-
Best San Luis Obispo Breweries: Top SLO Craft Beer & Tours Guide
Sip like a local at the best San Luis Obispo breweries. Find hidden gems, award-winning craft beer, and must-visit SLO taprooms.
-
Beyond Glass Beach: Hidden Sea Glass Beaches Near Fort Bragg Mendocino
Skip the crowds. Discover lesser-known, hidden sea glass beaches near Fort Bragg that locals love along the Mendocino Coast.
-
You Can Still Pan for Gold in Northern California Rivers: Best Locations and Tips
Discover where you can legally pan for gold in Northern California rivers. Learn beginner tips, best seasons, and real rivers still producing gold today.
Taste, Wander, and Live California
Unlock California Backroads Best-Kept Secrets

California eats
Savor California’s BBQ Culture
California’s BBQ scene is a flavorful fusion of tradition, innovation, and local pride. From Santa Maria-style tri-tip cooked over red oak coals to smoky ribs slathered in bold sauces, every region brings its own twist to the pit.
In SoCal, you’ll find multicultural influences blending Korean, Mexican, and classic Southern styles, while NorCal serves up everything from craft-smoked brisket to coastal seafood BBQs. Whether you're chasing food truck finds, small-town smokehouses, or roadside grills on a weekend road trip, California’s BBQ culture is a mouthwatering journey worth taking—one plate at a time.
Join 5,000+ adventure seekers!
Join our newsletter and receive expert travel tips, local food finds, and unforgettable California adventures—straight to your inbox.
At California Backroads we celebrate the Golden State’s vibrant lifestyle through mouthwatering eats, scenic escapes, and hidden gems. Let us help you turn everyday life into an extraordinary California experience.
Golden State Moments: A California Photo Journey
Explore the beauty, flavor, and spirit of California backroads through our curated gallery of travel photography. From rugged coastlines and sun-soaked vineyards to vibrant festivals and hidden roadside gems, these images capture the essence of what makes the Golden State unforgettable. Let the inspiration spark your next adventure.






-
Farmers Insurance Open 2026: Where to Stay, Dine & Explore Near Torrey Pines
Planning a trip to the Farmers Insurance Open 2026 at Torrey Pines? Discover where to stay, best restaurants, local tips, and San Diego weekend itineraries beyond the golf course.
-
Cambria California Travel Guide: Hidden Hikes, Coastal Trails & Local Secrets
Skip the crowds and explore Cambria California like a local. Discover hidden trails, scenic stops, and secret side trips near Hearst Castle on California’s Central Coast.
-
Estero Americano Coast Preserve: 2026 Opening, Guide & Best Trails
Discover California’s newly opened Estero Americano Coast Preserve. Learn about public access, coastal trails, estuary wildlife, photography spots, and why this Sonoma Coast destination is trending now.
-
Highway 1 in Big Sur is Back Open After 3-Year Closure: What Travelers Need to Know
After a three-year closure, Highway 1 in Big Sur is back open again. Get the latest road conditions, scenic drive tips, and must-see stops along California’s iconic coastal highway.
-
Santa Barbara County’s Best Kept Secrets: Hidden Beaches, Scenic Trails & Local Insider Spots
Explore Santa Barbara County’s best kept secrets, including hidden beaches, scenic trails, charming towns, and unique experiences most visitors never find.
What’s Hot in California Right Now
Don’t miss out on the California backroads adventures everyone’s talking about! From seasonal food trends to must-see destinations, these are the stories, guides, and local finds California travelers are loving most right now. Explore what’s trending and get inspired for your next unforgettable escape.
-
Best Vegetables to Grow in your Backyard in California (By Region): A Practical Guide for Home Gardeners
Discover the best vegetables to grow in your California backyard, tailored by region. This practical guide helps home gardeners choose and cultivate fresh, healthy produce year-round.
As Seen in




















