Lonely Planet Experience California

Lonely Planet's Experience California travel guide reveals exciting new ways to explore this iconic destination with one-of-a-kind adventures at every turn. Bike, boat, swim and ski at Lake Tahoe, take an iconic drive on Route 66, scout mural masterpieces in San Francisco – using local experts and planning tools to create your own unique trip.

Local experts share their love for the real California, offering fresh perspectives into the region's traditions, values and modern trends. Discover insider tips to help you build on your experiences when visiting well-known sights, plus fun insights that take you to the heart of the place – make time for your mind in a bath of bubbling volcanic mud in Napa, slurp freshly shucked local oysters along the NorthCal coast, or spot great white sharks and gray whales at Monterey Bay. You'll find insider scoop on the best festivals, secret hangouts, hidden locations, the tantalizing local food scene and photo-worthy views.

The guide features a handy seasonal trip planner to guide you on where to go, when to travel and what to pack, plus practical information on money, getting around, unique and local ways to stay, and responsible travel. With a comprehensive selection of maps and beautiful full-colour photography throughout, the book covers San Francisco & the Bay Area, Napa & Sonoma, Northern California & the Redwood Coast, Central Coast, Sacramento, Lake Tahoe, Yosemite & the Sierra Nevada, Santa Barbara, Los Angeles, San Diego, Palm Springs & the Deserts. Each book in the Experience series contains handy trip building tools so you can create your own dream travel itinerary, and unlock even more travel secrets using QR codes throughout the guide to discover story-worthy travel moments you'll never forget.