20 of the Best Things for Retirees to Do in California

California offers an incredible playground for retirees looking to enjoy their golden years to the fullest. From stunning coastal views to mountain retreats, the Golden State provides endless opportunities for adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences that cater to every interest and activity level.

You’ll find California’s diverse landscape creates the perfect backdrop for retirement living, with options ranging from leisurely beach strolls to invigorating national park hikes, world-class museums to charming wine country tours. With its mild climate year-round in many regions, you can take advantage of outdoor activities regardless of the season, making it easier to maintain an active, fulfilling lifestyle during retirement.

1. Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park offers retirees an unforgettable escape into nature’s grandeur. This iconic destination spans nearly 1,200 square miles of breathtaking landscapes, from deep valleys to grand meadows and ancient giant sequoias.

You’ll be mesmerized by Yosemite’s famous waterfalls cascading down massive granite cliffs. The park provides numerous hiking trails suitable for various fitness levels, allowing you to experience the tranquility of the High Sierra at your own pace.

For history enthusiasts, Yosemite represents a landmark in conservation, being first protected in 1864. The park stands as a testament to human foresight in preserving natural wonders for future generations to enjoy.

During your visit, you can explore river rafting opportunities, witness stunning vistas, and immerse yourself in the peaceful wilderness. The park’s diverse ecosystem ensures there’s always something new to discover, regardless of how many times you return.

Rating: 4.8 (51,870 reviews)
Location: California, United States
Contact: +1 209-372-0200
Website: Visit Website

2. The Getty

The Getty is a must-visit destination for art-loving retirees in California. This magnificent museum sits atop the hills of Los Angeles, offering not just world-class art but also breathtaking views of the city below. Best of all, admission is completely free, though parking does require a fee.

You’ll find an impressive collection of American and European art housed in stunning modernist buildings designed by architect Richard Meier. The museum’s permanent collection includes works by Van Gogh, Monet, and Rembrandt, alongside rotating special exhibitions that keep even repeat visitors coming back.

Don’t miss the meticulously landscaped gardens, which are an artistic masterpiece in their own right. The Central Garden, designed by artist Robert Irwin, features a maze of trees, flowers, and a stream that winds down to a reflecting pool—perfect for a leisurely stroll on a sunny California day.

Take your time exploring both the art and architecture—the travertine marble exterior is as impressive as the treasures inside. Many retirees appreciate the museum’s tram service from the parking area to the top, making it accessible for those with mobility concerns.

Rating: 4.8 (33981 reviews)
Location: 1200 Getty Center Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90049, United States
Contact: +1 310-440-7300
Website: Visit Website

3. Kings Canyon National Park

Kings Canyon National Park is a breathtaking destination for retirees seeking natural beauty and outdoor adventures. With its diverse landscape featuring massive mountains, deep canyons, and the world’s largest trees, this park offers a perfect escape into nature’s grandeur.

You’ll be amazed by the ancient giant sequoias that stand as living monuments to time. These incredible trees create an atmosphere of wonder and perspective that many retirees find both humbling and inspiring. The park’s 4.8-star rating from over 6,000 visitors speaks to its impressive appeal.

Hiking trails accommodate various fitness levels, allowing you to explore at your own pace. The rugged foothills and vast caverns provide endless opportunities for discovery and photography. Many retirees particularly enjoy the peaceful atmosphere during weekday visits when crowds are thinner.

The diverse ecosystems within the park make it worth visiting in different seasons. Spring brings wildflowers, summer offers full access to higher elevations, fall displays beautiful colors, and winter transforms the landscape into a serene wonderland.

Rating: 4.8 (6360 reviews)
Location: California, United States
Contact: +1 559-565-3341
Website: Visit Website

4. Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is a true paradise for retirees seeking natural wonder and outdoor adventure. Home to the world’s largest trees, these ancient giants will leave you in awe as you walk among living monuments that have stood for thousands of years.

The park offers activities for all ability levels, from easy paved trails around the most famous sequoia groves to more challenging hikes through diverse landscapes. You’ll discover not just massive trees but also rugged mountains, deep canyons, and even vast underground caverns waiting to be explored.

Wildlife viewing opportunities abound throughout the park. Keep your eyes peeled for black bears, deer, and numerous bird species as you traverse this protected wilderness. The changing seasons bring different experiences, with spring wildflowers, summer warmth, fall colors, and winter snow all offering unique perspectives on this remarkable ecosystem.

For the best experience, consider visiting during weekdays or shoulder seasons (late spring or early fall) when crowds are thinner and temperatures more moderate. The Giant Forest and General Sherman Tree are must-see attractions, but don’t overlook the quieter corners of the park where solitude enhances the majesty.

Rating: 4.8 (16856 reviews)
Location: California, United States
Contact: +1 559-565-3341
Website: Visit Website

5. Devils Postpile National Monument

Devil’s Postpile National Monument showcases one of nature’s most fascinating geological wonders. Located near Mammoth Lakes, this remarkable formation of columnar basalt will leave you in awe of Earth’s natural architecture. The hexagonal columns, standing like a giant’s fence, were created by cooling lava nearly 100,000 years ago.

The monument offers more than just the famous basalt columns. You can hike to the stunning 101-foot Rainbow Falls, where on sunny days the mist creates colorful rainbows that give this cascade its name. The area has several hiking trails that wind through pristine mountain landscapes, perfect for retirees looking for both easy strolls and more challenging adventures.

Note that access is limited in 2025, with the Reds Meadow Road tentatively open only from July 3 to October 6, and primarily on weekends (Friday-Sunday). Thursday visits are possible in July and August, but expect one-hour delays. This restricted schedule makes planning ahead essential for your visit.

For retirees with time flexibility, this hidden gem offers a less crowded experience than many California attractions. The combination of unusual geology, beautiful waterfalls, and alpine scenery makes it well worth adding to your retirement bucket list.

Rating: 4.7 (1596 reviews)
Location: Devils Postpile Road, Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546, United States
Contact: +1 760-934-2289
Website: Visit Website

6. Forestiere Underground Gardens

Step beneath the surface in Fresno to explore one of California’s most remarkable hidden treasures. The Forestiere Underground Gardens offer a fascinating glimpse into one man’s extraordinary vision and determination. Created by Sicilian immigrant Baldassare Forestiere in the early 1900s, this subterranean marvel was hand-carved using only simple tools over a 40-year period.

As you tour the underground network, you’ll walk through beautifully designed rooms, courtyards, and passageways that reach depths of 25 feet. The Mediterranean-inspired architecture features Roman arches, vaults, and carefully constructed stone walls. What makes this place truly special is the underground microclimate Forestiere created, where temperatures can vary by 10-20 degrees from the surface.

Perhaps most impressive are the fruit trees and grapevines growing underground, some of which are over 90 years old and still producing fruit today! Your guided tour will explain how Forestiere transformed seemingly useless farmland into this underground escape from Central Valley’s intense summer heat.

This historic landmark offers a unique experience that showcases human ingenuity and perseverance. The one-hour guided walking tours provide fascinating insights into Forestiere’s life and creative vision, making it a must-visit for retirees looking for something truly different.

Rating: 4.8 (2546 reviews)
Location: 5021 W Shaw Ave, Fresno, CA 93722
Contact: +1 559-271-0734
Website: Visit Website

7. Big Basin Redwoods State Park

Step back in time at California’s oldest state park, established in 1902, where ancient coast redwoods tower like living monuments. Some of these magnificent trees are over 50 feet around, as tall as the Statue of Liberty, and up to 1,800 years old – possibly predating the Roman Empire.

The park is currently in recovery mode after the 2020 CZU Lightning Complex Fire swept through 97% of its property. While the landscape looks different now, most of the old-growth redwoods survived, new plant life is flourishing, and wildlife has returned to the area.

For a perfect retiree-friendly experience, take the accessible 0.6-mile Redwood Loop Trail to see some of the park’s biggest and oldest trees. You can also visit the coastal unit, Rancho del Oso, accessible off Highway 1 in Davenport. The park offers a mix of flat trails and more challenging hikes as recovery efforts continue.

If you’re visiting during summer weekends, take advantage of the free shuttle service from the Saddle Mountain parking area. Parking reservations are recommended due to limited spaces, though no reservations are needed if you arrive by foot, bike, or bus.

Rating: 4.8 (5034 reviews)
Location: California, United States
Contact: +1 831-338-8860
Website: Visit Website

8. Crystal Cave (Sequoia National Park)

Crystal Cave offers retirees a magical underground adventure in the heart of Sequoia National Park. This marble cavern features stunning formations that have developed over thousands of years, creating a truly unique experience for visitors of all ages.

The cave maintains a cool 50°F year-round, so bring a light jacket even on hot summer days. Tours last about 50 minutes, but you’ll want to allocate half a day for the complete experience, including travel time within the park and the steep half-mile walk to and from the cave entrance.

Planning ahead is essential for your visit. Tickets must be purchased online at least 36 hours in advance, though booking two months ahead is recommended during peak seasons. Tours typically run daily between 9 am and 3 pm from mid-May through November.

The narrow, winding road to Crystal Cave doesn’t accommodate vehicles over 22 feet in length, so plan accordingly. For those with hearing impairments, assistive listening devices and ASL tablet guides are available at no extra charge.

Rating: 4.4 (241 reviews)
Location: Three Rivers, CA 93271, United States
Contact: +1 559-565-3341
Website: Visit Website

9. Sequoia National Forest

Nestled in the mountains of California, Sequoia National Forest offers retirees a chance to immerse themselves in vast wilderness and iconic giant sequoia groves. You can explore over 1,147 miles of trails, including 47 miles of the Pacific Crest Trail, giving you plenty of options for hikes suited to different ability levels.

Water enthusiasts will appreciate the forest’s 2,617 rivers and streams, including 222 miles of Wild and Scenic Rivers with world-class whitewater rapids. The 158 ponds and lakes provide peaceful settings for fishing, boating, or simply enjoying the serene mountain views.

If you’re planning an extended stay, the forest features 52 developed campgrounds. Beyond hiking, you can enjoy activities like fishing, biking, and horseback riding. With over 314,448 acres of wilderness, you’ll find plenty of quiet spaces to reconnect with nature during your retirement adventures.

The majestic sequoia groves are the true highlight, offering awe-inspiring encounters with some of the world’s most magnificent trees. These ancient giants create a peaceful atmosphere that’s perfect for reflection and appreciation of nature’s wonders.

Rating: 4.8 (5681 reviews)
Location: Porterville, CA, United States
Contact: +1 760-379-5646
Website: Visit Website

10. California Academy of Sciences

The California Academy of Sciences in San Francisco is a paradise for retirees who love learning and exploring. This incredible institution combines a natural history museum, aquarium, and planetarium all under one living roof. You can spend hours wandering through the various exhibits that showcase the wonders of our natural world.

The Academy’s famous four-story rainforest dome lets you experience tropical environments from around the globe. As you spiral up through this humid ecosystem, you’ll encounter free-flying butterflies, exotic birds, and fascinating reptiles. Don’t miss the Steinhart Aquarium, home to nearly 40,000 animals including colorful reef fish, mesmerizing jellyfish, and playful penguins.

For a truly otherworldly experience, check out the Morrison Planetarium where you can travel through space and time with stunning visual presentations. The Academy regularly hosts special exhibits and events tailored for adult visitors, making it a perfect destination for retirees looking to expand their knowledge in a fun, interactive setting.

Your visit to this scientific wonderland supports their mission to regenerate the natural world through science and learning. Plan ahead and purchase tickets online to save money, or consider becoming a member for unlimited free visits throughout the year.

Rating: 4.6 (5540 reviews)
Location: 55 Music Concourse Dr, San Francisco, CA 94118, United States
Contact: +1 415-379-8000
Website: Visit Website

11. Glacier Point

Experience one of California’s most breathtaking viewpoints at Glacier Point in Yosemite National Park. This stunning overlook sits 3,214 feet above Curry Village and offers sweeping panoramic views of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, and the Sierra Nevada mountains.

The viewpoint is accessible by car from late May through October or November, making it perfect for retirees looking for minimal hiking with maximum scenic reward. A short, paved, wheelchair-accessible trail leads from the parking area to the main viewpoint, ensuring almost everyone can enjoy this natural wonder.

For the more adventurous retirees visiting in winter, cross-country skiing to Glacier Point offers a unique experience. The 10.5-mile journey through snow-covered landscapes provides a different perspective of Yosemite’s majestic beauty, with a ski hut available for overnight stays.

Consider timing your visit for sunrise or sunset when the changing light creates dramatic scenes across the valley. The viewpoint is also excellent for stargazing, with ranger-led programs often available to enhance your experience.

Rating: 4.9 (7176 reviews)
Location: California, United States
Contact: +1 209-372-0200
Website: Visit Website

12. Gilroy Gardens Family Theme Park

Nestled in Gilroy, California, this charming theme park offers a unique blend of horticultural beauty and family-friendly rides. You’ll find over 40 attractions specifically designed with retirees and grandchildren in mind, making it perfect for multi-generational outings. The rides are generally gentle, allowing you to enjoy them without the intensity of typical amusement parks.

What truly sets Gilroy Gardens apart is its stunning botanical displays, including the famous “Circus Trees” – trees that were trained to grow in fascinating shapes decades ago. You can stroll through themed gardens at your own pace, enjoying beautiful landscaping while taking breaks from the attractions. The park’s peaceful atmosphere makes it an excellent choice for retirees seeking a more relaxed theme park experience.

When visiting with grandkids, you’ll appreciate the balance of educational elements and fun. The gardens provide opportunities to share your knowledge of plants and nature, while the rides and attractions keep everyone entertained. The park also offers senior discounts on certain days, making it a budget-friendly option for retirees looking for a delightful day out.

Rating: 4.5 (5753 reviews)
Location: 3050 Hecker Pass Hwy, Gilroy, CA 95020, United States
Contact: +1 408-840-7100
Website: Visit Website

13. Fresno Chaffee Zoo

The Fresno Chaffee Zoo offers retirees a delightful escape into the animal kingdom without the overwhelming crowds of larger zoos. You can enjoy public giraffe-feeding sessions where these gentle giants eat right from your hand – a truly memorable experience that brings you closer to wildlife.

The zoo features a stunning Tropical Rainforest exhibit and an Australasian Aviary where you can observe exotic birds in naturalistic habitats. Both areas close at 3:30 p.m. daily, so plan your visit accordingly to make the most of these popular attractions.

Don’t miss the stingray touch pool where you can actually feel these fascinating marine creatures as they glide beneath your fingertips. The zoo focuses on conservation efforts and building connections between visitors and animals, making it both entertaining and educational.

If you’re planning multiple visits, consider a membership starting at just $100 annually. This gives you unlimited access throughout the year while supporting the zoo’s wildlife conservation initiatives, making it a worthwhile investment for local retirees.

Rating: 4.6 (12690 reviews)
Location: 894 W Belmont Ave, Fresno, CA 93728
Contact: +1 559-498-5910
Website: Visit Website

14. The Flower Fields

The Flower Fields in Carlsbad offers a breathtaking seasonal display that you won’t want to miss during your retirement adventures. With nearly 50 acres of vibrant ranunculus flowers creating a colorful patchwork across rolling hills, this attraction provides the perfect backdrop for your spring photos.

You can stroll along walking paths that wind through the stunning floral landscape from March through May when the fields are in full bloom. The sea of colors against the Pacific Ocean backdrop creates a truly magical experience that draws thousands of visitors each season.

Beyond just viewing flowers, you can purchase plants to bring a piece of this beauty back to your own garden. The Flower Fields also serves as a wedding venue, so you might even witness a special ceremony during your visit.

Make sure to check their website before planning your trip, as this is a seasonal attraction that’s typically only open during spring months. Advance reservations are recommended, especially during peak bloom season when the fields become particularly popular.

Rating: 4.6 (7308 reviews)
Location: 5704 Paseo Del Norte, Carlsbad, CA 92008, United States
Contact: +1 760-431-0352
Website: Visit Website

15. General Grant Tree

Standing tall in Kings Canyon National Park, the General Grant Tree is a majestic giant sequoia that will leave you in awe. This magnificent tree, also known as “The Nation’s Christmas Tree,” was designated by President Calvin Coolidge in 1926 and later declared a National Shrine by President Eisenhower in 1956.

You can easily access this natural wonder via a paved 1/3-mile loop trail that also features other notable trees and historical sites. The short walk makes it perfect for retirees looking to experience the grandeur of one of the world’s largest living things without an exhausting hike.

During your visit, take a moment to appreciate not just the tree’s immense size but also its symbolic importance. As the only living national shrine in the United States, it stands as a memorial to the armed forces who served and fought for the country.

If you time your visit right, you might catch the annual “Trek to the Tree” Christmas ceremony held on the second Sunday of December. This tradition dates back to 1925 and continues to bring visitors together to celebrate the holiday season in the presence of this ancient giant.

Rating: 4.9 (4877 reviews)
Location: Kings Canyon National Park, California, CA 93633, United States
Contact: +1 559-565-3341
Website: Visit Website

16. General Sherman Tree

Standing majestically in Sequoia National Park, the General Sherman Tree is a natural wonder you simply can’t miss during your California retirement adventures. This remarkable giant sequoia holds the distinction of containing more wood volume in its trunk than any other tree on Earth, making it truly exceptional.

At just under 275 feet tall, this magnificent tree is estimated to be around 2,200 years old. While walking the trails around it, keep an eye out for Douglas squirrels (chickarees) that climb the sequoias and drop cones as they forage for food.

The Congress Trail begins near the Sherman Tree and offers an easy three-mile loop showcasing some of Giant Forest’s most spectacular sequoias. For those with mobility concerns, there’s an accessible paved path about 500 feet in length with a gentle slope leading to the tree.

When planning your visit, be prepared for an uphill climb when returning from your hike. During summer months, you can take advantage of the free park shuttle to avoid the uphill trek back to the main parking area.

Rating: 4.8 (10,436 reviews)
Location: Three Rivers, CA 93262, United States
Contact: +1 559-565-3341
Website: Visit Website

17. California

California is a retiree’s paradise, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, vibrant culture, and endless opportunities for exploration. Home to nearly 40 million residents, this diverse state welcomes people from all walks of life, with one in four Californians born overseas.

As the world’s fifth-largest economy, California contributes almost 15% to the US GDP, ensuring a robust infrastructure and amenities for its residents. You’ll find thriving communities, excellent healthcare facilities, and plenty of services catered to retirees throughout the state.

Nature lovers will be delighted by California’s outdoor offerings, including 9 national parks—the most in any US state. You can also explore 87 state parks and 63 state beaches, giving you endless opportunities for hiking, wildlife watching, and simply enjoying the spectacular scenery during your retirement years.

The pleasant climate across much of the state means you can enjoy outdoor activities year-round, making it easier to maintain an active, healthy lifestyle in your retirement. From coastal communities to mountain retreats, you’ll find the perfect setting for your golden years.

Location: United States
Website: Visit Website

18. Sign – Sequoia National Park

When visiting Sequoia National Park, don’t miss the historic entrance sign, a remarkable piece of park heritage. Constructed in 1935 by Civilian Conservation Corps craftsmen, this iconic marker sits atop a genuine four-foot sequoia log complete with authentic bark.

The sign represents more than just a photo opportunity—it’s a living piece of history that connects visitors to the park’s past. Though recently affected by the KNP Complex Wildfire, the area around the sign remains an important landmark for visitors exploring the park’s boundaries.

Beyond admiring the sign, you can enjoy beautiful views of the nearby river from this vantage point. The location also serves as a gateway to the blue oak woodlands, an important ecosystem that scientists monitor closely due to environmental challenges like drought and wildfires.

If you’re interested in the cultural significance of the sign, including questions about its Indian head imagery and appropriateness in modern times, informational resources are available to help you understand its complete story and context.

Rating: 4.9 (160 reviews)
Location: 47099-47007, CA-198, Three Rivers, CA 93271, United States
Website: Visit Website

19. Sequoia National Park’s Tunnel Log

As you explore California’s natural wonders during your retirement, Sequoia National Park’s Tunnel Log offers a truly unique experience. This remarkable attraction was created when a giant sequoia fell across Crescent Meadow Road in late 1937 due to natural causes.

The following summer, park officials cut a tunnel through the fallen giant, creating a memorable drive-through experience that continues to delight visitors today. The tunnel measures 17 feet wide and 8 feet high, allowing most passenger vehicles to pass through comfortably.

When this majestic sequoia fell, it stood approximately 275 feet tall with a base diameter of 21 feet. Though its exact age remains undetermined, experts believe this natural wonder likely exceeded 2,000 years in age before toppling.

Unlike Yosemite’s famous Wawona Tree (which fell in 1969), Sequoia’s Tunnel Log remains intact and accessible. It represents an interesting period in national park history when creating such attractions helped build public support for conservation efforts.

Rating: 4.8 (1402 reviews)
Location: Crescent Meadow Rd, Sequoia National Park, CA 93262, United States
Contact: +1 559-565-3341
Website: Visit Website

20. Wild Water Adventure Park

Looking to make a splash during your retirement? Wild Water Adventure Park in Clovis offers a refreshing escape from the California heat. This expansive 52-acre water park features something for every retiree, whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure.

The park boasts a variety of attractions including a wave pool where you can float away your worries. For those feeling more adventurous, try the mat slides or the rapid ride for a bit of excitement. There’s even a dedicated kiddie area if you’re visiting with grandchildren.

Wild Water hosts special events throughout the season, like the World’s Largest Swimming Lesson. These events often include perks like discounted admission for family members, making it a perfect outing with your loved ones.

Planning your visit is easy, but keep an eye on their schedule for private events that might affect operating hours. The park typically opens at 11 AM during the season, giving you plenty of time to enjoy all the aquatic attractions.

Rating: 4.2 (2423 reviews)
Location: 11413 E Shaw Ave, Clovis, CA 93619, United States
Contact: +1 559-299-9453
Website: Visit Website