Planning a trip to California? Whether you’re seeking stunning views, unique outdoor experiences, or memories that will last a lifetime, the Golden State has it all. With diverse terrain ranging from beaches to islands, there are adventures everywhere! Here’s our guide to the best things to do in California for outdoor lovers.
While you’re out enjoying the sunshine, don’t forget the importance of sun protection. Our shirts not only offer UPF 50+ protection for those warmer months, but also make an excellent moisture-wicking layer during winter adventures.
CLICK HERE TO check out the Altered Latitudes California Destination Map Graphics for each location below!
Things to Do in California
San Diego: Surf, Sunsets, and Seals
Best outdoor thing to do: Visit La Jolla Cove for snorkeling and seal watching. The crystal-clear waters make it easy to see marine life up close, and the seals lounging on the rocks are a must-see.
Best view and how to photograph it: Head to Sunset Cliffs for panoramic views of the Pacific. Capture the cliffs at golden hour with a wide-angle lens to get the full majesty of the rocky coastline and crashing waves.
Little-known fact: San Diego is home to one of the most biodiverse coastal regions in the U.S., making it a top destination for marine biology enthusiasts.
What you'll always remember: The sound of the waves crashing against the cliffs and the sight of the sun dipping below the horizon will stay with you long after you leave.
Shop Our Coastal Classics San Diego Map Graphic Shirts & Can Coolers!
San Francisco Bay: Explore Alcatraz and the Golden Gate
Best outdoor thing to do: Kayaking in San Francisco Bay gives you a unique perspective of the city’s iconic landmarks, including the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island.
Best view and how to photograph it: For a breathtaking shot, hike up to Battery Spencer. From there, you’ll have an unmatched view of the Golden Gate Bridge framed by the city skyline and the bay.
Little-known fact: The fog in San Francisco, locally called “Karl,” has its own social media presence. You might catch it rolling in during your visit, adding drama to your photos.
What you'll always remember: The experience of paddling through the bay, with the wind in your face and the towering Golden Gate Bridge above, will be an unforgettable adventure.
Shop Our Coastal Classics San Francisco Bay Map Graphic Shirts & Can Coolers!
Catalina Island: Ocean Fun and Scenic Hikes
Best outdoor thing to do: Hiking to the top of Mount Orizaba offers incredible panoramic views of the island and ocean.
Best view and how to photograph it: Snap a photo from the summit of Mount Orizaba, where you can capture the endless Pacific and the island’s coastline stretching into the distance.
Little-known fact: Catalina was once a Hollywood hotspot in the 1920s, and many old film stars used to vacation there.
What you'll always remember: The serene island atmosphere and the tranquility of hiking with the ocean breeze.
Shop Our Coastal Classics Catalina Island Map Graphic Shirts & Can Coolers!
Alcatraz: History Meets Nature
Best outdoor thing to do: While known for its history, a stroll through the island’s gardens, which have been restored by volunteers, offers a peaceful experience contrasting the prison.
Best view and how to photograph it: Photograph the San Francisco skyline from Alcatraz. The city looks particularly dramatic through the bars of an old prison window.
Little-known fact: Alcatraz is home to rare native plants that can’t be found anywhere else in San Francisco.
What you'll always remember: The eerie quiet of the island mixed with its turbulent history will leave a lasting impression.
Shop Our Coastal Classics Alcatraz Map Graphic Shirts & Can Coolers!
Channel Islands: Untouched Nature
Best outdoor thing to do: Kayaking through the sea caves of the Channel Islands is an adventure like no other.
Best view and how to photograph it: Take a picture of Painted Cave, one of the largest sea caves in the world, with sunlight streaming in and reflecting off the water.
Little-known fact: The Channel Islands are often called the "Galapagos of North America" due to their unique ecosystems and wildlife.
What you'll always remember: The feeling of being completely immersed in nature, far from the mainland.
Shop Our Coastal Classics Channel Islands Map Graphic Shirts & Can Coolers!
Santa Cruz: Surfing and Boardwalk Fun
Best outdoor thing to do: Surfing at Steamer Lane is a must for any surf enthusiast. The waves here are iconic, attracting surfers from around the world. Even if you don’t surf, watching the pros ride the waves is a thrilling experience.
Best view and how to photograph it: Head to West Cliff Drive for a picture-perfect view of the coastline. Capture surfers in action with a zoom lens, framed by the rocky cliffs and crashing waves for a dynamic shot.
Little-known fact: Santa Cruz is known as the birthplace of mainland surfing in the U.S., with Hawaiian princes introducing the sport to the area in the 1880s.
What you'll always remember: The laid-back surf culture and the salty ocean air will stay with you, a reminder of the carefree days spent by the sea.
Shop Our Coastal Classics Santa Cruz Map Graphic Shirts & Can Coolers!
Carmel: Art, Nature, and Scenic Walks
Best outdoor thing to do: A walk through Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is the best way to experience Carmel’s rugged beauty. With its dramatic cliffs, turquoise waters, and wildlife, it’s a nature lover’s paradise.
Best view and how to photograph it: The Cypress Grove Trail offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean framed by ancient, wind-sculpted cypress trees. Snap a photo during golden hour to capture the vibrant colors of the coastline.
Little-known fact: Carmel by the Sea’s strict building codes have kept the town charmingly free of street addresses, neon signs, and chain restaurants, preserving its small-town feel.
What you'll always remember: The serenity of walking along the cliffs, hearing the waves crash below, and spotting seals basking in the sun will leave a lasting sense of peace.
Shop Our Coastal Classics Carmel Map Graphic Shirts & Can Coolers!
Dana Point: Whale Watching and Coastal Trails
Best outdoor thing to do: Whale watching is a must in Dana Point, often called the “Whale Capital of the World.” From December to April, you can see gray whales on their migration route, but dolphins and blue whales are also common sights year-round.
Best view and how to photograph it: Head to the Dana Point Headlands Conservation Area for sweeping views of the ocean and wildlife. Use a telephoto lens to capture the majesty of a whale breaching in the distance, with the cliffs framing the shot.
Little-known fact: The town of Dana Point is named after Richard Henry Dana Jr., who described the area's beauty in his book Two Years Before the Mast.
What you'll always remember: The awe-inspiring experience of seeing whales in their natural habitat, surrounded by the pristine beauty of Dana Point’s coastline, will be an unforgettable highlight.
Shop Our Coastal Classics Dana Point Map Graphic Shirts & Can Coolers!
Castle Hill: Hidden Views and Coastal Beauty
Best outdoor thing to do: Hiking the lesser-known trails around Castle Hill provides some of the most rewarding views of the California coastline, with fewer crowds and more opportunities for peaceful reflection.
Best view and how to photograph it: From the top of the Castle Hill trails, you can capture panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. A wide-angle lens will help you do justice to the sweeping coastal vistas and rugged cliffs below.
Little-known fact: Castle Hill is part of the historic Hearst Ranch, a working cattle ranch that has been in operation since the 1860s.
What you'll always remember: The quiet beauty of this hidden gem, with its rolling hills and unobstructed ocean views, will leave you with a deep sense of connection to nature.
Shop Our Coastal Classics Castle Hill Map Graphic Shirts & Can Coolers!
The Importance of Sun Protection
California’s beautiful weather comes with a high dose of UV rays. Whether you’re hiking, kayaking, or just relaxing on the beach, it’s crucial to protect your skin. Our UPF 50+ sun protection shirts are the perfect solution, offering maximum coverage in the heat. And during cooler months, they double as moisture-wicking base layers, keeping you dry and comfortable. No matter the season, our shirts ensure you stay protected during your adventures.
PHOTO: SAN FRANCISCO, UNSPLASH
PHOTO: SAN DIEGO, UNSPLASH
PHOTO: CATALINA ISLAND, UNSPLASH
Photo: ALCATRAZ, UNSPLASH
PHOTO: CHANNEL ISLANDS, UNSPLASH
Photo: Bridge near Carmel, Unsplash
Photo: Whale Watching, Unsplash
