Southern California Travel Guides

Southern California

Combine beaches, theme parks, big-city excitement and outdoor recreation in one popular region with great weather and a laid-back lifestyle.

Travel to Southern California to see iconic symbols of the United States, from Disneyland® Park to Hollywood to Death Valley. The warm weather here means you can enjoy a visit any time year-round.

North of Tijuana, Mexico is San Diego County, with fascinating Southern California missionary history, Mexican food and cultural highlights. Learn about the community’s water-based history at the Maritime Museum of San Diego. Walk along the waterfront to the USS Midway Museum on an aircraft carrier. Admire luxury craft and pass America’s Cup yachts in a dozen marinas.

The San Diego Zoo in Balboa Park is one of the world’s top zoos, with natural habitats housing nearly 4,000 animals including giant pandas and African penguins. SeaWorld® San Diego features live shows, interactive animal experiences, thrill rides and water park adventures. Observe seals and snorkel at La Jolla Cove and explore the wilderness of Torrey Pines State Park or play golf at the city’s famous Torrey Pines course.

Northeast of San Diego is Palm Springs, once a popular playground for Hollywood’s biggest stars. Today, come for golf and sightseeing. Ride the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway high above the city for cool temperatures and inspiring views. Hike up San Jacinto Mountain, in Indian Canyons or along Coachella Valley. Indio hosts the Coachella Music and Arts Festival every April.

Slightly east, observe the plants, desert tortoises and night skies of the Mojave and Colorado Deserts in Joshua Tree National Park. Head north to Death Valley National Park to see not only blisteringly hot desert but also snow-capped mountains and delicate plants. Tall trees, black bears and mountainous peaks fill Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks.

The busy Los Angeles area has Anaheim’s Disneyland and Universal Studios Hollywood, theme parks with exciting rides and entertainment. Visit Venice Beach, Malibu and Marina del Rey for sand, sun and surfing. Find diverse museums, restaurants and shopping here.

Enjoy Southern California’s varied attractions. Escape to the wilderness or join thousands of fellow travelers in exciting big-city activities.

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Explore the cities of Southern California

Los Angeles County

Warm weather, a rich history and varied neighborhoods make this Southern California location popular for all types of visitors.

Los Angeles

The pretty Santa Monica beaches, upmarket Beverly Hills boutiques, and Universal Studios all make for the perfect holiday on the West Coast.

San Diego

From captivating Spanish mission-style architecture to beautiful beaches, from sea life to pleasant historic neighbourhoods, San Diego offers something for everyone.

Orange County

Come for the Disneyland® Resort experience, stay for the beaches. The Magic Kingdom® and the best surfing on the West Coast make a fantastic combination.

Riverside County

Hot springs, hospitable cities, striking desert landscapes and golf courses galore are just some of the reasons to visit this area of Southern California.

Palm Springs

California's legendary retro resort town in the Coachella Valley is the perfect place to escape to.

Laguna Beach

Head to the creatives' haunt located in one of California's most historic towns amid a stunning coastal setting.

Catalina Island

A popular escape from the streets of Los Angeles, this island’s laid-back atmosphere and crystal-clear waters make it seem a world away from the busy city.

El Centro

This city in California's Imperial County fascinates with its desert, outdoor activities, fossils and geological phenomena.

Malibu

This laid-back beach city is a popular destination for surfers and sunbathers. Spot famous residents, explore the university and enjoy the view from the pier.

Explore the best attractions of Southern California

Universal Studios Hollywood™

3-in-1 fun is to be had by all at this part TV studio, part entertainment complex and part amusement park.

Medieval Times

Go back in time to the Middle Ages at this evocative and iconic theatre restaurant.

San Diego Zoo

One of the largest zoos in America housing around 4000 creatures, San Diego Zoo offers an enchanting and educational experience for visitors of all ages.

Knott's Berry Farm

One of the oldest and best loved of America's theme parks is a thrilling, exciting spot to visit.

San Diego Navy Pier

Whether you’re a military buff or just looking for a great day out, come to admire the amazing ships and planes on display.

Seaworld, San Diego

A fun family favourite, where you can get up close to the local marine life, enjoy fun rides and be wowed by the performances.

Staples Center

This multipurpose sports arena has hosted some of the world’s biggest musical acts and is home to two National Basketball Association teams.

Santa Monica Pier

The Santa Monica Pier is one of the best places in Los Angeles to soak up some rays and enjoy all the fun of the fair at this popular destination.

The Grove

If you want to shop and dine in one convenient location, but still enjoy the sunny weather of Los Angeles, visit this outdoor mall and entertainment center.

Aquarium of the Pacific

Immerse yourself in the fascinating undersea world at this magnificent aquarium, home to sharks, eels and the giant Pacific octopus.

Griffith Observatory

In a city associated with stars, it is perhaps appropriate that this observatory is one of LA’s most popular attractions, with a focus on our fascinating universe.

Los Angeles County Museum of Art

This art museum is the largest in the western United States, serving art lovers with masterpieces from every conceivable period, from ancient to contemporary.

Venice Beach

A popular beach with visitors to Los Angeles, Venice beach offers an eclectic mix of golden sands, pumped up bodybuilders, street entertainers and mime acts.

California Science Center

Discover an aquarium with a giant kelp forest, an actual space shuttle and numerous educational displays and exhibits inside this remarkable facility.

Legoland California

Ride on a pirate ship, see famous people and wild animals in yellow-block form, or simply enjoy the scenery at this huge resort which brings LEGO® to life.

Balboa Park

One of America’s largest urban green spaces, Balboa Park is an exciting spot packed with art, culture, and a world-renowned zoo.

Belmont Park

Enjoy traditional fun for all the family on the rides and attractions at San Diego’s historic amusement park.

Hollywood Walk of Fame

The Hollywood Walk of Fame is a world-renowned acknowledgement of the contribution of Tinseltown to the image and reputation of Los Angeles.

La Brea Tar Pits

Step back in time to a harsh and unforgiving prehistoric Los Angeles, and walk in the footprints of extinct Ice Age animals.

Birch Aquarium

A popular attraction taking you deep into the Pacific waters, this aquarium dates back over 100 years and houses marine life from 60 different habitats.

Cabrillo National Monument

A historic monument on the spot where Juan Cabrillo first arrived from Spain over 500 years ago, this is a great place to while away the hours.

Crystal Cathedral

A striking, high-rise modern glass and steel structure that stands out from the crowd.

Discovery Science Center

Head for the big black cube to find a place where science engages both mind and body.

Getty Center

Located high on the hill overlooking the city, this state-of-the-art museum has made a big contribution to Los Angeles’ growing reputation as a city of culture.