California
Sunshine, Surf & Silver Screens
Where Dreams Are Made, and the Road Never Ends
Welcome to California, where the freedom of the open road meets blockbuster beauty at every turn. This is a land where anything feels possible - drive the legendary Pacific Coast Highway, ride roller coasters at Santa Monica Pier, hike through national parks, or sip world-class wine in rolling vineyards.
It’s a place of extremes: beaches and mountains, high fashion and hiking boots, surfboards and Silicon Valley. Every city has its own rhythm - from the creativity of San Francisco and the cool of Los Angeles to the laid-back luxury of Santa Barbara or the wild beauty of Yosemite. And the people? Open, optimistic, and always up for an adventure.
Visa Requirements
UK passport holders must apply for an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) to enter the USA for tourism. This allows for stays of up to 90 days under the Visa Waiver Program. Apply online before your trip - approval usually comes quickly, and your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay.
Key Airports
- Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) – Gateway to Southern California, Hollywood, and the Pacific Coast.
- San Francisco International Airport (SFO) – Ideal for exploring the Bay Area, tech hubs, and Northern California.
- San Diego International Airport (SAN) – Best for beach holidays, borderland culture, and laid-back coastal charm.
Spoken Languages
English is the main language, but Spanish is also widely spoken, especially in Southern California. Californians are casual, friendly, and full of local slang.
Try these:
- Hey, what's up? – Casual greeting
- Cool! – Great / Awesome
- No worries – It's okay / Don't mention it
- That's gnarly! – That's crazy / intense / cool
- Let's road trip – Let's hit the open highway!
Locals are happy to help - don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations.
Holidays to California
During the Summer
From
June to September, California is sun-soaked and spectacular. Expect
25–35°C inland, especially in places like Los Angeles or Sacramento, while the coast stays cooler with ocean breezes. Perfect for beach days, hikes, and outdoor festivals.
During the Winter
Winter (December to February) is mild along the coast (10–20°C), but the mountains get snowy and spectacular. Visit Lake Tahoe or Mammoth for skiing, or explore the desert beauty of Joshua Tree in crisp, cool air.
Top California Hot Spots
Drive the iconic Pacific Coast Highway, where cliffs and coastline compete for your gaze. Explore Yosemite National Park, where waterfalls thunder and granite peaks touch the sky. And spend a day (or three) in Los Angeles, chasing movie magic, beach sunsets, and food truck heaven.
San Francisco – Hills, History & Hippie Spirit
Ride the cable cars, visit Alcatraz, and walk across the Golden Gate Bridge. SF is quirky, cultured, and full of postcard views.
Los Angeles – Stars, Surf & Street Art
From Hollywood to Venice Beach, this city of dreamers blends glitz with grit. See a live taping, hike to the Hollywood sign, and discover hidden gems in every neighbourhood.
Yosemite National Park – Nature’s Cathedral
One of the most awe-inspiring natural spaces in America. Think giant sequoias, rainbow-cast waterfalls, and mirror-still lakes. It’s pure magic.
Napa Valley – Sip, Swirl, and Soak It In
California wine country is elegance in a glass. Tour boutique vineyards, dine al fresco, and unwind among sun-drenched vines.
Top Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Holiday
- Rent a Car - Freedom is the California Way - California is made for road trips. Public transport works in cities, but for beaches, parks, and hidden gems, a car gives you the full experience.
- Layer Up - Even in Summer - Mornings can be cool and foggy, especially in San Francisco or along the coast. Bring layers, you’ll thank us when the sun dips behind the ocean.
- Try the Local Farmers’ Markets - From avocados to organic ice cream, California’s markets are foodie heaven. It’s a great way to taste local life and meet passionate producers.
- Plan Around the Parks’ Seasons - National parks are popular - book early for Yosemite, Sequoia, and Joshua Tree. Visit midweek or off-season for fewer crowds and more serenity.
Why You Should Go (And Go with Marhaban Travel)
California is one of the most diverse, dynamic, and dazzling destinations on Earth. Whether you're into beaches, mountains, city lights or starry skies, this state offers something for every age and every kind of traveller.
With Marhaban Travel, you’ll see the real California. From curated road trips and glamping adventures to behind-the-scenes Hollywood tours, family fun or romantic escapes, we create journeys as golden as the coast.
Big dreams. Bigger adventures. All in one state.
