Quick Facts
- Tourists visiting California
- Vintage and streetwear enthusiasts
- Luxury shoppers
- San Francisco Centre is now a 'dead mall' with 95% vacancy - avoid and shop neighborhoods like Hayes Valley instead
- Ferry Plaza Farmers Market is SF's current hotspot (Tue/Thu 10AM-2PM, Sat 8AM-2PM)
- Melrose Avenue offers the best unique streetwear and vintage finds in LA
- Westfield UTC in San Diego features a year-round indoor ice rink
California's retail landscape has shifted dramatically - skip declining traditional malls in favor of open-air markets, neighborhood boutiques, and curated districts like Hayes Valley and Melrose Avenue for the best shopping experience.
California defines American retail culture. It is the birthplace of mall culture, the epicenter of streetwear, and a playground for high-end luxury. But if you haven’t visited in a few years, you are in for a surprise. The retail map has shiftedsome legendary spots are fading, while neighborhood boutiques and open air markets are thriving more than ever.
This isn’t just a list of stores; it’s a strategic guide to navigating the Golden State’s massive geography, avoiding tourist traps, and understanding the financial reality of California’s sales tax. Whether you are hunting for vintage treasures in Pasadena or couture in Costa Mesa, here is how to shop California like a local.
The Heavy Hitters: Major Shopping Destinations
California is huge. To maximize your time, focus on these key hubs. Each offers a completely different vibe and price point.
Los Angeles: The Celebrity & Vintage Mix
Rodeo Drive (Beverly Hills)
It is a cliché for a reason. Even if you aren’t dropping $5,000 on a handbag, the window shopping here is unparalleled. It is one of the few places in the world where the cars parked outside are worth more than the store inventory. If you love high-end retail, it rivals the experience of shopping in New York City, but with palm trees and sunshine.
The Grove
More than a mall, this is an entertainment complex. It is open air, beautifully manicured, and features a trolley that cuts through the center. It connects to the Original Farmers Market, which provides great food options when you need a break.
Melrose Avenue
This is where the “cool kids” shop. The street stretches for miles, transitioning from grimy chic vintage stores to high-end boutiques like the pink Paul Smith wall. It is the best spot in LA to find unique streetwear pieces.
Westfield Century City
If you want a modern, upscale mall experience that actually feels alive, go here. It has undergone massive renovations and offers excellent dining alongside luxury retailers.
San Francisco: A Changing Landscape
San Francisco’s retail scene has shifted dramatically in recent years. While the city remains a cultural gem, you need to know where to go to avoid disappointment.
- Union Square: Historically the shopping mecca of SF. While still home to major department stores, be aware that foot traffic has decreased. It remains the center for luxury, but the vibe is quieter than in the past.
- Ferry Plaza Farmers Market: This is the heartbeat of SF right now. Operating Tuesdays and Thursdays (10 AM–2 PM) and Saturdays (8 AM–2 PM), it offers incredible local produce and artisanal goods. It is a must visit.
- Hayes Valley: Skip the big malls and come here. This neighborhood is packed with independent boutiques, direct to-consumer brand showrooms, and great coffee. It represents the future of SF shopping.
- Editor’s Note on San Francisco Centre: You may see references to the “Westfield San Francisco Centre” or “Emporium Centre.” As of late 2025, it has reverted to the name San Francisco Centre. However, be advised that this is currently considered a “dead mall” with a vacancy rate hovering around 95% following the departure of major tenants like Nordstrom and H&M. We recommend focusing your time on street level shopping in neighborhoods like Fillmore or Marina instead.
San Diego: Laid Back Luxury
Fashion Valley
An upscale, open air mall that captures the San Diego lifestyle perfectly. It features a mix of high-end luxury (Gucci, Louis Vuitton) and approachable favorites.
Westfield UTC
This is arguably the best mall in San Diego County. It’s clean, modern, and features the UTC Ice Sports Center—a permanent indoor ice rink that operates year round (unlike the seasonal outdoor pop ups elsewhere). It’s a great place to cool off while shopping.
Seaport Village & Gaslamp Quarter
These are more tourist focused. Great for grabbing a souvenir or a meal, but serious shoppers will find better variety at the malls listed above.
The “Hidden Gem” Cities
- Costa Mesa: Home to South Coast Plaza, arguably the most profitable and luxurious shopping center in the US. If you can’t find it here, it probably doesn’t exist.
- Palm Springs: Visit El Paseo for a desert version of Rodeo Drive. It’s relaxed, expensive, and beautiful. Similar to the relaxed vibe of shopping in Florida, but with mountains in the background.
- Napa Valley: St. Helena offers charming boutiques that pair perfectly with a weekend of wine tasting.
The Treasure Hunt: Flea Markets & Vintage
If you prefer unique finds over mass produced goods, California’s flea market circuit is world famous. These aren’t just garage sales; they are curated events where serious collectors shop.
- Rose Bowl Flea Market (Pasadena): The legend. It happens on the second Sunday of every month. With over 2,500 vendors, it can be overwhelming. Pro tip: Arrive by 7 AM if you are serious about vintage furniture. Admission is around $12 for regular entry.
- Alameda Point Antiques Faire: Northern California’s answer to the Rose Bowl. Held on the first Sunday of every month at the former Naval Air Base, it offers stunning views of the SF skyline while you hunt through 800+ booths.
- Melrose Trading Post (Los Angeles): A weekly Sunday market at Fairfax High School. It’s smaller, more manageable, and excellent for vintage tees and artisan crafts.
California Born Brands You Should Know
Shopping local takes on a new meaning here. Many of the world’s biggest trendsetters are headquartered right in the state. For a deeper dive into American production, check out our guide to top clothing manufacturers in the USA.
- Patagonia (Ventura): The gold standard for sustainable outdoor gear.
- Stussy (Laguna Beach/Irvine): The brand that practically invented modern streetwear.
- Youth to the People (Los Angeles): A high performance skincare brand headquartered in the Arts District of LA (not SF, as commonly mistaken).
- E. l. f. Cosmetics (Oakland): Proof that quality beauty doesn’t have to be expensive.
The “Street Smart” Guide: Taxes, Hours & Tips
Here is where reality sets in. California is expensive, and the logistics can be tricky. Here is what you need to know before you swipe your card.
The Tax Reality (Read This!)
1. There is No Tourist Tax Refund
Let’s bust this myth right now: California does NOT offer sales tax refunds to international tourists. Unlike Texas or Louisiana, you cannot claim your tax back at the airport. The price you pay at the register is final.
2. Prepare for Sticker Shock
The statewide base sales tax is 7.25%, but nobody pays just that. Local district taxes stack on top. In late 2025, cities like Palmdale and Lancaster hit rates as high as 11.25%, and many areas in LA and the Bay Area hover around 10%+. Factor this into your budget for big ticket items.
Store Hours & Timing
Standard Hours: Most malls and specialty stores open at 10:00 AM and close between 7:00 PM and 9:00 PM.
Late Night Options: If you need essentials late at night, big box retailers like Target generally stay open until 10:00 PM, and Walmart locations often operate until 11:00 PM.
Getting Around
Do not underestimate traffic. If you are in LA and plan to shop at the Rose Bowl (Pasadena) in the morning and Santa Monica in the afternoon, you will spend 2 hours in a car. Group your shopping trips by neighborhood. In San Francisco, parking is scarce and expensiveuse rideshare apps or public transit (BART/Muni) whenever possible.
