Santa Cruz is known as a surfers’ paradise, but there are so many other exciting things to do in Santa Cruz (and nearby!) that you’ll definitely want to include it on your California itinerary, whether or not you love to surf! With an enviable location on California’s scenic Central Coast, Santa Cruz boasts many beautiful beaches, state parks with redwood … Read More
Mosaic Canyon in Death Valley is a gorgeous hike offering up-close looks at the beautiful marble walls of Mosaic Canyon and the mosaics from which it gets its name. It is one of our favorite hikes in Death Valley National Park! Hiking Mosaic Canyon Trail is one of the more popular things to do in Death Valley National Park, and … Read More
Death Valley National Park is the closest national park to Las Vegas, and a Vegas to Death Valley day trip is one of the most popular adventures for outdoor enthusiasts visiting Sin City. It’s one of the easiest national parks to visit from Vegas. With its otherworldly landscapes, many natural wonders, and very cool scenic overlooks, Death Valley National Park … Read More
The Bluff Trail in Montaña de Oro State Park is a stunning, easy hike, perfect for anyone that enjoys beautiful views. So if you are planning to visit the Central California Coast, add this great hike to your itinerary! Likely the easiest trail in the beautiful state park, the Bluff Trail is also one of the most popular Montana de … Read More
If you are looking for a fun short hike to do when you visit Joshua Tree National Park in Southern California, consider the Barker Dam Nature Trail! Featuring the enormous boulders for which the park is known, plus the historic dam and a little cave with petroglyphs, the Barker Dam Trail definitely deserves a top spot on your list of … Read More
Looking for the best scenic drives in California? You will be spoiled for choice, because there are so many spectacular drives all over the Golden State: in national parks, along the coast, and in the desert and mountains. Whether you are looking for a short drive to enjoy the beautiful weather and the bounties of nature near your base in … Read More
If you are looking for things to do in Solvang, the “Danish Capital of America,” you will be spoiled for choice! The charming Village of Solvang is worth visiting for its striking Danish architecture, numerous wine tasting rooms, and bakeries offering authentic Danish treats. Planning a weekend in Santa Barbara? Consider adding a day trip to Solvang! Located in the … Read More
Point Reyes National Seashore is a bucket-list California destination for outdoor lovers. The wild and windswept pick-axe shaped peninsula features beautiful scenery and a wealth of ways to enjoy it. Located in Marin County, just a few miles north of San Francisco, Point Reyes National Seashore is famous for the impossibly picturesque Point Reyes Lighthouse, epic hiking trails, numerous species … Read More
Charming Cambria is one of our most favorite Central California Coast destinations. There are plenty of fun things to do in Cambria, (and around Cambria), to keep you engaged, but it’s also the perfect place to just unwind and relax. Located along California Highway 1, about four hours by road from either San Francisco or Los Angeles, Cambria makes for … Read More
Charming Pacific Grove, located in Monterey Bay, makes for a wonderful getaway, for a day, a weekend, or more. It has a spectacular setting along the Pacific Ocean, a quaint downtown, and plenty of fun things to do. Pacific Grove is known for its monarch butterfly grove, its many historic homes, some of which date back to the 19th century, … Read More