The 10 Best Summer Activities in California!

Despite having warm weather throughout much of the year, the best time of year in California is the summer. Brave the crowds that fill up much of the Golden State in order to experience some of the highlights that California is renowned for. Here are our 10 favorite summer activities in the state! 

1. Disneyland, Anaheim, CA

Admittedly, you can save money by visiting Disneyland at off times, and there are fewer crowds. But the longer days and special events make waiting in line for the rides totally worth it and all the more magical. Disneyland comes to life during the summer, and you won’t want to miss it. 

2. SeaWorld, San Diego, CA

Visiting SeaWorld during the summertime means getting to cool off in the splash zone and you can skip the disposable ponchos. Learn more about the world’s aquatic creatures as you make new friends and see magnificent displays of animal behavior.

3. Lake Tahoe, Tahoe, CA

There doesn’t have to be snow on the ground to make a trip to Tahoe worth it. During the summer, there are a variety of activities, sports, water games and more to keep you occupied. Plus, you don’t have to lug around skis or snowboards or pack bulky clothes to enjoy the area’s natural beauty. 

4. Balboa Park, San Diego, CA

Balboa Park in San Diego has a little bit of everything from everyone so that you can stay busy from dawn until past dusk. Cool off in a museum, explore the gardens, see a movie, take in a concert and do pretty much anything else at Balboa Park’s vast variety of attractions.

5. Go surfing

Surfing is part of California’s heritage. From San Diego to Santa Cruz and beyond, learn how to catch a wave or perfect a new trick. You can rent boards, take lessons, etc., at most popular beach locations, including the scenic Orange County beaches.

6. Hollywood Forever Film Screenings, Hollywood, CA

Grab a blanket and a beer and head to Hollywood Forever Cemetery. Get in line and be prepare to wait for a screening of a classic film that the entire city comes out in droves for. If you have time before the show, check out the tombstones of famous luminaries like Alfred Hitchcock. Many nights have themes and even DJs to keep the energy flowing.

7. Attend a festival

Food, film, music, art and more. Throughout the summer, you’ll find a variety of festivals that celebrate strawberries, avocados and other important fruits and vegetables that make up California’s delicious agricultural efforts. There are also music fests, food fests, art fests and other events that fit a variety of interests.

8. Griffith Observatory, Griffith Park, CA

Clear days give way to clear nights so that you can see the stars. Head to Griffith Observatory to learn more about the heavens and the amazing sights that can be seen far, far away. It’s also a picturesque spot during the day and in between stargazing parties and other special events that are available to the public.

9. Alcatraz Island, San Francisco, CA

Alcatraz Island is legendary, but the cool waters of the Bay can make it less than enthralling. Visiting during the summer months means that weather is likely better should you incur a salty spray on the boat. 

10. Visit aquariums in Long Beach and Monterey

Long Beach and Monterey both offer some of the best aquarium experiences in the world. Monterey is famous for its ocean conservation efforts and sustainable seafood programs and other education. Long Beach aquarium has interactive exhibits so that you can get up close and personal with creatures that call the sea home. 

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