The wildflower tour season has arrived in Southern California, drawing visitors eager to experience the region’s vibrant floral landscapes. In past years, heavy rainfall produced stunning superblooms, carpeting vast areas with wildflowers. However, this year, Downtown Los Angeles received only 5.58 inches of rainfall this winter—nearly half the seasonal average—making a superbloom unlikely.
Wildflower Tours Remain Popular
Despite below-average precipitation, interest in Southern California wildflower tours remains strong, especially among the Korean American travel community.
“While a full bloom of poppies and other wildflowers may not be expected, our wildflower tours have been running since last month, beginning with fruit blossoms,” said a travel industry representative. “Priced around $100, these day tours offer a great opportunity to enjoy spring’s natural beauty.”
The Carlsbad Flower Fields, a top spring destination, opened on March 1, showcasing 3 million blooming ranunculus flowers.
Best Wildflower Tour Destinations and Seasons
Industry experts highlight the top wildflower viewing locations and their peak seasons:
- Late February to Early March – Almond Blossom tours (Blossom Trail from Bakersfield to Fresno)
- Mid-March to Early April – California Poppy tours
- April – Death Valley wildflower tours
- May – Tulip festivals
Top Poppy Viewing Spots (Mid-March to Early April)
For visitors seeking California poppies, the best locations include:
- Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve
- Chino Hills State Park
- Walker Canyon
- Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
While a superbloom is unlikely, native perennials like California goldfields, sage, and phlox continue to bloom in various areas. Some travel agencies still offer poppy tours through March and April.
Wildflower Tour Packages from Korean American Travel Agencies
Several Korean American travel agencies have launched Southern California wildflower tours, providing visitors with unique spring getaways.
Samho Tour: California Lancaster Poppy Tour
- Price: $109 (includes lunch)
- Departure Dates: April 19, 21, 25, 26
- Transportation: 32-seat VIP limousine bus
- Vice President: Youngim Shin
“The sight of golden-orange poppies covering the fields is truly spectacular. Every year, our VIP limousine bus is fully booked for this tour.”
Chunchu Travel: Antelope Valley & Red Rock Canyon Tour
- Price: $99 (includes lunch)
- Departure Dates: March 29, April 3
Aju Tour: Death Valley Wildflower & Las Vegas Tour
- Price: $329
- Departure Date: April 1 (1-night, 2-day trip)
- Transportation: Two VIP buses (40–50 participants per tour)
- Executive Director: Steve Cho
“From March to mid-April, Death Valley National Park transforms into a breathtaking desert landscape with stunning wildflower blooms. Each year, 40–50 travelers join our tour, requiring two VIP buses.”
Carlsbad Flower Fields Tour
- Price: $129
- Departure Dates: March 29, April 5
Monterey Bay Tulip Festival (Carpe International)
- Season: Late March to Early April
Southern California Wildflower Season Continues
Even without a superbloom, Southern California wildflower tours remain a favorite spring tradition. The region’s diverse floral landscapes continue to attract visitors seeking breathtaking seasonal scenery.
BY EUNYOUNG LEE [lee.eunyoung6@koreadaily.com]
