19 BUCKET LIST Things to Do in Southern California

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Southern California is a vibe, a lifestyle, and an adventure all rolled into one. Think about it: you’ve got the beaches of San Diego, the rugged beauty of Joshua Tree, and small towns like Ojai that feel like a secret. SoCal is where laid-back meets adrenaline-packed, and it’s got something for everyone.

This is the kind of place where you’ll chase sunsets in Malibu, dive into Palm Springs’ artsy scene, or tick Death Valley off your bucket list—and still find time to grab fish tacos by the beach. It’s a mix of epic landscapes and unforgettable experiences that’ll have you planning your next trip before you even leave. Let’s get into it: here are 19 must-try adventures that’ll make Southern California your new favorite vacation spot.

#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 Pier isn’t just another tourist trap – it’s actually pretty awesome once you get past the crowds. The Pacific Wheel (that big solar-powered Ferris wheel you see in every movie) costs $8 per person, and honestly, the views are worth it. The West Coaster roller coaster will set you back another $8, but you’re literally riding above the Pacific Ocean, which is kind of insane when you think about it.

I’ve been here a bunch of times, and my best tip is to get the unlimited ride wristband if you’re planning to do more than five rides. It’s $40 for adults and $20 for kids under 7, and you’ll definitely get your money’s worth. The pier itself is free to walk around, so you can always just grab some overpriced funnel cake and people-watch. Pro tip: weekday mornings are way less crowded than weekends, and parking on the pier is actually free (though good luck finding a spot on summer weekends). The Playland Arcade has over 200 games if the rides aren’t your thing.

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2. Camp under the stars in the Mojave Desert

The Mojave Desert completely changed how I think about camping. Yeah, it’s hot during the day, but those night skies are absolutely unreal – I’m talking zero light pollution and more stars than you knew existed. Just know that camping got more expensive in 2025. Hole-in-the-Wall Campground now costs $25 per night and you have to book through Recreation.gov up to six months ahead (trust me, don’t wing it anymore).

Mid Hills Campground is $20 per night and usually less crowded than Hole-in-the-Wall. Both spots have fire rings, picnic tables, and vault toilets, but no water hookups or showers. You’ll need to bring everything, including firewood since collecting wood in the preserve is banned. I learned this the hard way on my first trip. The silence out here is honestly kind of overwhelming at first – no cell service, no city noise, just wind and the occasional coyote howling in the distance. It’s the kind of place that makes you realize how loud your normal life actually is.

3. Surf and eat fresh seafood in Huntington Beach

Huntington Beach lives up to its “Surf City USA” reputation, and I say this as someone who was pretty skeptical about the hype. The waves here are consistently good for beginners, and there are tons of surf schools if you’ve never tried it. Corky Carroll’s Surf School charges $155 for a private 2-hour lesson (including board and wetsuit), or you can do group lessons starting around $99 with places like Banzai Surf School.

The pier area gets crazy crowded on weekends, but it’s worth dealing with the crowds for the food scene. I’m obsessed with Duke’s Huntington Beach for their fish tacos – they’re pricey but actually fresh, not frozen garbage. The U.S. Open of Surfing happens here every summer, which is cool to watch even if you’re not into competitive surfing. Just don’t expect to find easy parking during the event. My move is to park a few blocks inland and walk to the beach. The water’s surprisingly clean for such a busy spot, and the lifeguards are everywhere, so it feels safe even for nervous swimmers.

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4. Visit the world-famous San Diego Zoo

The San Diego Zoo is expensive but genuinely worth the money – and I rarely say that about tourist attractions. Current admission is around $65-70 for adults (prices vary by season), but it includes the guided bus tour and Skyfari Aerial Tram, which are both lifesavers when you’re walking 100 acres. Free parking is clutch since most San Diego attractions charge $20+ for parking.

I spent a full day here last time and still didn’t see everything. The giant panda exhibit is back and requires a timed ticket (included with admission), but honestly, every animal habitat here is impressive. The Reptile Walk gives me the creeps, but my kids love it. The bus tour is actually informative and not just a tourist gimmick – the drivers know their stuff about conservation efforts. Food inside is overpriced theme park food, so eat before you go or budget $15+ per person for lunch. Download their app before you visit because the paper maps are confusing and the GPS feature helps you find specific animals. Pro tip: arrive right when they open at 9am – animals are more active in the morning before it gets hot.

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5. Hike the Santa Monica Mountains for coastal views

The Santa Monica Mountains are perfect when you want nature without driving hours from LA. Los Liones Trail is my go-to hike – it’s about 3 miles roundtrip with killer views of both the coastline and downtown skyline. The trailhead is literally 10 minutes from Santa Monica Beach, which feels impossible but it’s true.

This hike isn’t super challenging, but bring way more water than you think you need. I made the mistake of bringing one bottle on a hot day and was dying by the end. The trail can get busy on weekends, so I always try to start early (like 7am early) to beat the crowds and the heat. You’ll see everything from beach mansions to the Hollywood Sign from the top, and on clear days, you can spot Catalina Island. 

Parking at the trailhead is free but limited to about 20 spots. There are tons of other trails in the area if Los Liones is packed – Temescal Ridge Trail is another good option. Just be aware that the mountains can be surprisingly cold in winter mornings, even when the beach is warm.

6. Window shop and people-watch on Rodeo Drive

Look, Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills is ridiculously expensive, but it’s worth walking through just for the spectacle. I’m not dropping $3,000 on a purse, but watching people who do is pretty entertaining. The street itself is only about two miles long, so you can see the whole thing in an hour.

I went on a weekday afternoon and spotted two celebrities (won’t say who, but one was definitely from a Netflix show). The architecture is actually beautiful if you look up from all the designer storefronts. Via Rodeo is this weird fake European shopping area that’s completely over the top but kind of fun in a Disney World way. Parking is a nightmare and costs $20+ in most lots, so I’d recommend taking the Metro if you’re not staying nearby. 

The people-watching is next level – I saw a woman walking her tiny dog while wearing what looked like a wedding dress at 2pm on a Tuesday. There are some decent restaurants if you want to grab lunch, but expect to pay $25+ for a basic salad. It’s touristy but undeniably iconic.

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7. Bike the flat oceanfront path in Long Beach

The Long Beach Bike Path is only 3 miles long, but it’s one of the most chill ways to see the coastline. The path is completely flat (thank god) and runs right along the water with constant ocean breezes. Bike rentals are available near the pier for around $15-20 per hour, or you can bring your own.

I love that this path isn’t crazy crowded like the Santa Monica bike paths. You can actually ride at a normal pace without dodging selfie-stick tourists every five seconds. If you keep going past the official path, you’ll hit Shoreline Village, which has decent restaurants and shops. The whole ride takes maybe an hour if you’re going slow and stopping for photos. 

Alamitos Bay is pretty to look at, and you might see some sea lions hanging out on the docks. I always grab lunch at Shoreline Village afterward – Parker’s Lighthouse has great harbor views, though the food is pretty standard seafood fare. The sunset views from the path are actually incredible if you time it right. Just watch out for the occasional aggressive seagull trying to steal your snacks.

8. Explore Solvang’s Danish village charm

Solvang feels like someone dropped a piece of Denmark into the middle of California wine country, and it shouldn’t work but somehow totally does. The Danish architecture is legit – not just some theme park nonsense – and the bakeries are incredible. I’m talking fresh aebleskivers (Danish pancakes) and butter cookies that are actually worth the calories.

The whole town is walkable in about two hours, which is perfect because parking is limited and the streets are narrow. Mortensen’s Danish Bakery is my favorite spot for pastries, though there’s usually a line on weekends. The windmills are obviously photo-op central, but they’re pretty cool up close. I went during their Danish Days festival in September and it was packed but fun – lots of traditional music and dancing.

The wine tasting rooms around town are surprisingly good since you’re in the Santa Ynez Valley. It’s definitely touristy, but the Danish community here is real and you can tell they take pride in maintaining the culture. Just don’t expect authentic Danish prices – this is still California, so budget accordingly for food and drinks.

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9. Stroll and dine at Shoreline Village

Shoreline Village in Long Beach is one of those places that could easily be cheesy but manages to be charming instead. It’s basically a waterfront shopping and dining area with bright, colorful buildings that look like they belong in a coastal town, not next to a major port. The harbor views are legitimately beautiful, especially from the restaurants.

I always end up at Parker’s Lighthouse for dinner – the seafood is decent and the views are the real draw. The shopping is pretty standard tourist stuff (t-shirts, seashell jewelry), but browsing is fun when you’re not in a hurry. The Aquarium of the Pacific is right next door if you want to make a day of it. Street performers are usually set up around the village, and some are actually talented. I saw a guy doing magic tricks that genuinely fooled me, which is rare. 

The boat tours that leave from here are worth doing if you’ve never seen the Long Beach harbor from the water. It gets busy on weekends, but weekday afternoons are perfect for just wandering around with an overpriced coffee and watching boats come and go.

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10. Experience the magic of Disneyland

Disneyland in Anaheim is expensive as hell, but if you’re going to do it, do it right. Single-day tickets start around $104 and go up to $164 depending on the season – check their calendar before booking because “value” days can save you serious money. Genie+ is an extra $30 per person but honestly worth it if you hate waiting in lines.

I’ve been here probably 20 times, and my strategy is always the same: get there before rope drop (30 minutes before official opening), hit the big rides first, then slow down and enjoy the details. Space Mountain and Indiana Jones Adventure still hold up after all these years. Galaxy’s Edge (the Star Wars area) is incredibly well done, though the lightsaber building experience costs $200+ and sells out fast. 

The food has gotten way better recently – Docking Bay 7 in Galaxy’s Edge actually serves decent meals, not just overpriced theme park garbage. Download the app before you go because paper maps are basically useless now. Parking is $30, so factor that into your budget. It’s crowded and expensive, but walking down Main Street USA still gives me chills every time.

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11. Explore Joshua Tree’s unique desert landscape

Joshua Tree National Park is the kind of place that looks like another planet, especially if you’ve never spent time in the desert. The entrance fee is $30 per vehicle (valid for 7 days), and honestly, you’ll want multiple days to see everything properly. The Joshua Trees themselves are bizarre and beautiful – they only grow in this specific elevation and climate.

Skull Rock is probably the most Instagram-famous spot, but Cholla Cactus Garden is actually more impressive in person. Those cacti look fluffy but will absolutely destroy you if you get too close – I watched a tourist learn this the hard way. The night sky here is unreal because there’s zero light pollution. 

If you’re camping, Jumbo Rocks Campground is first-come, first-served and fills up fast. Hidden Valley is an easy 1-mile loop trail that’s perfect for families. I always bring way more water than I think I need because the dry air dehydrates you faster than you’d expect. Cell service is basically nonexistent, so download offline maps beforehand. The park is huge (over 1,200 square miles), so plan your route and don’t try to see everything in one day.

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12. See wildflower blooms at Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve

The Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve is one of those places that’s either absolutely magical or completely disappointing, depending entirely on timing and weather. When the wildflowers are blooming (typically March through May), the hills are covered in bright orange poppies that look like someone spilled paint across the desert. When they’re not blooming, it’s basically just brown hills.

The $10 per vehicle entrance fee includes access to all the trails and the visitor center. South Loop Trail is about 2 miles and gives you the best overview of the blooms. I learned the hard way that poppies close up when it’s cloudy or windy, so check the weather before making the drive. The best blooms happen after a wet winter, so follow their social media or call ahead (661-724-1180) to check current conditions. 

It’s about an hour north of LA, and the drive through the desert is actually pretty scenic. Bring sunscreen and water because there’s no shade out there. The gift shop has surprisingly good wildflower seeds if you want to try growing your own poppies at home. When the blooms are good, this place is absolutely worth the drive. When they’re not, you’ll feel like you wasted a day.

13. Build memories at Legoland California

Legoland California in Carlsbad is specifically designed for families with kids ages 2-12, and it shows in the best possible way. Unlike other theme parks that try to please everyone, this place knows exactly what it is. Admission starts around $109 for kids and adults (they price it the same), but you can often find deals online that bring it down to $80-90.

Miniland USA is absolutely incredible – they built famous landmarks from across the country using 27 million Lego bricks, and the detail is insane. The Golden Gate Bridge model actually moves when you press buttons. Most of the rides are pretty tame (this isn’t Six Flags), but that’s perfect for younger kids who might be scared of intense coasters. The Dragon Coaster is probably the most thrilling ride, and even that’s pretty mild. I spent way too much money in the gift shop because everything is Lego-themed and my kids lost their minds. 

The attached water park is an extra charge but worth it on hot days. Food is typical theme park fare at theme park prices, so pack snacks if you’re trying to save money. The crowds are generally manageable compared to Disneyland, which makes the whole experience way less stressful.

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14. Stargaze and see LA views from Griffith Observatory

Griffith Observatory is free, which automatically makes it one of the best deals in LA. The views of the city and the Hollywood Sign are incredible, especially at sunset when the whole city starts lighting up. The observatory itself has pretty cool exhibits about space and astronomy, even if you’re not usually into that stuff.

I always go right before sunset and stay until it gets dark – you get the best of both worlds with the city views and then actual stargazing through their telescopes. The planetarium shows cost $7 per person and are worth it if you have time. Parking is the biggest pain because the lot fills up fast on weekends and evenings. I’ve learned to park in the Los Feliz neighborhood and walk up – it’s about a 15-minute uphill walk but beats circling the lot for 30 minutes. 

The Hollywood Sign views are good, but not as close as you might expect from photos. The gift shop is actually pretty cool if you’re into space stuff or vintage LA memorabilia. Just be prepared for crowds – this place is popular with tourists and locals alike. The night views of LA sprawling out below are legitimately spectacular.

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15. Hike coastal trails at Crystal Cove State Park

Crystal Cove State Park in Orange County is one of those hidden gems that locals try to keep secret, but the word is definitely out now. The day-use fee is $15 per vehicle, and honestly, it’s worth it just for the beach access alone. The hiking trails give you killer views of the coastline without the crowds you’d find at more famous spots.

Los Trancos Trail is my favorite – it’s about 2.5 miles roundtrip and takes you up to viewpoints where you can see Catalina Island on clear days. The beach here is way less crowded than Huntington or Newport, so you can actually find a spot to spread out. I love the tide pools at the north end of the beach – saw sea anemones and tiny crabs last time I was there. 

The Crystal Cove Historic District has a few restaurants, but they’re pricey and the food is just okay. Better to pack a lunch and eat on the beach. The trail connections can be confusing, so grab a map at the entrance or download the park app. Swimming is allowed but there are no lifeguards, so be smart about it. The sunsets here are absolutely incredible – I’ve taken some of my best California photos from these bluffs.

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16. Watch sea lions sunbathe at La Jolla Cove

La Jolla Cove is hands down one of the most beautiful beaches in San Diego, and the sea lions are just a bonus. These guys have basically taken over the beach and have zero fear of humans – I watched one stretch and yawn like it was performing for tourists. The small beach gets packed, but you can watch the sea lions from the walkway above if you can’t find space on the sand.

Swimming and snorkeling here are incredible because the water is so clear, but be prepared for it to be cold even in summer. The sea lions are most active in the morning, so get there early if you want to see them doing more than just sleeping. Caroline’s Seaside Cafe right above the cove has great breakfast and lunch with perfect views, though you’ll pay for the location. Parking is absolutely brutal – the small lot fills up by 9am on weekends, and street parking requires circling for ages. I usually park in La Jolla Village and walk the 10 minutes to the cove. 

The walking path along the coast is gorgeous and connects to other beaches if you want to explore more. Just don’t try to pet or feed the sea lions – they’re wild animals and the rangers will fine you. The sunset from the cliffs above the cove is magical.

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17. Catch live shows in LA’s music venues

LA’s music scene is absolutely unreal, and I’m not just talking about the Hollywood Bowl (though that place is iconic). The Greek Theatre in Griffith Park is my favorite mid-size venue – it’s outdoor, the sound is great, and the setting is beautiful. Tickets vary wildly depending on the artist, but you can usually find something good for $40-80.

The Hollywood Bowl is expensive but worth experiencing at least once. Bring a picnic and wine (they actually encourage it), and you’ll have one of the most LA nights possible. The Troubadour in West Hollywood is tiny but legendary – so many famous artists got their start there. For newer bands and smaller shows, The Echo and The Echoplex in Echo Park always have something interesting happening. I saw three different bands there last month for $15 total. 

Walt Disney Concert Hall is more for classical music, but the architecture alone is worth seeing. The biggest challenge is parking – most venues are in busy neighborhoods with limited spaces. I always check if there’s Metro access or plan to pay $20+ for parking. The diversity of music you can see here in any given week is insane – everything from indie rock to world music to experimental stuff you can’t find anywhere else.

• For more live music experiences: 12 Things to Do in Berkeley at Night That’ll Blow Your Mind

18. Test your teamwork at an escape room

The Escape Game in Rancho Cucamonga is way more fun than I expected when my friends dragged me there. You get 60 minutes to solve puzzles and escape from themed rooms, and it’s surprisingly challenging even for adults. Prices are around $35-40 per person depending on the theme you choose.

They have several different rooms – I did the Prison Break theme and barely escaped with 3 minutes left. The Playground theme is better for families with younger kids, while Special Ops is more intense. The staff stays in character and gives hints if you’re completely stuck, which saves you from just standing around frustrated. I was skeptical about doing an escape room, but it’s actually a great group activity that forces you to work together and think creatively. Teams can be 3-8 people, and honestly, 4-5 people seems like the sweet spot. 

They have locations all over Southern California now, so you don’t have to drive to Rancho Cucamonga specifically. Just don’t be that person who takes over and tries to solve everything yourself – the whole point is teamwork. It’s cheesy but genuinely fun, and you’ll be talking about it afterward trying to figure out how you missed obvious clues.

19. Hike Runyon Canyon for Hollywood Sign views

Runyon Canyon is free, which is why it’s packed with tourists and Instagram influencers every single day. The hike itself is pretty easy – about 2.5 miles total with a few steep sections that’ll get your heart rate up. The Hollywood Sign views are decent, though not as close as people expect from all the photos they’ve seen.

I only go here on weekday mornings now because weekends are absolutely insane – you’ll spend more time waiting behind people taking selfies than actually hiking. The trail is wide and well-maintained, so it’s good for beginners, but don’t expect a wilderness experience. You’re basically hiking through West Hollywood with city views the whole time. Mulholland Drive views from the top are pretty cool, and on clear days you can see all the way to the ocean. 

There are usually yoga classes happening in the grassy area at the bottom, which is fun to watch. Parking on the street is free but extremely limited – expect to walk several blocks from wherever you find a spot. The people-watching here is next level – celebrities, wannabe influencers, and tourists all mixed together. It’s touristy as hell, but the views of LA sprawling out below are genuinely impressive, especially if you time it for golden hour.

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!

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