William Randolph Hearst wanted a luxurious garden displaying bountiful blooms throughout the year for his castle. Hundreds of thousands of annuals, bulbs and perennials are planted in a design inspired by gardens of Spanish and Portuguese villas. Look out for the marble Neptune statue by Charles Cassou. Open daily except Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year. Hearst Castle entrance from US$25 adults.
University of California Botanical Garden, Berkeley
200 Centennial Drive #5045, Berkeley.
The non-profit research UC Botanical Garden has a diverse collection including many rare and endangered plants. The garden was established in 1890 and has more than 13,000 different kinds of plants from around the world, cultivated by region, over 13ha. Open daily, except the first Tuesday of the month, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year. Adults US$10.
Elizabeth Gamble Gardens, Palo Alto
1431 Waverley St, Palo Alto.
A non-profit horticultural foundation south of San Francisco, Gamble Garden was the home and garden of Elizabeth Gamble (daughter of the founder of Proctor and Gamble). The property includes Arts & Crafts character gardens and a horticulture reference library. Open daily all year, free entry.
Further information: See DiscoverAmerica.com for more on visiting California, or try the 'trip tuner' for more holiday inspiration.
