Explore exotic film locations in California

With some of the most diverse sceneries in the USA, California is an ideal choice for all film directors, be it Hollywood or Bollywood.

Its rich landscape is every cinematographer's dream, ranging from beautiful beaches to vast cactus-filled deserts, lush vineyards and soaring mountains.

Here are some famous movie destinations that you can visit on your next trip to the Golden State:

Los Angeles

Slip-on a pair of designer shoes, bask on a beach, plan the day away at a movie land theme park, explore world-class museums and dance 'til dawn at a sizzling-hot nightclub. Sounds like a movie? America's entertainment capital with mega-star wattage, LA has plenty of famous spots and unforgettable locations.

One such is Beverly Hills with opulent estates, palm-lined Rodeo Drive, and lavish hotels and stretch limousines. Julia Roberts' 1989 hit 'Pretty Woman's popular shopping scene was shot here.

Malibu too is famous for the starry sights and cameras. The beach scene of 'The Princess Diaries' - Anne Hathaway's debut film - was shot here.

San Francisco

San Francisco, ranked as one of the greatest cities in the world, is famous for its classic cable cars, dynamic diversity, a beautiful waterfront, and the soaring crimson bridge. The 'City by the Bay' truly has it all.

In 1958, Kim Novak's character Madeleine attempted suicide by jumping off a casement there in the Hitchcock classic Vertigo.

Bollywood too is smitten by the breath-taking city's irresistible charm. Popular movies like 'My Name is Khan,' 'Love Aaj Kal' and 'Anjaana Anja' have used the crimson bridge (Golden Gate Bridge) as a backdrop for scenes and songs.

Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara's charms tempt at every turn. Oprah, Brad, Ellen, and many others have estates here.

Paul Giamatti and Thomas Haden Church-starrer 'Sideways' has two forty-year-old men taking a week-long road trip to Santa Barbara's wine country to celebrate Thomas' character's wedding, which turned out to be quite epic! Ashton Kutcher and Natalie Portman starrer 'No Strings Attached?' was primarily shot in Los Angeles, but the famous climax scene where the two drive off to Santa Barbara to attend her sister's wedding after a romantic night is the most memorable scene of the film and etched in the memory.

San Diego

70 miles of sun-drenched coast, this southernmost stretch of California is all about outdoor fun.

Award-winning movie 'Almost Famous' recreated a 70s beach town in San Diego's Ocean Beach neighbourhood. The very opening scene welcomes you to the famous Newport Avenue!

Besides those soft sands, the island's crown jewel is the Hotel Del Coronado, built-in 1888 and topped by russet red, castle-like turrets. The most exciting attraction during the film shoot is the gorgeous Marilyn Monroe, who portrayed a singer tangled up with on-the-run musicians played by Tony Curtis and Jack Lemmon.

( With inputs from ANI )