California is a dream destination for travelers year-round, but March is particularly special. With blooming wildflowers, vibrant festivals, and pleasant weather, it’s the perfect time for exploration. Whether you’re into scenic road trips, cultural events, or outdoor adventures, here’s a list of must-do activities in California in March.
1. Witness the Super Bloom in the Deserts
March is prime wildflower season in California, and if the conditions are right, you can witness the stunning super bloom in places like:
- Anza-Borrego Desert State Park – California’s largest state park, where colorful wildflowers carpet the desert floor.
- Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve – A sea of orange poppies, creating a breathtaking landscape.
- Carrizo Plain National Monument – Vibrant fields of purple, yellow, and orange wildflowers.
📝 Tip: Check online bloom forecasts before heading out to ensure you see the flowers at their peak.
2. Enjoy Wine Tasting in Napa & Sonoma
March marks the beginning of spring in Napa Valley and Sonoma County, offering:
- Fewer crowds compared to peak tourist season.
- Comfortable weather for vineyard tours and outdoor tastings.
- Special events like Sonoma County Barrel Tasting Weekend (early March), where you can sample wines straight from the barrel. To buy tickets, click on the link here.
🍷 Recommendation: Visit smaller, family-owned wineries for a more intimate experience.
3. Experience Whale Watching Along the Coast
March is one of the best months for gray whale migration, with thousands of whales traveling north along the California coast.
- Mendocino & Fort Bragg – Perfect spots to see whales from land.
- Monterey Bay – Offers some of the best whale-watching boat tours.
- San Diego & Orange County – Great for spotting dolphins, blue whales, and gray whales.
🐋 Best Time to Go: Early morning or late afternoon for calmer waters.
4. Visit Yosemite National Park (Without the Crowds)
March is an underrated time to visit Yosemite National Park:
- Experience Bridalveil Fall and Yosemite Falls at full flow.
- Enjoy snow-covered landscapes in higher elevations.
- Get better accommodations and fewer crowds compared to summer.
⛷️ Bonus: If you love winter sports, head to Badger Pass Ski Area for skiing and snowboarding.
5. Explore the Coastal Beauty of Big Sur
Big Sur’s Highway 1 is a stunning road trip any time of year, but March offers:
- Lush green hillsides after winter rains.
- Moody ocean views, perfect for photography.
- McWay Falls, Bixby Bridge, and Pfeiffer Beach, must-see coastal landmarks.
🚗 Travel Tip: Check road conditions, as winter storms can cause temporary closures.
6. Attend the San Diego Latino Film Festival
If you’re a film lover, the San Diego Latino Film Festival (mid-March) is a must:
- Features independent films from Latin America, Spain, and the U.S.
- Hosts filmmaker Q&As, panels, and parties.
- Showcases a mix of genres, from drama to documentary.
🎥 Where: Various locations in San Diego.
7. Hike Among the Redwoods in Northern California
March is an ideal time for hiking in California’s redwood forests:
- Muir Woods National Monument – Close to San Francisco and perfect for a day trip.
- Redwood National & State Parks – Offers stunning coastal scenery and the tallest trees in the world.
- Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park – Less crowded but equally magical.
🌲 Weather Note: Bring layers; it can be chilly in the shaded forests.
8. Ski or Snowboard in Lake Tahoe
March is one of the best months to hit the slopes in Lake Tahoe:
- Spring skiing conditions – Warmer weather with plenty of snow.
- Less crowded than peak winter months.
- Resorts like Heavenly, Palisades Tahoe, and Northstar offer breathtaking alpine views.
🎿 Insider Tip: After skiing, relax at one of South Lake Tahoe’s casinos or enjoy a lakeside sunset.
9. Explore Joshua Tree National Park
March is the best time to visit Joshua Tree:
- Avoids the extreme heat of summer.
- Perfect for rock climbing, hiking, and stargazing.
- Unique desert landscapes, including Cholla Cactus Garden and Skull Rock.
🌌 Nighttime Activity: Try stargazing – Joshua Tree is an International Dark Sky Park.
10. Experience Los Angeles in Spring
Los Angeles in March offers a mix of outdoor fun and cultural events:
- Griffith Observatory & Hikes – Great views of the city and Hollywood Sign.
- LA Marathon (mid-March) – One of the biggest running events in the country.
- Cherry Blossoms at Descanso Gardens – A peaceful escape with stunning pink blooms.
🎭 Bonus: Check out Broadway in Hollywood for world-class performances.
March is an incredible time to explore California, whether you’re into outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or scenic road trips. The mild weather, blooming landscapes, and fun festivals make it a fantastic month for travel.
