Hidden gems in California Discover affordable hotels, the best time to visit, things to try, amazing local food, and safety tips, along with must-try food, in this comprehensive travel guide for first-time visitors.
Things to do in California:
The Golden Gate Bridge, Disneyland, and Hollywood are among what California is known for. But there’s more to be done and less traveled roads to be taken. From quaint seaside communities to tranquil national parks, California is home to abundant lesser-known destinations that make for easy — and affordable — getaways. If you want to experience the country’s most visited state on a budget, this guide is for you. Now, on to the best California hidden gems for budget travelers.
California Daily Budget Breakdown: How Much Does it Cost to Travel in California?
You don’t have to break the bank to travel in California. Here is an estimate of what’s reasonable to expect to spend each day for budget-minded travelers:
Accommodation:
Californian budget hotels cost between ₹3000-7,000 per night, and depending on the area and time of year. In cities like Los Angeles or San Francisco, rates are often at the higher end, but you can find cheaper alternatives in smaller towns or rural areas.
Having said that, budget accommodations like hostels, guesthouses, and motels can cost as low as ₹1,500 to ₹3,000 a night. Furthermore, in less tourist-heavy areas, Airbnb can be a great choice for more affordable accommodations.
Food:
California street food and small eateries are so much value for money. A common for a budget restaurant per meal would be ₹700 about ₹1,500.
And if you’re seeking something even cheaper, food trucks and local markets are excellent options to pick up a budget-friendly meal for between ₹300 and ₹600 per dish.
Transportation:
Public transport is available in all cities and towns at reasonable fares (one way usually under ₹100 and ₹300 for a long ride over 200 km to a nearby city).
Hiring a car is great, particularly seeing scenic detours and little hamlets of nowhere; but costly. Rentals per day for a car range between ₹1,500 and ₹3,000. If you are traveling in numbers, it can be even more economical.
Entertainment and Activities:
There are plenty of hidden gems in California, including hiking trails, beaches and state parks, that don’t cost a dime to visit.
For something like wine tasting, museum or a boat tour this fee could be ₹500 to ₹2,500, depending on the place.
Average cost per day for a solo traveller in California would be around ₹3,000 – ₹6,000 excluding your flights, cost of acommodation, food & acitivities.
Low Cost or Budget Hotels and Places to Stay
It’s easier than you think to find affordable lodging near California’s little-known, and stunningly beautiful, hidden gems. Below, some cheaper finds in the under-the-radar districts:
Sierra Nevada:
Remain in a warm cabin or rustic lodge in towns such Truckee or Mammoth Lakes. Cabins can be booked from around ₹2,500 per night for a quiet retreat in the wild.
Point Reyes:
The area near San Francisco’s Point Reyes provides affordable motels and guesthouses starting at ₹3,000 a night. It boasts some of the most gorgeous coastal views and is extremely close to Point Reyes National Seashore, so it is the perfect jumping off place to go explore this little known gem.
Big Sur:
Big Sur is famous for its coastline and stunning views, and the region has motels and campsites for as low as ₹3,000 per night. Many campsites rent tents for even thriftier sojourns.
Santa Barbara:
Though it’s mostly home to upmarket offerings, the nearby towns (Carpinteria or Goleta) offer budget options starting at around ₹3,500 a night. These regions allow access to some hidden gems, such as El Capitan State Beach.
Joshua Tree National Park:
For a little more adventure, consider glamping or reserve a budget motel in neighboring Twentynine Palms or Joshua Tree. Prices range from ₹2,500 to ₹4,000 a night, and you are just a short drive from the park’s otherworldly desertscapes.
How to Get There
The state of California is quite accessible, so you shouldn’t have much trouble getting to its off-the-beaten-path attractions, even if you haven’t got much cash on you. Here is how to get some of the less touristy places:
By Air:
The principal airports in California are Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), San Francisco International Airport (SFO), and San Diego International Airport (SAN). From there, you can rent a car or take public transportation to your hidden gem destination.
By Train:
Amtrak provides bargain train journeys around the state of California from places such as Santa Barbara, Sacramento, and San Luis Obispo. Trains can be a convenient and cost-effective travel option.
By Bus:
Interstate bus service is provided by Greyhound and Megabus throughout California. Slower than trains or flights, buses can in fact be a great way to get to know more off-the-beaten-track areas on a budget.
By Car:
Hire a car to explore numerous hidden gems scattered throughout the state. From the Pacific Coast Highway to Highway 395, drive California’s scenic highways and you will be treated to some of the most beautiful, unknown landscapes in the state.
When to Visit California’s Best-Kept Secrets
The best time to visit California really depends on where you want to go:
Spring (March to May):
It’s a fabulous time to visit tons of California’s hidden gems. The weather is mild, and you can see wildflower blooms in areas including Antelope Valley and Death Valley.
Fall (September to November):
Pretentious Fall is a great time to tour the vineyards of California, especially Napa Valley and Sonoma, where the grape harvest brings beautiful views and fun harvest festivals.
Summer (June to August):
Summer, the peak tourist season, is still the perfect time to visit coastal gems like Big Sur and Point Reyes. You will have to deal with warmer weather, but there are fewer people here than at the renowned beaches of Southern California.
Winter (December – February) :
It’s a great time to get budget skiing and snowboarding in at the Sierra Nevada mountains or Mammoth Lakes.
Local Culture and Specialities
And California’s hidden gems showcase a wide variety of local cultures and a range of cuisines. Here are a few cultural highlights and things to know about the food:
Santa Barbara:
With a Mediterranean flair, Santa Barbara is the American Riviera. Don’t leave without sampling Santa Maria-style barbecue, fish tacos and Santa Barbara pistachios.
Big Sur:
The food you’re eating here in Big Sur has the influence of the coast, after all, so make sure you sample some fresh seafood in general, specifically some clam chowder and some fish & chips.
Sonoma and Napa Valleys:
Famous for their premium vineyards, these regions are home to numerous wine-tasting possibilities and each boasts award-winning wineries. You can pair your wine purchase with local cheese and artisan bread.
Joshua Tree:
The desert’s cult of eating is represented by a common place of service in local eateries, which dish out Mexican fare such as burritos and tacos served with salsa and guacamole.
Safety Tips and Travel Advice for First Time Visitors
It is safe to travel to California’s hidden gems, but here are some tips to help you make the most of your trip:
- Stay Hydrated: California’s climate tends to be hot and dry and can be particularly so in desert areas like Joshua Tree. Get plenty of water, especially in outdoor pursuits like hiking.
- Wear Sunscreen: Shield your skin from the sun, especially if you’re exploring California’s beaches or desert destinations.
- Let Nature Breathe: California’s little-known gems are often national parks, and protected areas. Watch out for wildlife and Leave No Trace to keep the ecosystem lovely.
- Travel Light: While a lot of California’s secret spots are easiest to navigate by foot or bike, so pack light to simplify travel.
Useful Apps / Websites for Your Trip
Google Maps: To navigate (and explore weird spots for when I’m in California).
- Roadtrippers: Great for planning scenic road trips throughout Cali, especially if you’re visiting little known pretties.
- AllTrails: Ideal for finding hiking trails in national parks and elsewhere off the beaten path.
- TripAdvisor: It helps you discover random things that aren’t as well known and that are highly rated by other travelers.
FAQ Section
What are some secret gems in California?
Some of California’s best secrets: Point Reyes, Sierra Nevada, Big Sur e Mammoth Lakes.
What’s the most affordable way to visit hidden gem destinations in California?
Consider renting a car, taking public transport or spending the night in budget accommodations, such as hostels or motels to help cut costs.
What’s the best time to visit California’s hidden gems?
The lesser known gems of California are best visited in the Spring and Fall because of the cool weather and less visitors (during the midweek).
Is California a safe place for a first-time traveler?
Yes, California is safe for first time tourists. But always take care and never forget to read up on travel tips like keeping hydrated and treating the environment with respect.
What should I eat in California’s hidden gems?
Sample local specialties like Santa Maria-style barbecue, clam chowder and fish tacos in areas like Santa Barbara and Big Sur.