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Redwood trees in Sequoia National Park, California

California travel guides

Redwood trees in Sequoia National Park, California

Whether you’re planning a family vacation or a road trip, California presents a lot of options. Our California travel guides have been put together by our US specialists, who have in-depth, first-hand knowledge of the state. These guides offer recommendations to help you decide which experiences to include in your trip, as well as more practical advice such as our suggested places to stay.

Read about which beaches are best for families, where to hike to get the most rewarding views in Yosemite and how to make the most of your time in Los Angeles, as well as how to weave these experiences into a wider itinerary.

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Audley Travel Specialist Shannon

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Ideas for how to explore California

Our travel guides share our specialists' passion and knowledge for California. We travel here regularly to discover new experiences, explore untried areas and dig deeper into the better-known places and attractions. At the same time, we gather advice and up-to-date information on the best-quality guides, new hotels and restaurants, and the most memorable forms of transportation.

  • Driving the Mother Road: the highlights of Route 66
    Route 66 in California

    Driving the Mother Road: the highlights of Route 66

    Driving the Mother Road: the highlights of Route 66

    Route 66 is one of the most iconic drives in the US, stretching for 2,400 miles from Chicago on the Great Lakes, to Los Angeles in the west. US specialist, Rob, details his experience of the route, and the highlights along the way.

    10 min read

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  • Family vacations in California
    Redwood National Park

    Family vacations in California

    Family vacations in California

    USA specialist David picks some of his highlights for a family vacation in California. From enjoying the different cultures in San Francisco to whale watching in Monterey, touring the film studies in Los Angeles to exploring Redwood National Park, California has a range of experiences for all ages.

    9 min read

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  • Self-drive vacations in California
    Route 190, California

    Self-drive vacations in California

    Self-drive vacations in California

    Take a fly-drive along the California coast and explore some of the region’s most captivating towns, cities and national parks, from glamorous LA, home of the US film industry, to the dramatic geological spectacles of Yosemite National Park.

    9 min read

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  • Honeymoons in the US
    Merced River & El Capitan, Yosemite National Park

    Honeymoons in the US

    Honeymoons in the US

    As a honeymoon destination, the United States has a lot to offer. US specialist, Carl, picks some of his top choices, from exploring San Francisco and driving the Pacific Coast Highway to staying on a ranch in the Rocky Mountain states and experiencing the swamplands and culture of Louisiana.

    11 min read

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  • Family vacations in the US
    Glacier Point, Yosemite National Park

    Family vacations in the US

    Family vacations in the US

    Ranch stays, glamping in national parks, Hawaiian feasts and Yellowstone’s steaming geysers: the US is packed with enough experiences to fill several family photo albums. US specialist Shannon shares her pick of things to see and do on your next family trip.

    7 min read

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  • Where to go in the US
    Yosemite National Park

    Where to go in the US

    Where to go in the US

    The US is so huge that it can be hard to narrow down your options when you’re planning a trip. We’ve drawn up a guide to helping you decide which regions to visit, depending on your individual interests.

    6 min read

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  • Where to visit in California: a seasonal guide
    Lake Tahoe, California

    Where to visit in California: a seasonal guide

    Where to visit in California: a seasonal guide

    A true year-round destination, California provides near-endless experiences no matter which season you’re visiting. Here, our specialists share ideas for where’s best to go in spring, summer, autumn, and winter, along with how to make the most of your time in the Golden State.

    10 min read

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  • Route 66 vacations
    Route 66, Texas

    Route 66 vacations

    Route 66 vacations

    Known as the ‘Mother Road’, Route 66 helped open up America and shape its identity. Whether you choose to drive the whole route or just part of it, your road trip will showcase the country’s culture, history and landscapes.

    2 min read

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  • Driving California's Pacific Coast Highway
    Bixby bridge, Big Sur

    Driving California's Pacific Coast Highway

    Driving California's Pacific Coast Highway

    Experience some of California's most impressive scenery on a drive along its central coast on Highway 1, taking in the sights of San Francisco, Los Angeles and everything in between. US specialist, Alex, discusses the route’s highlights, from laid-back beach communities to historic towns and vibrant cities.

    3 min read

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  • What to do in Yosemite National Park: our highlights guide
    Valley View, Yosemite National Park

    What to do in Yosemite National Park: our highlights guide

    What to do in Yosemite National Park: our highlights guide

    Yosemite in California is one of America's most visited national parks. In order to get the most from your trip we highlight some of the finest trails and accommodation as well as recommending the best time to visit.

    12 min read

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  • Lobster rolls to mooncakes — eating in the United States
    Shrimp Po Boy, New Orleans

    Lobster rolls to mooncakes — eating in the United States

    Lobster rolls to mooncakes — eating in the United States

    The fastest way to a country’s heart is through your stomach. Our specialists suggest the best ways to discover regional specialties across the United States, from creole cuisine in New Orleans to a lobster roll on Cape Cod.

    8 min read

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  • 5 under-the-radar US destinations to inspire your next trip
    Haystack Rock and Cannon Beach, Oregon

    5 under-the-radar US destinations to inspire your next trip

    5 under-the-radar US destinations to inspire your next trip

    Rainforests in the Pacific Northwest, a history-steeped town in the South, and an art community in the Southwest. Our specialists share five less-visited destinations across the USA, helping you delve deeper into the country’s history, culture, and natural beauty.

    7 min read

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