Top 10 Best Experiences

Discover California's most unforgettable tours and must-try experiences that make California truly golden

Ryan & Katy Smilko

Ryan & Katy Smilko

California, United States

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TOP 10 BEST EXPERIENCES

Planning your California adventure? From soaring above Napa Valley in a hot air balloon to spotting majestic whales along the coast, the Golden State is packed with experiences that will take your breath away. Whether it’s a guided wine-tasting tour, hiking through ancient redwoods, kayaking in crystal-clear waters, or immersing yourself in vibrant city life, California offers something unforgettable for every traveler. In this guide, we’ll showcase the top tours and activities to help you make the most of your trip and create memories you’ll cherish forever.

OUR FAVORITE AND TOP 10 CALIFORNIA EXPERIENCES

(Click on each one to see additional details and information)

  1. Napa Hot Air Balloon Tour - Napa

  2. Coastal Expeditions Whale Watching - Oceanside

  3. Golden Gate Bridge Cruise - San Francisco

  4. Sri Surabhi Go Ksetra Cow Cuddling - Dublin

  5. iFly Indoor Skydiving - Oceanside

  6. Skunk Train - Fort Bragg

  7. Estero E-Boats - Morro Bay

  8. River Fox Train - Sacramento

  9. Discovery Bay Whale Watching - Monterey

  10. Alcatraz Tour - San Francisco

HOW WE PICKED THESE EXPERIENCES

Tours and curated experiences offer a unique and immersive way to explore California, allowing you to go beyond the surface and truly connect with the state’s diverse landscapes, cultures, and communities. With a guided tour, you gain insider knowledge from local experts who know the best-kept secrets, hidden gems, and fascinating stories that might otherwise go unnoticed. Whether it’s a scenic whale-watching cruise led by marine biologists, a hot air balloon ride with panoramic views of Napa Valley, or a historical walking tour at Alcatraz Prison, these experiences let you engage with California on a deeper level. And these top 10 offer a variety of experiences, whether you're looking for something on land, sea or the air!

OTHER OPTIONS

Want to do as many tours or experiences as you can? Or maybe just want to have more options? No worries! We've got nearly 20 different options in our guide that are scattered all over the state. So make sure to take a look!

Have questions about any of these? Let us know!

Looking for things to do?

Go check out my guide for the best free things to do as well as itineraries and travel tips to make your trip unforgettable.

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