From the iconic Venice Beach to the historic Rose Bowl Stadium, which is one of the only two stadiums to host two FIFA World Cup Finals for men and women, California is home to some of the most exciting and popular sporting destinations in the world. Currently, home to 19 professional sports franchises, California is the place to be for a sports fanatic, be it for football, motor sports, or surfing.
From the huge number of destinations, here’s a look at the top 5 sporting destinations you must visit.
1. Dodger Stadium
The iconic Dodger Stadium, located in Los Angeles, is home to the Los Angeles Dodgers. Opened in 1962, the stadium is the world’s largest baseball stadium in terms of seat capacity, says an article by World Atlas. The stadium has hosted not just baseball matches, but also a host of other sporting events, such as the NHL Stadium Series and the Harlem Globetrotters. The stadium will also host baseball and softball matches during the 2028 Summer Olympics.
2. Venice Beach
Venice Beach is not just a popular sporting destination, but the second most popular tourist spot in California. The recreational and sporting opportunities at Venice Beach are endless, with the beach being most renowned for activities such as body building and water sports. The world-famous Muscle Beach, offers excellent workout facilities, says an article by US Local Guide, while the Marina Del Ray Harbor is home to a host of water sports, including rowing, sailing, kayaking and windsurfing.
3. Pauley Pavilion
Pauley Pavilion, named after its primary donor, Regent Edwin W. Pauley, is a basketball arena in Los Angeles. The stadium is home to the UCLA Bruins men’s and women’s basketball teams and is located on the UCLA campus. The stadium, built in 1965, is truly a basketball Mecca and must visit for anyone interested in the sport.
4. Malibu Beach
The Malibu Lagoon State Beach is a surfer’s delight. The beach, located near Malibu Pier, was dedicated as a World Surfing Reserve Site in 2010, making it the first such site, says an article by Save the Waves Coalition. From surfing to sailing, Malibu Beach is the place to be at for all water sports, attracting enthusiasts from all across the globe.
5. El Capitan
El Capitan is regarded as one of the most difficult challenges in the rock-climbing world. Located in the Sierra Nevada mountain range, the summit is almost 3,000 feet high and a challenge for even the best climbers.
So, the next time you are planning a sunny vacation, plan one that includes adventure activities that will create memories for a lifetime.