Top Gardens in California

8.8
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California Region | USA - Rated 8.8
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1

Japanes Tee Garden rating icon 7.9

Japanese Tea Garden, 75 Hagiwara Tea Garden Dr, San Francisco, CA 94118, USA copy icon
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Popularity in Country: 873 of 3727
Popularity in Category: 51 of 247
Popularity Worldwide: 5944 of 29088
Gardens
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John February 17, 2025

I really recommend getting there early, like around 9 AM. It’s way less crowded then, and you can really enjoy the peace and quiet of the garden.

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Jennifer November 6, 2024

If you want stunning photos, hit the walking paths during golden hour, either early morning or late afternoon. The lighting is just perfect!

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Samuel October 17, 2024

My advice is to bring a small picnic! There are nice spots to sit and enjoy your lunch. Plus, the snacks inside are a bit pricey.

2

Descanso Gardens rating icon 6.9

Descanso Gardens, 1418 Descanso Dr, La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011, USA copy icon
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Popularity in Country: 1267 of 3727
Popularity in Category: 76 of 247
Popularity Worldwide: 9044 of 29088
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Christopher March 10, 2025

Consider bringing a packed lunch! There's a lovely picnic area, and food inside can be on the pricey side. Plus, it’s nice to relax with your own snacks surrounded by nature.

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Jason March 7, 2025

If you're into photography, try to visit on a weekday. The gardens were so much less crowded then, and I got some amazing shots without people walking through my pictures.

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Paul November 19, 2024

My advice is to wear comfy shoes. You might think it's just a stroll, but you'll end up walking a lot more than you expect while exploring all the different areas.

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Jane November 4, 2024

Check out the seasonal events before your visit! I stumbled upon a cool art exhibit during my trip, which made the experience even more special. It’s a great way to make the most of your visit.

3

Beverly Gardens Park rating icon 6.8

Beverly Gardens Park, 9439 Santa Monica Blvd, Beverly Hills, CA 90210, USA copy icon
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Popularity in Country: 1298 of 3727
Popularity in Category: 394 of 1227
Popularity Worldwide: 9182 of 29088
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Maria April 12, 2025

You might want to pack a picnic. I found some nice spots to relax, and it's a great way to save a little cash instead of dining out.

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James March 25, 2025

I recommend wearing comfy shoes since you'll do a lot of walking and exploring the paths. Trust me, flip-flops aren’t the best choice here!

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Mary February 18, 2025

If you can, go on a weekday... It’s way less crowded and you can enjoy the tranquility of the gardens... I went on a Saturday and it was a bit hectic

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Jennifer January 8, 2025

Don't forget sunscreen! I got a bit sunburned even though I didn’t think it was that sunny. Better safe than sorry, right?

4

Japanese Friendship Garden rating icon 5.9

Japanese Friendship Garden, 2215, Pan American Road East, Banker's Hill, San Diego, San Diego County, California, 92101, United States copy icon
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Popularity in Country: 1700 of 3727
Popularity in Category: 101 of 247
Popularity Worldwide: 11987 of 29088
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Daniel March 20, 2025

If you want to get good photos, the best light is around 10 AM. Early morning photos just have this beautiful crispness that’s hard to beat!

5

Yerba Buena Gardens rating icon 5.2

Yerba Buena Gardens, 750, Howard Street, Moscone North + South, San Francisco, California, 94103, United States copy icon
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Popularity in Country: 1950 of 3727
Popularity in Category: 118 of 247
Popularity Worldwide: 13920 of 29088
Gardens
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Jack March 15, 2025

I recommend visiting on a weekday if you can. The crowds are way less hectic, and you can really soak in the serenity of the gardens.

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James February 5, 2025

I think you should time your visit for late afternoon. The lighting is beautiful for photos and the gardens feel even more magical as the sun sets!

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Steven January 28, 2025

I think you should definitely check out the art installations. They’re scattered throughout the garden, and I almost missed them!

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Thomas November 23, 2024

Do check for free events happening in the gardens during your visit. I stumbled upon a live performance and it made my day extra special!

6

Self Realization Fellowship Hermitage & Meditation Gardens rating icon 3.5

215 W K St, Encinitas, CA 92024, USA copy icon
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Popularity in Country: 2634 of 3727
Popularity in Category: 160 of 247
Popularity Worldwide: 18979 of 29088
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Meditation
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Benjamin December 5, 2024

My advice is to bring a reusable water bottle and some snacks. There’s not much around to buy food, and I ended up spending more on snacks at the little shop than I expected. Also, water is life!

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Tyler November 21, 2024

I think you should explore the trails beyond the main gardens. The views from some of those spots are stunning and way less traveled by visitors. You might discover a hidden gem just waiting for you!

7

Japanes Garden rating icon 2.7

The Japanese Garden, 6100 Woodley Ave, Lake Balboa, CA 91406, USA copy icon
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Popularity in Country: 2951 of 3727
Popularity in Category: 183 of 247
Popularity Worldwide: 21339 of 29088
Gardens
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Jennifer December 1, 2024

I recommend visiting during the week instead of the weekend to avoid the crowds. I went on a Saturday and it was packed. The peaceful vibe is way better when it's less busy!

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Patrick October 10, 2024

I think the best time to take photos is around 10 AM. The sunlight hitting the water made everything look stunning. I missed it on my first go because I arrived later!

8

Queen Califia's Magical Circle Garden rating icon 1.4

3333 Bear Valley Pkwy, Escondido, CA 92025, USA copy icon
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Popularity in Country: 3396 of 3727
Popularity in Category: 213 of 247
Popularity Worldwide: 25142 of 29088
Gardens
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Thomas April 2, 2025

I think bringing a picnic is a great idea, as there are some lovely spots to relax. Just remember to bring your own snacks since there aren't any food vendors nearby.

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Joseph December 22, 2024

My advice is to wear comfy shoes! The paths can be uneven, and you'll want to explore every corner of this magical place without worrying about your feet.