When is the best time to visit California?

Visiting California in April - May

As temperatures increase, the snowmelt on higher ground reveals hiking trails, forest canopies and wondrous national parks with Yosemite perhaps the best known and most popular. At this time of year waterfalls are at their most impressive with fierce, fast flowing water rushing over granite boulders then dropping into lush valleys below. Elsewhere, the beaches and theme parks of Southern California benefit from the onset of warmer days.

Events & Festivals

• The Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival in Palm Springs is now established as one of the biggest music events in the US.
• The Tour of California is an internationally recognised cycle race that loops through many of the state's most spectacular locations.

Visiting California in June - August

Summer in California is consistently hot and sunny with all major attractions and sites open for business. In major cities the temperatures can reach over 30°C (86°F) so visits to the beach are recommended. Additionally, Lake Tahoe, in the north of the state, has perfect conditions for kayaking, rafting and a cooling swim in the stunning clear water at this time of year. Although the weather is good, this period is also the busiest as it coincides with school holidays bringing crowds and peak season prices.

Events & Festivals

• The Castroville Artichoke Festival of food and wine on the central coast is a hugely popular local event with tastings, demos and a colourful parade.
• This Comic-con event has evolved into one of the largest pop culture festivals in the world, and takes place in San Diego.

Visiting California in September - October

The autumn period attracts a lovely mild climate and in some parts of the state, spectacular foliage. This is a great time to visit California's wine regions during the grape harvest time, known as 'the crush'. The San Francisco and North Coast regions, often shrouded in fog during the summer, typically see some of their sunniest days during the 'Indian summer'.

Events & Festivals

• The annual grape harvest is in full swing in vineyards across California.
• A two-week foodie festival promoting fresh local produce in Sacramento.

Visiting California in November - December

The start of the winter period can be changeable with an increase in inclement days in certain parts of the state and lingering sunny days in others. Travel inland to the desert around Palm Springs for example and this is arguably one of the best times to visit. There are beautiful clear warm days while a visit to the central Californian coast would mean misty and cooler conditions.

Events & Festivals

• Across the state, towns and cities prepare for the holiday seasons with numerous festive light shows and decorative displays.