9 Of The Best Places To Visit In California in Summer

Summer is when California opens fully. Days stretch long into the evening, coastal waters are warm enough for swimming, and regions that feel constrained the rest of the year finally come into their own. Mountain roads clear, alpine lakes become accessible, and the Pacific settles into a rhythm that supports long beach days and lingering outdoor meals.

Cool coastal mornings give way to bright afternoons, elevation tempers inland heat, and the state’s infrastructure shifts to support outdoor living, from lakeside docks and hiking trails to waterfront dining and evening strolls.

For summer travellers looking for the best summer destinations in California, the best spots are those enhanced by the heat, rather than those constrained by it - locations where the summer sun allows people to have a fuller experience than at other times of the year.

1. Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe is one of California’s most seasonally dependent destinations. Summer unlocks its full range: swimmable shorelines, open mountain passes, and trail systems that remain snowbound most of the year. The lake itself becomes the focal point, with clear water, calm mornings, and predictable afternoon breezes shaping daily flow.

Travelers benefit from Tahoe’s natural climate control. Even at peak summer, temperatures remain comfortable, especially along the West Shore and at elevation. The region absorbs demand better than many coastal destinations, provided travelers structure their days early and anchor themselves in quieter residential areas.

Things to Do

• Kayak or paddleboard on Lake Tahoe, calm, clear water makes mornings perfect for water sports

• Hike the Rubicon Trail or Eagle Lake; the trails are fully snow-free and shaded in parts, ideal for summer hiking

• Take scenic drives around Emerald Bay, longer daylight and open roads provide expansive views

Travel Tips

• Beaches are typically busiest in the late morning and afternoon, so try to get up and out earlier in the day to secure a spot if you’re going out with a larger group most congested at midday and in the

• There will be more traffic on roads during vacation weeks, so allow extra time if you’re traveling between beaches and attractions during holiday weeks

• Even though daytime temperatures can climb to the low 80s during summer, nights can be significantly cooler (sometimes dropping to the high 30s), so remember to pack layers if you plan on being out past sunset

Expert Tips on Vacations in Lake Tahoe

For Lake Tahoe in summer, it’s best to structure your days around the lake’s wind patterns. I always recommend planning water activities like kayaking or paddleboarding early in the morning, when the lake is at its calmest and visibility is highest. By early afternoon, predictable winds tend to build, making the water choppier, a good time to transition to hiking, scenic drives, or returning home to rest before heading out again for a relaxed evening.

Where to Stay

• Wander Tahoe Ridge - Socialise in luxury, with room for 20 guests, enjoy large open social spaces as well as relaxing in a private hot tub, or watching a movie in a private theatre.

• Wander Tahoe Glade - Turquoise waters and snowy mountains provide the backdrop for this luxury space. Swim in your own private pool if you don’t fancy a dip in the lake.

• Wander Tahoe Canyon - Relax in this remote mountain retreat, with stunning views from inside and out. A hot tub, indoor pool, and sauna provide a relaxing end to a day packed with activity.

2. Big Sur

Big Sur operates on light and patience in summer. Morning fog is common but predictable, typically lifting by late morning to reveal some of the most dramatic coastline in the country. Once it clears, summer offers Big Sur at its most navigable — trails open, Highway 1 is fully accessible, and daylight extends the usable window of the day.

The region rewards travelers who avoid rigid schedules. Summer here is less about volume of activity and more about allowing the landscape to dictate pace.

Things to Do

• Drive Highway 1 through Big Sur; summer ensures full road access and predictable fog patterns, with the clearest views typically appearing late morning through afternoon.

• Hike McWay Falls or Ewoldsen Trail; summer opens all major trails, revealing coastal overlooks, redwood groves, and inland ridges that are inaccessible much of the year.

• Visit Pfeiffer Beach, where the longer daylight and mild temperatures make afternoon visits more comfortable, allowing time to enjoy the dramatic rock formations and surf.

Travel Tips

• Weekend traffic builds quickly late morning onward because Big Sur functions as a linear destination along Highway 1. Once cars enter, there are few alternative routes, leading to bottlenecks that compound throughout the day.

• Fuel and stock up before arriving; services are sparse by design, preserving the landscape but requiring travelers to be self-sufficient to avoid unnecessary backtracking.

• Expect fog in the morning. Coastal fog is a part of Big Sur’s summer rhythm and typically clears by late morning. Building flexibility into your schedule ensures better views and trail conditions.

• Download maps ahead of time or consider purchasing a physical map, as limited cell service can make online navigation difficult once inside the region.

Expert Tips on Vacations in Big Sur

In Big Sur, timing is everything. I suggest letting the morning fog work in your favor by starting the day inside, inland, or under redwood cover, where visibility isn’t as critical. As the fog lifts late morning, shift toward coastal viewpoints and cliffside trails. This approach aligns naturally with the region’s daily rhythm and avoids the frustration of arriving at iconic overlooks before conditions are clear.

Where to Stay

• Wander Pebble Estate - Transport yourself to a Mediterranean castle-inspired luxury hilltop home, take in the sunset from the ocean-facing balcony, and relax in a private hot tub.

• Wander Big Sur Coast - Relax and kick back in this coastal accommodation. Enjoy a meal or a drink al fresco, with the backdrop of the ocean and a sprawling Californian sky.

• Wander Pebble Beach - A property to suit all tastes and needs, from working out in a private gym, relaxing in a hot tub, or socialising around a dedicated BBQ area.

3. Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is one of California’s most balanced summer cities. Its coastal position and prevailing breezes prevent extreme heat, while the city’s layout supports walkability and outdoor living.

The season offers unrivalled access to the surrounding region: beach days in the morning, wine country inland by afternoon, and social evenings downtown. The city absorbs demand well, especially for travelers based in residential neighborhoods rather than hotels.

Things to Do

• Spend the morning at East Beach or Leadbetter Beach; summer mornings offer calmer winds and more open shoreline before peak afternoon use.

• Bike the Cabrillo Bike Path; coastal breezes and flat terrain make this route especially comfortable during the summer months.

• Visit Santa Ynez Valley wineries; the inland warmth contrasts nicely with coastal mornings, making afternoon tastings a natural progression.

Travel Tips

• Summer weekends bring elevated visitor volume as Santa Barbara draws both day-trippers and overnight guests; staying slightly outside the core often results in quieter mornings and easier movement.

• Beach parking fills quickly after mid-morning because most visitors align their arrivals with peak sun hours; arriving earlier allows for better access and less circling.

• Reserve dining in advance. Santa Barbara’s strong outdoor dining culture means popular restaurants book up quickly during summer evenings, so planning ahead is crucial to secure spots.

• Bring light layers for evenings, as coastal breezes increase after sunset, especially near the water; these cooler temperatures feel exacerbated in contrast to the heat earlier in the day.

Expert Tips on Vacations in Santa Barbara

In Santa Barbara, summer days work best when you treat the coastline and inland areas as complementary rather than competing. I recommend beach time and biking in the morning, when coastal breezes keep things cool, then transitioning inland to wine country or shaded neighborhoods in the afternoon. This movement follows the natural temperature gradient and keeps the day comfortable without feeling rushed.

Where to Stay

• Wander Montecito Estate - Relax in this traditional luxury home, over 100 years old, with grandeur to match, mixed with fine modern facilities and ultimate comfort.

• Wander Malibu Sea - Take in panoramic sea views, sun-soaked terraces, and elegant coastal interiors all whilst unwinding in refined oceanfront luxury.

• Wander Malibu Art Haven - Unwind in a creatively inspired retreat featuring curated design, serene lounging spaces, and elevated modern comforts.

4. San Diego

San Diego scales better than most California cities in summer due to its size and decentralized structure. While beach zones grow busy, inland and residential neighborhoods continue to function normally. Summer water temperatures improve noticeably, expanding the city’s appeal for swimming, paddleboarding, and snorkeling.

Marine layer patterns shape mornings, often keeping early hours cool and overcast before clearing by midday, a rhythm that benefits travelers who structure activity accordingly.

Things to Do

• Swim, paddleboard, or snorkel at La Jolla Shores. The summer brings warmer water temperatures and improved visibility, making ocean activities more enjoyable.

• Explore Balboa Park; shaded walkways and morning marine layer keep daytime exploration comfortable.

• Walk along Sunset Cliffs in the evening in San Diego; the summer evenings remain mild, offering dramatic views without the daytime heat.

Travel Tips

• Beach congestion peaks midday because visitors arrive after the marine layer clears and remain through peak sun hours. Early mornings offer more space and easier parking.

• Coastal parking is limited and tightly regulated; understanding signage and planning for the possibility of a longer walk is important.

• Plan activities around the marine layer (colder morning temperatures brought in from the ocean); scheduling outdoor activities later in the day often provides clearer skies and warmer temperatures.

• Seasonal events increase traffic. Summer festivals and sporting events can significantly impact travel times, especially in areas near downtown and the beach.

Expert Tips on Vacations in San Diego

For San Diego in summer, I always advise planning ocean activities first and city exploration later. Water temperatures and conditions are best in the morning, and beaches are quieter before midday. As the marine layer clears and crowds increase, it’s an ideal time to pivot to Balboa Park, dining, or residential neighborhoods, then return to the coast in the evening when temperatures soften again.

Where to Stay

• Wander La Jolla Shores - After a day at the beach, unwind in this luxurious coastal retreat. Enjoy a view of the sea from a rooftop relaxation area.

• Wander San Diego Coast - Wake up to breathtaking views of a cityscape with the sprawling Pacific Ocean beyond. This luxury accommodation is great for outdoor dining and relaxing after a hard day.

• Wander San Diego Sunset - A luxury 16-guest oceanside house, which is great for a social vacation with friends or family. Take advantage of the private spa area, pool, and gym after a day of exploring.

5. Yosemite National Park

Summer is Yosemite’s most accessible season. High-country roads open, alpine meadows bloom, and the park’s full trail system becomes usable. This access comes with increased visitation, but the vast size of the park allows travelers to find quiet moments with early starts or thoughtful planning.

Yosemite, in summer, works best for travelers who prioritize range over solitude and those who understand that timing is as critical in this location.

Things to Do

Hike the Mist Trail to Vernal and Nevada Falls. The summer provides consistent trail access and reliable footing, with waterfalls still flowing strongly, especially early in the season.

Drive to Glacier Point for a truly jaw-dropping view. High-elevation roads open fully in summer, offering panoramic views that are inaccessible much of the year.

Cool off in the Merced River. Days out in the warm afternoons make safe and shallow river access refreshing and restorative.

Travel Tips

• Congestion tends to concentrate on the valley floor because most visitors cluster around iconic viewpoints; entering the park early helps spread activity and reduce bottlenecks.

• Reservations and permits are common in summer to manage demand and protect natural resources, making advance planning essential.

• Waterfalls taper as summer progresses. Visiting earlier in the season ensures more dramatic flow from snowmelt.

• Temperatures vary by elevation, and what feels warm in the valley can be cool or windy at higher viewpoints.

Expert Tips on a Vacation in Yosemite National Park

In Yosemite during summer, success comes from front-loading your day. I recommend entering the park as early as possible and heading straight to one major hike or viewpoint before crowds build on the valley floor. After midday, shift focus to higher elevations or quieter areas, or return to your home base to rest. This approach preserves energy and allows you to experience Yosemite’s scale without constant congestion.

Where to Stay

• Wander Yosemite Valley - Chill out after an evening of activity in the national park in a stunning mountain retreat with relaxing natural vistas of mountain, forest, and river.

• Wander June Lake - This is where modern luxury and nature’s breathtaking beauty blend together. Relax in the hot tub or watch the sunset from your balcony.

6. Malibu

Malibu performs best in summer for travelers who value early starts and private space. Beaches are most usable in the morning, while afternoons and evenings shift toward dining and scenic movement rather than static beach time.

The coastline feels iconic in summer light, and water access improves significantly. Success here depends on avoiding compression points and anchoring in residential zones.

Things to Do

• Surf at Zuma or Surfrider Beach. In the summer, water temperatures and long daylight hours create ideal surfing conditions, especially in the morning and evening when the temperatures aren’t too high.

• Hike Solstice Canyon; summer trails are dry and accessible, with shaded sections offering regular relief from the sun.

• Drive the Pacific Coast Highway. A stunning road trip that offers extended highlights of coastal cliffs and ocean views.

Travel Tips

• Traffic intensifies in the late morning through evening as beachgoers, diners, and through-traffic converge on the Pacific Coast Highway. Early starts reduce time spent in congestion.

• Public beach access is limited due to private property patterns along the coast; researching entry points to park near avoids unnecessary walking or backtracking.

• Morning beach conditions are best because winds increase later in the day, affecting surf and comfort.

• Evenings cool rapidly due to coastal air, making layers important even after warm afternoons.

Expert Tips for a Vacation in Malibu

For Malibu, early starts make all the difference. I always recommend arriving at beaches or trailheads before mid-morning, when parking is easier and conditions are calmer. As traffic builds along the Pacific Coast Highway, shift away from static activities and enjoy scenic drives, lunch stops, or downtime at your home. This keeps the day fluid rather than defined by congestion.

Where to Stay

• Wander Malibu Canyon - Retreat into the hills of Malibu after a day out and about, unwind in comfort, surrounded by the natural beauty of the canyon setting.

• Wander Malibu Lookout - A luxury property inside and out. Enjoy a blooming garden space, with a hot tub, outdoor shower, and dining areas.

• Wander Malibu Tides - A beachfront beauty, fantastic for socializing with friends, and getting straight out onto the sand. Enjoy an unspoiled view of the Pacific from inside or outside the panoramic glass windows.

7. Napa Valley

Summer in Napa requires pacing. Heat builds midday, but mornings and evenings are ideal for tastings, cycling, and outdoor dining. Vineyards are at their most visually striking, and the valley’s agricultural rhythm becomes visible.

Travelers who plan deliberately, building rest into the middle of the day to avoid the extreme heat, will find summer rewarding rather than overwhelming.

Things to Do

• Visit wineries in the morning or early evening as summer heat peaks midday, while cooler hours enhance tasting experiences.

• Cycle vineyard roads and trails; long daylight and dry conditions make summer evenings ideal for leisurely rides.

• Enjoy outdoor dining. Seasonal menus and warm evenings elevate Napa’s culinary scene; pair the food with local wine from Napa’s world-famous vineyards to get an authentic regional taste.

Travel Tips

• Midday heat peaks sharply because vineyards offer little shade. Scheduling tastings outside peak hours improves comfort and focus; even covered tasting areas can be uncomfortable in midday heat.

• Reservations are essential. In the summer, demand at peak times limits spontaneity but ensures curated, high-quality experiences.

• Light clothing and sun protection are essential, as much of the experience takes place outdoors. Shade is not always guaranteed, so hats, visors, or umbrellas are your friends.

Expert Tips for a Summer Vacation in the Napa Valley

In Napa during summer, I find it’s best to schedule wine tastings in the morning or early evening, avoiding the midday heat when vineyards are most exposed. Use the hottest part of the day for lunch, rest, or pool time at your rental. This pacing keeps tastings enjoyable and allows you to appreciate the landscape without fatigue.

Where to Stay

• Wander Glen Ellen Oasis - Take a break from the sun and relax in the shaded pool at this luxury hillside home. Or socialise with an outdoor meal, prepared in a fully functional outdoor kitchen.

• Wander Glen Ellen Retreat - A luxury home with the perfect blend of comfort and fun. If it's not too hot, you can play basketball, bocce, or pickleball on a custom private court before taking a dip.

• Wander Sonoma Haven - Enjoy views of the surrounding mountains from your own private pool area at this luxury rental. Sonoma Haven is a property offering unmistakable peace and tranquility to match Napa's soft, rolling hills and slower pace of life.

8. Mammoth Lakes

Mammoth Lakes transitions cleanly from winter to summer, becoming one of California’s most reliable warm-weather mountain destinations. Elevation keeps temperatures moderate, while melting snow feeds lakes, rivers, and high-country trails.

Summer here favors travelers who want physical engagement without heat-driven fatigue. Days feel purposeful but unrushed, shaped by altitude rather than crowd dynamics.

Things to Do

• Hike Devil’s Postpile National Monument in summer, access reveals volcanic formations and high-country scenery unavailable during the snow in other seasons.

• Kayak or fish on Twin Lakes. The snowmelt-fed waters are clear and calm during summer mornings.

• Bike Mammoth Mountain trails, cooler temperatures at elevation support longer, more comfortable rides even in summer months.

Travel Tips

• Sun exposure is stronger at elevation. Even if the temperature feels cooler, the thinner air increases UV intensity, making sun protection essential. Pack plenty of sunscreen and avoid exposing your skin to the sun whenever possible.

• Afternoon thunderstorms are common due to mountain weather patterns, so earlier scheduling minimizes disruption. If you are caught out by a storm, make sure to head for lower ground and avoid sheltering under trees.

• Peak summer weeks see limited availability for guided activities and rentals, as the area is much busier than usual. To avoid this, make bookings; they are certainly worthwhile.

• Evenings cool quickly, temperatures drop rapidly once the sun sets, particularly near lakes and higher elevations. Therefore, pack extra layers of clothing if you plan to stay out late, or even if you don’t!

Expert Tips on a Vacation in Mammoth Lakes

In Mammoth Lakes, summer travel is best planned around altitude and weather patterns. I suggest tackling longer hikes and exposed trails early in the day, when temperatures are cooler, and storms are less likely. Afternoons are better suited to lake activities, scenic drives, or lower-elevation exploration, with evenings reserved for dining or soaking in hot springs once the air cools.

9. Joshua Tree

• Joshua Tree in summer is not for broad appeal, and that’s its strength. Activity compresses into early morning and night, while midday becomes interior-focused due to the baking desert heat. The payoff is silence, space, and some of the best stargazing conditions of the year.

• Private luxury homes are essential here, as outdoor dining and cool interiors shape the experience as much as the destination itself.

Things to Do

• Sunrise hikes at Hidden Valley or Barker Dam, early hours provide cooler temperatures and quiet access to the landscape.

• Stargazing at night. The summer sky offers exceptional visibility and warm nighttime conditions.

• Explore Joshua Tree town galleries and cafes; afternoons are best spent indoors before evening activities.

Travel Tips

• Daytime heat is extreme, and desert temperatures can exceed safe limits, making early morning and nighttime activity essential for comfort and safety.

• Limited services increase planning importance. There are few nearby shops or restaurants, so supplies should be secured ahead of time.

• Private homes are key to comfort; pools, shade, and climate control allow travelers to rest during peak heat.

• Intentional scheduling maximizes enjoyment, planning activity around cooler windows creates a calm, rewarding experience rather than a hot, exhausting one.

Expert Tips for a Summer Vacation in Joshua Tree

For Joshua Tree in summer, I always suggest compressing outdoor activity into two windows: sunrise and night. Early mornings are ideal for short hikes and photography, while afternoons should be reserved for rest indoors. Once the sun sets, the desert becomes comfortable again, and nighttime exploration or stargazing often becomes the highlight of the trip.

Where to Stay

• Wander Joshua Tree Azure - A remote desert property is a luxurious oasis in the desert landscape, relax by the pool or sit out at night and gaze upon the stars by firelight.

• Wander Joshua Tree Luna - After a morning exploring the desert, this luxury retreat is perfect for relaxation, with desert views from every window providing a backdrop to drink in.

• Wander Joshua Tree Sky - The desert sky is one of its best features, and it can be drunk in from this comfortable retreat. Sit back and stare at the stars from a private hot tub.

Plan Your California Summer Getaway with Wander

California summer travel works best when destinations are chosen for how they interact with the season, not despite it. While summer brings extreme heat, it also brings warm oceans for beach activities, accessibility to even the most remote regions, and a more stable climate, which can make planning activities easier.

For travelers prioritizing space, flexibility, and private-home living in one of Wander’s luxury California vacation rentals, summer becomes less about enduring peak season and more about exploring places that finally open up after the winter cold. When aligned correctly, it’s California at its most expansive and most rewarding.

Thinking of visiting California in a different season? Read our expert’s guide on the best times to visit California for a comparison and top travel tips.