Free Things To Do in California
Experience the Best of the California Coast…For Less
An uncertain economy shouldn't keep you from enjoying a well-earned and badly needed vacation to the coast—you're working harder than ever and you owe it to yourself. Of course, creating lasting memories needn't break the bank, either. No matter which of our California hotel properties you choose, you'll be near a wealth of free things to see and do. Whether it's tidepooling near San Diego, being awestruck by the Monarch butterfly migration in San Luis Obispo or exploring the vibrant art scene around Venice Beach, you'll be saving so much, you can consider extending your stay!
Free Things to Do in Sonoma Coast, California
More Information Coming Soon
Free Things to Do in Pacifica, California
Fitzgerald Marine Reserve in Moss Beach
is just a bit south of Pacifica. In this amazing and fragile habitat, the tide pools are home to hermit crabs, blue sea anemones, limpets, sculpins, sea urchins, snails, starfish and more. Harbor Seals and Sea Lions are a friendly sight as well. The first thing you'll learn when you visit: it is OK to look, but not touch or collect any souvenirs. This is a special place where visitors need to respect nature. Hours: sunrise-sunset. Call the Fitzgerald Marine Reserve Ranger Station at (650) 728-3584 for details.
The Golden Gate Bridge
The famous Golden Gate Bridge; a single-span suspension bridge that measures 4,200 feet from tower to tower, is just a short drive from Pacifica. The Pacifica Visitor Center can provide you with easy and scenic driving instructions that will take you over the Golden Gate Bridge and to the Marin Headlands lookout, where you will experience the most spectacular views of the Bridge, Alcatraz, and the entire city of San Francisco. An interesting fact is that the San Andreas Fault runs out to sea for a short distance between Pacifica and the Point Reyes National Seashore.
Linda Mar Beach
also known as Pacifica State Beach, is one of the most popular surfing spots in the San Francisco area and is also famous for a Taco Bell right on the beach.
McNee Ranch
provides some of the Bay Area's best lookouts from Montara Mountain. On a clear day, the Farallon Islands, which are actually twenty-five miles off the coast, look close enough to reach out and touch. For more information, contact the Half Moon Bay State Beach Ranger Station at (650) 726-8820.
Muir Woods National Monument
is known for its giant redwood trees that are uniquely sheltered in a hidden canyon. These trees are over 250 feet tall and over 1,000 years old. The forest floor at Muir Woods is equally as amazing as the canopy.
The Pacific Coast Fog Fest is a two-day annual celebration where visitors enjoy many types of good food, arts, crafts, photography, and entertainment. Bands play a variety of music all weekend, including Blues, Jazz, Andean Pan Pipes, Rock & Roll, and Country. Admission is free. Call the Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center at (650) 355-4122.
The Pacifica Pier is the place to catch salmon, striped bass, perch and much more without boarding a boat. The price is right (no license is needed to fish off the pier, unlike the beach), the chances are fair, and this is one place where you definitely are not going to get seasick. The pier is located in the Sharp Park area of Pacifica, about fifteen miles south of San Francisco. Next to the pier you can enjoy the comfortable promenade and picnic area. Bait, tackle, good fishing tips and advice can be had nearby. (650) 359-9790.
Palace of Fine Arts
was built in 1915 for the Panama-Pacific International Exposition. Today the site features a classical Roman rotunda with curved colonnades in an idyllic park setting. Visitors may picnic, stroll by the lake, or visit the Exploratorium, a hands-on science exhibit in the adjacent building.
Pigeon Point Lighthouse
Rich in maritime history, the majestic Pigeon Point Lighthouse is located south of Pacifica and is the tallest lighthouse on the west coast. Half-hour tours and docent-guided history walks around the breathtaking grounds are available from 10am-4pm, Friday-Sunday, except during rain or bad weather.
The Sanchez Art Center
With three beautiful galleries, this art center has become one of the Bay Area's finest cultural attractions with exciting art exhibits changing every five weeks. This outstanding center houses artist studios with multimedia art, photography, ceramics, paintings and more. Guests may also experience the very popular "Pacifica Performances," showcasing eclectic musical offerings by performers ranging from jazz, classical, Celtic, voice, piano, blues, rock, cabaret, children's shows, magicians and more. Pacifica Performances offers a comfortable venue where all ages can be entertained. Please call (650) 355-1894 or 359-2978 for art exhibit information, and (650) 355-1882 for more information on Pacifica Performances.
Shelldance Orchid Nursery
This incredible business began on San Francisco's Union Street selling Tilandsias in shells. Soon they moved to Pacifica to expand their bromeliad collection while exploring on collecting expeditions to tropical rainforests. A magnificent rainforest display highlights the large orchid nursery room which is breathtaking. For more information, contact them directly at (650) 355-4845.
Sweeney Ridge
provides remarkable glimpses of varied geography, including three of the largest mountains in the Bay Area: Mount Tamalpais ("Sleeping Maiden"), Mount Diablo, and Montara Mountain. The Farallon Islands jut out from the Pacific Ocean and look within easy reach on clear days, though they are actually twenty-five miles away.
San Francisco
Chinatown, Alamo Square, Golden Gate Park. You don't have to spend a dime to take in all the sites that can be seen while walking through the varied neighborhoods of San Francisco.
Free Things to Do in Half Moon Bay, California
Princeton Marsh and Seashore
The Pillar Point Marsh and Shoreline in Princeton-by-the-Sea is the stunning home to more than 20% of all North American bird species. Species to watch for include White Tailed Kites, Red Tail Hawks, Harriers, and Kestrels. Bring your binoculars! For more information, call 650-728-3584.
Hike the Coastside Trails
The ocean breeze keeps you cool and the coastal views are inspiring as you take your time among the native flora and fauna. Park at the beaches of Roosevelt, Dunes, Venice or Francis and Catch the Ocean Bluff trailhead at Half Moon Bay. Learn more by calling the Parks and Recreation Department at 650-726-8297.
Pescadero Marsh Bird Refuge
Located just 16 miles south of Half Moon Bay on Highway 1, you'll have the chance to view more than 200 distinct species of birds that rest and feed here along their migratory routes. Call 650-879-2170 for more details.
Rocky Beach & Open Ocean
For a fantastic day hike, consider the Bean Hollow Beach Trail between Hollow State Beach and Pebble Beach. You could also pack a picnic lunch and make a day of it with your family. Call 650-879-0832 to get more information.
Año Nuevo State Reserve and Interpretive Center
Just a short drive south of Half Moon Bay, you'll find the Año Nuevo State Park, with a diverse blend of coastal habitats and sweeping prairies that support a rich ecosystem that includes Elephant Seals and Sea Lions. Make a reservation for a guided tour of the Elephant Seals' area by calling 650-879-0227.
Harley Farms
Get a close up look at a working dairy farm at this San Mateo favorite that supplies artisanal goat cheeses to upscale restaurants and hotels in the Bay Area. Make plans to enjoy a meal there by calling 650-879-0480.
Free Things to Do in Cambria, California
Visit Harmony
Harmony provides the small town experience of yesteryear and is just a few miles south of Cambria. The town is officially home to 18 residents, mostly surrounding farmers and ranchers. Harmony once boasted a schoolhouse, a general store, stables, a blacksmith, a feed store and a post office, but can only presently claim two businesses; Harmony Glass Works and Harmony Pottery. If you venture up the hill overlooking the town, you'll find wine tasting, gifts and food at Harmony Cellars Winery.
Big Sur
Visitors from all over the world make the drive along the California Pacific Coast Highway, a must on their itinerary to take in the untouched landscape filled with redwood trees and ocean vistas. The 90-mile stretch that Big Sur covers has inspired famous artists and writers for years—don't miss it and don't forget your camera.
Moonstone Beach - Cambria, California
Romantic and truly unspoiled, Moonstone Beach offers the opportunity to watch elephant seals and migrating whales in their natural habitat. Tide pooling and a stroll on the boardwalk are also a part of the experience at Moonstone Beach.
Piedras Blancas Seal Rookery
Witness elephant seals with onsite docents and information signs—a moving and educational experience.
46 West Wine Region
One of the state's premier wine regions, 46 West features more than 60 wineries and 200 vineyards among the picturesque oak-lined rolling hills.
Cambria Village
East Village: is about two miles inland from the coast, where Main Street crosses Burton Drive and Bridge Street. Many Victorian structures dating back to the 1870s serve as galleries, restaurants, shops and lodging.
West Village: Closer to ocean, centers on Main Street, with many interesting shops, galleries and eating establishments tucked away on various side streets.
Free Things to Do in Pismo Beach, California
Santa Barbara County Courthouse
The Santa Barbara County Courthouse has been called the most beautiful government building in America. A variety of local events and performances are held in the Sunken Gardens. Ride the elevator to the 85-foot "El Mirador" clock tower for remarkable views of the city, coast and mountains. Other amazing components of the courthouse include the Mural Room, "Spirit of the Ocean" fountain, Spanish-Moorish architecture and ornate tile work throughout the building.
Painted Cave
Historic caves painted by the Chumash Indians. The painted cave rock art in the hills above Santa Barbara is among the most elaborate and colorful in the world.
A.C. Postel Rose Garden
Featuring more than 1,000 different roses, a serene fountain and beautiful views of the Mission, mountains and city of Santa Barbara, A.C. Postel Rose Garden should definitely be on your itinerary.
Santa Barbara Mission
Noted as the "Queen of the Missions," the Mission continues to be the lead cultural and historic landmark in the city of Santa Barbara. You can walk the ground free of charge, however a tour of the inside courtyard and chapel has a nominal fee.
Parks
Santa Barbara is home to more than 75 diverse parks, each with a distinctive spirit.
Santa Ynez Valley
The Santa Ynez Valley features more than 70 world-class wineries and tasting rooms along with golfing, hiking, biking and fishing. The Danish town of Solvang is another major attraction of the area where visitors enjoy world renowned pastries, dining and shopping.
State Street
State Street is the heart of downtown Santa Barbara. You can tour the area by foot or hop on the electric shuttle which stops on every block.
Year Round Festivals and Parades
Anyone who has heard of Santa Barbara no doubt has heard about the variety of festivals and parades featured throughout the year: French Festival, Harbor Festival, Sandcastle just to name a few. By attending one of these festivals you will be sure to have a true Santa Barbara experience.
Old Spanish Days Fiesta
This event, which has been a tradition for more than 85 years allures people from around the world to descend on Santa Barbara. Santa Barbara celebrates its' rich Spanish heritage during this week long celebration through dance, music, art and food.
Beaches
Our beaches are what Santa Barbara one of the most beautiful places on Earth. Accessible from almost every part of the city, you will experience white sand beaches and temperate water.
For a more elaborate list of activities in Santa Barbara, please visit http://www.santabarbaraca.com/things-to-do.
Free Things to Do in Santa Barbara, California
Santa Barbara County Courthouse
The Santa Barbara County Courthouse has been called the most beautiful government building in America. A variety of local events and performances are held in the Sunken Gardens. Ride the elevator to the 85-foot "El Mirador" clock tower for remarkable views of the city, coast and mountains. Other amazing components of the courthouse include the Mural Room, "Spirit of the Ocean" fountain, Spanish-Moorish architecture and ornate tile work throughout the building.
Painted Cave
Historic caves painted by the Chumash Indians. The painted cave rock art in the hills above Santa Barbara is among the most elaborate and colorful in the world.
A.C. Postel Rose Garden
Featuring more than 1,000 different roses, a serene fountain and beautiful views of the Mission, mountains and city of Santa Barbara, A.C. Postel Rose Garden should definitely be on your itinerary.
Santa Barbara Mission
Noted as the "Queen of the Missions," the Mission continues to be the lead cultural and historic landmark in the city of Santa Barbara. You can walk the ground free of charge, however a tour of the inside courtyard and chapel has a nominal fee.
Parks
Santa Barbara is home to more than 75 diverse parks, each with a distinctive spirit.
Santa Ynez Valley
The Santa Ynez Valley features more than 70 world-class wineries and tasting rooms along with golfing, hiking, biking and fishing. The Danish town of Solvang is another major attraction of the area where visitors enjoy world renowned pastries, dining and shopping.
State Street
State Street is the heart of downtown Santa Barbara. You can tour the area by foot or hop on the electric shuttle which stops on every block.
Year Round Festivals and Parades
Anyone who has heard of Santa Barbara no doubt has heard about the variety of festivals and parades featured throughout the year: French Festival, Harbor Festival, Sandcastle just to name a few. By attending one of these festivals you will be sure to have a true Santa Barbara experience.
Old Spanish Days Fiesta
This event, which has been a tradition for more than 85 years allures people from around the world to descend on Santa Barbara. Santa Barbara celebrates its' rich Spanish heritage during this week long celebration through dance, music, art and food.
Beaches
Our beaches are what Santa Barbara one of the most beautiful places on Earth. Accessible from almost every part of the city, you will experience white sand beaches and temperate water.
For a more elaborate list of activities in Santa Barbara, please visit http://www.santabarbaraca.com/things-to-do.
Free Things to Do in Los Angeles, California
- Best Western Sunrise, Redondo Beach
- Best Western Carlyle Inn, West LA/Beverly Hills
- Inn at Venice Beach, Venice Beach
- Marina del Rey Hotel, Marina del Rey
- Marina International Hotel, Marina del Rey
Step into Hollywood History.
The forecourt of Grauman's Chinese Theatre has been one of the most popular free attractions since the 1920s when, during the premiere of Cecil B. DeMille's "King of Kings," actress Norma Talmadge accidentally stepped in wet cement.
Star gaze at Griffith Observatory.
While Hollywood is famous for its cinematic stars, Los Angeles also offers a wonderful spot from which to gaze upon the heavenly stars. The exhibitions and displays found in this painstakingly renovated Griffith Park hot spot are all free, as is an introductory video about the building and its contents.
Window shop Rodeo Drive.
Treasure hunt and star search along famed Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills, home of the rich and well, the super rich.
Shopping neighborhoods in LA.
Rodeo Drive may be the most famous shopping area in Los Angeles, but it's just one of many wonderful shopping destinations in the greater metropolis. Other sources for window and actual shopping include Abbot Kinney Boulevard, La Brea Avenue and the up-and-coming West Third Street neighborhoods.
Explore Exposition Park.
Five major attractions within walking distance of each other is a rare occurrence in LA, so take advantage of the USC/Exposition Park area with a walking tour. Attractions include the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, the Rose Garden, and the California African American Museum.
Check out the PCH.
The famed Pacific Coast Highway—known as the PCH locally—is a sun-drenched road that hugs the gorgeous Pacific Ocean's rugged coastline. One of LA's signature drives, the PCH is definitely among the must-sees in the Los Angeles area.
Walk the walk.
Find the most amazing and unusual street entertainers at Venice Ocean Front Walk. From chainsaw jugglers and swamis on rollerblades to street dancers and performance artists, you'll never be short of entertainment on this particular walk.
Discover fossil fun at La Brea Tar Pits.
Located in Hancock Park, the La Brea Tar Pits harbor the world's richest discovery of Ice Age fossils. More than 100 tons of fossilized bones representing nearly 400 species of mammals, birds, reptiles and fish dating back to prehistoric times have been unearthed from the pools of this sticky asphalt.
Visit the Cathedral of Our Lady of Angels.
This is one of LA's most innovative buildings, and although it's the third-largest cathedral in the country, its size is no deterrent to its ability to inspire visitors with its warm, inviting interior. A perfect place for introspection, the Cathedral is also open for free walking tours.
Venice Canals.
Winding through a quaint neighborhood of upscale and newly remodeled houses, the Venice canals feature arched bridges, the occasional gondolier and LA's beautiful weather—all of which contribute to the serenity one feels while exploring this charming piece of the city. Start your trip between Washington Avenue and Venice Boulevard for a particularly scenic bike trip.
Olvera Street.
Shop, listen to mariachi music, watch folklore dances and dine at several authentic Mexican restaurants on Olivera Street, the birthplace of the City of Los Angeles. Take a historic tour of the Avila Adobe, the oldest existing house in the city. Other restored historic buildings include the Old Plaza Church and the Old Plaza Firehouse.
Keeping Up Appearances.
While you're out shopping, take advantage of Express Service from Sephora. The famed beauty mecca offers free, quick makeovers for its visitors. Make this makeover spot a definite stop while you're experiencing some of LA's quintessential shopping malls, such as Glendale Galleria, the Beverly Center and Hollywood & Highland Center.
Hone in on LA heritage at ourhistorical museums.
Los Angeles is home to numerous free museums that celebrate our area's vast cultural contributions. Take a trip backwards in time at some of our city's most renowned historical landmarks, including the Banning Residence Museum, the Homestead Museum, the Los Angeles Maritime Museum, and the Travel Town Museum.
Give your eyes a treat at our fine art museums.
Check out award-winning shows at the Fowler Museum at UCLA. Experience the eclectic contemporary exhibitions offered by the dynamic and educational Santa Monica Museum of Art. Discover the breathtaking city views and world-class paintings on display at the Getty Center.
Broaden your knowledge base at our freecultural museums.
Whether you lean toward the humanities or have a passion for the sciences, Los Angeles is home to a treasure trove of cultural hotspots, including the California African American Museum, the California Science Center, the Hollywood Bowl Museum, the Paley Center for Media, the Fashion Institute for Design & Merchandising, and the Los Angeles Museum of the Holocaust.
The best beaches in Los Angeles.
With more than 20 miles of Pacific Ocean coastline in Los Angeles County, you'll need a guide to find the best one to suit your needs. Zuma Beach is the place to go for the best waves, but if you prefer a shorter drive, Manhattan Beach is an excellent alternative. Venice Beach is perfect for people-watching, and if you need some time away from people, El Matador is a cozy, secluded pocket of coastline just perfect for a romantic getaway.
Free Things to Do in Laguna Beach, California
Art Festivals
These festivals come complete with works of all genres, styles and price ranges from local and internationally acclaimed artists, crafters and artisans. Held mainly during the summer months, the Art-A-Fair Festival, Festival of Arts, and Sawdust Art Festival provide visitors and locals alike with a wealth of inspiring and affordable works of art to purchase or admire.
Beautiful Nearby Beaches & Parks
From short treks and picnics to exhilarating three-hour hikes and tide pool explorations, Laguna affords its visitors and locals with a treasure trove of amazing wilderness parks just waiting to be enjoyed. A few of our favorites include Heisler Park, Crystal Cove State Park, Shaw's Cove and Treasure Island Park.
Public Art Walking Tour
While the City of Laguna Beach is a masterwork of natural beauty unto itself, it's also filled with more than 65 pieces of public art that can easily be spotted on leisurely walking tours of the city. Take a virtual tour to warm up for the wonderful walking tour. Or check out the city's full map complete with spots of each and every work of art. We guarantee you won't be disappointed.
Historical & Cultural Attractions
While the City of Laguna Beach may be young when it comes to modern history, this beautiful coastal bit of California holds a rich history of Native American and early American settler culture, art and ways of life. Want to learn more? Check out these historical spots. Take a stroll down Laguna's historic lane on a Heritage Walk & Tour, enjoy the horticultural beauty of the Hortense Miller Garden, edify your artistic side at the Laguna Art Museum, discover our city's fascinating past at the Laguna Beach Historical Society, and experience Native American history at Len Wood's Indian Territory Gallery.
Free Things to Do in San Diego, California
Tidepooling at Point Loma
Tidepools are a great place for an educational family excursion. A multitude of ocean creatures such as crabs, octopi, sea anemone, sculpin, starfish, lobsters, abalone and many more can be found at the pools in Point Loma.
Museum of Contemporary Arts
Located in the heart of downtown San Diego and in the coastal community of La Jolla, these museums provide a collection of dynamic exhibitions. Twenty-five and under is free, generously supported by Qualcom. Enjoy free museum admission from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on the third Thursday of the month.
Balboa Park
This park has it all, performing arts, museums, gardens, trails and restaurants. Admittance is free to the park grounds, botanical building, outdoor gardens and some other attractions.
Seaport Village
Enjoy outdoor entertainment along with unique dining and shopping.
Old Town
Experience art and sculpture as you stroll Old Town's story and living history. There are several historic buildings including the Stewart House, Seeley Stables, a blacksmith shop and San Diego's oldest schoolhouse.
Beaches
Our beaches are our way of life. It supports the San Diego lifestyle of surfing and sailing, biking and running, swimming and diving.
Gaslamp Quarter
The Gaslamp Quarter is the first established area by the waterfront featuring turn of the century Victorian buildings where you will find many boutiques, galleries and specialty shops.
Free Things to Do in Hawaii
Explore Hawaii without Busting Your Budget
Many people consider Hawaii to be the playground of the rich, but there are a surprising number of free and inexpensive things to do that will add so much to your Hawaiian getaway. We've taken the guesswork out of it for you and compiled a list of our favorite must-see free things to do in Hawaii.
Free Things to Do in Kona, Hawaii
Free Hula returns in November at the Shops at Mauna Lani Stage
Experience the vibe of 1920s to 1950s Hawaii when you catch our lovely local ladies perform one-of-a-kind hula dances set to the melodies of hapa hoale. Recapturing a time before statehood when the islands first captured the imagination of travelers from around the world, these free 30-minute shows take place every Monday at 7 p.m. and 8 p.m.
Puako Petroglyph Archaeological Preserve
Take a trip back in time and discover some of Hawaii's ancient history at the Puako Petroglyph Archaeological Preserve. Approximately 1,200 petroglyphs-also known as "stone art" images-have been documented in the area where public access is allowed. Explore on your own or enjoy guided tours complete with helpful maps and brochures.
Kona Coffee Tasting Tour
Hawaii is famous for its deliciously strong Kona coffee. Find out how it all happens by taking a self-guided coffee tasting tour today! Covering approximately 20 miles of the scenic mountainside above Kailua-Kona, these 600 specialty coffee farms are the only place in the world where certified Kona coffee is produced. Add a spattering of mills, roasters, retail outlets and museums, and you've got the perfect excuse for a rejuvenating-and literally priceless-tour of one of Hawaii's finest export operations.
Beaches
Rest your bones on the white sand beaches of the Kona/Kohola coast. Enjoy the mild waters and mountain-protected waves of the western coast. Snorkel at Hilo and Kona-where gradually sloped ocean floors allow underwater tourists a gentle entry into the crystal clear waters. Witness the strikingly beautiful black and green sand beaches of the southern coast. All these beaches are available for your leisurely enjoyment any time of the day or night…at no cost to you.
Drive Saddle Road
Looking for an adventure? While Hawaii lulls its visitors with softly crashing waves, easy breezes, and days of leisure, you can easily up the adrenaline with a drive across Saddle Road. Spanning a high valley between the two great mountains of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, this interior shortcut between East and West Hawaii leads drivers through a thrillingly wide variety of eco, climactic, and geologic zones as you climb up to a stupefying 6,000 feet and wind your way back down again.
See the Sea Turtles
Get a little Hawaiian wildlife-watching under your belt with a visit to Kahalu'u Beach Park, about six miles south of Kailua-Kona on Ali'i Drive. Quiet, secured, and somewhat secluded, this is a perfect place to come face-to-face with the gentle sea turtle. You can also capture a glimpse of these great creatures at Honaunau Bay-conveniently located near the Place of Refuge.
Akaka Falls and Honomu Town As you make your way to Akaka Falls-a gorgeous waterfall measuring close to 500 feet high-take a stroll through the charming, tiny village of Honomu Town, 11 miles north of Hilo on the Hamakua coast. Once a bustling community catering to the sugar industry, Honomu now welcomes travelers with a delightful row of eateries, antique stores, and craft shops.
Hike to King Kamehameha's Birthplace
West of Hawaii near the ruins of Mo'okini Heiau, King Kamehameha's birthplace is breathtaking to behold. Considered one of Hawaii's most significant historic sites, this enormous sacrificial temple dating from about 480 A.D. spans the length of a football field. The king's birthplace, marked by a plaque, is a few hundred yards away from the heiau. On the third Saturday of each month, you can be a witness to Hawaiian history as Leimomo Mookini Lum, whose ancestors built the temple, clean the site and share family lore about the temple and its beginnings.
Boiling Pots of Wailuku River
Boiling water? The Boiling Pots of Wailuku River are definitely something you have to see to believe…and don't forget to take pictures! Just about two miles upstream from Rainbow Falls, heavy Hawaiian rains churn the river through a succession of "pots." When the water flows beneath a level of old lava, it suddenly bubbles up as if it were boiling. While you can see these "pots" from the parking area, a hike down the trail to the water's edge is infinitely more exciting. We do recommend, however, that you refrain from stepping in.
