50 Things to Do in California
California, the land of sunshine, towering redwoods, sprawling deserts, and buzzing cities, often seems like an expensive place to explore. But the Golden State holds countless treasures that don’t cost a dime, offering incredible adventures for every kind of traveler. Finding rewarding free things to do in California is surprisingly easy, letting you experience its diverse landscapes and vibrant culture without straining your budget.
From iconic coastal drives and stunning natural wonders to historic landmarks and unique urban experiences, this guide reveals 50 specific ways to enjoy California completely free of charge. Get ready to embrace the spirit of the state, discover hidden gems, and create lasting memories, all while keeping your wallet happily closed. Let’s explore California’s free bounty.
Iconic Landmarks and Cityscapes
Walk the Golden Gate Bridge: Take an unforgettable stroll or bike ride across San Francisco’s iconic bridge. Enjoy breathtaking views of the city skyline, Alcatraz, and the surrounding bay.
See the Hollywood Sign: Hike trails in Griffith Park for classic viewpoints of this world-famous sign. The Griffith Observatory grounds also offer excellent photo opportunities.
Explore Griffith Observatory Grounds: Wander the grounds of this Los Angeles landmark for stunning panoramic views of the city and the Hollywood Sign. Access to the grounds and telescopes (for viewing, not exhibits) is free.
Walk the Hollywood Walk of Fame: Stroll along Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street, finding the stars dedicated to entertainment legends. It’s a classic LA experience, perfect for people-watching.
Stroll the Santa Monica Pier: Walk along this famous pier enjoying the ocean views, street performers, and lively atmosphere. Viewing the pier and the surrounding beach is always free.
Photograph Bixby Bridge: Pull over safely at designated viewpoints along Highway 1 in Big Sur. Capture stunning photos of this iconic arched bridge set against the dramatic coastline.
Walk Lombard Street: Experience San Francisco’s “most crooked street” by walking down its winding, flower-filled path. Admire the unique houses and enjoy the view from the top or bottom.
See the Palace of Fine Arts Exterior: Admire the beautiful Greco-Roman rotunda and colonnades of this stunning San Francisco landmark. It’s a peaceful spot for photos, located near the Presidio.
Watch Surfers at Steamer Lane: Head to Santa Cruz to watch talented surfers ride the waves at this legendary spot. The nearby cliff offers excellent viewing points.
Stroll Santa Barbara Stearns Wharf: Walk along California’s oldest working wooden wharf. Enjoy views of the coastline, mountains, and harbor activity.
View Salvation Mountain: Drive to Niland near the Salton Sea to see the exterior of Leonard Knight’s unique and colorful folk art monument. It’s a quirky and vibrant roadside attraction.
Walk the Downtown Disney District: Explore the lively outdoor shopping, dining, and entertainment area connecting Disneyland parks and hotels in Anaheim. Enjoy the atmosphere and window shopping.
Beaches and Coastal Wonders
People Watch at Venice Beach Boardwalk: Experience the eclectic energy of Los Angeles’ Venice Beach. Watch skateboarders, street performers, artists, and unique characters along the famous boardwalk.
Relax on Coronado Beach: Visit this wide, sparkling beach near San Diego, consistently ranked among America’s best. Enjoy the soft sand, gentle waves, and views of the historic Hotel del Coronado.
See the Seals at La Jolla Cove: Observe the wild seals and sea lions basking on the rocks and beach in this picturesque San Diego cove. Viewing platforms offer close, yet respectful, encounters.
Explore Point Reyes Lighthouse Viewpoint: Drive out to the Point Reyes National Seashore in Marin County. Walk the path to the viewpoint overlooking the historic lighthouse perched dramatically on the cliffs (lighthouse access may be limited/paid).
Walk Crystal Cove State Park Beaches: Discover the beautiful beaches and tide pools within this park near Newport Beach. While parking has fees, public access points allow for free beach strolls along the sand.
Tide Pooling Along the Coast: During low tide, explore rocky shores at numerous locations like Leo Carrillo State Park (Malibu) or Natural Bridges State Beach (Santa Cruz). Discover fascinating small marine life in the pools.
Walk Baker Beach: Enjoy stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge from this San Francisco beach. It’s a popular spot for photos, walks, and enjoying the coastal scenery.
Stroll Carmel-by-the-Sea Village and Beach: Wander the charming European-style village streets, browse art gallery windows, and then walk down to the beautiful white-sand Carmel Beach. Enjoy the fairytale atmosphere.
Parks Nature and Scenic Drives
Explore Golden Gate Park: Discover the vast green oasis of San Francisco, larger than New York’s Central Park. Enjoy walks through gardens (some specialty gardens have fees), lakes, and meadows within the park’s free public areas.
Hike in Griffith Park: Explore miles of trails in one of the largest urban parks in North America (Los Angeles). Choose trails offering city views, nature walks, or routes leading towards the Hollywood Sign or Observatory.
Drive the Big Sur Coast: Experience one of the world’s most scenic drives along Highway 1 between Carmel and Morro Bay. Pull over at numerous free vista points to admire the dramatic cliffs and ocean views.
Drive Avenue of the Giants: Take this scenic alternate route paralleling Highway 101 in Humboldt County. Drive beneath towering old-growth redwood trees for a truly awe-inspiring experience.
Explore Redwood National & State Parks: Walk among giants on numerous free trails accessible throughout this park complex in Northern California. Enjoy the majesty of the tallest trees on Earth.
See McWay Falls Viewpoint: Stop at the designated overlook in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park (Big Sur). Take the short, easy walk to see the stunning waterfall cascading onto the beach below (access to beach is prohibited).
Explore Balboa Park’s Exterior Spaces: Wander the beautiful grounds of San Diego’s large urban cultural park. Admire the stunning Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, fountains, and free outdoor gardens.
Hike Lands End Trail: Enjoy breathtaking coastal views, including Golden Gate Bridge perspectives, on this trail within San Francisco’s Golden Gate National Recreation Area. Discover hidden beaches and historic sites along the way.
Explore Joshua Tree National Park Viewpoints: Admire the unique desert landscapes and iconic Joshua trees from viewpoints near park entrances or along park boundary roads. Driving through certain areas provides a glimpse without full park entry fees sometimes.
Stargaze Near Joshua Tree: Drive just outside the national park boundaries to areas with minimal light pollution. Enjoy spectacular views of the dark desert night sky on clear evenings.
Drive Mulholland Drive: Cruise along this famous winding road in the Hollywood Hills. Pull over at designated overlooks for panoramic views of Los Angeles and the San Fernando Valley.
Visit Capitol Park: Stroll through the beautifully landscaped park surrounding the State Capitol building in Sacramento. Admire diverse trees from around the world and various memorials.
Walk Around Lake Merritt: Enjoy the paved pathway circling this tidal lagoon in the heart of Oakland. Join locals for a walk or run around the “Jewel of Oakland.”
Enjoy Big Sur River Views: Stop at pull-offs near state park entrances or bridges along Highway 1. Enjoy views of the Big Sur River winding through the redwood forests.
Culture History and City Exploration
Visit the Getty Center Grounds & Gardens: Explore the stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and city views at this Los Angeles art museum complex. Admission is always free, though parking requires payment.
Explore Old Sacramento Waterfront: Wander the historic streets lined with preserved Gold Rush-era buildings. Enjoy the atmosphere of this National Historic Landmark district along the Sacramento River.
Tour the California State Capitol: Take a free guided or self-guided tour of the historic State Capitol building in Sacramento. Learn about California’s government and admire the impressive architecture.
Visit the Cable Car Museum: Discover the history and mechanics behind San Francisco’s iconic cable cars. See the giant wheels pulling the cables at this fascinating free museum.
See Murals in the Mission District: Explore the vibrant streets of San Francisco’s Mission District. Discover alleys like Clarion and Balmy filled with colorful and politically charged murals.
Stroll Old Town San Diego State Historic Park: Step back in time exploring the restored buildings and museums depicting early San Diego life. Walking the grounds and entering many historic buildings is free.
Visit California Missions (Exterior/Grounds): Admire the historic architecture of California’s Spanish missions from the outside. Many missions offer free access to walk their courtyards and grounds.
Browse the Ferry Building Marketplace: Walk through San Francisco’s historic Ferry Building, now a bustling marketplace. Browse artisan food stalls and enjoy the waterfront atmosphere.
Browse The Original Farmers Market: Experience the lively atmosphere of this historic Los Angeles market. Browse the diverse food stalls and enjoy people-watching.
Attend a First Friday Art Walk: Explore local art scenes in cities like Oakland, Los Angeles, or San Francisco during their First Friday events. Galleries often open their doors for free evening viewing.
Visit Santa Barbara County Courthouse: Explore the stunning Spanish Colonial Revival architecture of this functioning courthouse. Climb the clock tower for free panoramic views of the city and coast.
Window Shop on Rodeo Drive: Take a stroll down Beverly Hills’ famous luxury shopping street. Admire the high-end designer boutiques and opulent displays.
See the Sea Lions at Pier 39: Walk out onto Pier 39 in San Francisco to watch and hear the boisterous colony of sea lions lounging on the docks. Their antics provide free entertainment.
Explore Fisherman’s Wharf: Wander through San Francisco’s famous waterfront neighborhood. Enjoy the sights and sounds of street performers, fishing boats, and souvenir shops.
