The Complete Central California Bucket List

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Central California is often overlooked by bigger coastal destinations when people think of things to do in California. But what it lacks in clout the central region makes up for with stunning nature and exciting things to do.

For the sake of clarity, I personally consider Central California to be the region between Modesto and Bakersfield, so that is the area I chose to focus on. Plus, this area contains the most underrated California bucket list experiences in my opinion.

Map courtesy of CoolCalifornia.org

As a Fresno local, I am very familiar with the central region. In just a few hours’ drive, you can go from the high Sierra Nevadas to the arid Central Valley all the way to the rugged, moody coast. When you are looking for places to visit in California, don’t leave this region off your list! Here are my favorite things to do in Central California, starting in the Sierras and working towards the coast.

Camp at Mammoth Lakes

Mammoth is the perfect place to check backcountry camping or hiking off your California bucket list. From paddleboarding crystal clear lakes to snowshoeing in a winter wonderland, you can even find natural hot springs here. Best of all, Mammoth has something to offer during every season and for every skill level. Visit Mammoth is the authority on the many things you can find to do here.

Hike Yosemite

Yosemite is one of the most famous National Parks in the US, and it is absolutely worth the hype. Nothing will ever compare to the first time you drive through the tunnel entrance straight to the best view in Yosemite. I have to stop at the Tunnel View parking lot for at least a few minutes every time I visit because the view never gets old. Come back soon for my favorite Yosemite hikes.

girl standing in Tunnel View Yosemite — Tunnel View

Hug a Giant Sequoia

If you’ve ever wanted to walk among giants, Sequoia National Park is the place to go. Tucked away in California’s Sierra Nevadas, this park offers easy hiking and spectacular views as it transports you into another world. Don’t miss these 5 Things to see in Sequoia National Park, including Tunnel Log and General Sherman, as you gain the perspective of ants in a forest that looks like it was meant for dinosaurs.

Drive the Fresno Blossom Trail

Potentially one of the most underrated things to do in Central California, there aren’t many places in the world where you can find this sheer volume of blossoms in one place. California produces one-third of US-grown fruits and nuts, and Fresno is one of the leading counties in agricultural production. Just be sure to time your visit right- the trail is only in bloom for a few short weeks out of the year, usually between February and March. Check out my Complete Guide to the Fresno Blossom Trail for specifics on how to best experience the trail.

Fun Fact: If you happen to be driving on the 99 keep your eye out between Avenue 9 and 12 in Fresno for the “Where the Palm Meets the Pine” landmark. What looks like a regular couple of trees in the highway median is actually the point that geographically divides northern and southern California. The pine tree represents the north and the palm represents the south. Blink and you will surely miss it!

Wine Taste in Paso Robles

Sonoma is the first place that comes to mind when most people think of California’s wine region. However, with over 200 different wineries Paso Robles holds its own when it comes to beautiful cellars and vineyards. Although I have not had the pleasure of visiting them yet, I have my eye on DAOU Vineyards and Bianchi Winery.

Horseback Ride SLO

Enjoy the dramatic change in landscape as you make your way from the Central Valley to the coast. On the drive to San Luis Obispo, I always daydream about riding a horse along those soft, yellow hills. In addition to being the most iconic stay in Central California, the historic Madonna Inn is the place to do just that! Read my full post on Horseback Riding at the Madonna Inn and check out my Instagram Highlights for even more SLO content.

Take Highway 1 Through Big Sur

The Pacific Highway is another well-known part of Central California. And for good reason! As you head north you won’t want to miss Hearst Castle, the Instagram-famous McWay Falls, or the iconic Bixby Bridge. I highly suggest making it to Bixby at Golden Hour if you can. There is nothing like watching the sunset over the Pacific next to such a marvel of architecture and engineering.

Spot Wildlife in Carmel-By-The-Sea

Carmel-By-The-Sea is renowned for its quaint architecture and world-class beaches. The storybook town perched right on the coast is also the perfect place to observe nature. A quick drive to Point Lobos State Park will allow you to spot whales, otters, and sea lions in their natural habitat. Or a quick drive into Monterey will bring you to the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium. It would be a dream to retire here someday!

That sums up my favorite things to do in Central California. If any of these have inspired your Central California bucket list or if you have any questions, I’d love to know in the comments below or you can DM me on Instagram @cassiescompass.

For this post, I partnered with some companies for a discounted experience. However, you can count on me to be a good steward of this opportunity. All thoughts and opinions are completely honest and completely my own.