Are you heading to California for a travel adventure? You probably have already decided to visit the popular tourist destinations like LA, with the dazzling lights of the central city and the stunning home of the silver screen that is Hollywood. Or, perhaps you’ll head to San Diego, with a one-day ticket so you can go and listen to The Cure? But maybe, instead of heading to the city and locations that everyone visits, you should discover the spots that are hidden gems.

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Piedras Blancas

Off the California coast, you’ll find the Piedra Blancas seal preserve. Here you’ll discover nature, free from the control of man. It was the fall of 1990 when something amazing happened on the coast beach here. A herd of elephant seals appeared. Since then, elephant seals have returned to this location on a regular basis. As such, the location has become a rather unique attraction for tourists. But for those outside of California it is a relatively well-preserved secret. Still, if you do venture to this location, you can see as many as 15,000 elephant seals resting on the sands.

 

Muscle Beach

The beach of Santa Monica has always been a popular location for local residents. There are numerous property developments here with Chelsea Apartments available for people eager to relocate to the sunny shores. One of the attractions that make this area so popular is Muscle Beach. Established in the 1930’s, this is an outdoor gym with all the facilities and equipment that you would expect from a place for working out under the sun. Arguably the biggest attraction here is the people themselves. You’ll find a wide range of different characters here, some of whom are sure to brighten up your day.

 

Visit A Ghost Town

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Have you ever wanted to visit a true ghost town? You can find one in the Bodie Hills of Sierra Nevada Mountains. This beautiful location is home to a town that was born from the mad gold rush that occurred in the area dating back to the 1800’s. Since then it has been maintained as a monument to this often forgotten part of American history. While it is a tourist spot, the silence you’ll often find in this location is eery and yet incredibly beautiful.

 

Natural Jacuzzis

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Do you fancy taking a dip in wonderful warm waters? You should consider taking a trip to the Mammoth Lake Hot Springs. You’ll find them near the town of Benton. Many of these hot springs have now been renovated and adapted for safe use by tourists. Be sure to visit in the evening for a relaxing bathe underneath a beautiful, bright night sky.

As you can see then, there is far more to California than just LA. If you only visit the central city of the state, you are missing some beautiful and incredible hidden wonders. From ghost towns, energetic beaches, beauty spots and unique people, California is a place that dares you to go off the beaten track and discover your own unique adventure.

 

Written by Jacqueline Chambers

Jacqueline Chambers

Jacqueline Chambers is the founder of TGIFguide. She uses her innate skills as a natural “connector” to serve businesses, brands and individuals in the LA area and beyond.