California Castles & palaces, Island & reefs + Shopping pictures

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The dramatic waterfalls and granite walls of Yosemite National Park are all accessible via enjoyable hikes from this tourist village.

Come to this Lake Tahoe destination in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada to ski in winter, swim in summer and enjoy a lively nightlife year-round.

This Roman-inspired palace built in 1915 remains a modern-day renaissance center of fine arts and science. 

Monumental rock spires crowd around serene pools, talus caves and boulder-speckled hiking trails in this striking parkland and unique biosphere.

Once a hardworking industrial neighbourhood, today’s Downtown LA is a destination reborn with an emphasis on culture and green spaces.

A popular escape from the streets of Los Angeles, this island’s laid-back atmosphere and crystal-clear waters make it seem a world away from the busy city. 

This Roman-inspired palace built in 1915 remains a modern-day renaissance center of fine arts and science. 

Streetcars rattle up and down the city famous for steep hills, hippie history and the toughest place to make a jail break.

This historic and lively district offers an eclectic mixture of ornamental houses, exotic shops, restaurants, small museums, temples and food markets. 

Take a whale tour, admire the ocean views from seafood restaurants and browse the souvenirs for sale in this thriving marina.

Streetcars rattle up and down the city famous for steep hills, hippie history and the toughest place to make a jail break.

This charming oceanfront town is a perfect day-trip for art, food and relaxation. 

Savor the sumptuous creations of this family-owned winery, which has produced award-winning vintages at this stunning Napa Valley location for generations.

Fame, fortune and fashion combine in this small but ultra-stylish area that’s one of the world’s premier shopping districts.

Enjoy an upscale excursion to the country’s best-known and most luxurious wine-growing region.

A long sandy beach runs along the Pacific Ocean in this city known as one of the more peaceful areas near Santa Monica Bay.

Sample a magnificent selection of Italian-style wines while touring this medieval-inspired Tuscan castle decorated with frescoes and ornate woodwork.

Enjoy an upscale excursion to the country’s best-known and most luxurious wine-growing region.

Home of the Summer of Love, flower power and the Grateful Dead in the ’60s, this neighborhood is still a San Francisco landmark rich with history. 

Streetcars rattle up and down the city famous for steep hills, hippie history and the toughest place to make a jail break.

Take a whale tour, admire the ocean views from seafood restaurants and browse the souvenirs for sale in this thriving marina.