California, often referred to as the "Golden State," boasts a wealth of natural beauty, historic landmarks, and iconic sights. With its diverse landscapes ranging from pristine beaches to majestic forests and everything in between, there's no shortage of awe-inspiring spots to visit. Here are 16 places in California that should be on every traveler’s bucket list.

Yosemite National Park: Home to the iconic Half Dome, El Capitan, and Yosemite Falls, this national park showcases some of the most impressive granite cliffs and breathtaking waterfalls in the world.

Big Sur: This rugged stretch of coastline along Highway 1 offers spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean, especially from the famous Bixby Creek Bridge.

Redwood National and State Parks: Walk amongst the tallest trees on the planet and be humbled by their sheer size and age, some being over 2,000 years old!

Lake Tahoe: Located in the Sierra Nevada mountains, this freshwater lake is a haven for both summer and winter activities, from kayaking and swimming to skiing and snowboarding.

Death Valley National Park: One of the hottest places on Earth, this vast desert landscape is home to the mesmerizing Badwater Basin salt flats and otherworldly sand dunes.

San Francisco: The iconic Golden Gate Bridge, historic Alcatraz Island, and the bustling streets of Chinatown are just a few of the many attractions in this vibrant city.

Napa Valley: As one of the world's premier wine regions, Napa Valley offers picturesque vineyards, world-class wines, and gourmet dining experiences.

Hollywood, Los Angeles: The entertainment capital of the world, Hollywood is home to the Walk of Fame, TCL Chinese Theatre, and the iconic Hollywood sign.

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Pacific Coast Highway: A scenic drive that stretches from San Francisco to Los Angeles, offering unparalleled views of the Pacific Ocean and coastal cliffs.

Sequoia National Park: Marvel at the immense General Sherman Tree, the largest tree on Earth by volume, and explore the intricate Crystal Cave.

Santa Monica Pier: Experience the charm of this historic pier, which features an amusement park, aquarium, and stunning views of the Pacific.

Palm Springs: Known for its mid-century modern architecture, hot springs, and vibrant arts scene, this desert resort city is a haven for relaxation and recreation.

Muir Woods National Monument: A serene forest of coastal redwoods located just north of San Francisco, perfect for hiking and reflection.

Channel Islands National Park: Often called "The Galapagos of North America," these five rugged islands are home to unique species and archaeological resources.

San Diego’s Balboa Park: This 1,200-acre urban park houses 17 museums, several art venues, lush gardens, and the world-famous San Diego Zoo.

Hearst Castle: Built for newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst, this luxurious mansion in San Simeon showcases art, antiques, and the opulence of a bygone era.