Central California, CA
Travel Guide
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Visit Central California
Where to stay in Central California
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Downtown San Jose
Known for its fascinating museums and great live music, there's plenty to explore in Downtown San Jose. You can visit top attractions like San Pedro Square and St. Joseph Cathedral Basilica, and jump on the metro at Santa Clara Station or St James Station to see more of the city.
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Downtown Monterey
The beaches and seaside views are top of the list for many visitors to Downtown Monterey. A stop by Golden State Theatre or Munras Avenue might round out your trip.
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Yosemite West
Just outside Yosemite National Park, this unincorporated community offers resort homes and access to several hiking trails, including Deer Camp Trail and Alder Creek Trail. Explore the historic Henness Ridge fire lookout tower and admire Alder Creek Fall.
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Golden Rectangle
If you're spending some time in Golden Rectangle, Carmel Plaza and Carmel Beach are top sights worth seeing.
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Westside Santa Cruz
Westside Santa Cruz is known for its stunning beaches, and with sights like Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Monterey Bay, you won't get bored spending a day wandering around this part of Santa Cruz.
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Mammoth Village
If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Mammoth Village and surrounding area, you can visit Village Gondola Station and Sierra Star Golf Course.
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Reviewed on 26 February 2025
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Reviewed on 1 March 2025
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Reviewed on 25 February 2025
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Reviewed on 1 January 2025
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Reviewed on 14 February 2025
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Reviewed on 21 February 2025
Check Central California hotel availability
Popular places to visit
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Yosemite Valley
Explore the great outdoors at Yosemite Valley, a popular spot to commune with nature in Yosemite National Park. Amble around the area's riverfront, or seek out its hiking trails.
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Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
Enjoy the thrills at Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and find out why people love this theme park in Santa Cruz. Attend a sporting event in this walkable area, or seek out the biking trails.
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Monterey Bay Aquarium
Take the family to visit the sea life at Monterey Bay Aquarium and find out why this is a popular attraction in Monterey. Stroll along the area's seaside, or simply savor its seafood restaurants.
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San Jose Convention Center
During your trip, find out what's happening at San Jose Convention Center, a top convention center in San Jose. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the top-notch restaurants while you're in the area.
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Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort
Hit the slopes at Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort, a top ski area in Mammoth Lakes. Wander the lakeside or discover the mountain views in this quaint area.
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Mammoth Mountain
Explore the great outdoors at Mammoth Mountain and enjoy the mountain views during your trip to Mammoth Lakes. Stroll along the lakeside in this family-friendly area, or seek out the ski slopes.