Things to do in Central California
Activities, attractions and tours
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Most popular experiences in Central California
Tours & day trips
See all 283 activities
San Francisco: One day Yosemite and Giant Sequoias Tour
Private & custom tours
See all 102 activities
4-Hour Private Hidden Hot Springs Tour near Death Valley
Food, drink & nightlife
See all 59 activities
San Jose: "The Escape Game" Ticket at Valley Fair
Classes & workshops
See all 25 activities
Monterey Bay: Sunset Catamaran Sailing Cruise
Holiday & seasonal tours
See all 8 activitiesMonterey Bay: Sunset Catamaran Sailing Cruise
What to do in Central California
Popular places to visit
Yosemite Valley
From Yosemite Falls to Half Dome and El Capitan, you can see some of the most stunning scenery in the world from Yosemite National Park’s central valley.
Yosemite National Park
The hiking trails, waterfalls and mountains full of diverse wildlife make this national park one of the country’s most picturesque.
Monterey Bay Aquarium
Perched on the edge of the Pacific Ocean, you’ll find a spectacular window into life both above and below the waves.
Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort
When it comes to California skiing, Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort is the mammoth of all ski resorts on the West Coast. Boasting the highest summit of any other CA ski resort, along with an average of 400 inches of snowfall each season, Mammoth ski resort in Mammoth Lakes is a snow mecca for both skiers and riders.
Hearst Castle
You can learn about the local history of San Simeon when you make a stop at a top site like Hearst Castle. Wander the area's seaside or simply enjoy one of its top-notch restaurants.
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
Enjoy the thrill rides with your kiddos at Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk as part of your trip to Santa Cruz. Attend a sporting event in this walkable area, or seek out the biking trails.
Cannery Row
Luxury, leisure and nature come together at this historic sardine-canning district, which is one of Monterey’s most acclaimed recreational areas.
Carmel Beach
Spot birds or catch waves, then spread out a picnic by a campfire and enjoy the views at this picturesque beach.
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
Be humbled by nature at its most impressive in these two breathtaking national parks, home to some of the largest living things on this planet.
Areas of Central California
Yosemite West
You'll enjoy the waterfalls and riverfront in Yosemite West. You might want to make time for a stop at Yosemite National Park or Sierra National Forest.
Downtown San Jose
Known for its fascinating museums and great live music, there's plenty to explore in Downtown San Jose. You can visit top attractions like SAP Center at San Jose and San Pedro Square, and jump on the metro at Santa Clara Station or St James Station to see more of the city.
Westside Santa Cruz
Westside Santa Cruz is known for its stunning beaches, and with sights like Monterey Bay and Pacific Avenue, you won't get bored spending a day wandering around this part of Santa Cruz.
Downtown Monterey
The beaches and seaside views are top of the list for many visitors to Downtown Monterey. A stop by Monterey State Beach or Golden State Theatre might round out your trip.
Downtown Pismo Beach
While visiting Downtown Pismo Beach, you might make a stop by sights like Pismo State Beach and Pismo Beach Surf Shop.
Golden Rectangle
If you're spending some time in Golden Rectangle, Carmel Plaza and Carmel Beach are top sights worth seeing.
