11 Wild and Most Visited Places in California USA for All Seasons
Do you know California is a land of breathtaking contrasts deserts filled with surreal rock formations, coastal cliffs hiding secret treasures, and abandoned places steeped in history. As someone who has traveled extensively across the state, I’ve come across places that feel almost unreal. Some are hidden gems, while others are well known but still hold a sense of magic.
If you’re planning a trip in 2025, this guide will introduce you to 11 of the most stunning and unique destinations California has to offer. From colorful mountains in the desert to natural hot springs tucked away in the mountains, these locations will make your journey unforgettable. Let’s have a look at my real-time experience to improve your knowledge for travel in California:
1. Salvation Mountain
Salvation Mountain is a vibrant art installation in the middle of the desert, created by Leonard Knight as a tribute to love and faith. This colorful masterpiece, made of adobe, straw, and thousands of gallons of paint, is unlike anything else in California. It’s covered in murals, religious messages, and secret tunnels, making it a dreamlike place to explore.
The site is free to visit, but the extreme desert heat means you should come early in the morning or late afternoon. Bring plenty of water and don’t forget your camera the bright colors against the deep blue sky are mesmerizing.
Trip Highlights:
- Bright, hand-painted murals – A surreal art experience.
- Nearby Slab City – A fascinating off-grid community.
- Sunset visits – Best for photography.
Nearby Accommodations & Facilities:
- Hotels: Brawley Inn (40 minutes away).
- Food & Gas: Niland Market (10 miles away).
2. Pioneer Town
Stepping into Pioneer Town is like traveling back to the Wild West. Originally built as a Hollywood movie set in the 1940s, it’s now a living Old West town with rustic wooden buildings, a saloon, and even staged cowboy shootouts.
A must-visit here is Pappy & Harriet’s, a legendary bar where live music fills the air and you can enjoy a hearty meal under the desert sky. It’s the perfect stop before or after exploring Joshua Tree National Park.
Trip Highlights:
- Live cowboy reenactments – On select weekends.
- Rustic saloons and shops – Authentic Old West vibes.
- Famous live music at Pappy & Harriet’s
Nearby Accommodations & Facilities:
- Hotels: Joshua Tree Inn (15 minutes away).
- Food & Drinks: Pappy & Harriet’s.
3. Glass Beach in Fort Bragg
What was once a dumping ground has transformed into one of California’s most unique coastal treasures. Over the years, the ocean has turned broken glass into smooth, colorful pebbles, creating a beach that sparkles in the sunlight.
The best time to visit is during low tide when more of the glass is exposed. While collecting glass is prohibited, simply walking along the shore and seeing the waves crash over the multicolored stones is a magical experience.
Trip Highlights:
- Vibrant sea glass covering the shore.
- Part of MacKerricher State Park – Perfect for hiking.
- Great for tide pooling and photography.
Nearby Accommodations & Facilities:
- Hotels: North Cliff Hotel.
- Food & Drinks: The Wharf at Noyo Harbor.
4. Alcatraz, San Francisco
Alcatraz Island is one of the most famous and eerie places in California. This former prison housed some of the most notorious criminals, including Al Capone, and today it stands as a fascinating historic site.
The ferry ride to Alcatraz offers stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the San Francisco skyline. If you love mystery, the night tour is an unforgettable experience with its dimly lit hallways and chilling stories of escape attempts.
Trip Highlights:
- Self-guided audio tours – Featuring stories from former inmates.
- Spooky night tours – A thrilling experience.
- Incredible city views from the island.
Nearby Accommodations & Facilities:
- Hotels: Fairmont San Francisco.
- Food & Drinks: Pier 39 restaurants.
5. Geneseo Inn, Paso Robles
This boutique hotel offers a truly unique stay each suite is made from repurposed shipping containers and overlooks rolling vineyards. Located in Paso Robles wine country, it’s the perfect spot for wine lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat.
Guests can enjoy wine tastings, farm-to-table dining, and horseback riding through the scenic vineyards. The minimalist yet luxurious design makes it an unforgettable stay.
Trip Highlights:
- Luxury accommodations inside shipping containers.
- Surrounded by beautiful vineyards.
- Farm-to-table dining and wine tastings available.
Nearby Accommodations & Facilities:
- Hotels: Geneseo Inn (on-site).
- Food & Drinks: Cass Winery.
6. Trona Pinnacles
This alien-like landscape is made up of towering rock formations rising from the Mojave Desert floor. These formations, known as tufas, were formed over thousands of years and have been featured in sci-fi movies like “Star Trek.”
The road to the pinnacles is rough, so a high-clearance vehicle is recommended. If you stay past sunset, the night sky here is filled with stars, making it a top spot for astrophotography.
Trip Highlights:
- Unreal desert landscape – A photographer’s dream.
- Famous filming location – Seen in movies and TV shows.
- Best visited at sunrise or sunset for dramatic lighting.
Nearby Accommodations & Facilities:
- Hotels: Best Western, Ridgecrest.
- Food & Gas: Ridgecrest town.
7.
This massive metal dragon, stretching 350 feet, looks like it’s rising from the desert floor. It’s one of over 130 sculptures scattered throughout the Anza-Borrego Desert, created by artist Ricardo Breceda.
Driving through the area feels like a treasure hunt as you discover more sculptures of prehistoric creatures, Spanish explorers, and mythical beasts.
Trip Highlights:
- Giant dragon sculpture in the sand.
- Over 130 unique metal sculptures to explore.
- Best visited in cooler months.
Nearby Accommodations & Facilities:
- Hotels: La Casa Del Zorro Resort.
- Food & Drinks: Carlee’s Place.
8. The Victoria Beach Pirate Tower, Laguna Beach
Tucked away along the shores of Laguna Beach, the Victoria Beach Pirate Tower looks like something out of a fairy tale. This 60-foot stone tower was built in the 1920s as a private staircase leading from a mansion above down to the beach. Over time, it gained its legendary “pirate” name, adding to its mystery.
The best time to visit is during low tide, when you can walk up close to the tower and explore the tide pools nearby. Getting there requires a short but steep walk down a hidden staircase, making it feel like a secret discovery.
Trip Highlights:
- A real-life fairy tale tower by the ocean.
- Hidden staircase access adds to the adventure.
- Nearby tide pools perfect for exploring at low tide.
Nearby Accommodations & Facilities:
- Hotels: Surf & Sand Resort.
- Food & Drinks: Driftwood Kitchen.
9. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Lassen Volcanic National Park is one of California’s most underrated natural wonders. Home to boiling springs, fumaroles, and even a lava dome volcano, it’s like a mini Yellowstone with fewer crowds. The landscape varies from snow-capped peaks to steaming hydrothermal areas, making it a fascinating place to explore year-round.
One of the most popular spots in the park is Bumpass Hell, a geothermal area with bubbling mud pots and steaming vents. During summer, the Lassen Peak Trail offers an epic summit hike with panoramic views. Winter transforms the park into a snowy wonderland, perfect for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
Trip Highlights:
- Active volcanic landscapes – Bubbling mud pots and hot springs.
- Bumpass Hell Trail – A boardwalk through a geothermal wonderland.
- Hiking Lassen Peak – Stunning views from the top.
Nearby Accommodations & Facilities:
- Hotels: Highlands Ranch Resort.
- Camping: Manzanita Lake Campground.
10. Hidden Pools in Laguna Beach
Laguna Beach is home to several hidden tidal pools that feel like nature’s private jacuzzis. These pools form in the rocky coastline and fill up with seawater during high tide, creating beautiful, clear swimming spots. Some of the most stunning pools are near Thousand Steps Beach and Shaw’s Cove.
Since these pools are affected by the tides, checking a tide chart before visiting is essential. Early mornings are usually the best time to go, as fewer people are around. The water can be a bit chilly, but the experience of floating in a natural pool with ocean views is completely worth it.
Trip Highlights:
- Secluded, natural ocean pools – Best visited at low tide.
- Crystal-clear water – Perfect for snorkeling and swimming.
- Some pools require a short hike to find – Adding to the adventure.
Nearby Accommodations & Facilities:
- Hotels: Montage Laguna Beach.
- Food & Drinks: The Deck on Laguna Beach.
11. Wild Willy’s Hot Spring
Located near Mammoth Lakes, Wild Willy’s Hot Spring is a completely natural geothermal pool surrounded by the Eastern Sierra Mountains. Unlike many hot springs that require a long hike, this one is easily accessible via a short boardwalk. The water stays warm year-round, making it a perfect stop during winter when the surrounding mountains are covered in snow.
Because it’s a natural hot spring, there are no man-made facilities, so visitors should practice Leave No Trace ethics and respect the environment. Early mornings or late evenings are the best times to go if you want to avoid crowds and experience the peaceful beauty of the area.
Trip Highlights:
- Free, natural hot spring with mountain views.
- Easily accessible with a short walk.
- Best visited during sunrise or sunset for a magical experience.
Nearby Accommodations & Facilities:
- Hotels: The Westin Monache Resort, Mammoth.
- Food & Drinks: Mammoth Brewing Company.
Final Thoughts
California never ceases to amaze me with its variety of landscapes, from vibrant deserts to surreal coastlines and hidden natural wonders. Each of these destinations offers something unique whether it’s a glimpse into history, a chance to connect with nature, or simply a place to take in stunning scenery. If you’re planning a 2025 road trip, add these places to your itinerary. I promise, they will leave you in awe, just as they did for me!