You know what they say: west coast, best coast. We can’t buy you a ticket but we can give you an insider’s view with these books set in the Golden State!

We Are Okay by Nina LaCour

When Marin leaves sunny San Francisco for the bitter cold of New York City, the warmth of the California sun isn’t the only thing she left behind. As much as she’s tried to bury what she left behind, when her best friend comes to visit, she’s forced to face everything that’s been left unsaid.

Pasadena by Sherri L. Smith

What’s better than a Chicago noir mystery? A California one! Get lost in the sweltering heat and sharp one-liners from main character Jude as she searches to find the answers behind her best friend’s death.

What Light by Jay Asher

Romance blooms in Northern Cali when Sierra meets Caleb at her family Christmas Tree lot. If you’re looking to enjoy the relaxed vibes of California and the Christmas spirit all in one, this is the perfect pick.

Everything Leads to You by Nina Lacour

Scavenger hunts are fun, and only get better when you add an LA setting and movie stars! Follow Emi Price as she tracks down a hidden movie star and finds love along the way.

Lola and the Boy Next Door by Stephanie Perkins

The golden glow of love is the only thing able to eclipse the Golden Gate Bridge in this tale of boy-next-door courtship. Lola must choose between her past and her present to decide the romantic fate of her future.

The Smaller Evil by Stephanie Kuehn

A California murder mystery set in the secluded coastal California mountains, hidden among towering redwoods and dangerous secrets. 17-year-old Arman Dukoff is forced to rely on himself to solve the death of his only friend.

I’ll Give You the Sun by Jandy Nelson

Twins Jude and Noah used to be close, but now, they’re anything but. Told in dual perspectives, one from the past and one from the present, can Jude and Noah reconcile their differences and put the pieces of their life back together again?

Legend by Marie Lu

Look no further for a heart-pound, pulse-pumping adrenaline rush than this dystopian version of California, drenched in war and conflict. It’s up to June and Day to uncover the shocking secret their government doesn’t want them to know.

Looking for more recommendations? Check out these books to read if you’re from NYC!