10 Places To See In California In 2022: Photo Gallery

CALIFORNIA — From the sparkling blue waters of San Diego to the Siskiyou Mountains stretching into Oregon, California is a vast state where one might drive past dense forests, breathtaking desert sunsets and stunning seascapes all in a matter of hours.

You could spend a lifetime in California and still not see all that the Golden State has to offer, whether you're intrigued by glitzy Hollywood backlots or a tranquil day on the lake, soaking in the state's rugged natural beauty.

Think you've seen it all? Here are 10 California bucket list destinations worth a visit in 2022.

1. Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, Monterey County

This Central Coast gem is known as the crown jewel of the state parks system for a reason. Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is situated at the northern end of the jaw-dropping stretch of California coastline known as Big Sur. It's a short drive from Monterey, the state's first city.

The reserve boasts cypress forests, panoramic Pacific views, a pristine white beach and several miles of waterfront trails. Wildlife lovers might spot harbor seals, turkey vultures, sea otters or even a whale or two.

2. Hollywood Sign Hikes, Los Angeles County

Los Angeles is the backdrop for TV shows and films that entertain the world, and perhaps no symbol is more emblematic of the city's entertainment industry than the Hollywood sign.

The sign — spelled "Hollywoodland" when it was erected in 1923 as a marketing ploy for a housing development of that name — quickly became a landmark in the City of Angels. It was rebuilt to remain on the hillside for posterity in 1978, thanks to the generosity of stars such as Hugh Hefner, Fleetwood Mac, Alice Cooper, Gene Autry and Andy Williams, according to the Hollywood Sign Trust.

The letters themselves remain off-limits to the public, but anyone is welcome to hike to the sign to take in the history and, of course, snap selfies. There are three trails for hikers of various skill levels.

It's worth bringing a paper map or one on your cell phone. You wouldn't be the first to get lost along the way.

3. Point Reyes, Marin County

Just north of San Francisco sits the Point Reyes National Seashore, home to 1,500 species of flora and fauna and an iconic lighthouse that stands out from the rugged coastline.

The Point Reyes Lighthouse visitor center remains closed amid the pandemic, but guests can descend 900 feet down 313 steps to reach the lighthouse itself, according to the National Park Service. The observation deck remains open.

While you're at it, why not enjoy a drive up the picturesque coastline of Marin and Sonoma counties? Numerous lookout points and charming oyster shacks abound to stop at for a quick bite.

4. Big Bear Lake, San Bernardino County

Big Bear Lake has long been a favorite weekend getaway for Los Angeles area residents in search of smog-free mountain air.

The lake, which boasts 22 miles of shoreline, is a popular warm-weather attraction for kayakers, boaters, fishers and paddleboarders alike. Caravan into the San Bernardino Mountains during the winter to enjoy a ski getaway, with more than 1,000 skiable acres, according to the local tourism marketing agency.

5. Joshua Tree National Park, Riverside And San Bernardino Counties

Joshua Tree National Park is a pet-friendly SoCal gem that offers much for the outdoorsman, photographer or traveler looking for a quiet, scenic getaway on its 800,000 acres, according to the National Park Service.

The park is home to dozens of trails at all skill levels and plenty of options for campers or rock climbers.

The park is named after the many Joshua trees that speckle its landscape. Look for the "twisted, spiky trees straight out of a Dr. Seuss book," and you'll know you've come to the right place, the National Park Service said.

6. California State Capitol, Sacramento County

If you've never had a chance to marvel at the intricate California State Capitol building, you're missing out. The California State Capitol has housed the legislature since 1869 and underwent a major six-year restoration effort that began in 1975, according to the Capitol Museum.

The Capitol does not offer tours during the pandemic, but guests can still see democracy in action or meander through the halls and well-manicured Capitol Garden. The garden includes a Civil War Memorial Grove dating back to 1897, as well as a California Veterans Memorial and a California Vietnam Veterans Memorial, which pays tribute to Californians killed or missing in action in that war.

The Capitol is steps away from endless food and drink options in Sacramento's vibrant downtown.

7. San Diego Zoo Safari Park, San Diego County

On the opposite end of the state, the San Diego Zoo Safari Park offers family-friendly fun.

Drive through a savanna habitat home to giraffes, cheetahs, rhinoceroses and elephants in an open-air safari truck, hot air balloon or tram. Say "hi" to tigers, peacocks, kangaroos and rainbow lorikeets.

Exhausted from a long day of adventuring? Give your tired feet a break and sit down for a bite at one of the many eateries on the property, including the Barking Deer Pizza and Beer shack, with Neapolitan-style pizza and craft beer for the grown-ups.

8. Golden Gate Park, San Francisco

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9. Laguna Beach, Orange County

This charming Southern California coastal town offers gorgeous views, towering bluffs, art galleries, peeks at marine wildlife, and scenic hiking and biking trails that offer glimpses of some of the city's 20,000 acres of protected landscape. It's a great spot for watersports or lounging on pristine beaches.

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Laguna Beach is a year-round vacation destination that's sure to please, whether you're looking for a glitzy resort and shopping vacation or a quick family-friendly day trip from Los Angeles or San Diego.

10. Castle Rock State Park, Santa Clara County

Castle Rock State Park offers lush, panoramic views of the Santa Cruz Mountains that are hard to beat. Located just outside of Silicon Valley, the park has minimal cell reception and is the perfect way to unplug from the everyday.

The park is a popular spot for hikers, rock climbers and photographers. There are 34 miles of trails that wind past a waterfall, caverns, boulders, California black oaks and other delights for nature-lovers.