California isn’t just a state, it’s a whole vibe. Whether you’re chasing sunsets, celebrity sightings, or the next best taco truck, the Golden State has you covered. If you’re in your 20s (or just living like it), here’s your go-to guide to the best things to do in California. From chill beaches to wild nightlife, we’ve got your perfect trip mapped out.
It’s where road trips turn into core memories, and every city has its own main character moment. So pack light, charge your phone, and let’s make this trip one for the feed and the soul.
1. Coastal Cruisin’: NorCal to SoCal
Start with a road trip. Seriously, it’s the best way to experience California. Grab your playlist, your besties, and hit the Pacific Coast Highway. It’s not just a drive, it’s the main character moment of your life.
Stop at Big Sur for those dramatic cliffs. Swing by Santa Cruz for a throwback boardwalk vibe. And don’t forget Malibu, because duh, it’s Malibu.
Whether you’re camping in a van or rolling up in a rental, this road trip screams freedom. Plus, it’s the ultimate way to soak up all the things to do in California, the chill, the thrills, and everything in between.
2. Starry-Eyed in Hollywood
Hollywood is iconic, period. Even if you’re not trying to become famous, it’s worth the hype.
Wander the Walk of Fame (find your fave celeb’s star), hit up Runyon Canyon for a hike with skyline views, and grab overpriced coffee in a spot where someone definitely sold a script last week.
Snap pics at the Hollywood Sign. Catch a movie at the historic TCL Chinese Theatre. And hey, don’t skip Melrose Avenue. Between street art and vintage shops, your Instagram feed will thank you.
Trust us. There are plenty of things to do in Hollywood California, and most of them are camera-ready.
3. Santa Barbara for the Soul
If you’re looking for chill, Santa Barbara is it.
Think Spanish-style architecture, wine tasting by the beach, and palm trees for days. This is your slow-down-and-sip-something spot.
Hit State Street for local boutiques and tacos. Lounge at Butterfly Beach with a book or some podcasts. Or rent a bike and cruise along the coast. It’s giving “soft life,” and you deserve it.
Looking for a mini-reset? You’ll find plenty of relaxing things to do in Santa Barbara California, and they come with a view.
4. Oceanside = Underrated Paradise
Oceanside might not be on your radar yet, but it should be.
This beach town brings a perfect mix of laid-back energy and cool spots. Surfing? Yup. Cute cafes? For sure. A massive pier with insane sunset views? Absolutely.
Wander through the local farmers market. Grab a burrito from a tiny taco shack that looks sketchy but slaps. And if you’re feeling artsy, check out the murals and coastal galleries.
It’s one of those things to do in Oceanside California that you’ll tell everyone about later, like you found a secret, and now you’re gatekeeping.
5. Be a Big Kid for a Day
Let’s be real, adulting is overrated. So go full kid-mode and hit the theme parks.
Disneyland? Always a good idea. Whether you’re screaming on Space Mountain or trying all the Mickey-shaped snacks, it’s magical no matter your age.
More of a rollercoaster junkie? Head to Six Flags. Or if cute animals are more your thing, the San Diego Zoo and Monterey Bay Aquarium are elite.
Basically, if you’re into fun, there are so many things to do in California with kids, but like, for the young at heart too.
6. Nightlife + Neon
When the sun goes down, Cali doesn’t sleep.
Hit up rooftop bars in LA, dance your heart out in San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter, or catch a chill beach bonfire in Venice. Whether you want to club, vibe to live music, or sip cocktails with a view, there’s something for every kind of night owl.
For something different, try a silent disco on the beach or a late-night art walk. Because why not?
If you’re 21+, this state knows how to party. Just make sure you hydrate and don’t lose your phone.
Why Your 20s Are The Time to Travel California
Your 20s are wild. You’re figuring stuff out, making bold choices, and collecting memories that’ll last way longer than your latest phone upgrade. And honestly? That makes it the perfect time to travel.
Fun Fact: A 2021 study by WYSE Travel Confederation found that young travelers rank personal growth, making new friends, and stepping outside comfort zones as top reasons to travel. Your brain’s still building core experiences, so go make them epic.
Here’s why California should be on your 20s bucket list:
- You’re flexible. No school calendars, no family vacay logistics, just vibes, and your own timeline.
- You can be spontaneous. Book that last-minute road trip. Crash at a hostel. Chase the sunset.
- You learn how to budget. Traveling teaches you how to make $50 feel like $500 (hello street tacos and Airbnb hacks).
- You’ll find what you love. Mountains? Beaches? City life? Cali has it all, and your 20s are for exploring what actually feels right.
- You meet people. From travelers to locals, everyone’s got a story. And you might just walk away with a few of your own.
- Content, duh. You’ll never take selfies with seals in San Diego and rooftop shots in DTLA the same way again.
Bottom line? Travel now. Be broke and bold. The rest can wait.
Final Thoughts
There are endless things to do in California, and your 20s are the perfect time to try all of them. Whether you’re in it for the scenic drives, the food, the content, or just the experience, Cali delivers.
So round up your crew, set your budget, and start mapping your trip. Or go solo, because that’s a flex too. Just don’t forget your sunscreen, portable charger, and a good playlist.
And hey, if you end up finding yourself on a random beach at 2AM eating fries with strangers you just met… that’s so California.
