A Fresh Perspective on Travel Every Day
A million or more people turn out every New Year’s Day along Pasadena’s Colorado Boulevard. Some of them camp out on the sidewalks overnight. Others get up in the wee hours to get there. They all crowd along the street to watch dozens of flower-filled floats, bands, and equestrian groups in the annual Tournament of Roses Parade.
The Santa Ynez Valley may have gained attention as the setting for the filmSideways, but it was a great place to visit long before that. Separated from the Pacific Ocean by the Santa Ynez Mountains, it’s a broad, scenic valley with a distinctively rural feel—an ideal location for a Sunday drive or a relaxing weekend. It encompasses the towns of Solvang, Los Olivos, Santa Ynez, Buellton, and the area along CA Hwy 154 between the San Marco Pass and US Hwy 101. For a better understanding of its geography,use these maps.
Before you start looking for a place to stay in Mendocino, you need to know which Mendocino you’re going to. Mendocino County is both a coastal and an inland region. Just north of Sonoma County, it stretches from Gualala in the south to just north of the town of Leggett. It’s also a town. Take a look at a map and read the notes below to get the lay of the land before you start searching for accommodation, or you might end up staying somewhere you didn’t really want to be.
From about 1900 into the 1940s, Monterey bustled with sardine canneries. Today, schools of tourists replace the sardines, and the industry’s misfortune is the traveler’s gain. Restaurants and hotels now occupy the spaces where crumbling factories once stood, creating a waterfront tailored for visitors.
Much like other coastal areas in California, Cayucos often experiences cloudy weather in June and July. However, post-summer leads to clearer skies, and hotel rates decrease and remain low through spring.
Two of the most scenic natural areas in northern California are Mount Shasta and nearby Shasta Lake. Mount Shasta is one of the world’s most beautiful mountains and the largest volcanic peak in the contiguous United States, standing at an impressive elevation of 14,162 feet. This towering mountain features one of the highest base-to-summit rises globally, making it a remarkable destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
You must plan ahead.Napa Valley hotels fill up months in advance, almost any time of year except in the winter. Therefore, waiting too long may result in higher prices for accommodations or even an inability to secure a room at all.
Summer has its appeal when it’s hot enough to enjoy a day of water play. However, the weather is optimal in spring and fall, providing a less crowded experience for visitors.
The name won’t give it away: Raymond Vineyards sounds like any of hundreds of other Napa Valley wineries, named after their founders. The tasting room you first enter won’t reveal much, either. It’s a pleasant, sunlit space with a tasting bar and a small gift shop.
Northern California offers numerous exciting locations perfect for a two- or three-day getaway. From beautiful beaches to scenic wineries, the region has something for everyone.
Laguna Beach is perhaps Orange County’s least-overdeveloped beach town and one of its prettiest. Created as an artist’s getaway, Laguna Beach retains its artistic passion, featuring excellent art galleries and vibrant summer arts festivals. You’ll find a wonderful beach atmosphere in Laguna as well.
Knott’s Berry Farm offers one-day tickets and season passes. Admission to their Soak City water park costs extra.
Summary of Whale Watching in Los Angeles
This large campground near Pismo Beach features spacious sites with ample room between them. It is conveniently located close to the dunes and the beach while being protected from the wind. Most of the campsites are grassy, providing a comfortable and scenic camping experience. Although the campground offers direct beach access, it is not situated directly on the beach.
Discover the serene atmosphere at Oceano Campground, a perfect getaway for nature lovers, nestled within Pismo State Beach.
If you are a fan of architect Frank Lloyd Wright or of great architecture in general, his California creations can serve as the focus of some exhilarating day trips. Head to one or all of his designs scattered throughout California, from northern California to Los Angeles, including lesser-known properties like shopping centers and medical clinics.
Explore some of the most popular and interesting activities in Santa Barbara, perfect for your next visit. This guide offers unique experiences for both day trips and weekend getaways.
The California coastline takes a turn from its normal north-south orientation near Santa Barbara, running east-west for about 100 miles. This unique geography creates a “banana belt” climate, making the Santa Barbara area one of the most pleasant destinations in the state throughout the year.
At New Brighton State Beach, the camping area is perched on a bluff, offering magnificent views of northern Monterey Bay. While it’s not directly on the beach, it is close enough for a convenient stroll to the shore.