6 Destinations to Visit for Budget Backpackers in California
Uncover the Golden State’s vibrant culture and unforgettable experiences in these 6 cities without breaking the bank. Your California dream trip awaits with the best 6 destinations and hostels to visit this fall for budget backpackers in California!
Picture this: a crisp autumn breeze rustling through the palm trees, the sun casting a warm glow over golden landscapes, and the excitement of exploring Californian cities on a backpacker’s budget. This fall, we invite you to embark on an adventure like no other as we unveil the best budget-friendly destinations in the Golden State. From the vibrant streets of Los Angeles to the picturesque coastal beauty of San Francisco, California offers a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered.
Budget Backpackers in California
To make your journey even more memorable, ITH Hostels has a location in every destination on this list where you can experience not just affordability but also a sense of community and connection. You’ll have the perfect home base to explore, socialize, and create unforgettable memories.
Grab your backpack, pack your sense of adventure, and join us on a journey through California’s most captivating cities, all while staying comfortably within your budget.
San Francisco
First, we have San Francisco. San Francisco stands out as one of the premier backpacker cities in California, offering a blend of culture, history, and beauty. The city offers a range of free or low-cost activities, such as exploring the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, strolling through vibrant neighborhoods like Chinatown and the Mission District, or relaxing in beautiful parks like Golden Gate Park. The extensive public transportation system, including cable cars, makes it easy to navigate the city without breaking the bank.
ITH Pacific Tradewinds Hostel in San Francisco
Our hostel is located right downtown, right next to the bustling Chinatown neighborhood. Also within walking distance are famous attractions and cultural hubs like Vesuvio Cafe and City Lights Bookstore. San Francisco’s diverse culinary scene, beautiful overlooks, and amazing parks make it the perfect place to visit as a backpacker.
Joshua Tree
While technically not a city, Joshua Tree is a remarkable destination for budget backpackers. This unique desert wilderness offers affordable access to a stunning natural landscape with its iconic Joshua trees, rugged rock formations, and vast open spaces. The park’s entrance fees are relatively low, especially when compared to major urban destinations. Backpackers can explore its numerous hiking trails, go rock climbing, and stargaze in one of the best dark-sky areas in California without incurring extra expenses.
ITH Hostel Coyote Ranch in Joshua Tree
Our Coyote Ranch is a perfect stopover for those traveling through California who want to establish a home base while they explore. This property specializes in long-term living accommodations, and our minimum stay is 30 days. For backpackers, the Coyote Ranch hostel in Joshua Tree is an idea place to rest up and plan the rest of their adventures at an affordable rate.
Los Angeles
Next, we have Los Angeles. Despite its reputation as an entertainment hub, Los Angeles can be an appealing destination for budget backpackers in California. The city offers a wide range of free or low-cost attractions, such as the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame, the Griffith Observatory with its stunning city views, and the beautiful beaches along the coastline. Exploring neighborhoods like Venice Beach and Downtown Los Angeles provides unique cultural experiences without breaking the bank. LA’s extensive public transportation system, including buses and the Metro, makes it relatively affordable and convenient to get around. Moreover, the city’s diverse food scene offers a variety of inexpensive dining options, including food trucks and ethnic eateries.
Our stunning Hermosa Beach location is perfectly situated for backpackers and travelers looking to party. The location can’t be beat, and we offer nightly activities and a free BBQ every Saturday. The social atmosphere, proximity to the beach, and affordable rates at our Beach Hostel make it a perfect choice for budget travelers in California.
Big Bear
Big Bear, a charming mountain town in Southern California, is an excellent choice for budget backpackers seeking an affordable adventure. The area is a year-round playground for outdoor enthusiasts, with budget-friendly activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and nature exploration. In the winter, the town offers affordable skiing and snowboarding options for those looking to hit the slopes. Big Bear Lake provides opportunities for water sports like kayaking and fishing. There are many free or low-cost trails and parks to explore, including the Pacific Crest Trail.
ITH Big Bear Mountain Adventure Hostel
This mountain oasis is a perfect spot to stop over on your backpacking through California. With a huge lake for swimming and water sports, plus endless hiking trails, the terrain at Big Bear Lake is an adventurer’s paradise. Plus, our hostel has pool tables and a hot tub. What more could you ask for?
Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara, while often associated with luxury and upscale living, can still be an attractive destination for budget backpackers in California. The city’s year-round pleasant climate and stunning natural beauty offer an abundance of free or low-cost outdoor activities. Travelers can explore the picturesque beaches, hike in the nearby Santa Ynez Mountains, or visit Lotusland, a beautiful garden often open for tours. Additionally, the city’s local farmers’ markets and affordable eateries provide opportunities for budget-friendly dining.
ITH Beach Hostel in Santa Barbara
Located just steps from the beach, and situated next to an Amtrak station, our Beach Hostel in Santa Barbara is an ideal place for backpackers to stay on their California travels. Hotels in Santa Barbara are expensive, but our hostel offers affordable rates and an unbeatable social atmosphere. We recently won an award for our new location, and strive to create a memorable experience for travelers from around the world.
San Diego
Finally, we have San Diego. San Diego is a top-notch destination for budget backpackers in California. The city boasts a wealth of free or low-cost attractions, starting with its beautiful beaches like La Jolla Cove and Pacific Beach. Balboa Park, home to numerous museums and gardens, offers free entry on select days, providing a dose of culture without the price tag. The Gaslamp Quarter and Little Italy neighborhoods offer a lively atmosphere and affordable dining options, including street food and budget-friendly restaurants. San Diego’s temperate climate makes outdoor activities, such as hiking and exploring its many parks, an appealing and cost-effective choice.
ITH Downtown Adventure Hostel in San Diego
ITH Mission Beach Backpacker Hostel in San Diego
ITH Bech Bungalow Hostel in San Diego
When deciding on a hostel in San Diego, it’s hard to pick between our three ITH locations. Each one offers a different vibe and amenities. Our Backpacker Hostel in downtown San Diego is perfect for travelers looking to explore Balboa Park, party in Gaslamp, or see a Padres baseball game at Petco Park. In Pacific Beach, the party never stops. Our Beach Bungalow Hostel is ideal for young travelers who prioritize a vibrant social atmosphere. For those wanting a quiet night but ideal proximity to the beach, and Belmont Park, we recommend our Mission Beach location. Better yet, try all three!
As your California backpacking journey comes to a close, we hope you’re brimming with excitement for the adventure that awaits. Exploring the Golden State on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing quality experiences; in fact, it’s quite the opposite. From San Diego’s beaches to the charming streets of Santa Barbara, California offers a myriad of affordable adventures.
Please let us know if you have any other destinations to recommend for the best backpacker cities to visit this fall in California.
Cheers, safe travels!
Before you go, check out our Traveler’s Club. This free program allows you to save money on all future bookings at ITH properties, and it’s easy to sign up!
