2018 Best Counties for Outdoor Activities in CaliforniaAbout this List

Marin County

• County in California
• 16

Current Resident: Marin County is so beautiful and diverse in it's environment. There truly isn't anywhere else like it on earth. You can be at the Marin Headlands or Stinson beach, and within an hour of driving, you're up in wine country. This means that a lot of the population of Marin County is very active and outdoorsy. Marin County is the perfect distance to San Francisco, close but not too close. Additionally, the schools all throughout Marin County are amazing. In retrospect, it was very nice to grow up here in Marin County.
Read 16 Reviews

• A+

• A+

• A+

• 259,358 Population

Santa Cruz County

• County in California
• 71

Current Resident: Like many others, I was initially drawn to Santa Cruz County by the towering Redwoods and the crisp beaches. Santa Cruz County is home to some of the most beautiful state parks I have encountered: Henry Cowell, Big Basin, Nisene Marks. Inside these state parks are other lover's of nature: mountain biking, hiking, trail-running, and swimming. The active life style of the residents and visitors of Santa Cruz is both inspiring and motivating. However, many of these trails have become home to an increasing population of transients and homeless persons. In recent years, Santa Cruz has developed several "tent-cities." There are areas of Santa Cruz that I now boycott and refuse to bring visitors to. My eleven-year-old brother came to Santa Cruz to visit me, and as we were walking down Pacific Avenue, a man yelled out "You better watch out or someone will stick your son with a needle." Encounters such as these have become a fairly typical ordeal when entering certain parts of Santa Cruz.
Read 71 Reviews

• B+

• B

• A+

• 270,931 Population

Alameda County

• County in California
• 35

Current Resident: I have lived in Alameda County for 20 years! I have seen a lot of progress as far as diversity, local resources, and diverse options for eating. I really appreciate the beautiful places in Alameda County such as Redwood Regional Park, Lake Merritt, the various farmer's markets.
Read 35 Reviews

• A

• A-

• A+

• 1,605,217 Population

San Mateo County

• County in California
• 44

Current Resident: There are many things to enjoy about San Mateo County. First, I love how immensely diverse and open-minded the people of San Mateo County are. There is a mix of people from all ethnicities, socioeconomic backgrounds, and cultures. There are also a variety of things to do in San Mateo County for people of all ages such as; bowling, swimming, fine dining, night life, etc. Another great aspect of San Mateo County is the fabulously warm and pleasant weather. With the combination of the great weather, social life, and diversity San Mateo County is a wonderful place to pass through or start a life.
Read 44 Reviews

• A+

• A

• A+

• 754,748 Population

Sonoma County

• County in California
• 32

Current Resident: I've lived outside of Healdsburg in Alexander Valley for 12 years. It's a gorgeous area--I can bicycle, hike or jog around without getting in my car. But transportation is necessary to live here. Homes are expensive, although it is relative to the natural beauty, ideal location and plethora of things to do. It's a very safe area and a great place to raise kids. My local public school is outstanding. I'm in the wine business, which is the main industry here. Many job opportunities are available in hospitality and wine. Commute time to SF is about 1 1/2-2 hours. There is limited public transportation, but we now have a SMART train in Sonoma County, with plans to expand up here. Also, the local airport is fantastic to use and has expanded service. Only drawback is cost of living (lack of affordable housing).
Read 32 Reviews

• B+

• B+

• A+

• 497,776 Population

Orange County

• County in California
• 118

Current Resident: Orange County is an awesome county to live in! So much culture here and diversity from places all over the world. There are literally all walks of life and ways to experience the county. Whether you want to dive into the local hole in the wall Mexican joints, or tour down some Indian artwork and taste their dishes custom to south and west India. There is something for everyone! Want to go surfing? Want to check out the museums? Want to go on a nature walk? You name it, you can probably find it in Orange County! So what are you waiting for? Grab a bag and strap up your boots, adventure awaits!
Read 118 Reviews

• A

• A

• A

• 3,132,211 Population

Ventura County

• County in California
• 39

Current Resident: The things that I love about Ventura County is that the weather is always perfect. I also really love that we are so close by the beach wherever we go, there are also so many delicious place to eat or even just hangout with friends and family. The greatest thing that I really enjoy are the people that live here because everyone is so friendly and helpful. It is a pretty small community that if there is ever a problem happening the community always comes together to help each other. For example, when the Thomas Fire was happening everyone in the community came together and helped each other get help by providing food, clothing, housing, etc.
Read 39 Reviews

• B+

• B

• A

• 843,110 Population

Santa Clara County

• County in California
• 78

Current Resident: I love the diversity along with the enormous array of food choices to eat. Living on the east coast was a complete 360 degree. People were mostly white or black, no diversity where I was living.
In addition, restaurant choices were not abundant. I love California! When I came out here due to my father retiring from the army I was shocked at how different life was opposed to Virginia living. Furthermore the weather is fantastic. In Virginia summer meant humidity, very sticky and gross is what I remember. California weather is perfect, I love the sun beaming on my skin.
Read 78 Reviews

• A+

• A

• A

• 1,885,056 Population

Contra Costa County

• County in California
• 19

Former Resident: I love Contra Costa County. This is where I was born and have since moved, but I feel happy with the foundation I received here. It is a family-friendly environment with many enrichment programs, free parks and sports areas, hiking, trails, and various accessible pool. Unfortunately, the public school system sees success in only a elect few of the various elementary, middle, and high schools available. There is not much diversity in Contra Costa, the majority of the population being either white or hispanic families whose breadwinners commute to and from work, or retired individuals. People are relatively active in the city politics in this area, and students do rather well when compared to other counties in California. The property is expensive but incredibly located, with the closest major city being less than an hour away and accessible by public transportation. Overall, a great place to live.
Read 19 Reviews

• A-

• A-

• A

• 1,107,925 Population

Los Angeles County

• County in California
• 662

Current Resident: I love Los Angeles area. You can find everything here! We have Mountains for hiking and snow Sports. We have deserts for it's nature and all manner of Motorsports. We have lakes and rivers, and let's not forget about some of the world's best beaches! We have every type of amusement park: Six Flags Magic Mountain, 2 Disney parks, Universal Studios, Knott's Berry Farm, Raging Waters, Lego Land (further south), Etc. Let's not forget, we are home to the entertainment capital of the world, Hollywood! The only problem is there are so many people that the freeways are almost always filled with traffic. Affordable living is not a problem, but they're usually further away from the better-paying jobs. So the commute is kind of a pain. Crime has gone down significantly since the 90s, but still, this is a major city so be careful. All in all, from nature to City Life, I feel this is the best place in the world to live because we have everything the world has to offer in such a small area!
Read 662 Reviews

• B

• B-

• A

• 10,057,155 Population

Napa County

• County in California
• 22

Current Resident: Overall safe community! Good place to settle down. There is a rarely any traffic. Napa is known for wine and the annual music festival, Bottlerock. Public schools are not the best.
Read 22 Reviews

• A-

• A-

• A

• 140,823 Population

Placer County

• County in California
• 7

Niche User: Low air pollution and temperate climate. The people are generally friendly and its a great small town to raise a family.
Read 7 Reviews

• A-

• A

• A

• 370,571 Population

Monterey County

• County in California
• 40

Nearby Resident: Monterey is one of the most magical places on Earth! We are fortunate enough to house one of the world's greatest aquarium's, which is one of my favorite places to go. They feature various exhibits on diverse species of ocean life and offer incredible educational programs for its' visitors. Monterey is also very special in that everyone that lives here is connected to nature and our mother. All inhabitants realize the importance of protecting our life force and with that comes an extremely strong bond within the community. It is absolutely my favorite place on Earth, and it should be yours too!
Read 40 Reviews

• C+

• C-

• A

• 430,201 Population

Sacramento County

• County in California
• 417

Current Resident: I have lived in sacramento for 10 years, quite by accident. We moved for our careers but fell in love and now call it home.

The " City of Trees" leave canopy shades two major rivers with hiking, boating, swimming, and rafting.

Midtown is bustling with a variety of dining.

Museums include the California, Crocker Art, Old Sacramento, Railroad. The crown jewel is of course the State Capitol and surrounding grounds

Schools include public, private, or charter, with curriculums suited for all. Two excellent junior colleges, Sac State, University of Cal Davis, with extensions of University of San Francisco and University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law are for higher ed.

The State Fair, and various concerts come to town. NBA Kings occupy Golden One arena.

90 minutes east are the ski slopes, 90 miles west Is San Francisco. There is an international airport and train station too.

It's a wonderful place to call home!
Read 417 Reviews

• B+

• B+

• A

• 1,479,300 Population

El Dorado County

• County in California
• 4

Current Resident: I personally think El Dorado County as a whole is a great county. My major issue is with the Placerville area. I feel as though there are little job opportunities, and a high rate of drug addicts and alcoholics.
Read 4 Reviews

• B+

• A

• A

• 183,000 Population

Nevada County

• County in California
• 2

Current Resident: I grew up in Nevada County, and my experience there shaped most of my life. I have been very happy here; the county is small and homey. The neighborhood is very safe, and the area has the benefit of being historically important. There are many historical districts in Nevada County and a thriving tourist industry.
Read 2 Reviews

• B

• A-

• A

• 98,639 Population

San Luis Obispo County

• County in California
• 39

Current Resident: I've lived in San Luis Obispo for 10 years. I love this small and charming town. The atmosphere is positive and truly friendly; the people are happy and committed to being healthy. Fresh produce is everywhere, and you can find a fun two-for-one deal just about any day of the week at the local eateries and bars. However, although reserved, this town lacks diversity through politics and ethnic backgrounds. It is near impossible to live decently as a student, or without already have achieved a bachelor's degree, and buying a house in this area is out of the question. I hope we see some changes in there areas in the future. Until then, I am committed and charmed by this town!
Read 39 Reviews

• A-

• A-

• A

• 278,680 Population

San Diego County

• County in California
• 775

Current Resident: Stay classy San Diego is the not an understatement. San Diego County have one of the safest environments for anyone to live. From the downtown night scene to the sunny beach days, everyone gets along with each other. Dogs also rule the county. Businesses allow pet owners to walk their dogs as they please around working hours. There are also multiple schools for students to thrive in. The food also does not disappoint from the variety San Diego County has. San Diego County is accepting for anyone wanting to live here. The biggest issue is cost. If wanting to rent, it's better to find a roommate than live alone. A single bedroom apartment almost cost the mortgage of a single family home!
Read 775 Reviews

• A

• A-

• A

• 3,253,356 Population

Santa Barbara County

• County in California
• 85

Current Resident: I've lived in Santa Barbara for 3 years. I've never had any difficulty with finding a job in this area, in fact, I've found the job market to be thriving. The only downside I've personally experienced living in Santa Barbara and Goleta is the expensive cost of home and apartment rentals. WIth that being said, this area more than makes up for it with beautiful nature everywhere you turn, a bustling nightlife, plenty of community supported activities and easy commutes!
Read 85 Reviews

• B+

• B-

• A

• 439,395 Population

Solano County

• County in California
• 18

Current Resident: Nice place, most cities are good expect for some, beautiful landscapes and good eateries and close proximities near two major cities which are San Fransisco and Sacramento. Good shopping areas and you have plenty of places to go to.
Read 18 Reviews

• B

• B-

• A

• 429,596 Population

Calaveras County

• County in California
• 1

• C

• B

• A

• 44,787 Population

Stanislaus County

• County in California
• 41

Current Resident: I was born and raised in Modesto, Ca. I love living here. There is hardly anything that happens in my neighborhood. Our neighbors are friendly and we look out for one another. If I could change something about Stanislaus county it would be larger diversity of restaurants and entertainment.
Read 41 Reviews

• C+

• C+

• A

• 530,561 Population

San Joaquin County

• County in California
• 21

Niche User: It's a loving and great community and everyone loves each other and there are hardly any problems.
Read 21 Reviews

• C+

• C+

• A

• 714,860 Population

Del Norte County

• County in California

• C

• C+

• A

• 27,628 Population

Humboldt County

• County in California
• 3

Current Resident: Humboldt has unsurpassed beauty in its environment. Everywhere you look there are so many things to do if you are a lover of the great outdoors. I have lived all over California and this is my favorite place to enjoy the great out doors and get closer to nature.

The homes are mostly older Victorian homes which do add to the charm.The night life is not much but on the other hand, there are a variety of Out door festivals and other happening that more than make up for lack of night life
Read 3 Reviews

• B-

• B-

• A

• 135,182 Population