California Travel Guide 

Statistics (Become An Expert)

Currency

The currency in California is the US Dollar

Aerial view of the Hotel Californian. (photo via Preferred Hotels & Resorts) (Photo Credit: (photo via Preferred Hotels & Resorts))

National Languages

English is the most used language in California, followed by Spanish.

Time Zone

California practices daylight saving time. Clocks are turned forward by one hour in mid-March. They are turned back one hour at the beginning of November each year. 

Climate And Weather

California is known for its generally mild and pleasant climate with warm summers and cool rainy winters. 

In coastal regions such as Los Angeles, the climate is typically Mediterranean, with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. 

Inland areas, such as the Central Valley and the deserts, have a semi-arid to arid climate with hot dry summers and cool winters. 

California is prone to seasonal drought and wildfires that can affect the climate and weather conditions in different regions.

Getting Around California

Rent a car. Car rental is the most popular way to get around California and the most convenient if you plan to visit multiple destinations. You can find major car rental agencies at airports and throughout the state.

Public transport. If you are visiting major cities, public transport is the way to go. California has an extensive public transportation network, including buses, trains, and subways. It’s an affordable and convenient option for travelers on a budget.

Taxis and Uber. Taxis are readily available in most cities and can typically be hailed on the street or called from a taxi stand or dispatch service. Taxis charge a metered rate based on distance and time. Uber operates in numerous cities across the state.

RV or camper. If you want to travel at your own pace and have the flexibility to change your itinerary as you go, then we recommend hiring an RV. There are many RV rental companies across the state and plenty of RV parks and campgrounds. RVs come in different sizes and classes so you can find one that fits your needs and budget. 

When To Visit California

California typically has a mild and sunny climate year-round, but there are some regional variations. 

If you visit California to enjoy the beach and water, the summer months from June to August are best. Summer is also the peak tourist season, so you can expect large crowds and higher prices. 

In our opinion, the best time to visit California's national parks, such as Yosemite or Joshua Tree, is during spring (March to May) or fall (September to November). The weather is cooler and the crowds are thinner. If the wineries are where you’re headed, then aim to visit in the fall when the grape harvest is in full swing. 

If you’re a skiing enthusiast, then winter may be the best season for you. Hit the slopes in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, home to several top ski resorts such as Squaw Valley and Lake Tahoe

San Francisco: There are many great reasons to visit San Francisco but we think that one of the best is the city’s unique and diverse culture. San Francisco is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, vibrant art scene, and incredible cuisine. 

Napa Valley: The valley is a beautiful destination known for its scenic vineyards and world-renowned wineries. There are over 400 wineries in the region each with its unique charm and wines. If wine tasting or sightseeing is not for you, Napa Valley offers many outdoor activities like kayaking, hiking, or golfing. 

Monterey is located on the California coast and offers breathtaking natural beauty, from the rugged coastline to the rolling hills and pristine beaches. Monterey has a long and fascinating history dating back to the Spanish colonization in the 18th century. There are plenty of historic landmarks to explore as well as fantastic attractions like Cannery Row. 

Lake Tahoe in the Sierra Nevada Mountains is known for its crystal clear blue water and scenic views of the surrounding mountains. While the area boasts a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere, there are loads of outdoor activities on offer too. We love making the most of water activities, like boating and fishing, in the summer months. In winter, the area’s world-class ski resorts offer skiing and snowboarding.