From whale watching to hiking iconic peaks, California offers year-round adventures for every type of explorer. Here's a curated month-by-month guide to experiencing the Golden State's natural wonders.
January: Spy on Whales off San Diego
Watch majestic gray whales during their annual migration along the California coast. Multiple whale watching operators offer 2-4 hour excursions from San Diego Harbor, with opportunities to spot dolphins and other marine life. Prime viewing spots on land include Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve and Cabrillo National Monument.
February: Hit the Slopes at Mammoth Mountain
Experience world-class skiing and snowboarding at this premier winter destination. With 3,500 skiable acres, 25 lifts, and a season that often extends into June, Mammoth Mountain offers terrain for all skill levels. The nearby June Mountain provides beginner-friendly slopes where kids 12 and under ski free.
March: Marvel at Antelope Valley Poppies
Witness California's state flower paint the hills orange at the Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve. Eight miles of trails wind through the 1,781-acre preserve, offering spectacular wildflower viewing from March through May. Visit early in the season to avoid crowds.
April: Chase Waterfalls at Burney Falls
Explore northern California's spectacular 129-foot Burney Falls in McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park. Continue to nearby McCloud Falls for a scenic seven-mile round trip connecting three cascading waterfalls in Shasta-Trinity National Forest.
May: Drive the Scenic Highway 46
Take in the verdant spring landscapes along Highway 46 between Paso Robles and the coast. Rolling hills, oak trees, and vineyards create picture-perfect views, with glimpses of Morro Rock and the Pacific Ocean in the distance.
June: Raft the American River
Experience thrilling Class III rapids on the South Fork of the American River near Placerville. Perfect for beginners, this stretch offers scenic views and relatively mild whitewater. Licensed outfitters provide guided full-day and half-day trips.
July: Soar at Torrey Pines Gliderport
Watch paragliders and hang gliders ride coastal updrafts at this historic flying site between UC San Diego and the Pacific. Enjoy ocean views from the Cliffhanger Cafe or book a tandem paragliding flight for an aerial adventure.
August: Camp at Santa Cruz Island
Explore the largest island in Channel Islands National Park via Island Packers ferry from Ventura Harbor. Hike to Smugglers Cove, kayak sea caves, spot island foxes, and camp under the stars at this remote paradise.
September: Hike Yosemite's Trails
Experience Yosemite National Park's grandeur with fewer crowds in late September. Tackle classics like the Yosemite Falls Trail or venture into the high country via Tioga Road to discover Tuolumne Meadows and Tenaya Lake.
October: Walk Among Giants at Prairie Creek Redwoods
Immerse yourself in old-growth redwood forests along Prairie Creek Trail. Visit Fern Canyon, featured in "Jurassic Park," and watch for Roosevelt elk in the prairie.
November: Explore Moonstone Beach
Discover Cambria's rugged coastline at Moonstone Beach. Walk the mile-long boardwalk, build driftwood forts, and enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants.
December: Boulder at Joshua Tree
End the year in Joshua Tree National Park's Hidden Valley, where dramatic rock formations draw climbers and geology enthusiasts. Camp under desert stars and explore the surrounding art installations.