Unique Places to Visit in Northern California

After living here for 4 years, I knew I had to compile all the unique places to visit in Northern California. As one of the most beautiful states in the country and North America in general, it’s no surprise that it’s become a top bucket-list destination for many.

What is Northern California Known For

Northern California is home to some of the most stunning views, outdoor scenes, delicious food and exciting culture. The best part about NorCal is that it’s fairly easy to get from one place to another. Between the temperate weather year-round, scenic drives, breathtaking sunsets and endless outdoor activities, you’ll find something for everyone. Whether you’ve always wanted to see The Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, grab a chowder bread bowl at Fisherman’s Wharf, witness a sunset in Big Sur, check out a winery in Napa Valley, dip your toes in the Calistoga Hot Springs or hike the trails at Yosemite, you’ll find plenty of suggestions below for your trip. 

Some suggestions listed here will be touristy and some not. Unique places come in all shapes and sizes and being able to experience them all has been a dream come true. Between the views, nature stops, restaurants and hotels listed below, you really can’t go wrong.

Best time to visit Northern California

There is really no bad time of the year to visit Northern California, because temperatures rarely reach extreme levels. Choosing the best time to visit Northern Cali all depends on what you want to do there. 

If you’re a big fan of skiing or snowboarding, the best months to visit will be December, January, and February. During these months, you can expect plenty of snow in the beautiful and picturesque mountains. 

Looking to do some wine-tasting? Plan to visit during the Fall months. Autumn in Northern California is neither too hot nor too cold, giving you the perfect opportunity to take a nice, cool tour of all your favorite California wineries. 

And finally, if the beaches and boardwalks of Santa Cruz are calling your name, plan to visit in the Summer months – June through September. September specifically is a great time to visit Northern Cali, as the harsh heat is just backing off, but you can still expect warm, bright, and sunny days. 

UNIQUE PLACES TO VISIT IN NORTHERN CALIFORNIA

Northern California

Big Sur

The truly iconic drive on the central coast of California where people all over the world come to visit. You know all those car commercials where the vehicle whips around sharp turns with sweeping landscapes beside it? Yeah, those are usually shot in Big Sur. Out of all the road trips I’ve taken (a lot) the drive to Big Sur is one of the most stunning I’ve seen. There’s a ton of vista points, covered bridges, nature trails, swimming opportunities and sunsets to be seen.

Here are some of the vista points you’ll see:

Half Moon Bay

A popular and scenic destination with year-round outdoor activities and delicious restaurants to visit. Half Moon Bay resides along the coast of NorCal and brings amazing ocean views, fog and temperate wheather most of the year.

Here are a few places worth checking out in Half Moon Bay:

Arata’s Pumpkin Farm

One of the best pumpkin patches in Half Moon Bay.

Cantina @ San Benito House

Amazing fish tacos and chips & guac!

Half Moon Bay State Beach

One of the best viewpoints.

Miramar Beach Restaurant

Excellent seafood and ocean views

The Ritz Carlton Half Moon Bay

Epic location with one of the most popular golf courses in the state. Even if you aren’t staying there, you can hangout and order appetizers and drinks.

Sam’s Chowder House

Fun and vibrant ocean-view restaurant with good seafood and drinks.

Lake Tahoe

The most magical place in all of California, if you ask me. Lake Tahoe will give you the most adventurous outdoor experiences but also the most low-key and relaxing vibes at the same time. As one of my favorite places on earth, I know it surely will not disappoint.

Here’s a breakdown of the difference between north lake and south lake.

South Lake Tahoe

South Lake is the laid back, chill, beginner-intermediate ski-town for someone who spends a few hours on the mountain and then heads back to the lodge for happy hour followed by a game of beer pong at the Airbnb. This person typically enjoys atmospheres, restaurants, casinos and ice-skating. It’s the perfect place to enjoy an adventure but relax and wind-down rather quickly.

Places to eat in South Lake Tahoe:

Azul Latin kitchen – Mexican

Base Camp Pizza – Pizza & Beer

California Burger Co. – Burgers & Beer

A Cup of Cherries – Breakfast

Glazed and Confuzed – Donuts & Coffee

North Lake Tahoe

North Lake is a tad bit bougier and more heavily focused on skiing and winter sports. Squaw Valley is an extremely exclusive luxury resort that will make any ski trip dream come true. The mountains and ski-runs are out of this world. The 1960 Olympics were held at Squaw and it’s obvious why. The snow-fall is insane, the village is quaint, beautiful and very expensive, but so worth the experience.

PLACES TO EAT IN Squaw Valley:

The Auld Dubliner – Irish Restaurant & Bar

Coffeebar – High-end coffee & breakfast/brunch spot

Mountain Nectar Juice & Bagel – AMAZING BAGELS & BREAKFAST SANDWICHES (COMING FROM A NEW YORKER)

Monterey

A beautiful and extremely windy/chilly town on the central coast of NorCal. Stunning properties, lively shops and bars and incredible marine life reside here. Visiting the Monterey Aquarium is a must.

Napa Valley

My first impression of Napa Valley was feeling the magical charm and beauty that one experiences upon visiting for the first time. It’s an extremely elegant and classy place, very closely resembling the hills and landscapes of Florence, Italy. Located in Northern California, only an hour from San Francisco, it truly makes you feel like you’ve escaped the busy city life.

What I love most about Napa is the year-round gorgeous weather, the community and locals who absolutely love where they live and work and of course the wineries that leave you amazed and wanting more.

I can go back to Napa year-round and there’s always somewhere new to explore. When I think of Napa, I think of summer dresses, wedges and big floppy hats, high-end customer service, the most delicious and smooth wines in the world and luxurious experiences. I will never get tired of coming here. Check out the Napa Valley Travel guide here.

Pacifica

One of the most scenic beaches with the cutest small-town vibe. Taking a drive here to see stunning views, hear the ocean waves crash or hit up the iconic Taco Bell Cantina is a great way to spend your day.

San Francisco

One of the most cultured, bright and beautiful cities residing right on the water is none other than San Francisco. Not to be confused with San Diego located in Southern California. As one of the most popular coastal cities to visit in the United States, it offers a plethora of things to do both indoors and outdoors. With its steep hills, history, views and art, San Francisco offers a truly unique experience than many other cities. With iconic landmarks like Alcatraz Island, Fisherman’s Wharf, The Golden Gate Bridge, Golden Gate Park, Cable Cars, the Palace of Fine Arts and more, you really can’t go wrong. 

Here’s a few spots worth visiting:

The Alchemist Bar & Lounge – TRENDY & ELEGANT BAR IN THE CITY

Alamo Square – THE PAINTED LADIES

Charmaine’s Rooftop Bar & Lounge – MY FAVORITE ROOFTOP BAR IN sf

China Live – the best chinese food in Chinatown. Dine-in + classes available

Dolores Park – Popular park for day trips

El Techo – Rooftop Mexican Brunch

Fayala – french & mediterranean cuisine with the perfect combo of flavors

The Ferry Building – Iconic tourist spot for food & waterfront views

Mister Jiu’s – Modern & ubeat chinese restaurant

Mr. Holme’s Bakehouse – Iconic tourist bakery & photo-op

Museum of Ice Cream – Speaks for itself

Original Joe’s – quality italian restaurant chain

Oasis Grill – Out of this world mediterranean food

The Palm House – Trendy & tropical inspired restaurant to get cocktails

Southern Pacific Brewing Co. – Inside/outside brewery with good food & drinks

Tomaso’s – Best Italian restaurant in SF (in my opinion)

Tropisueno – Authentic & delicious Mexican restaurant

Waterbar – The best seafood spot with insane waterfront views

Silicon Valley

The well-known and idealistic tech and startup hub for all entrepreneurs, located in San Jose. Silicon Valley definitely lives up to its reputation by being one of the wealthiest regions in the world with a prime real estate market. The tech industry pros here really do wear sneakers and The Internship captured Google’s culture spot on. It’s definitely a place worth visiting.

Mountain View

I had the pleasure of getting to know Mountain view quite well when I worked for a consulting firm and opened a new office right on one of the most famous streets in SV – Castro Street. I know this isn’t the most popular destination to visit, but if you should find yourself in the area, you must check out these restaurants.

Places to eat in Mountain View:

Cascal – Spirited Pan- Latin cuisine. AMAZING fish tacos and chips & guac.

Oren’s Hummus – fresh Mediterranean cuisine. Some of the best hummus and pita bread I’ve had.

Mantra India – The absolute BEST Indian food. Setup buffet style and has the most beautiful, fresh and flavorful ingredients.

Palo Alto

While I don’t have a ton of suggestions for restaurants/places in Palo Alto, the town itself is extremely beautiful and overall iconic for the Silicon Valley area. It’s a great place to walk around, do some shopping and grab some appetizers and a drink outdoors.

Where to stay in Palo Alto:

Four Seasons Palo Alto

Après by Four Seasons

One of the most unique experiences during the holiday season! Fondue, spiked hot chocolate, blankets, christmas movies and an hourly snowfall. What more could you ask for?

Yosemite National Park

A must-visit for NorCal! I have an entire guide HERE for your trip to Yosemite. If you’re a big fan of National Parks, be sure to hit Death Valley National Park in California as well. 

All of these places, touristy and not, are definitely pretty unique places to visit in California. I worked very hard and did a lot of backtracking through my travels to compile this list for you all!

Have some extra time in Cali? Hit Los Angeles and/or Palm Springs! Both are must-see locations in California located a bit farther South. And while you’re at it, be sure to take a scenic drive along the Avenue of the Giants as well. There are no shortage of amazing things to do in California! 

Let me know what you think and if you have any questions!