ABOUT CALIFORNIA

California is a state known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and dynamic mix of cultures. Stretching along the Pacific Coast, it’s home to golden beaches, snow-capped mountains, sprawling deserts, and some of the most famous cities in the world. From San Diego and Los Angeles in the south to San Francisco, Sacramento, and the Napa Valley up north, California offers something for everyone.

San Diego alone is a world-class destination, celebrated for its coastal beauty, naval heritage, and now, high-octane NASCAR excitement with the Anduril 250 Race the Base at the Coronado Street Course. Beyond the track, the city offers year-round sunshine, a vibrant downtown, and a rich mix of culture, cuisine, and entertainment.

Across California, visitors can explore legendary attractions such as Yosemite National Park, Lake Tahoe, and Big Sur, or embrace the urban energy of Hollywood and Silicon Valley. Whether it’s surfing in Malibu, wine tasting in Sonoma, or hiking among the redwoods, outdoor adventure is never far away.

California is also a cultural powerhouse, known for its creativity, innovation, and diversity. The state’s food scene reflects this perfectly — from fresh seafood and Mexican flavors in the south to farm-to-table cuisine in the Central Coast and gourmet dining in San Francisco.

Sports fans will find major events and teams across every league, while car culture and motorsport are deeply woven into the state’s identity — from the legendary Laguna Seca Raceway and Long Beach Grand Prix to NASCAR’s new addition in San Diego.

Whether you’re here for the racing, the beaches, the mountains, or the culture, California delivers unforgettable experiences at every turn.

Fast facts about California

• Population: Over 39 million residents (as of 2023), making it the most populous U.S. state.
• Size: About 163,696 square miles (423,970 km²), the third-largest state in the U.S.
• Capital: Sacramento.
• Major Cities: Los Angeles, San Diego, San Jose, San Francisco, Fresno.
• Nickname: The Golden State.

Entry into the USA

As a U.S. state, California follows the national entry requirements for the United States, which vary depending on citizenship and travel purpose. Below are general guidelines for international visitors:

Visa requirements
Travellers from Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries may enter the U.S. for up to 90 days without a visa for tourism or business purposes. Visitors from non-VWP countries will need to apply for a B-1/B-2 visitor visa in advance.

ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization)
If you’re travelling under the Visa Waiver Program, you must complete an ESTA application online before departure. The authorization is linked electronically to your passport. Apply at the official U.S. government website.

Valid Passport
All visitors must carry a valid passport that remains valid for the full duration of their stay in the United States.

Currency

The official currency of California — as in all U.S. states — is the United States Dollar (USD), symbolized by “$” and divided into 100 cents. It is issued by the Federal Reserve and used nationwide.

Approximate exchange rates (subject to change):

• 1 USD ≈ 0.90–0.95 EUR
• 1 USD ≈ 0.70–0.75 GBP
• 1 USD ≈ 110–115 JPY
• 1 USD ≈ 1.25–1.30 CAD

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and ATMs are easy to find throughout California.

Electricity

California uses Type A and Type B (NEMA 5-15) electrical outlets — the same as across the United States.

• Standard voltage: 120V
• Frequency: 60Hz

Travellers from regions using 220–240V (such as Europe) will need a voltage converter for some appliances and a plug adapter to fit U.S. outlets.

Mobile Services

California has excellent mobile coverage across both urban and rural areas. The state’s largest carriers offer reliable 4G and 5G service throughout San Diego and along the Pacific Coast.

AT&T
Offers broad statewide coverage, including remote coastal and desert areas. Known for a robust 5G network and a variety of prepaid and postpaid plans.

Verizon Wireless
Renowned for its strong and consistent signal, particularly in urban areas like San Diego, Los Angeles, and San Francisco. Offers excellent data speed and reliability.

T-Mobile
Well-priced plans, great 5G availability, and strong international roaming options — ideal for visitors from abroad. Coverage is strong in all major Californian cities and growing in rural regions.

Tip for travelers
If you’re visiting from abroad, eSIM apps such as Airalo or Holafly make it easy to get connected immediately upon arrival without needing a local SIM card.

Important telephone numbers

When calling from abroad, dial +1 before the U.S. phone number. Below are key contacts for visitors in San Diego, California:

• Emergency Services (Police, Fire, Ambulance): 911
• San Diego Transit Information Line (MTS): +1 619-233-3004

Interesting Facts about California

Discover some fascinating facts that make California one of the most diverse and iconic states in the U.S.:

• The Golden State: California’s nickname reflects both the 1849 Gold Rush and its famous golden sunsets along the Pacific coast.
• Hollywood Origins: The global film industry was born in California — the first major movie studios opened in Los Angeles in the early 1900s.
• Home of Silicon Valley: California is the tech capital of the world, hosting companies like Apple, Google, and Tesla.
• Natural Diversity: The state spans beaches, deserts, forests, and mountains — you can surf in the morning and ski in the afternoon.
• Agricultural Powerhouse: California produces over a third of all U.S. vegetables and two-thirds of its fruits and nuts.
• Land of Innovation: The first credit card, personal computer, and Internet browser were all created in California.
• Famous Landmarks: From the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco to Yosemite National Park and Disneyland in Anaheim, California, offer some of America’s most visited attractions.
• Tallest Trees on Earth: The coastal redwoods and sequoias of Northern California are among the tallest and oldest living things in the world.
• Cultural Influence: California is known for setting global trends in music, cuisine, and lifestyle — from surf culture to sustainable living.