Destinations

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How do you like to spend your free time?

  • city sightseeing
  • nightlife
  • shopping
  • museums
  • hiking
  • skiiing
  • golfing
  • water sports

No matter what calls to you — from surfing to shopping and everything in between — California has the perfect destinations and activities for your lifestyle.

Here are just a few ideas to spend time when you’re not studying at your California school.

Outdoor activities

Beaches and water sports.

If your idea of a good time includes sand and sandcastles, sunblock, and waves, you are sure to love California. With more than 870 miles of coastline – from soft white sand to dramatic shoreside cliffs – you are sure to find your dream beach. Try surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, and kayaking if you want to get out on the water.

Golf.

With 972 public and private golf courses, including the famous Pebble Beach course, and beautiful weather year-round, California is a golfer’s dream. You’ll find courses throughout the state.

Nature.

Beautiful national, state, and city parks with lakes, rivers, mountains, and desert are waiting for you to explore in California, whether you want to hike, canoe, or ski. From the iconic Half Dome in Yosemite National Park to Death Valley’s arid yet serene landscape, California has the nature you crave.

Sports & Music

Sports.

Home to nearly 20 major professional sports teams — the most of any state in the United States — California is also the only state to have hosted both the Summer and Winter Olympics. From National Football League, Major League Baseball, National Basketball Association, National Hockey League and Major League Soccer teams, to NASCAR speedways, to respected collegiate teams, sports are an integral part of California.

Music.

If music is more to your liking, you can find indoor and outdoor venues throughout the state to watch your favorite performers. An abundance of blues bars, comedy clubs, dance halls, and other spots are perfect ways to wind down.

Culture and Sightseeing

Museums.

California’s museums and educational venues are world-renowned, from the vast Monterey Bay Aquarium to fine art, history, and hands-on science exploration centers.

Shopping.

Whether you’re looking for farm-fresh produce or fresh fashion, you’ll find both in California. Farmer’s markets with local produce are held in nearly every city. From great deals at outlet centers to boutiques with original designs, you’ll find your shopping destination.

Family friendly.

From world-famous Disneyland and Magic Mountain, to expansive zoos and outdoor adventures, you’ll find plenty of activities for all ages to enjoy.

Spas/Wellness

With locations along the coast, in the mountains, or in the desert, California has many spas and wellness centers. From a simple massage or rustic outdoor hot spring to a luxurious spa retreat, you’ll find bliss throughout the state.

Food & Wine

The farm-to-table concept focusing on fresh, local food may have started in California. No matter how small a town is, you’re likely to find a great restaurant. If you enjoy wine and wine tasting, a huge variety of flavors and experiences are waiting for you to explore, from rustic to luxurious. Napa, Sonoma, Central Coast, and Temecula are a few wine regions discover.