California is a dream destination with its mix of golden beaches, national parks, vibrant cities, and scenic drives. Whether you’re an adventurer, a road tripper, or a family traveler, there’s something here for you.
This updated 2025 California travel guide highlights the 15 best things to do in California. And remember the easiest way to explore them all is by car. With 24seven Rent A Car, you can rent an affordable, luxury, or family-friendly vehicle to travel at your own pace.
1. Explore Yosemite National Park & Sentinel Fal
Yosemite is a natural wonderland filled with granite cliffs, giant sequoias, and waterfalls. While Yosemite Falls steals the spotlight, Sentinel Fall offers an equally stunning yet peaceful experience, cascading almost 2,000 feet from Sentinel Rock.
Best time: Spring (April–June), when snowmelt powers the waterfalls.
Yosemite is best explored by car. Rent with 24seven Rent A Car in Los Angeles for a scenic road trip through California’s central valley.
Read More: Sentinel Fall Yosemite Guide
2. Drive the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH)
The Pacific Coast Highway is the most iconic road trip in California. Stretching over 600 miles, it passes dramatic cliffs, hidden beaches, and charming towns like Monterey, Carmel, and Santa Barbara.
Highlights include Big Sur, Bixby Creek Bridge, and the stunning sunsets over the Pacific Ocean.
For the ultimate experience, cruise in a convertible rental from 24seven Rent A Car and feel the ocean breeze on your face.
3. Discover Los Angeles (Hollywood, Griffith Observatory & Santa Monica)
Los Angeles is the entertainment capital of the world. Stroll the Hollywood Walk of Fame, hike to the Hollywood Sign, or take in panoramic city views from the Griffith Observatory. Families love Santa Monica Pier and Venice Beach, while shoppers head to Rodeo Drive.
LA is best navigated by car book a Los Angeles rental car with 24seven Rent A Car and explore the city with ease.
Related: Luxury Car Rental Los Angeles
4. Golden Gate Bridge & San Francisco Adventures
San Francisco is a city of rolling hills and colorful character. Walk or bike across the Golden Gate Bridge, explore Alcatraz Island, and ride the city’s famous cable cars. Fisherman’s Wharf offers fresh seafood and street performers.
Beyond the city, a rental car makes it easy to visit Napa Valley wineries or the towering redwoods at Muir Woods.
5. Wine Tasting in Napa Valley
Napa Valley and neighboring Sonoma County are the heart of California’s wine country. With hundreds of vineyards, Michelin-starred restaurants, and scenic drives, this is a must for wine lovers.
Make it special by renting a luxury car with 24seven Rent A Car for a stylish trip through California’s vineyards.
6. Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks
Home to the world’s largest trees, these parks are awe-inspiring. The General Sherman Tree is the largest living tree on Earth, while Moro Rock provides panoramic views after a short climb.
Roads here are steep and winding, making an SUV rental a great choice for comfort and safety.
7. Relax at Lake Tahoe
Straddling California and Nevada, Lake Tahoe is a year-round paradise. In winter, it’s famous for skiing and snowboarding. In summer, it transforms into a hub for swimming, kayaking, hiking, and lakeside relaxation.
A rental car allows you to explore both the north and south shores, each offering a unique Tahoe experience.
8. Visit San Diego (Zoo, Balboa Park, La Jolla)
San Diego is California’s laid-back coastal gem. The San Diego Zoo is one of the best in the world, while Balboa Park blends culture, gardens, and museums. Head to La Jolla Cove to see sea lions basking on the rocks.
With a rental car, you can also explore Coronado Island or take a scenic coastal drive toward Mexico.
9. Disneyland Resort (Anaheim)
The “Happiest Place on Earth,” Disneyland Resort, continues to delight families from around the world. With two parks (Disneyland and California Adventure), there are endless rides, parades, and entertainment.
Combine your Disney trip with a road trip to LA beaches or San Diego using your 24seven Rent A Car rental.
10. Death Valley National Park
A land of extremes, Death Valley is both the hottest and driest place in North America. See the salt flats at Badwater Basin, colorful canyons at Artist’s Palette, and golden sand dunes.
With little public transportation, a rental car is the only way to truly explore this otherworldly park.
11. Big Sur & Bixby Creek Bridge
Known for its rugged cliffs and breathtaking ocean views, Big Sur is one of the most photographed regions in California. Bixby Creek Bridge is a highlight, often featured in movies and travel magazines.
Driving this stretch of Highway 1 in a convertible rental car is a bucket-list experience.
12. Ski at Mammoth Lakes or Big Bear
Winter sports lovers can head to Mammoth Lakes in Northern California or Big Bear Lake just outside Los Angeles. Both offer skiing, snowboarding, and cozy mountain towns.
Rent a 4×4 SUV from 24seven Rent A Car for safe and comfortable mountain driving.
13. Tour Silicon Valley
Tech enthusiasts will enjoy exploring Silicon Valley, home to giants like Google, Apple, and Facebook. Visit the Computer History Museum, take a stroll through Stanford University, or explore quirky towns like Palo Alto.
Driving between campuses and museums is easiest with a rental car.
14. Joshua Tree National Park
A surreal desert escape, Joshua Tree is known for its spiky Joshua trees, unique rock formations, and stargazing opportunities. It’s a haven for hikers, climbers, and photographers.
Located about 2.5 hours from Los Angeles, a rental car is the perfect way to reach this desert wonderland.
15. Santa Barbara & Malibu
Finish your California adventure with the Mediterranean charm of Santa Barbara and the laid-back luxury of Malibu. Enjoy wine tasting, oceanfront dining, surfing, and celebrity spotting.
A scenic coastal drive here is a must. Rent a car from 24seven Rent A Car West Hollywood and head straight to the coast.
Why Rent a Car in California?
California’s beauty lies in its diversity and many of its best attractions are spread out. Public transportation is limited outside major cities.
With 24seven Rent A Car, you get:
- Affordable rentals for budget trips
- Luxury cars for stylish drives
- SUVs for family and adventure travel
- Convenient pick-up in Los Angeles & West Hollywood
Book Your Car Rental in Los Angeles Now
Final Thoughts
From waterfalls and wine country to beaches and bustling cities, California in 2025 has endless adventures waiting. The best way to experience them all is behind the wheel.
With 24seven Rent A Car, your California journey becomes stress-free, affordable, and unforgettable. Whether it’s a weekend escape or a full road trip, your adventure starts here.