I've been to California a few times and I think you need to decide where you want to go in California first. Northern California or Southern California. Here are some of the places I remember I went in the North: Golden Gate bridge, Union Square, wine tasting in Napa valley, Yosemite National Park, Redwood National Park, Monteray bay, Pier 39, Pacific North 1 coastal highway (do not miss this if you like beautiful views), Santa Cruz etc...and in the South, I went to Hollywood, Universal studios, LA, Sunset strip (if you are into rock n' roll) you should definitely check out Whiskey go go and Rainbow, Walk of fame, Indio, Long beach, San Diego zoo etc...and I really don't remember how much I spent. Sorry..and have fun!!