Discover California: 7 free insider tips for tourists!

Discover California: 7 free insider tips for tourists!

California attracts millions of tourists annually to explore its spectacular coastline and breathtaking national parks. Big Sur, a popular destination on California's Pacific Coast, offers numerous free experiences with its 750 miles (1,264 km) of shoreline. While tourist buses cost up to €180 per person, locals can park for free at hidden viewpoints. The region has more free attractions than paid ones, making it particularly attractive to travelers on a budget.

Lesser known but recommended stops include Seal Beach Overlook, Hurricane Viewpoint and Big Creek Bridge Vista Point. A popular free access point is Little Sur River Beach (GPS 36.331899, -121.890873), which has only eight parking spaces and guarantees a quiet atmosphere. The most famous attraction, Bixby Bridge, is often crowded, while the beach offers a relaxing retreat. GPS coordinates such as 36.379928, -121.902014 lead to parking areas with spectacular panoramic views.

National parks in California

California has a total of nine national parks, more than any other state. These parks offer a variety of landscapes and activities. Yosemite National Park is particularly known for its granite cliffs and waterfalls. Another park that offers great views is Hetch Hetchy Valley, which offers similar landscapes to Yosemite but is accessible without an entrance fee (GPS 38.0305° N, 120.0947° W). Mariposa Grove is also home to 500 ancient sequoias, which are free to visitors.

Visitors visiting Yosemite National Park on certain dates, such as January 20, 2025 (Martin Luther King Jr. Day), can benefit from free admission. Five additional free days are scheduled throughout the year, including April 19 as part of National Park Week.

Tips for visiting

For travelers planning a California road trip, it's a good idea to allow time for exploring rather than just driving. Enjoy popular destinations like Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks or Joshua Tree National Park, known for its striking trees and rock formations.

To make the trip easier, the free Action Tour Guide app can be used for GPS navigation along the Pacific Coast Highway and the 142 free beaches in California for rest and relaxation. This app provides access to valuable information about the route and has a rating of 3.9 out of 5 stars from 26 Google Play reviews.

Local visitors save money by using thermoses and homemade sandwiches. While tourists spend between €150 and €180 a day, locals get by with costs between €25 and €35.

Whether exploring nature, relaxing on one of the many beautiful beaches or hiking in the vast national parks, California offers unforgettable experiences for every traveler.

For more information about experiences in California, visit the website Journee Mondiale and Yosemite.com.