Best Places to Visit in California as a J1 Visa Holder

California, the Land of Dreams

California is one of the most popular destinations for J1 visa holders. Known for its beaches, Hollywood glamour, high-tech Silicon Valley, and breathtaking national parks, the Golden State offers a unique mix of work opportunities and cultural exploration. For many J1 students, spending a summer in California is not just a job, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

If you’re on a J1 visa, your time in California can be filled with discovery, cultural exchange, and travel. From the Pacific coastline to the Sierra Nevada mountains, California is a state where every region feels like a different country. This guide highlights the best places to visit in California as a J1 visa holder and provides helpful reminders about managing your taxes while you work and travel.

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The Tax Moves Blog

Sep 4, 2025 | Learning IRS

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Los Angeles: The City of Angels

For J1 students, Los Angeles is one of the most exciting cities in the U.S. It’s a global hub for entertainment, culture, and innovation.

Hollywood and the Walk of Fame

No trip to LA is complete without visiting Hollywood. Take a photo with the Hollywood sign, walk along the Walk of Fame, and visit iconic spots like the TCL Chinese Theatre.

Santa Monica and Venice Beach

J1 students love the beach lifestyle of Santa Monica and Venice. The Santa Monica Pier offers rides, games, and stunning sunsets, while Venice Beach is famous for street performers, murals, and skate culture.

Downtown LA and Cultural Districts

Explore Little Tokyo, Olvera Street, and the Arts District for a deeper look into LA’s cultural diversity.

San Francisco: The Bay Area Experience

San Francisco is another must-visit city for J1 students. Known for its steep hills, colorful houses, and Golden Gate Bridge, it combines natural beauty with urban charm.

Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz

The Golden Gate Bridge is one of the most photographed landmarks in the world. Take a bike ride across or a ferry ride to Alcatraz Island for history and incredible views.

Fisherman’s Wharf and Chinatown

Fisherman’s Wharf is perfect for fresh seafood and lively atmosphere, while San Francisco’s Chinatown — the largest outside Asia — offers cultural exploration and delicious food.

Silicon Valley and Innovation

For students interested in technology, visiting Silicon Valley can be inspiring. Companies like Google, Apple, and Meta are headquartered nearby.

San Diego: Sun, Surf, and Relaxation

San Diego is a favorite among J1 visa holders because of its relaxed vibe, sunny weather, and international community.

Balboa Park and the San Diego Zoo

Balboa Park is a cultural gem with museums, gardens, and theaters. The San Diego Zoo, located inside the park, is world-renowned.

Pacific Beach and La Jolla

For beach lovers, Pacific Beach is a hotspot for surfing and nightlife, while La Jolla is known for sea lions and picturesque cliffs.

Northern California: Nature and Adventure

While many J1 students focus on the cities, California’s natural parks are just as impressive.

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite is a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for granite cliffs, waterfalls, and giant sequoias. It’s perfect for hiking and connecting with nature.

Lake Tahoe

Straddling the California–Nevada border, Lake Tahoe offers both summer and winter fun — from swimming and kayaking to skiing and snowboarding.

Redwood National and State Parks

If you want to see the tallest trees on Earth, visit the Redwoods. Walking among them is an unforgettable experience.

Central Coast: The Scenic Highway 1 Drive

Driving along Highway 1 is a bucket-list experience. This coastal road offers breathtaking ocean views, especially around Big Sur. For J1 visa holders who love photography and nature, this is one of the most memorable trips you can take.

California Culture: More Than Beaches and Movies

Exploring California as a J1 student also means discovering its cultural richness.

  • Food Diversity: From tacos in Los Angeles to sourdough bread in San Francisco, California is a food lover’s paradise.

  • Music and Art: Festivals like Coachella and countless galleries showcase the state’s creative side.

  • Multicultural Influence: California’s immigrant communities make it one of the most diverse places in the U.S.

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Taxes for J1 Visa Holders in California

While California is an amazing place to live and explore, J1 visa holders must also remember their tax responsibilities.

  • Federal Taxes: Regardless of where you work in California, you must file with the IRS. Most J1 students use Form 1040-NR, but in certain cases, a Form 1040 may apply.

  • State Taxes: Unlike Florida, California has state income tax. If you work here, you are required to file a state return using Form 540NR.

  • Refunds: Many J1 students are eligible for federal or state refunds but lose money because they don’t file correctly.

  • Avoid USCIS Mistakes: Taxes are filed with the IRS and the California Franchise Tax Board, not USCIS.

J1 Go Tax — Your California Partner

California gives J1 visa students unforgettable memories — from San Francisco’s hills to Los Angeles’ beaches and Yosemite’s waterfalls. But while the adventures are endless, tax season can be stressful.

That’s why J1 Go Tax exists. We specialize in J1 visa holders with W-2 income, making sure you file correctly and maximize your refund. Our policy is simple: No refund = No fee. With us, you can enjoy California to the fullest, knowing your taxes are taken care of.

Core Guides & Calculators

1. Learn everything about J1 visa taxes — our complete 2026 step-by-step guide for nonresident workers with W-2 income.

2. Estimate your refund instantly with our J1 visa tax calculator — no signup required.

3. Compare Form 1040 vs 1040NR for J1 visa holders and find out which one applies to you.

4. Understand the importance of your DS-2019 form — it defines your program, tax status, and eligibility.

Forms & Tax Documents

5. Did you receive a 1099 instead of a W-2? Here’s what to do — Form 1099 for J1 visa workers explained.

6. Learn how to apply for your SSN or ITIN as a J1 visa holder before filing your taxes.

7. Understand your IRS transcripts for J1 visa taxes — what they show and how to request them.

8. Received a Form 1042-S? Discover what it means and how to include it in your tax return.

9. Find your Form W-2 for J1 visa — and learn what each box means when you file.

10. File correctly using the official Form 1040NR for J1 visa holders — step-by-step.

11. Don’t forget your Form 8843 — it’s mandatory even if you had no income.

12. Check this J1 visa tax return example using Form 1040NR to understand how everything fits together.

Special Cases & IRS Resources

13. Missed the April deadline? Learn how to file J1 visa taxes after April and still get your refund.

14. Review official IRS guidance on Taxation of J-1 visa holders and resident status.

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