March is one of the best times to visit California, with mild afternoon temperatures, plenty of sunshine, and blooming flowers. The state springs to life with wildflowers in bloom, festivals, and beautiful landscapes, all under the milder temperatures and smaller crowds typical of the fall. California has something for everyone, from nature lovers to foodies to culture enthusiasts. This list, which includes the best places to visit in March 2025, has been updated by the publication and includes recent updates to help you with your travel plans.
1. Yosemite National Park
March is a great time to visit Yosemite, California. Snow is melting fuels world-famous waterfalls like Yosemite Falls and Bridal Veil Falls. The iconic granite cliffs in the park — like El Capitan and Half Dome — take on an even more dramatic aspect when you’re seeing them through the lens of spring greenery.
What to Do: Hike the Mist Trail to view stunning waterfalls, explore the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias, or tour the park on a scenic drive.
Tip: March is less crowded than the summer but weekends are still busy. Get there early, so you can park and miss the rush.
2. Death Valley National Park
The best time to visit Death Valley is in March when the temperatures are moderate and enjoyable compared to the extreme summer heat. The park’s unique landscapes — like Badwater Basin (the lowest point in North America) and the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes — are a photographer’s paradise.
What to do: Take a drive through Artist’s Palette, hike the Golden Canyon Trail, or explore at night in one of the park’s designated dark sky areas.
Pro Tip: In March, don’t miss the wildflower bloom at its peak. The fields of desert gold, poppies, and lupines turn the dry region into a vivid fairground.
3. San Francisco
San Francisco is diverse and has something for everyone! March offers less frequent visits from the city’s famed fog and is a great time to explore its iconic landmarks and neighborhoods.
What to Do: Walk the Golden Gate Bridge, visit Alcatraz Island, or check out Fisherman’s Wharf. Catch a ride on a historic cable car, and don’t miss the bustling Chinatown.
Pro Tip: In addition, March is an exciting time to catch the San Francisco International Film Festival, which features independent films from all over the world.
4. Joshua Tree National Park
There’s Joshua Tree in California, a desert paradise of name-sake trees and other-worldly rock formations. The weather is perfect for hiking, rock climbing, and camping in March.
What to Do: Hike the Hidden Valley Trail, climb Ryan Mountain or drive through the park’s scenic roads. At night, curl up under some of the best stargazing in the country.
Pro Tip: Joshua Tree is wildflower season in March. Search for blossoms along the park’s roads and trails.
5. Napa Valley
Napa Valley is renowned for its world-class wineries, and March is an ideal time to visit before the summer crowds flock. The vineyards are verdant and many of the wineries offer special tastings and tours.
What to Do: Visit wineries like Domaine Carneros or Castello di Amorosa; take a hot air balloon ride over the valley; dine at one of the region’s Michelin-starred restaurants.
Pro Tip: Don’t miss the Napa Valley Mustard Festival’s two weekends in late January and early February, celebrating the region’s mustard blooms with food, wine, and art-related events.
6. Los Angeles
LA, California is full of opportunities from the sun up to the beach down to its museums and entertainment options galore. In March, the weather is ideal for visiting the outdoorsy attractions the city has to offer.
What to Do: Go to the Getty Center, hike to the Hollywood Sign, or lounge at Santa Monica Beach. For film enthusiasts: the studio tour at Warner Bros. or Universal Studios is a must-have.
Pro Tip: You should feel free to tape March! Search online for tickets and availability.
7. Big Sur
Big Sur is one of California’s most picturesque spots, with a rugged coastline, towering redwoods, and plunging cliffs. In March, the area is a lush green, making it the perfect time for outdoor adventures.
What to Do: Cruise the Pacific Coast Highway, hike in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, or see McWay Falls, an 80-foot waterfall that drops to the beach.
Pro Tip: For a memorable meal along the way, stop at Nepenthe, a cliffside restaurant with breathtaking ocean views.
8. Lake Tahoe
No matter the season, Lake Tahoe is a year-round destination, and March is ideal for getting in some last-minute winter sports and coming attractions in early spring. The snow is still excellent for skiing and snowboarding, but you can also partake in hiking and biking at lower elevations.
What to Do: Hit the slopes at Palisades Tahoe or Heavenly Mountain Resort, or enjoy a scenic cruise of the lake.
Pro Tip: March is one of the snowiest months in Tahoe, so if you’re visiting the higher elevations, be ready for winter weather.
9. San Diego
With its mild climate, San Diego is a great destination year-round, though March is particularly nice in California. The city’s beaches, parks, and attractions are less congested, and the weather is ideal for spending time outside.
What to Do: Go to the San Diego Zoo or Balboa Park, or hang out at La Jolla Cove. Watch the gray whale migration, which peaks in March.
Pro Tip: San Diego Beer Week, which celebrates the city’s booming craft beer scene, has events scheduled throughout the week.
10. Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara, which calls itself the “American Riviera,” is a picturesque coastal city featuring Spanish-style architecture, stunning beaches, and a flourishing food and wine culture.
What to Do: Walk Stearns Wharf, visit the Santa Barbara Mission, or take in the Funk Zone, a cool area with art galleries, wine-tasting rooms, and restaurants.
Pro Tip: Movie fans can visit during March for the Santa Barbara International Film Festival, which draws filmmakers and celebrities from around the world.
11. Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea
Monterey and Carmel are among California’s most beautiful coastal towns. In March, nice weather and fewer crowds with great ocean views await you.
What to Do: Check out the Monterey Bay Aquarium, drive along the 17-mile Drive, or hike in the Point Lobos State Natural Reserve.
