Peaks and viewpoints in California

This collection showcases California's diverse topography, from the granite cliffs of Yosemite's Tunnel View and the colorful mineral deposits of Death Valley's Artist's Palette to the coastal 80-foot drop of McWay Falls in Big Sur. It includes urban vantage points like the Hollywood Bowl Overlook and the Golden Gate Bridge Vista Point, alongside iconic landmarks such as the Hollywood Sign and Alcatraz Island. Visitors can explore the rugged terrain of Joshua Tree from Keys View or experience the Pacific coastline along the scenic 17-Mile Drive and the sea-lion-dotted Pier 39.

Peaks and Viewpoints — Map

Diliff / CC BY-SA 3.0

A

Walk of Fame

Sidewalk featuring over 2,700 five-pointed terrazzo and brass stars embedded along several blocks, honoring notable celebrities from the entertainment industry.

Blake Everett / CC0

B

Venice Beach

Lively public beach with a scenic sandy shore, boardwalk, and diverse recreational facilities including a skate plaza and outdoor gym.

Ralf Baechle / CC BY-SA 4.0

C

Alcatraz Island

Historic former federal prison and military fortification located on a rocky island in a bay, now functioning as a museum and national monument.

Scott Catron / CC BY-SA 2.0

D

Hollywood Sign

Large hillside sign spelling out HOLLYWOOD, serving as an iconic symbol of the entertainment industry and American pop culture since 1923.

Rennett Stowe / CC BY 2.0

E

Tunnel View

Tunnel View is a scenic viewpoint on California State Route 41 in Yosemite National Park, United States.

Brian Lopez / Public domain

F

McWay Falls

McWay Falls is an 80-foot-tall waterfall on the coast of Big Sur in central California that flows year-round from McWay Creek in Julia…

Rachot Moragraan / CC BY-SA 3.0

G

Zabriskie Point

Zabriskie Point is a part of the Amargosa Range located east of Death Valley in Death Valley National Park in California, United States,…

Paxson Woelber / CC BY-SA 3.0

H

Artist's Palette

This place is called the palette for a reason. The cornucopia of colours of Black Mountains rocks is just ravishing.

Chris English / CC BY-SA 3.0

I

Golden Gate Bridge Vista Point

If you're after some breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge, this place is the one to go to.

Mfield / CC-BY-SA-3.0

J

Keys View

It’s truly a gorgeous scene to see the panorama of Joshua Tree National Park - with its rocky landscape, hills and peninsular ranges.

JERRYE AND ROY KLOTZ MD / CC BY-SA 3.0

K

Hollywood Bowl Overlook

If you want to see the whole of Hollywood at your feet, come visit this unique overlook.

Sygic Traveler / All rights reserved

L

Baker Beach

Baker Beach is a public beach on the peninsula of San Francisco, California, U.S.

TeamMachoJAPS / CC BY-SA 3.0

M

Santa Monica Bay

Bay of the Pacific Ocean in Southern California featuring scenic beaches, piers, and vibrant marine ecosystems. It includes well-known beaches such as Santa Monica State Beach and Malibu Lagoon State Beach.

Tuxyso / CC BY-SA 3.0

N

17-Mile Drive

17-Mile Drive is a scenic road through Pebble Beach and Pacific Grove on the Monterey Peninsula in California, much of which hugs the…

Jo Jo / CC-BY-SA

O

Sea Lions at Pier 39

A truly unique sight - this pier has been home to dozens of sea lions ever since 1989.

amy mew / CC BY 2.0

P

El Matador Beach

A beautiful beach with many small coves hidden along the shore. Not very facilitated, but has its own charm.

Other Lists

California's Absolute Essentials Editor's Choice Attractions Unique Hidden Gems Major International Airports California's Natural Wonders California Museums and Galleries Beaches and Lighthouses Heritage and History Wineries and Craft Delights Notable Christian Sites Theaters and Cinemas California Waterfalls and Dams Notable Universities and Colleges Best Camping & Caravan Sites Premier Golf Destinations