoiled regions. Its towering mountains, lush forests, crystal clear lakes and thundering waterfalls provide awe-inspiring views. Whether you seek high adventure on a rugged peak or a leisurely weekend on a houseboat, Shasta Cascade is an outdoor lover's paradise. Read more >

Activities

Attractions

Portrait of California




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Photo Credits (clockwise from top panel, left image):
1. Stinson Beach - Philip H. Coblentz/CalTour
2. Napa Valley, Carneros District - Robert Holmes/CalTour
3. Half Moon Bay, Pigeon Pt. Lighthouse - Robert Holmes/CalTour
4. Big Bear Lake, hiking - Robert Holmes/CalTour
5. Mission San Diego De Alcala - Robert Holmes/CalTour
6. Hearst Castle, Neptune Pool - Robert Holmes/CalTour
7. Carmel County, Mpnterey County - Robert Holmes/CalTour
8. Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk - Robert Holmes/CalTour

Photo Credit for image on home page:
Rancho Mirage, Westin Mission Hills Resort - Robert Holmes/CalTour
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