7 Awe-Inspiring Places to Visit in Southern California

Salinas, Calif. – Salinas is definitely not a location for the Disney Land crowd. However, it is beautiful as well as awe inspiring. If you think the location sounds familiar, then you are probably a Steinbeck fan. Salinas houses the National Steinbeck Center, which is a museum dedicated to famed American author John Steinbeck. In fact, when you stroll around the beautiful town square you’re stepping into a piece of Americana. This is the perfect stopping point to visit in Southern California if you’re an American literature fan.

San Marcos Pass, Calif. – San Marcos Pass is located in Santa Barbara County. This special little spot holds the attention of many Wild West fans. You may know why, but if you don’t, you should still visit this amazing home to The Cold Spring Tavern. The tavern was a stop on the stagecoach trail during the days of the Wild West. With food, acoustic music, a rustic bar to relax and enjoy, and a huge natural stone fireplace, you’re bound to enjoy an end of day dinner with all the sights and sounds of the old west.

San Juan Capistrano, Calif. – Get ready to build your home away from home in San Juan Capistrano. This southern California gem brings the hikers, backpackers, and campers from all over. The Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park is 8,000 acres of scattered beauty that allows for some of the most gorgeous Ranger-guided nature walks. This park also allows for you and your family to spend the night among the stars, wilderness and Sycamores. Don’t forget to bring along the family horse and trek along their equestrian trails.

Joshua Tree National Park, Calif. – A trip to amazing locations in Southern California would be nothing without the mention of Joshua Tree. It’s one of the most well-known national parks and holds the most sentiment for many people. Located in Hidden Valley this park is a recreation lover’s dream. With a number of surrounding campgrounds, low vehicle fee, and daytime or nighttime activities, you’ll find a special place in your heart for Joshua Tree as well.

The Sea Ranch, Calif. – Sea Ranch began its existence in Utopian cultures during 1965. Located in Sonoma County, this location offers a natural accommodation during your travels that’s not offered in many other locations. There are homes built by some of the best-known architects and designers in the world; a 20-room natural hotel and lodge, an amazing chapel for weddings, and best of all no enclosures. That’s right, the Sea Ranch restricts fences or enclosures of any kind. If you want natural beauty as well as artistic beauty in your location’s choices, this is the place to visit.

Big Sur, Calif. – Big Sur, located in Monterey County, is home to The Baths of Esalen. This is a location that’s well loved by such names as Joan Baez, Ansel Adams, and the late Hunter S. Thompson. These baths are open to a clothing optional experience and built into the side of cliffs. This is a prime location for meditation, a refreshing retreats, and a couple’s getaway that’ll take your breath away. Massages begin at $125 for 75 minutes of luxurious pampering. Reservations are taken at any time and scheduled between 1 a.m. and 3 a.m., so you can enjoy the full effect of beauty this spot has to offer.

Kings Canyon National Park, Calif. – Kings Canyon is one of the top national parks in the country. It also houses the famous General Grant Tree. This may sound like a minor location, but it holds a special spot in the state’s heart and a special spot in presidential history. It also helps that the tree is 2,000 years old. There’s an annual trek to the tree held to honor the tree and its place in history. If you’re going to visit, that’s the perfect time to make arrangements. Remember, it’s the second Sunday in December every year, so make your plans accordingly.