California holidays

How to reach California

• Flight time: If you're flying from Dublin to California, expect the journey to take about 11 hours. Major airlines like British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, and American Airlines offer direct flights to Los Angeles. You can also find direct flights to San Francisco and San Diego.

• Transfer time: From Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), you can hop into a taxi or a rideshare and be in downtown LA in about 30 to 45 minutes, traffic permitting. If you're looking to save a few bob, the FlyAway bus service is a good option, taking roughly an hour. San Francisco International Airport (SFO) has a handy BART train that gets you to the city in about 30 minutes. From San Diego International Airport (SAN), you're looking at just a 10-minute drive to the city centre.

• Price: A taxi from LAX to downtown LA will set you back around $55 to $75. The FlyAway bus is more budget-friendly at about $9.75 per person. If you're taking the BART from SFO to downtown San Francisco, it'll cost you about $5.35 one way, while a taxi ride will run you between $50 and $65. In San Diego, a taxi to the city centre generally costs around $20 to $25.

Weather and best time to visit California

California’s varied climate means you can enjoy a holiday here no matter the time of year, depending on what you want to do.

• March to May: Spring is a lovely time to visit, with mild weather and temperatures ranging from 15 to 25°C. It's ideal for exploring cities and enjoying the outdoors without the busy summer crowds. You'll get 8 to 10 hours of sunshine a day, and rainfall is usually low.

• June to August: Summer is peak tourist season, especially along the coast and in the national parks. Coastal spots like San Francisco see temperatures hovering around 20 to 25°C, while inland cities like Los Angeles can climb to 35°C. This is the time for beach getaways and outdoor festivities, though be prepared for higher prices and more visitors.

• September to November: Autumn brings a pleasant climate with temperatures ranging between 20 and 30°C. Crowds begin to thin, making it great for visiting popular sites and wine tasting in Napa Valley. Rainfall stays low, and you’ll enjoy 7 to 9 hours of sunshine each day.

• December to February: Winter varies widely across the state. Coastal areas stay mild, around 15 to 20°C, while mountain regions like Lake Tahoe get snow, perfect for winter sports. Rainfall increases, especially in northern California, but many sunny days still pop up.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: English is the main language here, though you'll hear quite a bit of Spanish, especially down south.

• Local habits and customs: Folks in California are known for being relaxed and friendly. Tipping is customary, typically around 15 to 20 percent in restaurants.

• Health and safety: California is generally safe for travellers, and tap water is perfectly drinkable. It’s wise to have travel insurance in case of any medical expenses.

• Currency: The currency is the US Dollar (USD), and you’ll find that credit and debit cards are widely accepted.

• Getting around: Public transport options vary by city. Los Angeles has buses and a metro, with single fares around $1.75. San Francisco has Muni buses, trams, and BART trains for about $2.75 a ride. In San Diego, buses and trolleys cost roughly $2.50 per ride.

• Electricity and plug types: The standard voltage is 120V and they use a two-pin plug. If you're coming from Ireland, make sure to bring an adaptor.

• Time zone: California is in the Pacific Time Zone (PT), which is 8 hours behind GMT.

• Required travel documentation: As an Irish citizen, you can travel to the US under the Visa Waiver Program, but remember to apply for an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) before your trip.

Best things to do in California

California is a land of endless possibilities, from its stunning coastlines to its bustling cities and tranquil deserts.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Golden Gate Bridge: This iconic symbol of San Francisco offers spectacular views from multiple vantage points, including the Golden Gate Welcome Center, Crissy Field and Fort Point.

• Griffith Observatory: Located in Los Angeles, this observatory provides exceptional views of the city skyline, the Hollywood Sign and the stars through public telescopes.

• Yosemite National Park: For unparalleled natural beauty, visit Glacier Point in Yosemite. This spot offers panoramic views of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome and the High Sierra.

The best districts

• Santa Monica: This beachside district in Los Angeles is known for its vibrant pier, sandy beaches and bustling Third Street Promenade. Discover the best deals on holidays to Santa Monica.

• Haight-Ashbury: Famous for its role in the 1960s counterculture movement, this San Francisco neighbourhood is filled with eclectic shops, vintage clothing stores and colourful murals.

• Gaslamp Quarter: Located in San Diego, the Gaslamp Quarter is the city's historic heart, featuring Victorian-era buildings, lively bars, restaurants and nightclubs.

Parks and gardens

• Golden Gate Park: This massive urban park in San Francisco spans more than 400 hectares of green space and is home to the Japanese Tea Garden, the California Academy of Sciences and Stow Lake.

• Balboa Park: Balboa Park in San Diego is home to the San Diego Zoo. Visitors can also look forward to lush landscapes and Spanish-style architecture.

• Griffith Park: One of the largest urban parks in the United States, Griffith Park in Los Angeles offers kilometres of hiking trails, the Los Angeles Zoo and the Griffith Observatory.

Historic monuments

• Alcatraz Island: Take a ferry to this infamous former prison in San Francisco Bay. The tour provides a fascinating insight into the lives of its notorious inmates and the island's history.

• Hearst Castle: Located on California's central coast near San Simeon, this opulent estate was built by newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst. Tours showcase the lavish rooms, beautiful gardens and impressive art collection.

• Mission San Juan Capistrano: Known as the "Jewel of the Missions," this historic site in Orange County offers a glimpse into California's Spanish colonial past.

Day trips in the area

• Napa Valley: Just a short drive from San Francisco, Napa Valley is famous for its world-class wineries and stunning vineyard landscapes. Enjoy tastings, gourmet dining and tours.

• Big Sur: Drive along the scenic Pacific Coast Highway to Big Sur, where dramatic cliffs meet the ocean. Hike through the redwoods, visit McWay Falls and take in the coastal views.

• Joshua Tree National Park: Located near Palm Springs, Joshua Tree is known for its unique desert landscapes, striking rock formations and namesake Joshua trees. It's a paradise for hiking, rock climbing and stargazing.

Activities for families in California

California is an ideal destination for families, offering a variety of activities for all ages and interests.

• Theme parks: Disneyland in Anaheim is a must-visit for families, with its magical rides and characters. Universal Studios Hollywood offers thrilling rides and behind-the-scenes tours of movie sets. Legoland California in Carlsbad is perfect for younger children, with interactive exhibits and fun rides.

• Aquariums and zoos: The Monterey Bay Aquarium is renowned for its marine life exhibits and stunning ocean views. The San Diego Zoo and Safari Park offer exciting animal encounters and expansive habitats. The Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach showcases the diverse marine life of the Pacific Ocean.

• Museums: The California Science Center in Los Angeles features interactive exhibits and the Space Shuttle Endeavour. The Exploratorium in San Francisco offers hands-on science and art exhibits.

• Beaches: California's coastline offers plenty of family-friendly beaches. Santa Monica Beach has a lively pier with amusement park rides. La Jolla Shores in San Diego is great for swimming and snorkelling. Huntington Beach, known as Surf City USA, is perfect for a day of sun and surf.

Free things to do in California

California holidays offer a wealth of free activities, making it possible to enjoy the state without spending a fortune.

• Free events: California hosts various free cultural events and festivals throughout the year. The Los Angeles County Museum of Art offers free admission on the second Tuesday of each month. San Francisco's Stern Grove Festival features free concerts in the summer. The Rose Parade in Pasadena is a New Year's Day tradition with spectacular floats.

• Free museums: Many museums in California offer free admission on specific days. The Getty Center in Los Angeles has free entry and stunning art collections. The California Academy of Sciences in San Francisco offers free admission on select Sundays. The Annenberg Space for Photography in Los Angeles is always free.

Discover the beaches of California

Santa Monica Beach

Santa Monica Beach is one of California's most iconic beaches, offering a perfect blend of sun, sand, and entertainment. The famous Santa Monica Pier features an amusement park, aquarium, and numerous restaurants. The beach is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and beach volleyball. The adjacent Ocean Front Walk is popular for biking, rollerblading, and people-watching.

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Venice Beach

Venice Beach is known for its bohemian spirit and vibrant boardwalk. Visitors can enjoy street performers, artists, and vendors along the Ocean Front Walk. The Muscle Beach outdoor gym, skate park, and numerous eateries add to the eclectic atmosphere. The beach itself is perfect for swimming, surfing, and soaking up the California sun.

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Malibu

Malibu is home to some of California's most beautiful and exclusive beaches. Zuma Beach is a favourite for swimming, surfing, and picnicking, offering wide sandy shores and excellent facilities. El Matador Beach, with its dramatic rock formations and hidden coves, is ideal for photography and romantic walks. Malibu Lagoon State Beach, also known as Surfrider Beach, is famous for its long right-hand break, making it a hotspot for surfers.

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Laguna Beach

Laguna Beach is renowned for its picturesque coves, tide pools, and vibrant arts scene. Main Beach is the central hub, featuring a boardwalk, basketball courts, and stunning views. Crystal Cove State Park offers hiking trails, historic beach cottages, and underwater parks, perfect for diving and snorkelling. The town's art galleries, festivals, and restaurants add to its charm.

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Huntington Beach

Known as Surf City USA, Huntington Beach is famous for its consistent waves and surf culture. The beach stretches for miles, offering plenty of space for swimming, sunbathing, and beach sports. The Huntington Beach Pier is a landmark where visitors can enjoy dining, shopping, and watching surfers.

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Enjoy the diverse and beautiful beaches of California, each offering its own unique charm and activities!

Local dishes in California

California is a culinary paradise, offering diverse dishes and beverages influenced by its multicultural population.

Some typical dishes

• Clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl: This creamy soup filled with tender clams is served in a bowl made from San Francisco's famous sourdough bread.

• Cioppino: A hearty seafood stew originating from the city's Italian-American community, made with a mix of seafood and cooked in a tomato and wine broth.

Meat dishes

• Tri-tip steak: A speciality of Santa Maria, this triangular cut of beef is seasoned with a dry rub and grilled to perfection.

• California-style barbecue: Influenced by a mix of Mexican, Western and Southern flavours, visitors can enjoy slow-cooked meats like ribs and brisket, served with a tangy barbeque sauce.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Dungeness crab: Fresh from the Pacific Ocean, this local delicacy is often served steamed and with melted butter.

• Fish tacos: Originating from Baja California, these tacos typically come with grilled or fried fish and are topped with fresh salsa, cabbage and a creamy sauce.

Street food

• Meat tacos: Influenced by the state's large Mexican population, street tacos filled with carne asada, carnitas or fish are a popular and delicious option.

Sweets and desserts

• Ghirardelli chocolate: San Francisco is home to the famous Ghirardelli Chocolate Company. Be sure to try their chocolate squares or a hot fudge sundae at their flagship store.

• It's-It ice cream sandwiches: A San Francisco classic, these treats feature vanilla ice cream sandwiched between two oatmeal cookies dipped in dark chocolate.

Local drinks

• California wines: California boasts an excellent selection of local wines from the Napa and Sonoma valleys. Try a crisp Chardonnay or a robust Cabernet Sauvignon.

• Craft beer: California is known for its thriving craft beer scene – sample brews from renowned breweries like Sierra Nevada, Stone Brewing and Lagunitas.

• Anchor Steam beer: Brewed in San Francisco since 1896, this locally crafted beer is a refreshing choice for beer enthusiasts.