Within its borders, fog-bathed forests of giant redwoods are dwarfed by the icy peaks of the high Sierras. California's coast is a world unto itself, with spectacular, rocky headlands, some of the world's most famous beaches, and the southernmost sea otters. Beyond the sunbathers and surfers lie the Channel Islands, with their fabulous wealth of marine life. This state that nurtures such diverse wildlife has also been kind to people. California is an agricultural paradise, from Napa Valley's vineyards to the San Joaquin Valley's fabulous vegetables.
Farther south are the citrus orchards of sunny Southern California.
With its mild climate, California is too attractive for its own good. Hollywood, Disneyland, the San Diego Zoo, and some of the largest cities in the United States thrive there. Sadly, some of Earth's most spectacular creatures are being squeezed out. California's official mammal, the California grizzly bear, can be seen on the state flag but nowhere else. While the California condor struggles for survival, California's state marine mammal, reptile, fish, and trees also require protection.