<p>California is the third largest state in the US, meaning there is a lot on tap for tourists. It has a diverse array of offerings from cosmopolitan cities to stunning natural beauty. If you are headed to the Golden State for your next vacation, here are some of the top places to visit.</p>
<h2>Hollywood</h2>
<p>Chances are, any trip to California will include Los Angeles, and Hollywood is one of the top neighborhoods to see; even if you are not a celebrity-worshipper, you cannot miss a visit to the mecca of the American entertainment industry. Plenty of nightlife, shopping and other fun activities for tourists.</p>
<h2>San Francisco</h2>
<p>San Francisco is one of the most beloved cities in the nation and with good reason. Its bohemian culture, eclectic mix of residents and array of activities are just a few of its draws. While you are here, do not miss a stroll on the Golden Gate Bridge, a visit to Fisherman’s Wharf, a visit to Alcatraz, and of course, a ride on their iconic cable cars.</p>
<h2>San Diego</h2>
<p>San Diego boasts some of the most beautiful weather in the world year-round and has beautiful beaches to match. Plenty is on offer in this vibrant area. One can’t miss is a visit to the San Diego Zoo, home to over 4,000 animals and 6,500 exotic plants—probably the most famous zoo on the planet.</p>
<h2>Big Sur</h2>
<p>Big Sur is actually quite small, but this area packs in a lot of stunning beauty—it is considered the most beautiful coast in Northern California. Packed with beautiful beaches, mountains and Redwoods, it was named one of the 50 places of a lifetime by National Geographic. You can really get out into nature here and get some of the most beautiful pictures of your trip.</p>
<h2>Lake Tahoe</h2>
<p>Lake Tahoe is one of the best year-round vacation destinations—it has lakeside beaches, golf courses, casinos and great skiing in the Sierra Nevada mountains. If you love the outdoors, there is plenty on tap for you, such as golfing, skiing, hiking, snowboarding, fishing, boating and water skiing.</p>
<h2>Napa Valley</h2>
<p>Napa Valley, famously known as ‘’Wine Country,’’ is one of the prettiest spots in the country. If you like a nice glass of wine, this is definitely the place to go. Book a tour and learn more about this fascinating area.</p>
<h2>Redwood National and State Parks</h2>
<p>Redwood National Park, as well as a number of state parks in the area, are home to the tallest trees on earth. This area, which covers over 39,000 acres, contains over 45 percent of the redwoods remaining on earth. Any trip to California should include a stop to view these natural wonders.</p>
<h2>Death Valley National Park</h2>
<p>While the name may not sound too appealing as a vacation spot, this national park is one of the most interesting places in California. Located in the Mojave Desert, Death Valley consists of more than 3 million acres of varied landscape. Its interesting weather conditions make for some amazing scenery, such as vast salt flats.<br />
Kelli Cooper is a freelance writer who blogs about all things travel; if you want to learn more about California cities and towns, she recommends you visit http://www.avivadirectory.com/Regional/North-America/United-States/States/California/Cities-Towns/.</p>

8 Top Tourist Destinations in California
