California tour guides will never take you to hidden sights

Some friends always say that there are only a few places to visit in California, such as Hollywood, the Golden Gate Bridge, Highway 1, etc. They think that you can experience everything in just one trip and get bored easily. However, well-known attractions are often very attractive to people, but that doesn't mean they are the most beautiful places in California. Today, I have specially compiled a list of "Hidden Gems" in California, which are unknown secret spots, to share with all of you. After reading it, you will exclaim: These unique attractions are actually right around us!

The Cypress 'Tree Tunnel'

Located 45 miles north of the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, between the Pacific Ocean and Tomales Bay, you will find the enchanting Monterey Cypress Tree Tunnel. The cypress trees intertwine to form this beautiful scenery, and at the end of the tunnel is an old radio telegraph receiving station built in the 1920s—Point Reyes.

Alamere Falls

Alamere Falls is located in Point Reyes National Seashore, north of San Francisco. The most spectacular feature of this waterfall is that it flows directly into the ocean, making it a true 'tidefall.' There are only 25 such waterfalls in the world, and only six in the United States, making it a remarkable natural wonder!

Bowling Ball Beach

Near Point Arena, there is a unique Bowling Ball Beach. Hundreds of sandstone boulders on the beach have been naturally polished into large round stones, resembling 'bowling balls' lined up facing the waves, hence the name. Since they are submerged during high tide, be sure to check the tide schedule to avoid missing the best viewing time.

The Glory Hole

Located at the Monticello Dam in Lake Berryessa, The Glory Hole is also one of the seven largest man-made holes in the world. During the rainy season, a huge water hole appears, creating a peculiar sight. This phenomenon once led the surrounding residents to believe there was a monster in the lake, causing great fear and adding a touch of mystery.

La Tour

Located on the cliffs of Laguna Beach in Orange County, Southern California, there is a beautiful and mysterious spot. This lighthouse, standing by the sea, was built in 1926 and is 60 feet tall. It is known locally as the 'Pirate Tower.' It was constructed by California Senator William E. Brown to provide his family with convenient access from their cliffside home to the beach, a reason that brings a smile to one's face.

Painted Canyons

Painted Canyons is located in Southern California, near the desert city of Mecca. Seeing pictures of Painted Canyons will immediately remind you of the famous Antelope Canyon. Although it lacks the beautiful light beams and vibrant colors, Painted Canyons has its own unique features.

Natural Bridges

Located in Calaveras County in central California, the Natural Bridges cave was formed by the rapid flow of Coyote Creek eroding the rock. Every weekend, locals come here specifically to swim in the beautiful cave that resembles a fairyland. They swim while listening to the soothing sound of the flowing water and admire the uniquely colored rocks on the cave ceiling. If you're brave enough, you can even explore the exit on the other side of the cave.
When visiting Big Sur, most people go to the two major attractions, McWay Falls and Bixby Bridge. However, next time, don't forget Pfeiffer Beach! The beach's most distinctive feature is its fine sand, which appears light purple under sunlight. It has been selected by National Geographic as the only purple beach. Additionally, don't miss the giant, beautiful natural rock standing on the distant shore. The rock has a cave in the middle, and during sunset, the evening glow passes through and illuminates the beach, creating a picturesque and beautiful scene that drives many photography enthusiasts crazy!

Mossbrae Falls

A three-hour drive north from Sacramento leads to the fairyland waterfall. The protruding rocks in the mountains divide the water flow, and the clear water flows down vertically like fine threads. It contrasts with the dense green branches in the mountains. In summer, it resembles a real-life version of the Emerald City, and in autumn, the red leaves look like an oil painting. Such a scenery is truly worthy of being called a fairyland.

Seven Teacups

Formed by steps between two massive rocks, layer upon layer of water flow resembles seven teacups. Seven Teacups is considered one of the most spectacular canyoning spots in the world. If you love challenges (and have received training), this is a destination you absolutely cannot miss!

Glass Beach

In the quiet town of Fort Bragg, there is a beach made up of colorful glass, known as the 'world's most sparkling beach.' Who would have thought that this beach was once a local garbage dump, but today it has become one of the attractions that thousands of tourists visit in California! The 'garbage' of the past has been polished by the waves over the years, turning into the sparkling sea glass beach we see today. Under the sunlight, it shines in various colors, with each piece of glass being smooth and translucent, forming a beautiful winding coastline. We hope everyone will not selfishly take it for themselves, otherwise one day you may lose it.

Mono Lake

Driving out from the exit of Yosemite, you can see a lake in the distance that looks like a dreamy fairyland. Although Yosemite is famous, the brilliance of Mono Lake is not overshadowed by Yosemite at all.

Poppy Reserve

Do you know the state flower of California—the poppy? Don't get it wrong, it doesn't produce opium, it's just a unique plant of California, but it still makes people 'addicted.' Antelope Valley is the legendary reserve of poppies—one of the 'Top Ten Flower Seas in the World.' Every spring, the hills are covered like a red carpet, becoming California's unique 'heavenly fire' spectacle. Besides poppies, there are also Silver Puffs Flower, Goldfields, Filaree, Erodium Cicutarium, Lupine, Straightfruit Grass, Cosmos, and more. The title of 'Top Ten Flower Seas in the World' is well-deserved.