Once close to extinction, there is no shortage of elephant seals on the beaches of Año Nuevo State Park.

Housed in a memorial lighthouse, this museum relays the history of surfing, beginning with the antics of royal Hawaiian teenagers.

Two rocks in a perpetual kiss and one of "the most romantic spot in America."

One of the most elaborate displays of Jellyfish is on display at the aquarium.

This Big Sur waterfall drops 80 feet directly into the Pacific Ocean, and inspired the hillside house up top.

This abandoned Navy base was transformed into an off-grid alternative living community for thousands of people.

A hand-built folk art installation covered with messages of God's love.

An off-grid art installation that encourages its visitors to imagine a world without waste.

The interior of the Overlook Hotel in "The Shining" was based on this Yosemite original.

A massive volcanic plug is now a protected area that hosts a number of bird species.

A hotel and restaurant serving as the mecca of kitsch.

A chain of bells connect the California Missions and honor the legend of the "King’s Highway."

The ghostly remains of an accidental sea.

World's largest collection devoted to one fruit.

In California, colorful roadside signs remind us all that love transcends borders.

A music-filled, booze-soaked oasis in the desert.

A fake town founded by Western movie stars is now becoming a hip desert community.

The "world's biggest dinosaur" once housed a creationist museum in its abdomen.

The awe-inspiring ship from the golden era of cruising has an incomparable history and a reputation as one of the world’s most haunted places.

These four islands right offshore have waterfalls, colorful lights, fancy buildings, and a secret purpose.

An historic and oft-filmed spot for musclebound iron pumpers on the Pacific coast.

A modern day curiosity cabinet.

Sports history, made in the Arroyo Seco.

Scores of vintage street lamps shine along L.A.’s Miracle Mile.