These Are the Most Underrated Tourist Spots in Southern California, According To Local Redditors

It’s no secret that Southern California is a tourist hot spot. With so many well-known attractions in this corner of the country, it’s easy to see why people travel from around the world to enjoy our little slice of heaven. While some attractions draw in large crowds, other tourist spots don’t get the attention they deserve — they are underrated gems. I turned to Reddit to see what many local Redditors believe are some of these underrated tourist spots in SoCal. The following are seven answers and places I believe deserve a spot on every bucket list.

1. Point Vicente Lighthouse, Rancho Palos Verdes

I love lighthouses, so I was excited to see the Point Vicente Lighthouse named as an underrated gem in SoCal. This historic lighthouse is 67 feet tall, but because the Point Vicente Lighthouse sits perched high on a cliff, its beam of light is approximately 185 feet above the water. This lighthouse even has quite a haunted history. The lighthouse has limited hours for public access, so make sure to check its current hours before visiting.

2. Palomar Observatory, San Diego County

If you love the night sky or just want someplace new to visit, the Palomar Observatory should be on your list. This is a research observatory operated by California Institute of Technology and makes for a delightful day trip. Here, you can learn more about astronomy and see the famous Hale Telescope. Self-guided and guided tours are available.

3. Mojave Desert Lava Tube, Mojave National Preserve

Located at Mojave National Preserve, just a short drive from Baker, is one destination that I was surprised to see on the list of underrated tourist spots in Southern California by local Redditors. It is a basaltic lava tube that you can visit by tackling a short, half-mile trail. You will climb down a ladder to enter the lava tube, where you’ll find a pretty remarkable place to explore. Keep in mind that the lava tube is not maintained by the National Park Service so you must watch out for loose rocks and keep safety in mind on your adventure. The road to the trailhead is also rough and a high-clearance vehicle is recommended.

4. Trona Pinnacles, San Bernardino County

When you visit Trona Pinnacles, you will feel like you are walking on a different planet. This unique destination is located in the Searles Dry Lake Basin and features more than 500 tufa (calcium carbonate) spires, some as tall as 140 feet. There are no services in this area, but a drive or hike along the trail provides some pretty exquisite views. Don’t forget a camera when you go. This is a sight you won't see every day in Southern California.

5. Heart Rock Falls, near Crestline

Heart Rock Falls is a destination I believe should be on every hiker’s bucket list. This loop trail is less than two miles, offers beautiful views, and is the perfect place to explore on a hot summer day. Your hike will take you along Seeley Creek and to Heart Rock, an overlook with a perfect heart-shaped hole in the rock formations. Here, you can also admire a 20-foot waterfall. While this trail is open year-round, fall is my favorite time to visit as the vibrant, colorful foliage along this trail will instantly boost your mood.

6. Remington Hot Springs, near Bodfish

Another gem in SoCal is Remington Hot Springs. Located in the Sequoia National Forest, not far from the town of Bodfish, is this quiet outdoor area. You must tackle a 0.5-mile, out-and-back trail to reach these hot springs, with some steep rock steps you must climb. These hot springs are essentially a small pool in the Kern River made out of rocks and cement, and they are large enough for several people to enjoy. They are the perfect place to receive a little nature therapy as the warm water and the views are mesmerizing.

7. Solvang, California

If you have ever visited Solvang, you’ll understand why it is on this list — it’s unique, beautiful, and bucket-list-worthy. It is located in the Santa Ynez Valley and is best known for its Danish heritage, which is evident in the architecture and businesses throughout town. When you visit, I recommend you check out some of the wineries and European bakeries in town. You can thank me later.

There you have it — just seven underrated tourist spots in Southern California. What other destinations would you add to this list? Let me know by filling out this nomination form. I’d love to check it out. And if you are like me and love to visit some of these remarkable places on a road trip, preparation is key! Oh, and don’t forget the road trip snacks.