Discover the 10 best places to visit in California in April, from stunning coastal towns to breathtaking natural wonders. Plan your perfect spring getaway today!
Best Places to Go California in April
April is one of the best months to explore California, offering mild temperatures, blooming landscapes, and fewer tourists before the summer rush. Whether you’re seeking scenic beaches, charming small towns, or outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone. Here are 10 must-visit destinations in California in April for an unforgettable spring experience.
1. Santa Cruz
- Enjoy scenic coastal views, sandy beaches, and vibrant boardwalk attractions.
- Visit the famous Mystery Spot, a gravity-defying optical illusion site.
Santa Cruz is a perfect spring getaway, offering mild weather, fun outdoor activities, and a laid-back beach town vibe. Stroll along the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, take a scenic drive along West Cliff Drive, or go surfing at Steamer Lane. The nearby Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park provides a chance to explore ancient trees and picturesque hiking trails.
2. Carlsbad
- Famous for the breathtaking Carlsbad Flower Fields in full bloom.
- Offers beautiful beaches, golf courses, and family-friendly attractions.
April is the peak bloom season for the Carlsbad Flower Fields, where rolling hills of vibrant ranunculus flowers create a stunning display. Beyond the flowers, Carlsbad State Beach is perfect for a relaxing day by the ocean. Families will love visiting LEGOLAND California, while wine lovers can enjoy tastings at the Carlsbad Wine Region.
3. Solvang
- A charming Danish-style village with European architecture and bakeries.
- Perfect for wine tasting, boutique shopping, and scenic countryside views.
Located in Santa Ynez Valley, Solvang is a hidden gem that transports visitors to a Danish-inspired village. Walk through streets lined with windmills, colorful buildings, and quaint shops. Enjoy authentic Danish pastries, visit Hans Christian Andersen Park, and explore nearby Santa Ynez wineries. April’s pleasant weather makes it an ideal time for a wine-country escape.
4. Mendocino
- A coastal paradise with dramatic cliffs, scenic hiking trails, and charming inns.
- Great for whale watching, art galleries, and wine tasting.
Spring in Mendocino offers blooming wildflowers, crisp ocean air, and uncrowded coastal trails. Take in breathtaking views at Mendocino Headlands State Park, explore Russian Gulch State Park, and enjoy a scenic drive along Highway 1. Whale-watching season is in full swing, making it a great time to spot gray whales migrating along the coast.
5. Laguna Beach
- Known for its stunning beaches, tide pools, and vibrant art scene.
- A great spot for coastal hiking, oceanfront dining, and boutique shopping.
Spring brings warm sunshine and fewer crowds to Laguna Beach, making it perfect for a peaceful getaway. Visit Crystal Cove State Park for scenic hiking trails, explore Heisler Park’s coastal pathways, and admire tide pools at Thousand Steps Beach. The Laguna Art Museum and the city’s many art galleries make this a perfect destination for art lovers.
6. Palm Springs
- A desert oasis with warm spring temperatures, hot springs, and luxury resorts.
- Famous for mid-century modern architecture, shopping, and scenic hikes.
April is one of the best times to visit Palm Springs, with perfect weather before the summer heat arrives. Relax at hot springs and resorts, explore the stunning Moorten Botanical Garden, or ride the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway for breathtaking mountain views. Don’t miss the Coachella Valley Music Festival, which takes place in nearby Indio every April.
7. Pismo Beach
- A coastal gem with sandy beaches, scenic dunes, and oceanfront dining.
- Ideal for surfing, ATV riding on the dunes, and wine tasting in nearby Edna Valley.
Spring is the perfect season to visit Pismo Beach, with pleasant temperatures and fewer tourists. Stroll along Pismo Pier, explore the nearby Oceano Dunes, or take a scenic kayak tour along the coast. Visit Monarch Butterfly Grove, where thousands of butterflies rest before migrating north. For wine lovers, the Edna Valley Wine Country offers excellent tasting experiences.
8. Catalina Island
- A stunning island getaway just off the coast of Southern California.
- Offers snorkeling, zip-lining, and scenic boat rides.
Catalina Island is a perfect spring escape, with clear blue waters, charming shops, and adventurous activities. Take a glass-bottom boat tour, snorkel in Lover’s Cove, or enjoy zip-lining through the island’s hills. The Catalina Wine Mixer in April is a fun event with live music, wine tastings, and oceanfront festivities.
9. Sausalito
- A picturesque waterfront town with stunning views of the San Francisco skyline.
- Great for art galleries, boutique shopping, and scenic ferry rides.
Just a short ferry ride from San Francisco, Sausalito is an ideal spring day trip destination. Walk along the Sausalito Boardwalk, visit charming houseboat communities, and explore local art galleries. Enjoy a seafood meal with stunning Golden Gate Bridge views, or take a scenic bike ride from Sausalito to Tiburon along the bay.
10. Ventura
- A hidden coastal gem with sandy beaches, historic landmarks, and outdoor activities.
- Offers easy access to the Channel Islands National Park for an unforgettable adventure.
Ventura is one of California’s most underrated beach towns, perfect for a relaxing spring retreat. Visit Surfer’s Point Beach, explore the historic Ventura Pier, and stroll through downtown Ventura’s shops and cafés. Take a boat tour to Channel Islands National Park, where you can kayak through sea caves, hike scenic trails, and spot unique wildlife.
Final Thoughts
April is a fantastic time to explore California, offering warm weather, blooming landscapes, and exciting outdoor activities. Whether you’re looking for charming coastal towns, vibrant wildflowers, or relaxing beach getaways, these 10 destinations provide the perfect spring escape. Start planning your California adventure today!
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