With stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, palm trees, and breathtaking skylines, California is home to some of the best photo opportunities in the entire world. From the Hollywood sign and Disneyland to Southern California and Sequoia National Park, there’s no shortage of attractions to add to your California bucket list.
Whether you’re searching for the most Insta-worthy spots in the Golden State or looking to make the most of your California road trip, here are the best things to see in California for one-of-a-kind photo ops.
Napa Valley
Located north of San Francisco, Napa Valley is home to some of the best wineries you can find in the United States. If you find yourself in the heart of Napa Valley, be sure to buy tickets for the Napa Valley Wine Train, which transports locals and tourists to wineries.
As one of the most unique things to do in California, taking a ride on the Napa Valley Wine Train will bring you back in time. The tour is on a smaller train with a dining car, dessert car, and viewing deck.
During your ride, you’ll be able to walk around the train, spend time taking in breathtaking views from the viewing deck, and visit each of the cars. Once you arrive at your destination, you’ll climb the Silverado Vineyards hillside to the tasting room, where you can snap pictures of the art gallery, vintage posters, and the patio’s sweeping views of Napa Valley.
Lake Tahoe
No trip to California is complete without a visit to Lake Tahoe, the largest alpine lake in North America. With crystal-clear water and lush alpine trees, it’s no wonder why so many people visit the lake year-round to take as many pictures as they can.
There’s no shortage of spots around Lake Tahoe to practice your photography skills, but to snap the best pictures, you’re going to need a high-quality camera. Fortunately, the Freefly Wave Camera offers 9,249 FPS max frame rate and super 35 sensor, so you’ll be able to capture the best photos of your West Coast vacation. Whether you’re taking pictures to show off to your friends and family, post on Instagram, or hang on your living room wall, choosing the right camera is essential.
Joshua Tree National Park
Featuring rugged rock formations and stunning desert landscapes, Joshua Tree National Park is nestled between the Colorado Desert and the Mojave Desert. Joshua Tree offers some of the best hiking opportunities in the California desert, and the Indian Canyons feature over 100 miles of hiking and horse trails, historic palm grows, dynamic views, and a 60-foot waterfall. It’s also within a stone’s throw of Pioneertown if you need a place to take a break from all the hiking you’ll probably do. There’s a variety of Pioneertown activities that are fun for everyone in this picturesque wild west town, many of them a nice change of pace from the great outdoors of Joshua Tree national park. It is a town preserved in the days of old, making for a great set of cowboy themed photos on your trip.
If you’re looking for the best place for a picturesque hike, check out Ryan Mountain, where you’ll find a panoramic view of Joshua Tree’s famous rock formations. Meanwhile, at Warren Peak, you’ll be able to take pictures of the snow-topped summits of Mount San Jacinto. Searching for a palm tree oasis? Hike to Fortynine Palms Oasis to find unmatched views of Joshua Tree’s fan palms and pools.
Big Sur
Located along California’s famous Pacific Coast Highway, Big Sur stretches across 85 miles and features some of the best views of the California coast. At one of Big Sur’s favorite spots for photographers, Pfeiffer Beach, you’ll find purple sands and jagged rocks, creating the perfect setting to capture the sunset over the Pacific Ocean.
Toward the end of the Pacific Coast Highway, Hearst Castle is an ideal location for history buffs, A 165-room mansion featuring lush terraces, gardens, and pools, this California State Historical Monument is filled with artifacts and artwork that you won’t find anywhere else.
Everyone knows about Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego, but taking the time to explore all that the Golden State has to offer can help you discover breathtaking views, serene coastlines, and beautiful national parks.
