Andrea•Dec 9, 2025Back to ArticlesAndrea•Dec 9, 2025
The 7 Best Places to Visit in California in July
Andrea•Dec 9, 2025July in California feels expansive. Long daylight stretches across the coast, the mountains open fully for summer hiking, and inland valleys warm into peak growing season. Crowds gather in predictable pockets, but step outside the obvious choices and you’ll find breezy beaches, cool mornings in wine country, and coastal towns built for relaxed, early-summer living.
If you’re considering the best places to visit in California in July, the trick is matching your trip to the state’s microclimates. Coastal regions stay surprisingly mild, often wrapped in morning fog that burns off by lunch. Inland, vineyards and farm towns hit their stride with summer produce, outdoor concerts, and warm evenings. Higher elevations offer crisp mornings and bright trail days without spring snowpack.
These seven destinations reflect July’s rhythm — places that feel naturally suited to the month rather than simply famous year-round.
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1. Laguna Beach
Why it’s one of the best places to visit in California in July
Laguna Beach feels purpose-built for July. The coves clear to an almost tropical blue, the water warms enough for long swims, and coastal paths stay edged with bright summer greenery. Mornings sometimes begin with the classic “July Gloom,” but the payoff comes by midday, when sunlight opens the shoreline and the cliffs take on a warm, honeyed glow.
Laguna’s smaller, sheltered beaches make it one of the best California vacation spots in July for relaxed days in the water — perfect for families, couples, or anyone who values a slower coastal pace compared to nearby Newport or Huntington. Art festivals also come into full swing during July, and the village atmosphere brings a lively but unhurried energy.
Things to do
Snorkel at Diver’s Cove, one of the clearest spots in midsummer
Explore tide pools at Shaw’s Cove during low tide
Wander Heisler Park’s bluff-top path in late afternoon light
Visit the Sawdust Art Festival or Pageant of the Masters
Enjoy a seaside meal at Crescent Bay or Main Beach
Where to stay
Travel tips
Parking is limited; consider using the free summer trolley
Water clarity peaks in early morning before the breeze picks up
Shade is limited — bring a beach umbrella on hotter days
2. Los Angeles & Beverly Hills
Why they’re some of the best places to visit in California in July
July in Los Angeles brings a distinctive coastal calm. While inland areas heat up, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, and the Westside benefit from ocean breezes that keep afternoons comfortable. Evenings stretch well past 8 p.m., ideal for outdoor dining or rooftop views. Cultural institutions — from LACMA to The Getty — feel energized with summer visitors, yet LA’s sprawling layout helps spread out the crowds.
For travelers deciding where to visit in California in July who want a mix of city culture, coastal access, and warm summer nights, LA and Beverly Hills offer a balanced, versatile base. This is also prime time for outdoor movies, concerts at the Hollywood Bowl, and gallery events that animate the city after dark.
Things to do
Walk the gardens and terraces at The Getty during golden hour
Explore Beverly Hills’ quieter residential streets on foot
Catch a film at Hollywood Forever’s outdoor series
Enjoy coastal trails at Pacific Palisades or Temescal Canyon
Visit LACMA’s new installations before evening crowds arrive
Where to stay
Travel tips
Mornings may begin hazy near the coast
Traffic intensifies after beach days — plan city activities earlier
Rooftop restaurants book quickly in summer
3. Bodega Bay
Why it’s one of the best places to visit in California in July
While much of California warms up in July, Bodega Bay stays cool, breezy, and wonderfully peaceful. This stretch of Sonoma Coast thrives in midsummer: fog dances along the bluffs, trails stay green into early July, and the water’s dramatic blues and grays shift with the changing light. It’s a refreshing option for travelers seeking a break from inland heat.
For those choosing the best places to visit in California in July for coastal hiking and quiet, Bodega Bay offers a slower, more elemental experience than beaches farther south. Fresh seafood, open coastal roads, and windswept beaches define the season.
Things to do
Walk the cliffs at Bodega Head for ocean breezes and whale sightings
Enjoy oysters at nearby Marshall or Tomales Bay
Explore tide pools at low tide along the Sonoma Coast
Visit Doran Beach for wide-open shoreline walks
Kayak the calm waters of Bodega Harbor
Where to stay
Travel tips
Bring layers — even warm days cool quickly
Fog can linger longer here than in Southern California
Weekdays feel especially quiet on trails and beaches
4. Santa Rosa
Why it’s one of the best places to visit in California in July
Santa Rosa sits at the heart of Sonoma County, and July brings the region’s most vibrant agricultural moment. Farmers markets overflow with stone fruit, wineries host outdoor concerts, and warm, dry afternoons make it easy to linger on shaded tasting patios. It’s an excellent base for exploring both inland wine country and coastal towns like Sebastopol or Forestville.
Travelers looking for the best California vacation spots in July with a mix of outdoor dining, wine tasting, and small-town charm will find Santa Rosa surprisingly dynamic. Summer trails around regional parks also open fully, offering shady oak groves and rolling vineyard views.
Where to stay
Things to do
Taste wines in Russian River Valley’s cooler microclimates
Kayak or paddleboard on the Russian River
Visit local farm stands for peak-season produce
Explore Trione-Annadel’s wildflower and oak woodland trails
Enjoy downtown Santa Rosa’s restaurants and patios
Travel tips
Inland temperatures run noticeably warmer than the coast
Late afternoons bring reliable breezes through the valleys
Make reservations for weekend winery events
5. Lake Tahoe (North & West Shores)
Why it’s one of the best places to visit in California in July
By July, Tahoe’s hiking trails have fully opened, the lake warms enough for long swims, and alpine meadows reach their summer peak. Clear, warm days pair with crisp evenings, and the water’s color shifts into its iconic deep blue. The Fourth of July is busy, but mid- and late-month offer a perfect blend of energy and calm.
For travelers choosing where to visit in California in July for mountain air and true outdoor immersion, Tahoe is a classic done right.
Things to do
Swim or paddleboard at Sand Harbor in early morning light
Hike the Rubicon Trail for nonstop lake views
Explore Truckee’s shops and Saturday market
Take a sunset cruise from Tahoe City
Ride the aerial tram at Palisades for high-alpine access
Where to stay
Travel tips
Water remains cold — wetsuits help for long swims
Parking fills early at popular beaches
Bring layers for mountain evenings
6. Big Sur
Why it’s one of the best places to visit in California in July
July carries the full weight of Big Sur’s summer beauty. Fog drifts across the cliffs each morning, then lifts into clear blue afternoons. Trails stay dry, wildflowers continue blooming in higher elevations, and ocean views stretch endlessly along Highway 1. Even with increased visitation, the coastline feels spacious when explored early or late in the day.
If you’re deciding the best places to visit in California in July for big scenic payoffs, Big Sur remains unmatched.
Things to do
Walk sunrise trails at Point Lobos before crowds arrive
Explore Pfeiffer Big Sur’s forested canyon paths
Drive south of Pfeiffer Beach for quieter turnouts
Picnic at Garrapata’s bluffs overlooking turquoise water
Visit the Henry Miller Library for a quiet midday break
Where to stay
Travel tips
Arrive early for popular lookouts
Fog can hold longer in July, especially near Carmel
Afternoons are best for sun and visibility
7. San Diego
Why it’s one of the best places to visit in California in July
San Diego’s famously mild July weather makes it one of the most reliable choices for a mid-summer trip. Beaches warm up, evenings stay gentle, and the city’s neighborhoods feel lively without overwhelming. July Gloom lingers some mornings but typically breaks early, revealing long stretches of sunshine perfect for coastal days.
For those choosing the best places to visit in California in July for family-friendly activities, beach time, and outdoor dining, San Diego anchors the month with ease.
Things to do
Relax at Coronado or La Jolla Shores
Explore Balboa Park’s museums and gardens
Walk Torrey Pines’ sandstone cliffs
Kayak La Jolla’s sea caves
Spend an afternoon at Liberty Station’s market and shops
Where to stay
Travel tips
Morning haze is normal — afternoons brighten reliably
Water temps peak in late July
Parking near La Jolla improves before 9 a.m.
Plan Your California July Getaway With Wander
July opens California into its full summer rhythm: clear mountain mornings, bright coastlines, warm evenings in wine country, and cities that stay active well past sunset. Whether your style leans toward quiet coves, shaded trails, or design-forward spaces for gathering at day’s end, Wander’s luxury California vacation rentals offer a grounded, comfortable way to experience the season.
Choose the landscape that fits your July mood, then let your Wander stay bring the best of California’s summer right to your doorstep.
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