Everyone always loves to spend time visiting California, and the summer months are no exception. There are many amazing and best places to visit in California in June. From the coastal regions to enjoying the beach to hiking in the national parks or wine tasting, there is something for everyone to enjoy in California.
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Table of Contents
Best Places to Visit in California in June: Northern California
Sausalito
By Rachel of Travel Bug Rachel
Sausalito is a charming city located in sunny California, just across the bridge from San Francisco. June is one of the best times to visit, when it’s warm and temperate at about 70-80 degrees Fahrenheit but not unbearably warm.
You can catch many summer specific events in June such as Jazz & Blues By The Bay that occurs every Friday and the Juneteenth festival. There are many beautiful sights and fun things to do in Sausalito such as visiting Muir Woods which is full of towering redwoods and the Marin Headlands.
I recommend renting a car when it comes to exploring Sausalito. There are other forms of public transportation such as the bus from San Francisco to Sausalito and the ferry but there are a limited number of stops and it doesn’t cover the entirety of the city.
Now how many days should you visit Sausalito? I would say two for Sausalito and two for San Francisco since it is only across the bridge. Sausalito is one of the best places to visit in California in June.
When it comes to a place to stay there are only four hotels in Sausalito. Vacation rentals will be a better bet and this will be a better way to save money. I recommend this luxury house that is still affordable and fits 3 people.
It’s possible to visit Sausalito and do it affordably. If you’re splitting an Airbnb with family or friends and cooking dinners, you’ll be able to save on some of your biggest expenses -food and lodging. You can also find $75-150 flights from anywhere in the US to California if you’re willing to fly a budget airline. Also, sticking to cheaper things to do, like the Marin Headlands or Muir Woods, will save you money on entertainment.
Muir Woods National Monument
By Shar of SightseeingShar
Muir Woods National Monument, located near San Francisco, is a must-see for hikers and nature lovers. This federally protected forest covers over 554 acres and is one of the best places for visitors to admire redwood trees. Redwood trees can live for over 1,000 years and reach over 350 ft in length, resulting in stunning visuals due to their sheer size. Muir Woods makes for one of the best places to visit in California in June.
June is the best month to visit because the warm weather provides the perfect climate for hiking. The park is open from 8am to 30 minutes before the sun sets, which means it is open for longer hours in the summer compared to any other season. The park can easily be explored in one day, depending on how many hikes visitors want to complete.
The best way to get to Muir Woods is to rent a car from San Francisco and drive 30 minutes to the park. The entrance fee is only $15 and can be bought at the gate. However, parking is minimal and must be reserved approximately a week in advance, costing $9 per car. For those who cannot drive, shuttles run from Larkspur Landing for $3.50. They run every day during June but are limited in other seasons. Do not Uber to Muir Woods because there is no signal in the park, and it is impossible to call an Uber back.
The woods have multiple hikes that vary in difficulty, but two of the best ones are the Main Trail and The Canopy View Trail. The Main Trail is perfect for every visitor because of its ease and accessibility. It is an hour’s walk on relatively flat terrain and wheelchair/stroller friendly. The Canopy View Trail is steeper, taking hikers above the trees to admire the canopy. This hike takes approximately 2.5 hours and is a good choice for anyone with a moderate fitness level.
Lake Tahoe
By Jess of Uprooted Traveler
If you are looking for one of the best places to visit in California in June, Lake Tahoe is the perfect destination, with temperatures hovering in the mid-70s, clear skies, and plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy.
With seventy-two miles of shoreline, Lake Tahoe has tons to explore, but you can pack in seeing a lot of its highlights in a three or four-day trip.
For example, relax on one of its beaches, like Baldwin or Pope Beach, and enjoy the summer sunshine—and the stellar views of the robin’s egg blue water and surrounding Sierra Nevadas. To get to see a larger variety of the landscape, head to Emerald Bay State Park to hike the Rubicon Trail, which follows along the lake’s shoreline, with plenty of secluded coves to explore.
Of course, you have to actually get out on the water during your visit with a stand-up paddleboard or kayak—for a truly bucket list experience, time your paddle with sunset to watch the lake’s famously blue waters turn spectacular shades of orange and pink.
To reach Lake Tahoe, fly into the Reno-Tahoe International Airport and make the hour-and-a-half drive to South Lake Tahoe, an excellent home base during your stay. Unfortunately, accommodations are usually pretty pricey here, especially in the popular summertime, but almost all of the outdoor activities here are free or extremely affordable.
Sacramento
By Rachael of The Caribbean Uncovered
Sacramento is one of the best places to visit in California in June, as it offers warm weather paired with the perfect breeze! If you love a mix of nature and sightseeing, this is your spot.
You only need 3-4 days to see most of what the city has to offer. Sacramento’s public transportation system will not cover all your needs, so a car rental is absolutely necessary. Plus, there are tons of cute old town areas to visit just outside of the city.
Downtown and Midtown are the best areas to stay. Downtown is great for sightseeing – you can visit the state capital, hit the farmer’s market, and of course, enjoy the nightlife. On the flip, Midtown is known for being the heart of the LGBTQ+ community, with culture, food, and art.
And a pro tip: Sacramento offers Napa-like winery experiences at a fraction of the cost! Despite being a Californian city, which does generally mean higher expenses, you’ll find Sacramento a more budget-friendly alternative compared to Napa, LA, or San Francisco, without compromising on the quality of your experiences. So, jump in your car and enjoy a wine tasting one of your days. And of course, if you do want a luxurious Napa experience, you’re under an hour from California’s most famous wineries.
Overall, Sacramento is a beautiful city with a mix of culture, food, nightlife, and outdoor adventures creating an amazing end of spring vacation.
Redwoods National Park
By Alec of Explore with Alec
Visiting Redwood National Park in June offers an unparalleled experience, as the mild weather and longer days provide perfect conditions for exploring the ancient, towering forests. The park is alive with vibrant greenery this time of year, and the coastal fog adds a mystical ambiance to the massive redwood groves.
Hikers and nature enthusiasts can enjoy the trails that wind through the park, ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes, each offering unique views of the world’s tallest trees and diverse ecosystems. My picks would be Boy Scout Trail, Stout Grove, and Grove of the Titans. Wildlife is also more active during summer, allowing you to spot elk, black-tailed deer, and various bird species.
June also marks the beginning of the park’s ranger-led programs, including guided walks and educational talks, providing insights into the park’s natural history and conservation efforts. Whether you’re seeking solitude among ancient giants or educational outdoor activities, Redwood National Park in June is a destination that transcends the ordinary.
You should plan for at least three days or two nights in the Redwood National Park area, whether in Crescent City or further south in Klamath or Trinidad. Overall, Redwoods National Park is one of the best places to visit in California in June.
Best Places to Visit in California in June: Central California
Sequoia National Park
By Emily of Sea to Summit Alaska
June is an ideal time to visit Sequoia National Park due to the perfect blend of warm days and cooler nights, with the need for all-season tires being a rarity. It is also one of the busiest times, with summer vacations and families flocking to the park. However, the stunning scenery and abundance of activities make it well worth the crowds.
Two days in Sequoia National Park is the minimum that most travelers choose to spend. However, a 3-day trip is preferable. This will allow you enough time to explore the various hiking trails, scenic drives, and popular attractions, including General Sherman Tree, Moro Rock, and Grant Grove.
While getting to Sequoia National Park can be achieved via public transportation and seasonal shuttles, having a car is advantageous since it provides the freedom to explore at your own pace and visit more remote areas inaccessible by shuttle. Lodging within the park, such as Wuksachi Lodge, offers a comfortable stay surrounded by skyscraping sequoia trees, but for a more intimate connection with nature, sleeping under the stars at Atwell Mill Campground is unparalleled!
Abundant activities await, including the iconic Congress Trail hike, where those who complete the route will be rewarded with the grandeur of the Giant Forest or marvel at the Crystal Cave’s subterranean beauty. In terms of what you can expect to spend on your visit to Sequoia, a private vehicle costs $35 for those who don’t have an annual national park pass, and accommodation prices range from $10-$25 campsites to higher-end lodges costing upwards of $200 per night.
It’s important to plan ahead for meals and gas, as options within the park are quite limited. Lastly, remember that both the overall state of California and Sequoia National Park are home to diverse wildlife, so always maintain a respectful distance and store food correctly to protect both you and the natural inhabitants. No matter what, you will find that Sequoia National Park is one of the best places to visit in California in June.
Carpinteria
By Jenifer of The Evolista
Set on the stunning California coast, Carpinteria is a laid-back beach town filled with activities and natural beauty. It’s the perfect place for a weekend trip in June. At the beginning of the month, you can experience a Carp summer before it gets crowded. Carpinteria is one of the best places to visit in California in June.
One of the best things to do in Carpinteria is visit Carpinteria State Beach, where you can splash around in the ocean, take a walk on the beach, and check out interesting marine life at the tide pools. Nature enthusiasts will also like the Salt Marsh Nature Park. Stroll down Linden Avenue where you’ll find a mix of cute shops and restaurants. Health aficionados will love Pacific Health Food, a favorite of some notable celebrities. Kids prefer Robitaille’s Fine Candies, a beach town candy shop that has been in business for over 50 years.
To unwind, head to Teddy’s By the Sea or next-door Sunburst Wine Bar, for a laid-back happy hour, where refreshing drinks complement the coastal ambiance. For accommodations, the best options are vacation rentals or camping at one of the scenic campgrounds, which is much more affordable, but you have to get reservations in advance.
You can get to Carpenteria by car or by Amtrak’s Pacific Surfliner. Once there, Carpinteria is a completely walkable town. Whether you’re enjoying the beach, exploring the town’s shops, or savoring the coastal flavors, Carpinteria in June promises a weekend filled with unforgettable moments.
Cambria
By Rosby of Rosebee and Reya Adventures
Cambria is a great town and one of the best places to visit in California in June. The rainy season has passed, summer has begun, and the days are warming up. The weather is very comfortable, making June the perfect month to visit Cambria.
Cambria is located on California’s Central Coast off Highway 1, halfway between San Francisco and Los Angeles. Driving to Cambria is ideal, as using public transportation is difficult. While Cambria is a small town, to get a feel for everything Cambria has to offer, a three-day visit is ideal.
There are several areas in and around Cambria where you can stay. Many people opt to stay in Moonstone Beach. The hotels in this area can range from $160 to $225 a night. The benefit of staying in Moonstone Beach is the fantastic view, as almost all hotels along Moonstone Drive are oceanfront. Staying in the town of Cambria is a great budget-friendly option, with hotels starting as low as $100 a night.
There are many things to do in Cambria. Walking around downtown Cambria is a great way to spend a day. You will find several antique stores, souvenir stores, and a few art galleries where you will find wonderful artisan pieces to purchase. There are also several cafes and restaurants to choose from.
If you like hiking, there are many trails in and around Cambria. Fiscalini Ranch is a popular hiking area with multiple trails. There are hiking trails that take you inland, where you can explore the beautiful hills and trails that take you toward the bluffs with spectacular views of the California coastline.
Moonstone Beach is a beautiful beach close to Cambria that is known for the smooth, colorful moonstone rocks found on its shoreline. Take a stroll along the boardwalk at Moonstone Beach and enjoy the spectacular view. There are benches located along the boardwalk where you can enjoy your lunch and take in the view of this spectacular beach.
You can also explore the shoreline a bit more by walking down to the north end of Moonstone Beach and visiting the tidepools filled with sea anemones, sea urchins, and crabs. With so much to do, Cambria should be part of your next June vacation!
Yosemite National Park
By Madhurima of Orange Wayfare
Home to the native Ahwahneechee people, the Yosemite National Park is one of the most scenic national parks of the United States and arguably the best one in California. Yosemite is famous for massive waterfalls, giant sequoia trees, lush green meadows, and multiple trails opening up to awe-inspiring natural beauty.
In June, Yosemite thrived in greenery. Trails are snow free and easily accessible. Although it would be crowded, especially on a long weekend, Yosemite National Park is one of the best places to visit in California in June, just to soak in the mirth of summer months.
During a 3 day trip you can camp, hike and explore many off the beaten routes of the park in summer. I recommend the latter however if you are extremely pressed for time, a day trip to Yosemite is good to check off your bucket list experiences.
The Fresno (FAT) airport is closest to Yosemite. From SFO (San Francisco airport), it is around 2 and a half hours drive to the Big Oak Flat entrance. For access to the fabled Yosemite valley, you need to drive for another hour.
With a car, you need to drive down the highway CA 120 and reach Yosemite relatively easily. Inside the national park, there is a shuttle system schedule that goes to almost every point of interest in the park! Tourist buses regularly ply from the big cities to Yosemite Valley daily if you are not comfortable with self-driving.
I recommend staying at the Wawona hotel for a luxury stay inside the National Park. The Yosemite valley lodge is a more affordable option. There are a few options to stay outside the park at Hetch Hetchy and Big Oak Flats.
To explore Yosemite, start with the Valley Floor Loop drive. Along this route, you will explore Yosemite Falls, El Capitan Meadow, Sentinel Bridge, Valley View Point, etc. During sunset, visit Glacier Point for a bird’s eye view of the park and many attractions like Half Dome, Nevada Falls, Vernal Falls, and the Valley Floor.
The Mariposa Grove is home to the giant Sequoia trees, which can be explored on foot along the Grizzly Giant Loop. During summer months, drive through the scenic Tioga road connecting the East and West sides of the Sierra and stop at Tenaya Lake overlook and Tuolumne Meadow.
If you love to hike, the iconic Half dome hike in Yosemite is an ultimate bucket list adventure. You need to apply for a permit for that. For a weekend at Yosemite, you will end up spending around 2000 USD including stay, flights, car rental and eating out.
Best Places to Visit in California in June: Southern California
Long Beach
By Layla Pond of Leisure Trip Guide
Long Beach, California, is a great place to visit during the summer and one of the best places to visit in California in June. Long Beach has beautiful marinas, nice beaches, an aquarium, museums, and excellent restaurants. During June, the weather is perfect for walking around and relaxing at the beaches.
The best place to stay is around Shoreline Village or Belmont Shore. Shoreline Village is on the waterfront and has shops, restaurants, the Aquarium of the Pacific, and the large Queen Mary cruise ship. You can stroll along the marina to watch the boats in the harbor during sunset and dine out at a waterfront restaurant to enjoy beautiful ocean views.
Other than Shoreline Village, some of the best beaches and seafood restaurants are located around Belmont Shore. Mother’s Beach, Rosie’s Beach, and Bayshore Beach are all good, family-friendly beaches that are free to visit. There is plenty of free street parking near the beaches (as long as you take note of street sweeping hours). On Bayshore Beach, you can rent out kayaks for only $12/hr from Kayaks On The Water to spend time out on the water.
From Long Beach, you can also take a day trip to Catalina Island via the Catalina Island ferry. Catalina Island has scuba diving, kayaking, ziplining, golf, and lots of summer activities. The ferry costs $84 (round trip) for adults and $65 (round trip) for children.
Two days is the ideal amount of time to stay in Long Beach, and you can get a cheap car rental for around $30-$40 per day. Overall, Long Beach can be a great, affordable destination, and the weather is near perfect in June.
Palm Springs
By Sheri of Sheri Nagle
When visiting Palm Springs in June, you will find the typical beautiful sunny Southern California weather. Although daytime temperatures regularly rise above 100 degrees Fahrenheit, the nights are cool, which makes Palm Springs one of the best places to visit in California in June. Plan your stay for 3- 4 days to allow enough time to experience the city’s unique laid-back charm, hiking trails, and attractions.
While having a car allows for flexibility, flying directly into the Palm Springs airport (PSP) is very convenient. Once there, public transportation, biking, or rideshare services offer an easy way to get around town without having to rent a car. Alternatively, you can fly into Los Angeles or San Diego, rent a car, and make the two-hour drive to Palm Springs.
For accommodations, consider staying in the downtown area for easy access to activities, shopping, and eateries. Downtown Palm Springs has options for reasonably-priced hotels and motels to use as your home base, such as the Best Western Plus Las Brisas Hotel located in the heart of it all. For a full resort experience just minutes from downtown, the Margaritaville Resort offers amenities like happy hours and free bike rentals.
The city is pedestrian-friendly and filled with shops, cultural sites, bars, and restaurants with outdoor seating. There’s a mix of free and low-cost activities, such as exploring the Palm Springs Art Museum’s outdoor sculpture garden, Aerial Tramway, or hiking the nearby Indian Canyons.
Remember that since temperatures peak mid-day, you’ll want to plan to hike early in the morning and pack the necessary hiking essentials like sunscreen and lots of water. Additionally, the weekly Palm Springs VillageFest, an eclectic street fair with vendors and entertainment, is a must-visit on Thursday evenings.
Summer is great for budget travelers because it’s considered the low tourist season due to the extreme desert heat. You can expect fewer crowds and more affordable lodging, golf, and tennis reservations.
Keep in mind that many outdoor activities and attractions may limit their operating hours due to the high temperatures, so prepare accordingly. Palm Springs is one of the best places to visit in California in June as June is ideal for appreciating Palm Springs’ retro-chic vibe and the sunsets over the San Jacinto peaks without the high-season crowds and prices.
Carlsbad
By Alexa of 52 Perfect Days
I lived in San Diego for over ten years, and Carlsbad was always at the top of our list for a day trip or weekend away. Carlsbad can definitely be done on a budget, especially if you plan ahead and spend a good deal of time at the beach, pack picnic lunches, and visit the local farmers market for great deals on local foods and produce. You can even camp at Carlsbad State Beach to keep your trip super budget-friendly.
June is a great time to visit Carlsbad because the weather is not too hot yet, but it’s definitely warm enough to enjoy the beach and all the outdoor activities the area has to offer. One thing to keep in mind is you might get some “June Gloom,” which is just fog that burns off at about noon.
If this is your first trip to Carlsbad, I recommend three or four days to really take it all in. That way, you’ll have plenty of time to explore the beaches, check out the local attractions, and maybe even take a day trip to nearby places like San Diego or La Jolla. No matter what, Carlsbad is one of the best places to visit in California in June.
Of course, the beach is a must-visit, but there’s also plenty of other things to see and do. Check out LEGOLAND California Resort if you’re traveling with kids, explore the Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch, paddleboard at the Carlsbad Lagoon, or take a stroll through the charming Carlsbad Village.
When it comes to getting there, you can fly into San Diego International Airport and then either rent a car or take public transportation to Carlsbad. Once you’re there, having a car is very convenient for getting around, but it’s not absolutely necessary if you are willing to take Uber rides to get around.
If you are looking for a hotel, my absolute favorite is Cape Rey Carlsbad, a family-friendly upscale hotel with a pool and located across the street from the beach. One last thing to keep in mind: Carlsbad can get pretty crowded in the summer, especially on weekends and holidays. If you are planning to visit in June, make hotel and restaurant reservations in advance.
Death Valley
By Monica of This Rare Earth
June in California is a great time to visit Death Valley National Park, as the peak temperatures seen in July and August are still several weeks away. Death Valley is one of the best places to visit in California in June.
Although it may seem like an unlikely destination due to its name, Death Valley is actually a stunning place to explore. For those who love the desert, it can be a paradise full of picturesque landscapes and a unique ecosystem.
The best activities in the park include taking in the stunning sunset views from Death Valley’s Zabriskie Point, where golden rays light up the peaks. In the early morning, hiking Golden Canyon and walking the salt flats of Badwater Basin is a must. Badwater Basin is covered in white salt and surrounded by mountains, creating a surreal landscape.
Whether you are experienced in the outdoors or just looking for a new adventure, the park offers something for everyone. Plan to spend at least a weekend in Death Valley to fully explore the beauty of the park and the activities it offers. To get to the park, and to travel around it, a car is necessary as there is no public transportation in the area. For a comfortable stay, check out The Ranch at Death Valley, located in the heart of the park.
Be aware that there is a $35 per car entry fee for the park, but it is well worth it for the experience you will have. June visitors should also be aware that temperatures can still feel hot, so it is important to bring enough water and sunscreen to stay hydrated and protected from the sun. All in all, a trip to Death Valley National Park is an unforgettable experience that should be on any traveler’s bucket list.
Final Thoughts on the Best Places to Visit in California in June
There are so many amazing and best places to visit in California in June. Besides the ones listed above, other amazing places include San Diego, Oceanside, Lompoc, Catalina Island, Laguna Beach, Monterey, and the Channel Islands.
