Visit California State Parks During FIFA World Cup 2026

The FIFA World Cup 2026 will bring an incredible wave of energy, culture, and visitors to California, with matches taking place in both the San Francisco Bay Area and Los Angeles! While stadiums, local food spots, and city attractions will be part of the excitement, California’s state parks also offer opportunities to experience another side of the state between matches and travel plans. 

From towering redwoods and rugged coastlines to scenic overlooks and historic urban parks, these destinations provide easy outdoor day trips and escapes near major host cities — whether you have a few hours between events or want to spend a full day exploring beyond the crowds. Many of these parks are located within driving distance of FIFA World Cup host venues in San Francisco, San Jose, and Los Angeles, making them easy additions to any California travel itinerary. 

To help visitors get started, California State Parks Foundation has created free regional state parks guides for both the Bay Area and Los Angeles. Each guide includes park recommendations, maps, visitor tips, and ideas for outdoor experiences near major California cities.  

Bay Area State Parks to Visit During FIFA World Cup 2026 

Mount Tamalpais State Park

Just north of San Francisco, Mount Tamalpais State Park offers sweeping views of the Bay Area, coastal ridgelines, and redwood forests. Visitors can hike through cool forested trails, enjoy scenic overlooks, or simply take in panoramic views stretching across the bay and Pacific coastline. 

Angel Island State Park

Accessible by ferry, Angel Island State Park combines history, recreation, and some of the best skyline views in the Bay Area. The island offers hiking, biking, waterfront views, and a peaceful outdoor escape surprisingly close to San Francisco’s urban core. Visitors can also explore the historic Angel Island Immigration Station museum, which shares the stories of immigrants who entered the United States through the West Coast in the early 1900s. 

Big Basin Redwoods State Park

California’s oldest state park remains one of the most memorable places to experience ancient coast redwoods. Big Basin was heavily impacted by the CZU Lightning Complex fires in 2020, and recovery efforts continue throughout the park. Today, visitors can once again experience portions of these remarkable redwood landscapes while witnessing the resilience and ongoing restoration of California’s forests. 
 

The California State Parks of the Bay Area Guide includes additional park recommendations, maps, visitor tips, and ideas for outdoor experiences throughout the region. Download the Bay Area Guide.  

Los Angeles State Parks to Visit During FIFA World Cup 2026 

Topanga State Park

One of the largest wildland parks within a major city in the United States, Topanga State Park offers miles of trails, ocean views, sandstone formations, and sweeping landscapes tucked within the Santa Monica Mountains. 

The park was significantly impacted by the Palisades Fire in 2025, though portions have since reopened to visitors. Visiting Topanga today offers not only a chance to experience the outdoors near Los Angeles, but also a reminder of the resilience of California’s natural landscapes

Santa Monica State Beach

Located just west of downtown Los Angeles, Santa Monica State Beach offers one of Southern California’s most iconic coastal experiences. Visitors can walk along miles of sandy shoreline, bike the beachfront path, or enjoy ocean views from the historic Santa Monica Pier. With easy access from many Los Angeles attractions and FIFA World Cup host areas, Santa Monica State Beach is an ideal place to unwind and experience California’s famous coastline. 

Los Angeles State Historic Park

For visitors wanting an outdoor experience without leaving the city, Los Angeles State Historic Park offers open green space and skyline views in the heart of downtown Los Angeles. The park reflects how California state parks can also exist within urban communities, creating space for recreation, cultural events, and moments of calm amid one of the world’s busiest cities. 
 

The California State Parks of the Los Angeles Guide includes additional park recommendations, maps, visitor tips, and ideas for outdoor experiences throughout the region. Download the Los Angeles Guide.  

How to Recreate Responsibly  

Whether visiting a redwood forest, beach, mountain trail, or urban park, recreating responsibly helps protect these places for future visitors. 

Before heading out: 

• Check park conditions before visiting 
• Stay on designated trails 
• Pack out all trash 
• Respect wildlife and natural habitats 
• Bring water, layers, and sun protection 

Explore Beyond the Stadiums 

California’s state parks offer opportunities to experience a different side of the state during the FIFA World Cup 2026 — from redwood forests and coastal trails to beaches, historic landmarks, and scenic overlooks. Whether you are visiting California for the first time or rediscovering places close to home, these parks provide space to recharge, explore, and experience the landscapes that make California unique. 

To help plan your visit, download the free California State Parks Foundation regional guides for the Bay Area and Los Angeles. Each guide includes park recommendations, maps, visitor tips, and ideas for outdoor experiences near major FIFA World Cup host cities. 

• Download the Bay Area Guide 
• Download the Los Angeles Guide