Car rental California

This sliver of land on the West Coast of the US contains some of the best roads for memorable driving trips.

A long, thin state with gorgeous coastline all along its western side means California is home to some of the most iconic US road trip routes. If you want to get your kicks, look no further than Route 66.

The interstates are the quickest way to get from A to B in California, with I-5 running north to south, connecting San Francisco and San Jose with Los Angeles and San Diego. The I-80 connects San Francisco with Sacramento before it leads on to the lush forest of the east and on to Nevada.

There’s also a network of lesser roads which can make your journey longer but provide great views and access to some of the quirkier pitstops. Speed limits vary by road type and area, with a maximum limit of 70mph (112km/h) on rural parts of the interstate.

Towns and cities usually have a maximum of 30mph (48km/h) speed limit but keep an eye out for signs to be sure. Much like at home, you can’t text or make calls while driving throughout the US, and seatbelts are compulsory.

If you’re planning on following those famous drives, then Route 66 starts in Los Angeles. The route is punctuated by diners and wonderful small towns and makes for a great drive. The Pacific Coast Highway hugs the west coast from San Diego all the way up Oregon. Along the way you can take in the Golden Gate Bridge, Monterey, Big Sur, Malibu, and unforgettable beaches and forests.

Famous and fabulous cities, a coastline to fall in love with, natural beauty and urban culture – this state truly has everything. Spend some time driving in California and you’ll pass by rolling vineyards, the world’s best surf, theme parks, forests and famous bridges. You’ll soon understand how the Golden State won its name.

City Life

Los Angeles is the home of Hollywood, San Francisco is imbued with a liberal spirit, and San Jose is shot through with Hispanic flavor. Don’t forget San Diego, with its stellar surf. They’re all unique, but what these Californian cities all have in common is a welcoming atmosphere and fascinating attractions aplenty.

Cross the Golden Gate Bridge into San Francisco and you’ll soon be driving those much-filmed roads and experiencing the diverse culture of places like Haight-Ashbury. If you can, hop on a boat to tour Alcatraz, on which you’ll hear riveting tales.

In Los Angeles you can find urban gloss and the glamour of La-La-Land. Book a studio tour to see where dreams are made, then head to Disneyland or Universal Studios for theme park thrills. Last up, look for your favourite star on the Walk of Fame.

Craving the coast

It doesn’t matter if you’re looking for quiet beaches, crashing waves or a picturesque cove, the Californian coastline has it all. Try a boat tour for your chance to spot local dolphins and whales or drive the famed Big Sur route.

There’s a beach for every occasion – sunbathing, surfing, hiking, camping or just sitting on the sand and eating local fried fish. Highlights include Malibu Lagoon State Beach, Venice Beach with its panoply of local life, or the otherworldly Black Sands Beach in Shelter Cove.

Nirvana in nature

Yosemite National Park is perhaps the most stunning in America, full of jaw-dropping sights. Lakes and falls, forests and natural stone bridges, it can be hard to know where to start. Perhaps in Mariposa Grove, with its stately giant sequoia trees, or for the panorama from Glacier Point.

Death Valley stands in stark contrast, its canyons and dunes an unforgiving but beautiful environment. It’s home to extinct volcanoes, badlands and pockets of harsh beauty.

Look out for the folly that is Scotty’s Castle, the legendary views from Zabriskie Point and even, here in the wilderness, an opera house. The sunsets here will be stamped on your heart and in your mind, and there’s plenty of space to find the perfect place to watch one.

No matter what Californian adventure you’re seeking, this state offers so much variety that there’s something for everyone. Enjoy your journey through the Golden State by going where you want when you want with car rental in California from Hertz.