Top Things to do in California
The 10 Best Bodies of Water in California, United States
California is a fertile, peaceful place where you’ll find a near-equal balance of vineyards and deserts, beaches and mountains, hippies and traditionalists. Catch an epic wave in Big Sur or swirl a glass in Napa Valley. Be dazzled by the Joshua Tree night sky or just star-gaze in Hollywood. Swish down the slopes of a Tahoe ski resort, or cruise across the Golden Gate Bridge with the top down and the music blasting. Above all, don’t forget to soak up some Golden State sunshine.
Restaurants in California
1. Mendocino Coast
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 756 reviews
A scenic drive along California's Pacific coastline offering beaches, historic lighthouses and old-time fishing villages.
Reviewed By Martysfo - San Rafael, United States
Great cliffs, fog and quiet mark this coast. It is cold and chilly, even in August. Yet it is a must see so one can step back in time to how California used to be. A bonus is the trip up through the Anderson Valley Wine Region on the way to the coast from the Bay Area.
2. Eagle Lake
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 42 reviews
Nevada lake named for its large amount of eagles.
Reviewed By 116lynnej - Vancouver, Canada
Totally credit a blogger I read who said get there by 9 AM - we drive back about noon past miles and miles of bumper to bumper cars. I’m not fit and have chronic headaches so I found the grade a bit tough a couple times but with good shoes and a few rests - we all made it. Fill out the permit at the base of the walk - there was no cost but there is a point past the falls that you are required to have it. The lake is well worth the effort and we walked around to the backside of the lake and enjoyed a spectacular view.
3. Emerald Bay State Park
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 883 reviews
This spectacular bay in Lake Tahoe is best approached by hiking trails.
Reviewed By Alacrout - Los Angeles, United States
You really can’t go wrong with any part of Lake Tahoe, as the whole thing is surrounded by stunning mountain views. The views can get a little hazy during bad fire seasons, but still a beautiful area. Hard to pick a definitive “best” part of the Lake, but Emerald Bay is certainly up there as one of the best parts. The color of the water lives up to the name of “Emerald.” In the middle of the Bay, there’s a cute little island that is the ONLY island in Lake Tahoe. You can kayak, canoe, or boat to the island (NOT swim) and see the ruins of “Tea House,” where a quirky captain lived in the 1800s. Inspiration Point is a necessary stop on your way through the park—it gives you one of the best views of the entire Bay. Be sure to check out Vikingsholm too! :)
4. Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 228 reviews
A number of areas for visitors along Lake Tahoe, with the most popular being Sand Harbor.
Reviewed By G2055DWpatriciah - Denver, United States
We planned the tour at the beginning of our trip so we would have an idea of where we might want to return. The tour was more fun and informative than we ever imagined. It was literally one of the best parts of our trip! Jim was an amazing guide.
5. Big Bear Lake
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 660 reviews
Reviewed By harnhnv - Pasadena, United States
A great getaway for Angelinos to be in the mountains and at the same time with a big body of water to enjoy. the lake itself is great for water activities in the summer, and the road around makes a nice biking/running route as well. highly recommended.
6. Mono Lake
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 822 reviews
Reviewed By Wildwoodatheart - Santa Rosa, United States
FINALLY. We visited Mono Lake! We went to the South Tufas and walked the trail. It was fascinating and beautiful. The walking is easy, so this is good for kids or people who might need a non-strenuous trail. They accept your National Park pass for parking. We did not go in the lake, as we did not have the proper shoes with us. You need some type of water shoe to protect your feet. We saw kayaking groups. That would be fun! I'm not sure if all the lake is accessibly anymore, as there was a fire near this area recently. But I would LOVE to visit again.
7. Lake Berryessa
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 46 reviews
Lake Berryessa is one of Northern California's largest man-made lakes, with 20,000 surface acres and 165 miles of shoreline.
Reviewed By northstatecurators - Maidstone, United Kingdom
It’s become a custom, almost a ritual, to buy breakfast from somewhere in Yountville or St Helena and drive to the lake to eat it whilst gazing over the water to the tree covered hills in the distance. Lake Berryessa is about 30 mins from St Helena on a really scenic route. We arrive around 9 a.m. and there was not another single person in sight to interrupt the glory of mother nature. It is truly stunning, especially as the weather was clear, the sky bright blue, though it was quite cold. If you are minded for something more to eat or intend staying all day, there are picnic facilities. The layout of the roads through the shoreline have recently been improved and make driving through a breeze, though it always was! Well worth the short drive.
8. Monterey Bay
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2,791 reviews
Reviewed By V236FJrobertn - Monterey, United States
The Central Coast's Monterey Bay is one of the most attractive and interesting places in the country. Beautiful Pacific Coast scenery, and lots to do along the coast, from numerous beach walks, to whale watching on boats out of Monterey, Moss Landing and Santa Cruz, and of course, a number of fine surfing spots.
9. Lake Tahoe
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 672 reviews
This spectacularly beautiful resort lake, with over 70 miles of shoreline, offers two "faces:" family-style on the California side and high-rise casinos on Nevada's side.
Reviewed By ppark0927 - Williamsburg, United States
We had been taking hikes everyday and decided to rest by taking a drive around the lake. I generally just stay in Incline Village and always thought the lake was the same all around. It looks very different as you travel around it. If you have at least half a day this is a great way to spend it.
10. Badwater
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2,980 reviews
Located in Death Valley, this small salt pond is more than 280 feet below sea level, making it the lowest point in North America.
Reviewed By Baywalk827 - Hayward, United States
It is totally cool to be 282 feet below sea level surrounded by salt that looks like snow! Enjoy a hike out and marvel at the earth's processes and vastness of the valley. Visiting during cooler season recommended.
