As of June 15, all state and national parks and beaches are open, with only limited closures at some sites. The hotels, restaurants, wineries, shopping centers, theme parks, museums, and countless other attractions can open their doors without state-mandated capacity restrictions or physical distancing markers. The reopening comes nearly 15 months after Governor Gavin Newsom issued a March 2020 stay-at-home order designed to slow the spread of COVID-19.
“From California’s coastlines to our theme parks to our breathtaking national forests, our state’s diverse terrain and unique communities make us the envy of the world when it comes to tourism,” Newsom said. “As we move forward to a post-pandemic life, our tourism sector is expected to come roaring back—making us, once again, a global leader in hospitality and leisure.”
Attractions across the state are embracing the news with revised guidelines for guests. The Los Angeles Dodgers, for instance, will celebrate “Reopening Day” by returning to full capacity on June 15. At the San Diego Zoo, visitors will no longer need to make reservations before purchasing tickets. And face masks will no longer be required for fully vaccinated guests at Disneyland Resort.
Visitors are still strongly encouraged to check with individual attractions and destinations for any specialized protocols and guidelines, but the default travel message is a big one: You’re good to go.
“California’s tourism businesses stand ready to welcome travelers, and for the first time since the pandemic lockdown, visitors can now take in the full range of only-in-California, unforgettable vacation experiences,” says Caroline Beteta, president, and CEO of Visit California. “California is a place that welcomes all people and all dreams, and the time to travel here is now.”
As people return in greater numbers to the Golden State’s iconic destinations, they should not lose sight of the imperative to travel safely and responsibly. Visitors, residents, and tourism operators are encouraged to follow the seven principles of Visit California’s Responsible Travel Code.
California still encourages visitors and residents to get vaccinated and, in line with CDC regulations, wear face coverings in congested environments. Here are some additional details of the reopening:
Visitors are encouraged to be vaccinated before coming to California, but it is not a requirement to travel.
Operators of large outdoor events of more than 10,000 people, including professional sporting events and some theme parks, are encouraged to screen attendees for vaccinations or negative COVID-19 tests, but screening is not mandatory.
Operators of large indoor events of more than 5,000 people are required to screen attendees for vaccinations or negative COVID-19 tests. Attendees should check guidelines with event operators when buying tickets or making reservations.
To underscore the celebratory mood across the state, Visit California’s “Dreaming On in California” campaign will showcase tourism’s recovery with a weeklong series of experiences set against California’s epic backdrop for travelers who missed key milestones in 2020.
The experiences include an unforgettable meal prepared by acclaimed chef Curtis Stone; behind-the-scenes access at a San Diego Padres game; a magical Disneyland Resort vacation; a luxury road trip with stops at Marriott International properties across the state; and a series of fairytale weddings at the luxurious Carneros Resort and Spa in Napa.
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