10 Places on the West Coast That Just Aren’t Worth the Hype (Sorry!)

Not every Instagram-famous destination lives up to the dream. Some places are packed with tourists, wildly overpriced, or just… meh. And while every spot has someone who loves it, there are a few that get way more hype than they deserve.

Here are 10 places on the West Coast that might leave you underwhelmed—and what to do instead if you’re chasing better views, vibes, or value.

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1. Venice Beach, California

Why it’s overrated: It’s more chaotic than cool these days. Loud, dirty, and full of aggressive street performers and souvenir shops.
Do this instead: Stroll Abbot Kinney Blvd for stylish local shops and better people-watching, or head to Manhattan Beach for a chill, cleaner stretch of sand.

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2. Cannon Beach, Oregon (in summer)

Why it’s overrated: It’s beautiful—but in July it’s wall-to-wall tourists, backed-up traffic, and nowhere to park.
Do this instead: Hit up Manzanita or Nehalem Bay just south for similar views, fewer crowds, and way more peace and quiet.

*GRAB THE BEST WEST COAST ADVENTURE MAP FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP!*

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3. Hollywood Walk of Fame, California

Why it’s overrated: It’s literally just a sidewalk with stars. And the surrounding area? Kind of a mess.
Do this instead: Go to Griffith Observatory for an actual LA experience—with skyline views, space exhibits, and far fewer people trying to sell you bootleg Marvel selfies.

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4. Multnomah Falls, Oregon

Why it’s overrated: It’s stunning, but always mobbed. Parking is brutal, and the trail is often shoulder-to-shoulder.
Do this instead: Visit Wahclella or Elowah Falls nearby—less crowded, just as magical, and you’ll actually hear the water over the chatter.

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5. The Mystery Spot, California (Santa Cruz)

Why it’s overrated: A tilted cabin and a couple gravity tricks. It’s fun for kids but not worth going out of your way.
Do this instead: Explore the nearby redwoods or take a walk along West Cliff Drive—actual nature, no optical illusions required.

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6. Lake Tahoe (peak season)

Why it’s overrated: Gorgeous, yes—but summer and winter bring serious crowding, traffic jams, and insane prices.
Do this instead: Check out Donner Lake or head north to Lassen Volcanic National Park for alpine lakes with room to breathe.

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7. Seattle’s Gum Wall

Why it’s overrated: It’s a wall covered in chewed gum. That’s it. That’s the whole thing.
Do this instead: Head to Kerry Park for the best views of Seattle, or visit the Ballard Locks for something weird and interesting.

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8. Pier 39, San Francisco

Why it’s overrated: Souvenir shops, chain restaurants, and more tourists than sea lions.
Do this instead: Explore the Ferry Building Marketplace or walk the trails at Land’s End—better food, better views, better vibes.

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9. Solvang, California

Why it’s overrated: It’s cute for about 20 minutes. After that, it’s overpriced pastries and crowded sidewalks pretending to be Denmark.
Do this instead: Explore the actual wine country around Los Olivos or Santa Ynez—better food, scenery, and way less kitsch.

*GRAB THE BEST WEST COAST ADVENTURE MAP FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP!*

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10. Astoria Column, Oregon

Why it’s overrated: You climb a narrow staircase for a view you can mostly get from the parking lot.
Do this instead: Walk the Astoria Riverwalk, grab fish and chips, and watch ships pass under the bridge—more fun, less stair-induced regret.

MORE ON THE WEST COAST:

READ MORE: The Best of Oregon

READ MORE: The Best of Washington

READ MORE: The Best of California

*GRAB THE BEST WEST COAST ADVENTURE MAP FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP!*