Our recommendations on the best travel books for Southern Calfiornia
Southern California is a treasure trove of diverse experiences, from the sun-drenched beaches of San Diego to the star-studded streets of Hollywood and the rugged beauty of Joshua Tree National Park. With iconic theme parks like Disneyland, world-class museums such as the Getty Center, and culinary hotspots ranging from fish tacos in Ensenada to gourmet restaurants in Los Angeles, the region offers endless exploration. A good travel book is invaluable for navigating this vast and varied landscape, providing insider tips on hidden gems like secluded coves in Laguna Beach or the best time to visit popular attractions like Universal Studios. It can also offer cultural insights into diverse neighborhoods like Little Saigon in Orange County or LA's Koreatown, suggest scenic drives along the Pacific Coast Highway, and guide you to the best local farmers markets and wineries in Santa Barbara County.
Our Travel Book Recommendations - Southern California
Our Travel Book Recommendations - Southern California
Fodor’s Southern California
Southern California is far more than just the glitz and glamour of Los Angeles. Beyond the famous city lies a treasure trove of diverse landscapes and hidden gems waiting to be explored. For those eager to uncover the region's true essence, Fodor's Guide to Southern California stands out as the best overall travel guide. This expertly crafted book offers a meticulously organized and balanced overview, featuring an exceptional section on scenic road trips and awe-inspiring national and state parks. With its thoughtfully curated recommended itineraries and insider tips on off-the-beaten-path destinations, this guide empowers travelers to venture beyond the obvious and discover the authentic heart of Southern California..
The Unofficial Guide to Disneyland
Disneyland is amazing but it can be intimidating, especially for first timers. Our favorite travel guide is the Unofficial Guide to Disneyland, a comprehensive, unbiased guide that explains how to enjoy rides, restaurants, and attractions with descriptive and detailed recommendations. And when we say detailed, we mean it. There are suggestions on what to order in each restaurant, when to be where, and our favorite tip, how to avoid long lines. Highly recommended to make the most out of your trip.
Moon Southern California Road Trips
We also recommend checking out Moon Southern California Road Trips, part of the Moon Guide series renowned for excellent road trip planning. This comprehensive guide offers flexible itineraries, from three-day coastal routes to two-week tours, covering Los Angeles, San Diego, Joshua Tree, and beyond. Featuring curated lists of top attractions, local expertise from San Diego native Ian Anderson, and practical driving tips, this guide helps you explore SoCal's best beaches, hikes, and urban delights. With user-friendly maps, detailed directions, and tailored advice for various travelers, Moon Southern California Road Trips is your essential companion for an unforgettable trip to this diverse and vibrant region.
Secret Southern California
Secret Southern California is a guide for adventurers seeking unusual getaways in the region. A spin-off from Kathy Strong's Off the Beaten Path Southern California, this updated guide focuses on hard-to-find spots and unique experiences. It covers a range of interests, from Hollywood history to natural wonders and hidden bars. The book aims to provide new ideas for vacations and weekend escapes, highlighting lesser-known attractions and local secrets, useful for those interested in exploring beyond the typical tourist attractions.