When people think of California, typically your mind goes to the big three; Los Angeles, San Diego and San Francisco, but being the 3rd largest state in the United States of America, there is much more to California than just these cities (regardless of how cool they are). While Southern California typically has warmer weather, much-loved beaches and celebrities, Northern California (or NorCal) is where you can find some of the most breathtaking natural wonders of North America.
If you’re planning to take advantage of United Airlines’ new direct route, Brisbane to San Francisco, we'd suggest adding a few detours to your itinerary to really get the best of what NorCal has to offer - we promise you won't regret it.
San Francisco
Also known as The Bay City, San Francisco is synonymous with eclecticism – and by that we mean it’s wonderfully wacky and inspiring. Take a ride on the city’s much-loved cable cars as you explore each district and neighbourhood, such as Fisherman’s Wharf, Haight Ashbury, Union Square, North Beach and Mission Dolores – each with their own unique and distinct personalities. Special mention goes out to Chinatown, one of the oldest and largest Chinatowns in the U.S, and the Castro District – a historic epicenter for LGBTQIA+ rights and where queer icon, Harvey Milk, lived and was the first openly gay man to be voted into public office in California.
Scoop up everything that San Fran has to offer and dine like royalty, shop ‘till you can't feel your feet, and explore incredible museums such as the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, the Exploratorium and the California Academy of Sciences.
Excited for San Fran? Explore more:
Yosemite
One of the largest and least fragmented national parks in the United States of America, Yosemite National Park spans 3,074 square kilometers. Accessible from San Francisco, its unmatched beauty and grandeur is complemented by a range of accommodation and outdoor experiences.
Home to world-famous sights such as Yosemite Falls, Half Dome, El Capitan and Tunnel View, Yosemite is certainly a bucket list item for any nature or travel lover. In every season, Yosemite Mariposa County delivers the ultimate adventure holiday for all ages, but from late-September through early-May visitors can avoid high temperatures and experience this incredible destination as it should be.
Say “yas” to Yosemite. Explore more:
Sonoma
This NorCal spot is sure to catch the attention of any wine aficionado. While many have heard of the Napa Valley, a little to the south of Napa and less than 30 miles (48 kilometers) north of San Francisco is where life opens up in Sonoma County – an acclaimed wine country.
Quality wine and food, relaxing spas and stunning beauty create an experience like no other. Taste a diverse range of delights from the vineyard at more than 425 wineries, hike among towering redwoods, marvel at the stunning Pacific Coast and get to know the ebb and flow of the inviting small towns in the region.
Take a sip of Sonoma. Explore more:
Lake Tahoe
With an abundance of natural beauty, South Lake Tahoe is the ultimate ‘alpine lake experience’: only a 3 hours’ drive from San Francisco to big open spaces, towering mountains and a crystal-blue lake. South Lake Tahoe has amazing outdoor activities unique to each season, including skiing and snowboarding, as well as a diverse nightlife and accommodation to suit all adventurers.
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Mammoth Lakes
Just like the name implies, Mammoth Lakes is here to bring you a whopping good time. A year-round adventure destination in the Sierra Nevada Mountains: Mammoth Lakes, at the top of California, provides a world class ski experience in the winter and is the eastern gateway to Yosemite National Park in the summer.
Hiking, biking, camping, climbing, golfing, fishing, kayaking, skiing, bowling, arts and culture – Mammoth Lakes has everything, for everyone, and for all ages.
Make moves to Mammoth Lakes. Explore more:
GETTING TO SAN FRANCISCO
- United Airlines fly direct between Brisbane and San Francisco three times weekly.
- Approx flight duration is around 14 hours.
PLAN YOUR TRAVEL
- Research and book accommodation with Booking.com.
- Compare and book a hire car and get the best price.
- Book your airport parking online for the best price every time.