Top Lakes in California

You should check out the dog-friendly trails if you have a furry friend. I found a great one near Emerald Bay, but be prepared for some steep climbs. Totally worth it.

I recommend grabbing a day pass for the local beaches; it totally saves money compared to individual entry fees. Plus some spots have awesome picnic areas where you can relax

My advice is to check local grocery stores for snacks instead of the pricey eateries. I stumbled upon a lovely deli that had fresh sandwiches and drinks at half the price!

If you're into birdwatching, don’t miss the early morning hours around 7am. I was blown away by the diversity of birds, plus it was pretty quiet and peaceful – the perfect start to the day!

I suggest grabbing a coffee at a local cafe before you head out – the views around Lake Merritt are so much better with a warm drink in hand! Trust me, it makes all the difference.

I think you should bring a picnic; there are plenty of lovely spots to sit down and eat. I skipped this and regretted having to grab fast food instead!

My advice is to check out the local events calendar before your visit. I stumbled upon a small art fair that was going on – it added a fun twist to my stroll around the lake.

Check the weather before you go! It can change quick, and I got caught in a random shower. Maybe packing a light poncho or windbreaker would’ve saved me from a soggy hike!

I recommend heading out early, like around 7 AM. The views are magical and you avoid the crowds. Plus, it gets hot later in the day, so you’ll enjoy cooler temps on your hike!

Bring plenty of water—it’s super easy to underestimate how thirsty you’ll get on the trail. I think packing snacks is a good move too; they really help keep your energy up!

If you can, avoid weekends. My advice is to go on a Tuesday or Wednesday. It was pretty packed when I went on a Saturday, and I wish I had better pictures without people in 'em!

My advice is to wear good walking shoes. The trails can get a bit rocky, and I slipped a few times in flip-flops. You’ll thank yourself later!

I recommend checking for fishing permits before you go. I didn't realize I needed one and I missed out on some fun fishing spots.

I suggest bringing a picnic! There are some great spots near the water, and the views are stunning. Plus, it's way cheaper than eating out nearby

If you're planning to picnic, bring your own food! The parks around Lake Murray are gorgeous and it's way cheaper than buying at nearby restaurants.

I suggest grabbing a iced coffee or smoothie from a local cafe before hitting the trails. It keeps you refreshed, and you'll find some great spots along the way to relax and soak in the views.

Check the local events calendar before you go; we stumbled upon a cool outdoor concert by the lake which was free! It made our visit way more memorable.