23 Hidden Gems in CALIFORNIA (Exciting, Scenic, & Unique)

When you think of California, your mind conjures up the image of the bright lights of Hollywood, the beautiful Golden Gate Bridge, or the crystal clear water along the coast.

The Golden State boasts of much more than that, a wealth of hidden places that many visitors overlook and others are glad to have discovered.

From charming small towns to the beautiful landscapes of nature preserves, California is full of surprises to uncover.

Whether you love nature, history, or food, these hidden gems will impress and leave you with lasting memories.

So why not step off the tourist trail and explore some of California’s lesser-known treasures?

You might find that some of the most unforgettable experiences are waiting where you least expect them.

And by the way, you may also want to check out the Grandest Castles in California.

Hidden Gems in Southern California

1. Treasure Island Park Laguna Beach (Unrivaled Ocean Views)

Treasure Island Park presents some of the most beautiful views in Southern California.

The park is known for its towering trees and beautiful plants and flowers.

Not only would it be a good place for a hike, the towering trees, and fragrant flowers present a beautiful picnic ground.

You experience a feeling of euphoria when you see the many wonders that this park has to offer.

Apart from sightseeing, you can also pack up your beach bag and swimsuits for a day of lounging at the beach.

Treasure Island Park runs along the Pacific Ocean and has an unrivaled view of crystal-clear water.

There is no better way to top off your visit to the park than a splash at the beach.

The cool water of the ocean feels like silk on your body and provides relief from the glaring sun.

Locals say this is one of the best places to visit during the summer.

Be sure to visit Treasure Island Park whenever you are in Southern California.

Address: 30799 Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach, CA 92651, United States

2. The Ojai Valley (Breathtaking Sunset Spot)

Ojai Valley is one of the marvelous secrets in California that you should explore.

It is a small town offering some of the most breathtaking views and experiences that will make you tingle.

Ojai Valley is within Southern California and creates an uncommon but beautiful sunset that the locals would like to keep to themselves.

Many people say that a view of the sunset in Ojai Valley should be one of the eight wonders of the world.

The brilliant sunset over the ocean around reflects on the surrounding hills and creates a mix of colors.

Ojai Valley has been a common destination for many individuals who want to relax, meditate, and rejuvenate.

It evokes in you a deep appreciation for the mature.

You can decide to camp or go hiking.

There are also several waterfalls and hot springs for you to soak in.

You will not have a moment of boredom in Ojai Valley, be sure to check it out.

Address: Ojai Valley, Ojai, CA 93023, United States

3. Point Dume Nature Preserve (Panoramic Coastal Vistas)

Point Dume Beach has one of the best views in California.

You can see from one point on the coast to another, especially if the sun shines bright.

Point Dume stretches over a vast expanse of land and has several trails that hikers can explore.

The trails weave through the area and lead you to scenic beach views.

Frequent beachgoers have said that climbing the top of the jutting rocks of Point Dume allows you to see the beautiful coastline as far as you can.

The area is peaceful and allows you to enjoy and bask in the beauty of nature before you.

You can plan a day trip to Point Dume Beach.

Summer is the best season to visit this beautiful beach.

Address: 27807 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, CA 90265, USA     

4. Motte Historical Car Museum (Antique Luxury Car Showcase)

Motte Historical Car Museum is a dream come true for every fan of old-model luxury cars.

The brothers used recycled materials to build the facility housing these cars.

There are so many antique cars in this museum, some of which are one of a kind.

People who visit the museum get to see the beauty of the bygone car era.

They make you wish all cars still look like this.

This museum started as a venture to revamp vintage cars and restore them to their past glory.

Some of these cars are the most expensive cars in existence right now.

The cars probably conjure up an image of you riding down a scenic highway with the wind in your hair and the sun on your skin.

At that moment, you do not mind doing whatever it takes to own one.

Sadly, none of the cars at the museum are for sale.

If they were: none would be left in the museum because those cars are every collector’s dream.

You can make a day trip to the Motte Museum: it is close to the wine country, and you can take a wine-tasting detour.

Address: 28380 CA-74, Sun City, CA 92585, United States

5. Sherman Library & Gardens (Enchanting Floral Oasis)

Sherman Garden is a hidden gem in Southern California.

It is a garden of flowers and different plant species flown in from across the globe.

The garden started as a pastime.

Different plants were added over time until it became the majestic garden that it is now.

Sherman Garden allows you to walk through fragrant flowers and towering trees that form a natural canopy against the blazing sun.

It is in a region where the weather fosters the growth of plants, trees, and flowers.

Plants in the garden include beautiful lavender flowers, butterfly bushes, sage, rosemary, and lilies.

The gardener nurtures a beautiful garden of as many times of roses as you can think of.

It feels like you are in a fairytale.

Peace and tranquility are two words that describe the aura of Sherman Gardens.

It is a place for putting away your cares and worries and enjoying the effortless beauty of nature.

After you might have taken a refreshing walk, you can have a picnic in the middle of the garden.

Address: 2647 East Coast Hwy, Corona Del Mar, CA 92625, United States

Also see our article on Planetariums in California.

Hidden Gems in Northern California

1. Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest (Survivor Trees of Nature)

Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest is home to some of the longest surviving trees in the world.

These trees are a testament to the many wonders of nature.

They physically embody the saying, ‘What does not kill you makes you stronger.’

Bristlecone Pine is constantly pummeled and tossed about by the winds: rather than go down as other trees would they take on marvelously twisted shapes.

Each tree in the Bristlecone Pine forest is different from the next.

The beautiful thing is that they all seem to look to the sky.

These trees outlive generations of people and are silent witnesses of times past.

People say the forest was home to a tribe of red Indians who hunted animals and gathered food.

There are speculations that several ancient tribes have worshipped these trees in times past.

They believed that the spirits of their ancestors resided in the trees and gave them unique shapes.

Today, the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest is a preserve used mainly for sightseeing and scientific research.

Address: White Mountain Rd, Bishop, CA 93514, United States

2. Safari West African Wildlife Preserve (African Safari Adventure)

Safari West African Wildlife Preserve takes you on an authentic African expedition without leaving the Golden State.

You can enjoy the pleasures of seeing beautiful native African animals without the possibility of being eaten by them.

Guests can take tours in Safari trucks and explore the expanse of the preserve.

While on the tour, you will see wild animals like tigers, zebras, lions, and giraffes.

All animals are kept in cages to ensure safety: unlike in Africa, where the tour is through animal habitats.

As interesting as it sounds, there have been several reports of casualties.

After the Safari truck ride, you will take another tour through birdhouses- you will see several bird species.

Guests can visit Safari West for the day and have an overnight camping adventure.

There is no better feeling than sleeping under the stars.

Address: 3115 Porter Creek Rd, Santa Rosa, CA 95404, United States

3. Turtle Bay Exploration Park (Nature Sanctuary in Redding)

Do you live in Redding or plan to visit the stunning city?

If you are, you should visit the beautiful sanctuary- Turtle Bay Park.

Not many people know about this secret paradise.

It is an enchanting park that provides an escape into nature.

You can stroll among the diverse plants and flowers in the park.

Turtle Bay Park is a favorite of many nature enthusiasts because it evokes a deep appreciation for nature.

Some people say no nature park in the area comes close to the beauty of Turtle Bay Park.

Others say a visit to the park soothes and brings them peace.

There is no better way to soap up the aura of the park than to have a picnic on the grounds.

Sundial Bridge would be a marvelous sight to see while you picnic.

Before you leave, take a walk on this beautiful bridge with your family or loved ones.

Address: 844 Sundial Bridge Drive, Redding, CA 96003, United States

4. Pinnacles National Park (Unique Rock Formations)

Pinnacles National Park is one of the Golden State’s most beautiful rock parks.

Many people prefer to go to parks with big names, and although it is one of the least visited parks, it is no less a sight to see.

If you are a thrill seeker or an adventurer, this is one park you should try.

Pinnacles National Park has unusual yet beautiful boulders and rocks.

If you go along with your child, you can play a fun game of guessing what the rocks look like.

Adventurers visit the park to try to uncover all the secret caverns of this park- an unsuccessful feat so far.

You can hike through the park to see the whole expanse of the rocks.

Several hiking trails weave through the park.

Visitors are encouraged to go on hikes in the morning when the weather is best.

Address: East entrance off of Highway 25 from Hollister, CA 95043, United States

5. Ferndale (19th Century Time Capsule)

If you would like to experience how it felt to live in the 19th century, you should schedule a trip to Ferndale.

It is one of the most beautiful antique cities in California.

Not only would it be a good sightseeing option for history enthusiasts and travelers: it would be for everyone to see and have firsthand experiences of the culture of a bygone era.

This town is a testament to the passage of time; although the world and other cities surrounding it change, Ferndale remains the same.

The middle lane of the charming town is the most scenic part of the town; beautiful houses run down both sides.

Many of the houses that adorn the town were built as far back as the second half of the 19th century.

These sturdy houses are still standing over a hundred years later.

Address: Ferndale, Humboldt County, California 95536, United States

Also see our article on Safari in California.

Hidden Gems in Central California

1. Forestiere Underground Garden (Innovative Underground Home)

There is a common belief that the heat felt on the Earth’s surface is probably a million times less than the heat under.

Many believe the soil traps the heat and would likely feel like a hot oven.

Well, a man named Forestiere did not share these beliefs.

Forestiere felt the California weather was so hot that he would rather live underground.

This innovative man successfully carved out a home for himself and his family.

And as you probably guessed, the underground home was several degrees cooler than the surface!

It was so conducive that several generations lived in the underground home for years.

Trees and plants were part of the action; several took root and blossomed from below the Earth’s surface.

You can see the leaves and branches emerging from round holes in the ground.

Perhaps if people found unconventional solutions to problems as Forestiere did, we would have more remarkable wonders like this.

Address: 5021 W Shaw Ave, Fresno, CA 93722, USA

2. Capitola Village (Charming Italian-Inspired Village)

Capitola Village started as a humble settlement that welcomed travelers to enjoy the scenery of the ocean.

Not long after the first settlers, more and more travelers stopped by and the settlement began to grow.

That was in the 19th century.

Capitola Village today still welcomes travelers and vacationers with open arms, but it has grown beyond the little settlement it once was.

The most striking part about this village is the beautiful brightly colored villas that line the beach.

This brings a little Italian charm to central California.

Most of these beachfront buildings are hotels.

You can lodge in any of them for easier access to the beach.

Although these buildings are historic beachfront hotels, vacationers have commented that their lodging rates are very affordable.

If you want a charming and affordable location for your next vacation, you should consider vacationing in Capitola.

Not only do you get to see the sights, but you also have unlimited access to the beautiful beach.

Address: Capitola, California 95010, United States

Also see our article on Mountains in California.

Hidden Gems in Palm Springs, California

1. Whitewater Preserve (Birdwatcher’s Paradise)

Whitewater preserve is an ideal destination for a day trip if you are ever in Southern California.

The Preserve provides sanctuary to several species of birds, wild animals, and plants, irrespective of the year’s season.

Many endangered animals, particularly birds call this wonderful place home.

Birdwatching clubs and nature lovers have commented that the Whitewater Preserve is one of the best places for you to go birdwatching.

You will be able to see normal interactions between the birds in their ecosystem.

Other wildlife on the Preserve lands include sheep, mountain goats, grizzlies, antelopes, raccoons, and ducks.

There have been occasional sightings of pumas native to the area.

You can hike the trails weaving around the Preserve; this allows you to explore and see its scenic views.

Address: 9160 Whitewater Canyon Rd, Whitewater, CA 92282, United States

2. Tahquitz Canyon (Mythical Canyon with Indian Artifacts)

Tahquitz Canyon is believed to be the home of red Indian tribes.

It spreads across arid land and features large stones, plants, and wild animals.

The Canyon has, in recent times, been developed into a park.

Several ancient artifacts have been found all around the area which points to the fact that several Indian tribes have called it home.

You can see the display of these items at the Tahquitz Canyon tourist center.

Several trails weave through the Canyon and avail visitors the opportunity to scout the grounds and witness the beauty of it all.

You will see different sizes of stones, animals, and if you pay close attention, some Indian markings.

One particular rock along the trails was important to the ancient tribe.

They called it the rock of spirits and believed their souls would disappear if they cross it.

Tahquitz Canyon is a perfect mix of myths and natural beauty, a peaceful getaway for those who love to explore the history of the ancient tribes.

Address: 500 West Mesquite Road, Palm Springs, CA 92016, United States

3. Oasis Dates Gardens (Date Heaven in Palm Springs)

Oasis Dates Gardens is a one-of-a-kind date ranch in Palm Springs.

It is dedicated solely to the growing of organic fruits.

The gardens have so many types of dates, some of which you probably do not even know of.

It is quite literally a date heaven.

The management makes no allowances for visitors to tour the gardens, but the date shop is enough of a tour.

You will see dates of all types, shapes, and sizes.

There are ajwa, sukkari, and medjool dates.

Another highlight of a visit to the garden is their one-of-a-kind date smoothies.

Locals of this area have been making these smoothies for over sixty years.

One thing is common; whether it is 1992 or 2022, people love them.

Some people visit the garden just for a chance to buy a smoothie.

Address: 59-111 Grapefruit Blvd. Thermal, CA 92274, United States

4. Coachella Valley Preserve (Nature Escape Near Thousand Palms)

Coachella Valley Preserve is perfect is one spot you should visit if you decide on a tour through the Thousand Palms area.

The Preserve covers over fifteen thousand acres and allows visitors to see rare and fantastic wildlife.

Some of the wildlife are native to the area.

There are several tree clusters and shade areas that provide relief from the hot sun.

You can take a stroll through the property; this is one sure way to experience the full extent of the beauty of the Valley.

The Preserve has networks of footpaths that point the way for visitors.

Almost thirty paths lead to different habitats and picnic areas.

Coachella Valley Preserve is far from the noise and pollution of major cities, and it helps to experience and appreciate the beautiful vistas to the fullest.

Address: 29200 Thousand Palms Canyon Rd, Thousand Palms, CA 92276, United States

5. Moorten Botanical Gardens (Cactus Paradise)

Moorten Botanical Gardens is a garden dedicated to growing cacti.

The owners were fascinated by the perseverance and strength of the cacti and decided to dedicate a whole garden to this beautiful plant.

Guests can stroll through the garden and appreciate the beauty of the vast and beautiful plant species there.

Moorten Botanical Garden boasts of every specie of cacti that you can imagine; from around the globe.

Many people say that a walk through the garden encourages them to be as strong and resilient as these wonderful plants.

There are several cool and shady spots where you can sit and enjoy the beauty of the plants.

People describe the gardens as a paradise of tranquility that brings you inner peace and warmth.

It also has an aesthetic view for you to take pictures, a real-life postcard.

Address: 1701 S Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92264, United States

Also see our article on Hiking Trails in California.

Hidden Gems in Malibu, California

1. Paradise Cove (Iconic Movie Set Beach)

Do you see beautiful beaches with sparking white sand and crystal-clear water in movies?

Have you ever wondered where these beaches are and why it seems none of the ones you visit look like that?

An end has come to the speculations.

Paradise Cove is one such beach.

It is a beautiful beach on the coast of Malibu- the home of surf.

This beach looks exactly how it is shown in movies.

Yes, ‘how it is shown’ because Paradise Cove has been used as a set for some of the best Hollywood movies.

Not only that; celebrity photographers say it has served as the backdrop of some of their best pictures.

Paradise Cove is perfect for vacationers and locals alike to spend a day close to the water.

The warm white sands entice and draw you in, and crystal clear waters beckon you to take a dip.

Surfers have said the midday waves at Paradise Cove are the best waves to catch.

Some beachgoers have caught glimpses of Hollywood celebrities on vacation near the beach.

If you are lucky you will too and might even get a picture or an autograph.

After swimming, surfing, and sunbathing, you should stop at the beach café before heading home.

Address: 28128 Pacific Coast Hwy (Paradise Cove Road) Malibu, CA 90265, United States

2. Malibu Creek State Park (Nature Exploration Haven)

Malibu Creek State Park is so easily overlooked but has some of the best attractions in Malibu.

The park has acres upon acres of nature waiting to be explored.

Many nature lovers recommend it as a good spot for hikes, scouting, and camping trips,

If you choose to visit, you can explore the lands and discover the wildlife, plants, and history.

The park tries its best to pay respects to the red Indian heritage in the area.

These ancient Indian tribes were primarily hunters; several arrows and tools have been found around the park.

Many of the artifacts are displayed in the park culture center.

Park visitors have said that there is something special about this park: it always seems to have a mild temperature, an obvious contrast to the burning sun overhead!

Address: 1925 Las Virgenes Road, Calabasas, CA 91302, United States

3. Adamson House Museum (Historic Ceramist’s Abode)

Adamson House Museum is one of the earliest and most intricately adorned houses in California.

A family of ceramists owned the house; this is evident in the fact that the house is adorned with lavish tiles.

As one would imagine, it was one of the best houses in the area when it was built.

The house is beautiful, with different plant species like flowers, vibrant green grass, and mature trees surrounding it.

It is a good spot to visit if you want to explore Californian history.

You can kill two birds with one stone on your visit to the Adamson House Museum.

The Malibu Lagoon Museum is opposite this iconic house.

Native Indian artifacts, pictures, and videos that depict Malibu’s colorful history can be found in the museum.

After a tour through the two museums, you can picnic on the Adamson House lawn.

So pack up your picnic basket for a good time.

Address: 23200 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, California, United States

4. Neptune’s Net Seafood (Coastal Dining with Ocean View)

Neptune’s Net is a popular restaurant in Malibu.

It sits across County Line Beach, a perfect location to profit from the beach traffic.

The restaurant has a warm and casual atmosphere; it is a common place for surfers, swimmers, lifeguards, couples, and families dropping by after a day at the beach.

You can choose to have your meals indoors or on the patio that offers you a breathtaking view of the Pacific Ocean.

The food served at Neptune’s Net tastes terrific and is affordable.

They are always open and ready to serve you the best seafood menu along the coast.

Neptune’s Net is always full of visitors; the tables are on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Meals on the menu include fish, shrimp, and clams.

Visitors have given reviews saying they had the best clam chowder ever at Neptune’s Net.

Address: 42505 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, California, United States

Also see our article on Fishing Lakes in California.

Hidden Gems in San Diego, California

1. Sunny Jim Cave (Historical Seaside Cave)

Sunny Jim Cave is one of the beautiful caves by the sea in La Jolla.

A man of German origin had the idea to excavate the cave and charge visitors for the privilege to see it.

He hired two workers to help him bring his idea to reality.

They dug out the cave without the use of tractors or machines.

A seemingly impossible task.

It took them a few years to dig out of the cave.

After the excavations, guests accessed the cave with ropes tied around their waists.

The town built stairs a few years later for easier access.

This cave remained nameless for a while before the locals named it Sunny Jim.

You would think the name is that of someone who lived in the area or a prominent figure.

It is not the case.

The name was inspired by the shape created by the excavations.

Locals said it looked like the head of a cartoon on a British meal box of the same name.

And so people began to call it the Sunny Jim Cave.

Address: 1325 Coast Blvd, La Jolla, CA 92037, United States

2. Palomar Mountain Observatory (Stellar Exploration Hub)

Do you ever look at the stars and wonder what they would look like up close?

Or are you curious about what is out there- beyond Earth and the Milky Way?

You are not alone.

Many people also want to know and experience what it is like to look into space.

It must have been one of the driving factors that led to the building of the Palomar Mountain Observatory and the astronomical telescopes it houses.

The observatory sits on a hill that seems to watch over San Diego.

It gives people the chance to have first-hand experiences of looking into space without being launched in rockets.

The telescopes have made discoveries of extraterrestrial bodies in and beyond our galaxy.

With the telescopes, you can see comets and meteorites right from where you stand.

The telescopes are designed to see planets, stars, and any other objects in space no matter how far away from Earth they are.

A tour through the observatory is an educational and interesting experience.

Address: 35899 Canfield Rd, Palomar Mountain, San Diego, CA 92060, United States

If you liked this article, you may also like to read about the best Movie Theaters, Outdoor Activities, and Safari in California.

Looking beyond California? Check out our article on the best Hidden Gems in Texas and Florida.