California is famous for being that one state that offers a perfect blend of spring weather, beautiful landscapes, and exciting spring activities. It has sun-kissed beaches in Southern California as well as the tall redwoods in the North. California is often called the Golden City and has something to offer for everyone. If you are someone who is traveling to California in April this year and wants to know the best places to visit, this article is for you. It brings you a list of the top 10 places to visit in California in April.
Top 10 Places To Visit in California in April
Yosemite National Park
Yosemite National Park is located in the heart of California’s Sierra Nevada mountains. It is famous for its large sequoia trees and granite cliffs like El Capitan and Half Dome. The crowd at the Yosemite National Park in April is relatively less and you can get a closer view of the waterfalls. It is the best time to visit the Park as the snow starts melting and wildflowers start blooming. You can hike up to the Mist Trail and also explore the Mariposa Grove.
Death Valley National Park
Death Valley National Park is also located on the eastern side of California and Nevada. It is famous for its Titus Canyon along with a ghost town as well as the Badwater Basin’s salt flats. The Canyon also features unique rocks full of colors. The weather of the Death Valley National Park is mild in April. Therefore, it is the best time to explore the valley Before the summer heat intensifies. You can hike to the Golden Canyon and witness the iconic sunrise and sunset from Zabriskie Point.
Big Sur, California
The Big Sur is a rugged stretch of the central coast of California between Carmel and San Simeon. It has the Santa Lucia Mountains in the east and the Pacific Ocean in the west making it an unique experience. Big Sur is worth a visit throughout the year. However, in April you can enjoy the beautiful coast without it being overcrowded. The wildflowers are also in full bloom in April. You can go for a long drive on the Pacific Coast Highway or hike up to the Andrew Molera State Park for breathtaking views.
Napa Valley, California
Napa Valley is another one of California’s must-visit places located in the north of San Francisco. It is famous for its hillside vineyards in the Napa Valley wine region. The vineyards of the Napa Valley start to bloom in the month of April making it a perfect time for a visit. The spring weather is the best to enjoy wine tastings and the hilly landscape. You can visit the iconic Domaine Carneros and explore the St. Helena town as well. The Napa Valley Wine Train is also one of the unique experiences you must have.
Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara is located in Central California famous for having the Santa Ynez Mountains in the background. The red-tile roofs represent the Spanish colonial heritage of the city. It is also popularly known as the “American Riviera.” If you want to explore the outdoor coastal areas and enjoy the mild weather of April, Santa Barbara is the best place to go. You can enjoy the beautiful beaches and hike up to the Santa Ynez Mountains as well. If you love nature and greenery, the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden is also a great option for a visit.
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
The Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks joined their management structure in the year 1943. These parks are famous for being home to a wide variety of animal species. They have around 200 species of birds attracting birdwatchers from all across the country. The snow in the park starts melting in the month of April. Therefore, you can explore the parks and spot the animal species without the summer crowd. You can also hike up to the General Sherman Tree Trail or explore the unique underground Crystal Cave.
Lake Tahoe
The Tahoe Lake is a large freshwater lake in the mountains of Sierra Nevada. California and Nevada border the lake. It is famous for its beautiful beaches as well as the ski resorts. A visit to Tahoe Lake in April is a pretty unique experience where the slopes still have snow. Therefore, you can easily enjoy skiing in the pleasant spring weather. You can visit the Heavenly Mountain Resort if you wish to enjoy skiing or snowboarding. The freshwater lake offers a scenic cruise experience as well.
Point Reyes National Seashore
The Point Reyes National Seashore is a protected coastline widely spread in Northern California’s Marin County. It is famous for its Instagram-worthy beaches like Wildcat Beach along with the cliffside Alamere Falls. April is the best time to visit the Point Reyes National Seashore if you want to go whale watching. You can also hike up to the Bear Valley Trail or visit the iconic Point Reyes Lighthouse. It is also a perfect destination for birdwatchers.
San Francisco, California
San Francisco is considered the commercial, financial, and cultural hub of Northern California. It is highly famous among tourists for various landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and the Painted Ladies. April is considered the best time to visit San Francisco without the summer fog. It is also the time when Cherry Blossoms start blooming adding a splash of freshness in the atmosphere. You can visit the San Francisco Botanical Garden to enjoy the lush greenery.
Palm Springs
Palm Springs is a city located in the heart of the Sonoran Desert in southern California. It is famous for its hot springs, stylish hotels, spas, and golf courses. The city is also considered one of the finest examples of the midcentury-modern architecture. The desert city is easy to explore in April before the temperatures start rising. You can visit the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway for a stunning view or explore the Joshua Tree National Park which is an hour’s drive from the city..
