12 Safe & Cheapest Places to Visit in California

“Living in California is already expensive, and I wish I could discover some low-cost travel options within the state to relax and rejuvenate my body and mind”. 

I’m sure you’ve pondered this idea countless times, just as I have! I’m a budget traveler and love finding spots that suit my pocket. Even, if you’re a retiree, I’ve got you covered, I’ve a list of affordable places to retire in California too!

This post may contain affiliate links. If you buy something through one of those links, you won’t pay any extra penny, but I’ll get a small commission that encourages me to deliver more helpful content for you.

So, this time, I’ve created a new blog highlighting the most affordable places to visit in California, each of which is equally beautiful.

I have been living in Clovis, California, for the past 12 years, and I can show you the best places that won’t put too much strain on your budget.

If you’re planning to move, I would suggest checking out the budget-friendly options in the Golden State first as we all know how expensive it is!

Cheapest Places to Visit in California

1. Joshua Tree National Park

• Daily budget: $152 – $172
• Fee: $30 per vehicle and $25 per motorcycle

If trees have ever inspired you, then plan a 2-3 day trip to Joshua Tree National Park to spot Joshua trees, one of the native desert trees known for their spindly and spiky appearance. 

This National Park is situated between the Sonoran and Mojave Deserts, making it a magnet for nature lovers, bird watchers, and rock climbers, also thanks to its unique rock formations that climbers adore.

If you’re traveling from Palm Springs, it’s a 40-mile drive to the north, and if you’re coming from Los Angeles, it’s 140 miles to the east. This 1,235-square-mile park is truly a gem of California.

Affordable things to do in Joshua Tree National Park:

• Go to watch out for Keys Ranch, Barker Dam, Cow Camp, cattle ranch, and the scenic view
• Try to have a small glimpse of Mexico from Keys View
• Click the photo with the Skull Rock
• Camping at Cottonwood Spring
• See the teddy bear cholla cactus
• Hikers take the Indian Cove Campground to see the large yucca plan and desert tortoises

Tip: Summer can make you go crazy as the day temperature can soar to 100 degrees with 70 degrees at night. On the other hand, in winter, the nights can be cold! This is one of my favorite affordable travel destinations in California.

Where to stay?

• If you want to stay within the border of the Park then you’ve to camp at the campgrounds. There are 500 sites, however, none has electricity. I recommend coming to the Cottonwood campground as this campsite only has potable water. In that case, carry all the essential camping gadgets.
• You can come to Palm Springs at The Pioneertown Motel or Mojave Sands Motel.

Where to eat?

Inside the park, there is no hotel and restaurants hence bring your food from home. Outside the park, you might go to The Red Dog Saloon or the Morongo Valley Café

2. Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

• Location: Within the Colorado Desert of South California
• Best time to visit: Late Fall through Spring
• Daily budget: $ 30 – $40
• Fee: $10 per vehicle

Lying down in the field under the open sky, counting stars, and feeling the cold air on your face—yes, that’s Anza-Borrego State Park. It’s a slot canyon and desert landscape where your shoes are bound to get dirty as you explore.

This 935 square miles is one of the South California hidden gems for budget travelers. The major draw is its geology which draws astrophotographies and campers!

You can spot huge artifacts spots, rocks that are home to ocotillo groves, giant palm oases and so more. It sits just west of the Salton Sea and east of San Diego.

Affordable things to do in Anza-Borrego State Park:

• Hike the Pictograph Trail, Wind caves, Cactus Loop, Borrego Palm Canyon, Galleta meadows sculptures, and so more
• You can camp or spend a night at an RV park in Anza. And, yes, do not forget to do star grazing together with your partner. This place is indeed the best place to witness the Milky Way

Tip: Be aware of snakes, desert mice, coyotes, and jackrabbits 

Where to stay?

• Bow Willow Campground
• Mountain Palm Springs Campground

Where to eat?

The restaurants are a little far away. You can opt for:

• Rams Hill
• The Pink Cabana

3. Temecula

• Location: West Riverside County, CA
• Best time to visit: Spring season to enjoy the view of wildflowers 
• Daily budget: $150 – $160

To my vino lovers, Temecula is the best budget-friendly South California vacation spot. You’ve to take your car and drive through the I-15 freeway to reach this spot.

It’s laid-back atmosphere, and wineries without reservation are its biggest draw! Temecula sits between Los Angeles and San Diego, just southwest of Riverside County. 

Even if you’re an explorer you’ll love the Old Town as it has buildings from the 1880s. You’ll laugh at me if I tell you that my mother brings her kitchen olive oil and honey from here!

Affordable things to do in Temecula:

• Wine tours, epic hot balloon experience to see the sun rising, and horseback riding for the cowboy’s perfect photo
• Look around the real estate in Temecula. The home designs are insanely great!
• Come to Wiens Winery, as they are famous for “Big Reds”, the finest handcrafted red wines in Temecula
• Come to Akash Winery, to enjoy Yoga sessions with free wine offerings
• End your day at Callaway Winery seeing the sun setting down

Where to stay?

• Ponte Vineyard Inn
• European Village

Where to eat?

Small Barn

4. Eureka

• Location: sits shores of Humboldt Bay
• Best time to visit: June to September
• Daily budget: $130 – $ 140

Situated midway between San Francisco, and Portland, Oregon, this best-value North California destination is nestled amidst the majestic redwood forest and the Humboldt Bay.

While many people may primarily visit Eureka for its budget-friendly shopping centers; however, not everyone aware that’s it’s also one of the vibrant seaport cities offering a wide range of outdoor activities.

The area can be mostly explored by foot. Take a stroll through the Old Town to discover the bookstores, museums, coffee houses, and galleries. 

Affordable things to do in Eureka:

• Look at Eureka’s historic Victorian architecture as this is made up of local redwood trees
• Take the challenging yet best Lost Coast Trail to witness the best views of the area
• Come to the Sequoia Park Zoo and then go to the top to see the mature redwood trees
• Check out the Blue Ox Millworks Historic Park to check out the woodworking museum

Where to stay?

• Western Plus Humboldt Bay Inn
• Redwood Coast Cabins and RV Resorts

Where to eat?

Kristina’s Restaurant

5. Idyllwild

• Location: in the heart of the San Jacinto Mountains
• Best time to visit: late spring and early fall
• Daily budget: $170 – $180

A cozy little pine town, Idyllwild, located near Los Angeles, is one of California’s hidden romantic gems. Here, you can enjoy hiking, biking, cycling, fishing, and relaxing.

Idyllwild sits at an elevation of 5, 400 feet, which truly offers you the peace, tranquillity, and rejuvenating energy to soothe your soul.

This inexpensive town to explore in California attracts a young population because it experiences all four seasons, which is rare in the South. Although you’ll love the late spring and early fall when the weather is particularly pleasant and so soothing. 

Affordable things to do in Idyllwild:

• Take the easy and shorter Ernie Maxwell trail to hike through an array of tree species
• You can take your dog with you while hiking Devil’s Slide Trail to Saddle Junction. However, the difficulty is from moderate to difficult
• Rock climbers target to climb Tahquitz Rock which is also called Lily Rock, or Suicide Rock
• Sit and spend some time by the Lake Fulmor
• You can explore the town on foot visiting the local shops and chit-chatting. I recommend going to Wild Idly and Wildland (for books)

Tip: For hiking a few trails, you need to get a free permit from the Forest Service

Where to stay?

• Idyllwild Inn

Where to eat?

• The Wine Finch to have the natural wine
• Candy Cupboard
• Tommy’s Kitchen

6. Solvang

• Location: 33 miles from Santa Barbara
• Best time to visit: April – May
• Daily budget: $150 – $160

You’ll be angry at me for recommending this hidden gem in California – Solvang, the “Danish Capital of America,” because once you arrive, you won’t want to leave.

You’ll be captivated by the picturesque village of Solvang, surrounded by Danish architecture, charming bakeries, churches, and small restaurants, and nestled amidst breathtaking natural beauty. 

This affordable California destination will transport you to a European era, where discovering Denmark’s iconic heritage structures with your kid is a delightful adventure!

Affordable things to do in Solvang:

• Come to see the oldest mission in California – Old Mission Santa Ines
• Exploring the village by bike. You should click pictures of the giant windmills 
• It might cost a little more but I recommend spending a little to buy the delicious apple strudel from Danish Mill Bakery
• During Christmas times, come to Jule Hus House
• Take a tour of Bethania Lutheran Church

Where to stay?

• Solvang Alisal Vacation Cottages
• Atterdag Inn

Where to eat?

• Solvang Bakery
• Paula’s Pancake House
• Mad & Vin

7. Morro Bay

• Location: Northwest of San Luis
• Best time to visit: September and August
• Daily budget: $140 – $150

When searching for affordable California getaways for couples, consider a visit to the charming fishing town of Morro Bay, where you’ll find endless opportunities for kayaking. 

You’ll adore the sight of boats lining the harbor, and the playful sea otters while swimming in the bay, exploring sandy beaches, and enjoying afternoons at waterfront eateries. 

Morro Bay is truly one of the ideal weekend getaways on the Central Coast. Capture stunning Instagram photos beneath the Eucalyptus trees, amidst palm trees, and on the sunny sandy beaches.

Affordable things to do in Morro Bay:

• Go to the beach to spot Dory, sea lions, dolphins, harbor seals, whales, and other local animals by the beach
• Jump in the water and learn kayaking, paddle boarding, or surfing
• Take a fishing expedition with Virg’s Landing
• On Thursday afternoon, come along with your mother to explore the Farmer’s Market
• Hike the top of the Black Hill through Monterey Pine trees or take the Morro Strand Trail to get a close view of Morro Rock

Where to stay?

• Pleasant Inn
• Captain Java’s Cottage

Where to eat?

• Carousel Taffy
• Crills II
• Taco Temple

8. Mendocino

• Location: South of Fort Bragg
• Best time to visit: May through November
• Daily budget: $165 – $175

If you’re in search of cheap California vacation ideas on weekends from San Francisco, Mendocino sitting on the rugged north coast is the best!

I recommend taking the roads, the stretch of Highway 1 to reach this place and enjoy the ride with the view of rocky shoreline, giant redwoods, shining sun, and only great views!

The dramatic Cliffside views with cool temperature coastal fog in the morning, and tide pooling with your child is one of the biggest draws of Mendocino.

Affordable things to do in Mendocino:

• See Mendocino on the water by kayaking and spotting sea lions and other sea animals
• Take my all-time favorite the Fern Canyon trail, which leads you through some Pygmy forests, and fantastic water crossings
• Come to MacKerricher State Park for tide pooling and see varied types of seals
• Go shopping at Mendocino Jams & Preserves for some mouth-watering jam shopping. You should also come to Mendocino Country Store for shopping beauty products and Instagramable photos

Where to stay?

• Andiron Seaside Inn & Cabins
• Serene Coastal Home

Where to eat?

• Fudge & Truffles
• Bread Pudding

9. Lake Tahoe

• Location: in the Sierra Nevada mountains of El Dorado County
• Best time to visit: April to May and November
• Daily budget: $160 – $180

I know you’ve seen a lot of Californians and tourists coming to Lake Tahoe with their dogs to spend weeks. No one wants to miss out on the alpine lake destination!

Indeed it’s not very offbeat but if you’re on a tight budget and love to spend time on sandy beaches, towering pine trees, and crystal clear water, this place is paradise!

I recommend coming here in winter as this is the famous ski destination in CA where you can spot endless snowbirds, go ice skating, and snowmobiling.

Affordable things to do in Lake Tahoe:

• Sit by Lake Tahoe and read the haunting stories. It is said Lake Tahoe is super haunted! Rumour had it that the dead bodies were buried in the lake. You can also visit the Tahoe Biltmore, for some haunting story session
• Come to Truckee and spend some time exploring the shops, cafes, and the streets. The place is very adorable
• You can go for a hike near Emerald Bay or Vikingsholm
• If you’re in search of affordable camping spots in California, I recommend coming to Meek’s Bay, along the West Shore of Lake Tahoe. My favorite spot for camping is at D.L. Bliss as it has a private beach
• Come to Pope Beach in South Lake Tahoe for a great swimming and kayaking experience

Tip: It’s better not to swim in the Lake as the water is cold and deep

Where to stay?

• Basecamp Hotel, South Lake Tahoe
• 7 Seas Inn
• Kingswood Meadow View

Where to eat?

• Izzy’s Burger Spa
• Curry & Grill
• The Divided Sky

10. June Lake

• Location: within the Inyo National Forest, in Mono County
• Best time to visit: Mid-October
• Daily budget: $160 – $170

Welcome to June Lake, a rustic mountain destination in California that won’t break the bank, allowing you to relish the mountain views while swimming in the lake. 

Life here is so simple that every house has a garden where they grow pumpkins, make spice lattes, and other leaves. You can also revel in the beautiful, serene, and laid-back atmosphere. 

People often refer to it as the “Switzerland of California” because of its beauty, the sparkling lake, and the view of the Sierra Nevada Mountains.

Affordable things to do in Lake Tahoe:

• Swim, fish, boat, soak the air, or do anything you like. The view of Carson Peak and the blue water lake is so mesmerizing!
• Take your mother and go for an early morning walk around Gull Lake, or Parker Lake. If you’re an abide hiker, I recommend going to Waugh Lake and Thousand Island Lake hike
• Photographers, did you know that during the Fall season the June Lake Loop outcast yellow, red, burgundy, and more amazing colors
• You can visit the Alabama Hills National Scenic Area to enjoy the wonderful rock features and arches

Where to stay?

• Lake Front Cabins
• Heidelberg Inn

Where to eat?

• Tiger Bar & Café
• Ohanas 395

11. Pismo Beach

• Location: South San Luis Obispo County
• Best time to visit: April – May

Anyone searching for budget-friendly California beach towns to enjoy a spectacular view of the sun setting down at the horizon and reflecting its lights on the water?

Welcome to Pismo Beach! The place is perfect for a leisure walk, watching dunes, checking out colorful flowers, and spending some time unwinding from city life.

Affordable things to do in Pismo Beach:

• Go to watch the Ocean Sand Dunes. You should click hundreds of pictures. In the evening explore the Downtown visiting the cafes and boutiques
• If you want to go surfing, come to Pismo Beach Pier
• Pismo Beach has many free and low-cost activities to do. You can camp and spend the night by the Pismo Beach
• Try to attend The Clam Festival in Pismo Beach with unlimited live music, wine, beer, seafood, and a lot more games

Where to stay?

• Pismo Lighthouse Suites
• Camp at North Beach Campground or the Oceana Dunes Campground

Where to eat?

• Wolly’s Beach Bar and Grill

12. Dana Point

• Location: halfway between Los Angeles and San Diego
• Best time to visit: throughout the year

Dana Point is the most economical beach tourist attraction in Southern California where tourists come to take the whale watching tour.

This quiet coastal town is famous for its premier dining options and pretty beaches. If you’re traveling with your child, I recommend spending time at Baby Beach, as the water is calm and best suited for surfing and boating.

Affordable things to do in Dana Point:

• Go for surfing at Salt Creek. For bodysurfing or bodyboarding, you should check out Monarch Beach
• If you want to visit an offbeat beach, welcome to Dana Strands Beach
• At the end of the Amber Lantern and Violet Lantern, take the hidden trail called The Bluff Top Trail to enjoy some beautiful views

Where to stay?

• Dana Point Marina Inn
• Laguna Inn & Suites

Where to eat?

• Lupe’s Mexican Eatery

Learn More:

• 15 Pocket-Friendly & Safe Places to Travel in the USA
• Places to Find a Home in Oregon Within Your Budget
• Places to Find a Home in Texas Within Your Budget
• Places to Find a Home in Colorado Within Your Budget
• Cheapest Places to Live in Massachusetts
• Enjoy Beach Air Near Sacramento

FAQ: Cheapest Places to Visit in California